AGP Executive Report

Heat & Fire Risk: Rapid City and much of western South Dakota are under a first alert as temperatures near triple digits and humidity drops to single digits, boosting wildfire danger—especially south of I-90. Drought & Water Planning: A planned Rapid City data center, Sequitor Edge, says it will use a closed-loop cooling system, drawing about 65,000 gallons for phase one and far less ongoing water than traditional data centers—an attempt to ease drought worries. Independence Day Politics in SD: President Trump used Mount Rushmore to warn of a “communist menace,” tying it to domestic politics and election changes, then later delivered a delayed National Mall speech after storms forced evacuations. Storm Disruptions: Severe weather and record heat disrupted America’s 250th celebrations in Washington, including evacuation orders and a late start for Trump’s remarks. Local Courts & Safety: A Sioux Falls man was sentenced to nearly five years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a prohibited person; separate reports also detail fatal crashes near Yale and Hermosa. Sports: Rapid City-area teams and Sioux Falls squads kept rolling in weekend action, including Canaries’ late win and multiple Ringneck tournament results.

Independence Day at 250: President Trump is set to deliver a “historic” speech on the National Mall Saturday night, but severe storms forced an evacuation and organizers are shifting doors and programming as heat and weather disrupt celebrations nationwide. Mount Rushmore spotlight: In South Dakota, Trump kicked off America’s 250th with a speech warning about a “communist menace,” while local crowds packed the Black Hills for the fireworks and the chance to host the national moment. Black Hills science: South Dakota Mines researchers say they’ve developed faster carbon-capture tech using engineered enzymes inspired by Black Hills microbes, aiming to commercialize the approach through a startup. Local celebrations, local impacts: Sioux Falls brought back its Independence Day parade after a two-year gap, while Huron canceled its Fourth of July events after storm damage left many without power. Community and identity: Coverage also highlights how Indigenous families and educators in South Dakota are reflecting on what the holiday means—alongside new mental health support efforts for farmers.

Mount Rushmore, America 250: President Donald Trump kicked off the 250th anniversary weekend from Keystone with a patriotic speech that praised Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt—then pivoted hard to warn of a “resurgence” of communism at home, echoing Red Scare-style rhetoric. Iran talks paused: Trump also said the U.S. gave Iran “a week off” to hold Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s funeral ceremonies, while claiming Tehran wants to settle. Extreme heat disrupts plans: Across the country, a heat wave is forcing last-minute changes, including temporary closures tied to Freedom 250 events in Washington, D.C. Local public safety spotlight: Mitchell’s Toby Russell, who leads South Dakota’s ICAC task force, says reports of online child exploitation keep rising fast, with a major jump in investigations since 2018. Tech and politics collide: A White House social post mocked Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding announcement, quickly drawing ridicule online. Defense update: The Air Force moved Ellsworth Air Force Base into the operational preparation phase for the B-21 Raider, accepting early dedicated facilities.

Mount Rushmore, America 250: President Trump is set to speak at Mount Rushmore Friday night as the nation kicks off its 250th anniversary weekend, with fireworks planned after a day of exhibits and reenactments—though extreme heat and storms are already forcing changes elsewhere. First Amendment tensions: Six years after arrests during protests tied to the fireworks, the NPS has reserved a protest zone near the highway; this time, no demonstrators showed up as law enforcement kept watch. Heat + storms: Forecasters warn the heat dome is breaking with a severe-weather transition—heavy rain, flash flooding risk, and damaging winds—threatening holiday plans across multiple states including South Dakota. Local holiday logistics: Rapid City is pushing ahead with Independence Day events and fireworks plans despite weather, while officials and organizers are adjusting setup details. Rapid City crime update: A carjacking suspect tied to a Highway 44 pursuit is now in custody. Community culture: Rapid City planted 13,000+ patriotic flowers for America 250 and the city’s 150th, and Vermillion students are heading to Germany for a sister-city celebration.

