News

 Update 3/11/25: 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. 

🐰🌸 Join us for — Hop with a Cop!  The Box Elder Police Department’s BIGGEST Indoor Easter Egg Hunt of the year!  Bring the whole family for an unforgettable day of fun!  Meet the Easter Bunny, hunt for thousands of eggs, win prizes, and celebrate with laughter and community spirit.

🥚 Who can participate?  All children up to age 13 are invited to join the hunts!

🎟️ Important Ticket Information:  This event is FREE but ticketed, and tickets are limited.  Please only reserve tickets if you are absolutely sure you will attend.

*Main Event(10 AM - Noon) Free Tickets Here:  https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/city-of-box-elder-2026535257/hop-with-a-cop-city-of-box-elder-1782503061

We can’t wait to celebrate with you! 🐣✨

Huge thank you to our Sponsors: The Box Elder Events Center Scull Construction Service Texas Roadhouse WagCo Construction 

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 Fleet Manager Kenny Moore for earning the Certified Public Fleet Professional (CPFP) designation from the American Public Works Association!

Kenny is the first in a five-state region to receive this certification, a huge accomplishment for him and the City of Box Elder. Read the full news release here:

 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:

Exciting news for locals and visitors alike: Hotel Way is now officially open in Box Elder! 

This new roadway connects the I-90 Service Road to Cheyenne Boulevard, providing smoother and more convenient access to two of the area’s favorite destinations, WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort and Starbucks. 

Hotel Way has been a long-standing goal for Box Elder, and with the assistance of LIV Hospitality, the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), and Rapid City, Box Elder has been able to bring this much-needed corridor to life. The new road also eliminates the need for drivers to make a left turn from the I-90 Service Road onto Elk Vale when traveling south, representing a significant safety improvement in the area. The opening of Hotel Way is part of an ongoing effort to enhance infrastructure, improve traffic flow, and elevate the overall travel experience for residents, hotel guests, and tourists visiting one of South Dakota’s top family destinations. 

Whether you’re grabbing your morning coffee or spending the day at the waterpark, getting there is now quicker, safer, and more convenient than ever.

News Release Here:

UPDATE @ 8:56 p.m. - Water Services are restored, however the lines will need to repressurize. Expect this to take until approximately 9:30 p.m. Water may be cloudy at first, running the faucet for a few minutes should result in clear water.

UPDATE @ 4:40 p.m. - Water Services are expected to be off until approximately 8 p.m.

Water Service Leak - Expect low to no water pressure in service areas north of Interstate 90. Currently unknown when services will return to normal. Updates will be provided.

UPDATE: City offices are closed for the day (3/19/2025 @ 3:45 p.m.) due to no water.

Thank you!