HURON — The Beadle County Commission discussed, for an extended time on Tuesday morning, about the merits of enforcing the county’s burn ban, and in the end, the vote was unanimous to enforce the ban already on the books without adding any additional penalty.

County residents are expected to call in any controlled burn ahead of time regardless of the status of a burn ban, but the institution of a ban does allow the county to levy fines on anyone burning without a permit that leads to a fire call to area departments.

Heavy discussion centered around other counties putting restrictions on harvest due to the dry weather, but the commission chose not to add to the current language already in county ordinance. Commissioners noted that farmers have already been utilizing water tanks in fields as they harvest, and encouraged consideration of potential fire danger when making decisions on harvest activities.

The meeting began with a report from Highway Supervisor Jason Fritzsche. The commission approved a payment of $6,962.35 for a box culvert installed near Lake Byron. Fritzsche mentioned that one more payment would be needed to close out that construction.

Fritzsche also stated that the county would be cleaning up road ditches and right-of-way to prepare for winter weather. Land owners are encouraged to clear hay from the ditches and right-of-way areas.

Jacque McCaskell, Beadle County Treasurer, spoke with the commission regarding charging non-local institutions to access full tax files. She proposed a charge of $2,500, which would be in line with counties of Beadle’s size. This was approved.

The commission acted as the board of adjustment to approve the move of three sheds to Lake Byron by James Lake.

Four land plats were also approved.

The commission will next meet on Tuesday, October 29, at 9 a.m. in the commission room on the second floor of the courthouse.