Mount Rushmore Freedom 250: President Donald Trump is set to travel to South Dakota to deliver a speech and watch fireworks at Mount Rushmore as the U.S. kicks off its 250th birthday weekend. The visit comes with lingering debate over whether Trump could ever be added to the monument—technically described as essentially impossible—while the National Park Service is also designating a protest area for today’s fireworks. Extreme Heat Safety: Across the Midwest and East Coast, officials are warning people to hydrate and take cooling breaks as potentially record heat threatens holiday plans; some events have already been adjusted or canceled. Holiday Weekend Logistics: The weekend also includes major celebrations nationwide, including a Times Square ball drop and a large fireworks show in Washington, D.C., with organizers balancing spectacle and safety. Local Independence Day Plans (Vermillion): Vermillion is rolling out a full day of America 250 events at Prentis Park, including a Founding Fathers 5K, farmers market, music and performances, and fireworks at Polaris Parkway. Weather Watch (Regional): Severe weather risk remains on the radar for parts of the Plains, with forecasters highlighting damaging wind potential in the broader region.

Mount Rushmore 250th Visit: President Trump is set to travel to South Dakota for America’s 250th at Mount Rushmore, with fireworks, military bands, flyovers and a keynote address Saturday—after the new Air Force One made its maiden flight this week. Local Politics: Sioux Falls mayoral runoff recount is underway after Jamie Smith formally requested it, with a recount board set under state rules and the race decided by just two votes. Drought & Power: Drought is easing in parts of South Dakota after recent rains, but conditions still strain the grid as Rapid City’s new data center project moves forward; Black Hills Energy says it’s planning for higher summer loads. Disaster Funding: FEMA approved $4.3M for disaster recovery and hazard mitigation across the Dakotas, including major work in Chamberlain and storm-damaged electric infrastructure. Weather Watch: Another severe-storm threat is in the forecast for Friday, with large hail and damaging winds possible. Community & Culture: The South Dakota State Museum reopened in Pierre after nearly $2M in upgrades, and Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library events continue ahead of July 4.

Sioux Falls Mayoral Recount: With just two votes separating Jamie Smith and Christine Erickson, Smith has filed to recount all ballots, setting up a three-person recount board at the county auditor’s office. Mount Rushmore 250th: President Trump is scheduled to speak July 3 at the Freedom 250 fireworks event, with Gov. Larry Rhoden and Sen. Mike Rounds confirmed to attend. Severe Weather Aftermath: Monday’s storms across South Dakota were described as a “mini derecho,” including a 131 mph gust in Highmore and a brief tornado near Andover. New Retail in Brookings: Target plans a July opening in Brookings, adding a 127,000-square-foot store north of Sixth Street/Highway 14 and east of I-29. High School Sports NIL: A state-by-state rundown shows NIL monetization is permitted in South Dakota under current rules. Local Culture & Tourism: Rapid City’s Rushmore Music Festival is hosting international music students for summer sessions, while Badlands visitors are rolling in for America’s 250th.

Local Governance & Public Safety: South Dakota’s new laws kick in July 1, including rules aimed at election integrity, AI-generated deepfakes, and genetic-data protections—Attorney General Marty Jackley says the package focuses on transparency, keeping elections secure, and protecting kids. Weather & Recovery: After Monday’s 131 mph wind gusts hit Highmore and nearby areas, officials are surveying damage and weighing whether it meets federal disaster-assistance thresholds. Crime & Courts: In Sioux Falls, a second defendant tied to the 2024 Dunham Park shooting was sentenced to 25 years with part suspended after a judge matched the co-defendant’s term. Community & Health: Avera Queen of Peace in Mitchell is taking over Meals on Wheels delivery operations to keep the service running. Infrastructure & Growth: A South Dakota board advanced rules allowing up to $30 million in low-interest housing-fund loans for airport projects in Rapid City and Sioux Falls. Business & Energy: NorthWestern Energy announced a July 30 investor webinar for its second-quarter results. Culture & Local Events: Hill City is planning a July 10 “Christmas in July” fundraiser to expand Light Up Hill City.

