City News & Updates

It's starting to feel more and more like S-P-R-I-N-G each day!

While temperatures are warming up, we're not officially out of the clear. Overnight freezes can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Protect your plumbing by insulating pipes, letting faucets drip, and keeping indoor temperatures consistent. 

As you start to play in your yards more, remember the City of Box Elder has outdoor watering restrictions from April 1st through October 31st. 

• Property Addresses ending in an odd number water on odd numbered days
• Property Addresses ending in an even number water on even numbered days
• Outdoor Watering is allowed 6-9 a.m. and 7-10 p.m.

More detailed information can be found in the City's Municipal Code.

Update 3/24/26: 

Update 3/11/26: PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden signed seven bills that support his national security efforts.

“National security is South Dakota’s next big industry, and we are actively fighting to protect our people – both South Dakotans and all Americans,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “These bills are a strong step forward in limiting foreign ownership of our land, strengthening our infrastructure and strategic assets, and positioning South Dakota as a leader in security and defense.”

Governor Rhoden signed the following seven bills:

• SB 17 prohibits a candidate or political committee from accepting contributions or loans made by a foreign national, provides a penalty therefor, and declares an emergency;
• SB 40 revises the compliance requirements for limitations on foreign ownership of agricultural land;
• SB 60 restricts ownership of real property interests by certain prohibited entities and provides for enforcement;
• SB 130 makes an appropriation for roadway and related infrastructure improvements required because of construction activity at Ellsworth Air Force Base and declares an emergency;
• HB 1049 protects electric infrastructure in this state;
• HB 1280 increases penalties for the operation of drones over certain facilities and provides for mitigation techniques and countermeasures; and
• SB 1311 requires the reporting of funding given by certain persons and governments to institutions under the control of the Board of Regents and the South Dakota Board of Technical Education.

Governor Rhoden signed some of the national security bills in a bill signing ceremony. Governor Rhoden has signed 134 bills into law and vetoed one this legislative session.

(Sourced from the Governor's Office.)

Unanimous Senate Vote Moves SB 130 Forward to Repair Roads Serving Ellsworth AFB

On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the South Dakota Senate voted unanimously 32–0 to approve SB 130, sending the bill forward to the South Dakota House of Representatives for further consideration. The bill would appropriate $8 million from the state general fund for roadway and related infrastructure improvements necessary to support, mitigate, and address impacts from construction activity occurring at Ellsworth Air Force Base. The City of Box Elder is proud to be home to Ellsworth Air Force Base. For generations, the base and the community have worked side by side to make western South Dakota a strong place to live, work, and raise families. That relationship has created tremendous opportunity, but it also comes with responsibility. One of those responsibilities is making sure the roads serving Ellsworth Air Force Base are safe, reliable, and able to handle the demands placed on them.

To read the full News Release, click here. 

The City of Box Elder has launched the City of Box Elder 311 App, making it easier for residents to connect with city services.

The app allows users to report issues, pay utility bills, read the latest city news, and stay informed about upcoming City Council meetings all in one place.

The platform improves communication between residents and the City while helping staff respond more efficiently to community needs.

The app is currently available on Apple devices, with Android availability expected in the future. Residents are encouraged to download the app and explore its features. 

To learn more, click the link: Official Website for the City of Box Elder, SD - City of Box Elder 311 

Box Elder, South Dakota - City of Box Elder, Amanda Spitzer, Payroll and Benefits Specialist for the City of Box Elder, has recently earned the prestigious Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification, awarded by PayrollOrg (PAYO). Formed in 2023 through the merger of the American Payroll Association and the Global Payroll Management Institute, PAYO is the leading authority in payroll education and certification. Amanda’s achievement places her among an elite group. She is now one of only eight professionals in the entire state of South Dakota to hold this nationally recognized credential. 

Click the link to read the full release.

 Last night, the City Council recognized Cassie for earning the Certified Public Works Professional – Management (CPWP-M) designation from the American Public Works Association!

We’re incredibly proud of Cassie’s dedication and her vital role in keeping our city running smoothly. Read the full news release here: