by Benjamin Chase
of the Plainsman
HURON –– The Huron City Commission participated in two work sessions after a brief business meeting on Monday evening.
The first work session was an update from the downtown Huron committee. Members from the group discussed working on a theme emphasizing the uniqueness of the train roundhouse in Huron and branding the downtown area as the “roundhouse district” in advertising and event planning.
The discussion led into a discussion on plans for Independence Day weekend, with a second “Dusting Off Dakota” event along with multiple events to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday happening around town.
The second work session highlighted work that a committee has done to evaluate the current form of government that the city of Huron employs. Research found that Huron is the only “large city” in the state that does not employ a city manager or city administrator. Many different government structures were found among large cities in the state, and as Huron continues to grow, the concern is that the city staff and city residents both feel served by their city commissioners and mayor while the jobs are also able to remain part-time in nature.
No changes were made now, but the group’s next move will be to meet with department heads for city departments to discuss their thoughts. A change could be made to a city administrator through a simple hiring, but moving to a city manager form of government would require a citywide vote, per state statute.
The regular meeting opened with Police Chief Derek Layher discussing the upcoming Easter egg hunt, hosted by the Huron Police Department. With potential weather concerns, Layher did state that the event could be delayed as it is based outdoors. The decision will be made by the end of the day on April 1 and communicated through the PD’s Facebook page.
Commissioners also:
– Acknowledged that 911 Telecommunicator Janie Luper has completed her probationary period on March 21, making her eligible for supplemental benefits on April 1.
– Approved 2026 seasonal employment for staff in the Arts and Crafts and Day Camp programs.
– Approved a property tax abatement elderly freeze for 819 Mellette Ave. SW.
– Approved the second reading of Ordinance 2282-23-419 on vacation rentals.
– Approved an irrigation contract with the Huron Country Club.
Commissioner Rhonda Kludt then explained for the second time that yard waste pickup would be on Wednesday, April 1, and continue on Wednesdays on April 8 and April 15. The week of April 20, green yard waste bins will begin pickup on regular garbage and recycling pickup day.
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