Storm Recovery in Highmore: Recovery continues after a June 29 windstorm with gusts up to 131 mph left about 80% of homes and 90% of businesses damaged; debris removal and power restoration are priorities, with donations accepted at Highmore High School and volunteer sign-ups at the fire hall. Local Traffic & Downtown Sioux Falls: Sioux Falls launched a monthlong Traffic Calming Pilot Project on parts of 10th Street, narrowing roads to make room for artwork and food trucks. Voting Rules Pushback: The League of Women Voters is asking the state Elections Board to change South Dakota’s new proof-of-citizenship documentation rules for voter registration, arguing photocopies of certain IDs should be accepted; the board held a hearing but took no action. Gas Prices: South Dakota gas prices fell about 8.6 cents last week to $3.69 per gallon, roughly 9 cents below the national average, with experts expecting possible short-term bumps around July 4. Sports Spotlight (Pierre): Pierre’s Kaden Cumbow made ESPN with a standout Special Olympics USA Games comeback, winning gold in the 4x100 relay after a bronze in the 100m. Public Safety (Motorcycle Crash): A 56-year-old man died after a motorcycle crash near Steiner Road in Gilmanton; the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office says the crash remains under investigation.

Severe Weather Aftermath: Gov. Larry Rhoden declared a state of emergency for central South Dakota counties hit hard by the June 29 storms, aiming to speed debris removal and recovery support while officials assess whether federal disaster thresholds are met. Storm Facts: A South Dakota News Watch fact brief says a 131 mph wind gust was recorded in Highmore, with officials noting it wasn’t from a tornado; if verified, it would rank among the strongest thunderstorm gusts ever measured in the U.S. Fireworks Safety & Closures: Black Hills National Forest will close parts of the area around Mount Rushmore for the July 2-3 fireworks show, and Rapid City is reminding residents that most fireworks are illegal inside city limits, with stricter rules in the Black Hills Fire Protection District. Local Planning: Sioux County supervisors discussed a proposed data center near Perkins Corner after passing a one-year moratorium on data centers and industrial battery storage. Sports & Community: Attorney General Marty Jackley praised a U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding states’ ability to restrict girls’ and women’s sports to biological females; and Rapid City shared where to watch Independence Day fireworks and a drone show as the America 250 celebrations ramp up.

New Laws July 1: South Dakota’s 2026 legislative changes kick in next week, including moves tied to SNAP and school meals, new rules for marriage at 16–17, added oversight for data centers, and a new crime targeting fertility fraud; an abortion-pill ban also takes effect but is facing a court challenge. Highmore Storm Aftermath: A Monday thunderstorm with 131-mph gusts devastated Highmore, knocking out power and damaging homes, a nursing home, and wind turbines; Gov. Larry Rhoden deployed state resources and state patrol help. Public Safety—DUI Crackdown: Rapid City police arrested 10 people for DUI over a busy stretch leading into July 4, including multiple hit-and-run cases. Drugs—Federal Meth Sentence: A Rapid City man, Lucius Muldrow, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for a meth distribution conspiracy. Missing Child: Sioux Falls police are asking the public to help find 11-year-old Tristan Oakland, last seen riding a bike near S. Cleveland Avenue. Politics—Voting Restrictions Push: House Republicans are weighing a fast-track plan to bypass the filibuster and advance Trump’s voting restrictions via a reconciliation-style approach. Heat & Fireworks Warning: With extreme heat across the Plains and Midwest and wildfire danger in the West, officials are urging extra caution with July 4 fireworks.

Fourth of July safety and enforcement: Rapid City Police say they arrested 10 drivers for DUI from Thursday through early Monday, and they’re adding officers for the holiday rush. Rapid City Fire also urged residents to soak used fireworks in water for at least 20 minutes before disposal, and to check local rules. Severe weather and power risk: Black Hills Energy canceled a PSPS watch for parts of Wyoming after conditions improved, but the company says it will keep monitoring. Local recovery and community response: After Monday’s storms hit Highmore, surrounding communities are stepping in to help, and Sen. Mike Rounds toured the damage area while Hand County moved to declare a disaster. Rapid City recycling boost: The city is set to brief council on a nearly $5 million EPA grant to expand recycling services and cut contamination. New South Dakota laws take effect July 1: Attorney General Marty Jackley’s package includes rules on foreign political money, penalties for AI-generated intimate images, genetic data privacy, drug-crime upgrades, and tighter open-meetings agenda posting. Day One Movement launches in South Dakota: Organizers in Rapid City announced a coalition focused on land back and reparations ahead of the America 250 milestone.

State GOP Nominations: At the South Dakota Republican Party convention in Rapid City, delegates picked Hot Springs attorney Lance Russell as the party’s nominee for attorney general, winning after two rounds of voting; Democrats didn’t field a candidate for AG, so Russell will be on the November ballot alone. Delegates also endorsed candidates for other statewide offices, including Heather Baxter for secretary of state, Brock Greenfield for school and public lands commissioner, Catherine Barranco for state auditor, Melissa Hull for state treasurer, and Don Haggar for the Public Utilities Commission. School Construction Rules: Attorney General Marty Jackley issued an opinion saying South Dakota public school districts must follow competitive bidding and design-build procurement laws for construction contracts of $100,000+ and can’t use cooperative purchasing to dodge those requirements. Weather & Safety: An EF-2 tornado damaged a home near Savageton outside Wright, and officials urged residents to report storm observations because radar can be less reliable farther from the Rapid City station. Agriculture & Research: SDSU researchers developed a vaccine for avian metapneumovirus subtype B, aiming to protect poultry as the disease continues to hit production nationwide. Local Sports: Rapid City Post 22 swept Watertown Post 17 in a doubleheader, winning 4-3 and 12-2, while Rapid City Sandlot beat Cheyenne Extreme 4-1 for the under-18 championship at the Mount Rushmore Classic.

Housing & Voting Fight: House Speaker Mike Johnson says he’ll send a bipartisan housing affordability bill to President Trump on Monday after Trump refused to sign it while pushing the SAVE America Act, a voter ID and citizenship verification package. State Government & Schools: South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley clarified that public school districts can’t dodge competitive bid and design-build rules for construction contracts worth $100,000+ by using cooperative purchasing. Transportation Planning: SDDOT is rolling out interactive public engagement—virtual and in-person—for the tentative 2027-2030 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program. Water Funding: The EPA announced $1.6 million in drinking-water grants for South Dakota and five other states to tackle PFAS, lead sources, and local water challenges. Mount Rushmore July 3: Trump confirmed he plans to attend the July 3 America 250 fireworks at Mount Rushmore. Local Community: Mitchell residents launched a new nonprofit, MSDR AlterNatives, to offer practical help and peer support for people facing addiction, crime, and isolation. Public Safety: Oglala Sioux Tribe DPS says an adult woman died from a gunshot wound in an incident west of Kyle; officials call it isolated with no threat to the public.

Election Integrity Fight: South Dakota’s Republican convention in Rapid City denied incumbent Monae Johnson a shot at reelection as delegates nominated Heather Baxter, who says she wants paper ballots hand-counted. Severe Weather Watch: The Storm Prediction Center flagged a 30% damaging wind area across parts of North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana, with 80 mph gusts possible and power-outage risk. Healthcare Tech Upgrade: Sanford Black Hills says it has installed a photon-counting CT scanner, aiming for sharper imaging and lower radiation—especially for cardiovascular care. Local Sports & Community: Sioux Falls Canaries dropped a 3-2 decision to Kane County despite a no-hit bid into the seventh; Rapid City Post 320 rallied past Renner 6-4; and Rapid City’s Firecracker Tournament is set to kick off Wednesday at Fitzgerald Stadium. Rural Libraries Under Pressure: A federal funding freeze tied to the Institute of Museum and Library Services threatens rural library services in South Dakota, including interlibrary courier support.

Severe Weather Alerts: A First Alert Weather Day is in effect across KOTA Territory with a tornado watch for parts of western South Dakota through 10–11 p.m. Saturday and a severe thunderstorm watch elsewhere through 7 p.m., with hail up to softball size and damaging winds (60–90 mph) possible. Heat Advisory: A heat advisory runs Sunday 1 p.m. through Monday 9 p.m. for parts of Yankton area counties, with heat index values up to 104 degrees—keep kids and pets out of hot cars and check on neighbors. Sioux Falls Politics: The Sioux Falls mayoral runoff is still separated by just two votes (Erickson up 18,279 to 18,277), setting up a recount that could flip the outcome. State GOP Convention: South Dakota Republicans meet in Rapid City to choose nominees, with attention on internal fights and the John Thune dinner incident involving Scott Presler. Transportation Hall of Honor: SDDOT selected June Hansen (Pierre) and Kari Karst (Dell Rapids) for induction into the 2026 Transportation Hall of Honor. Rural Health & Safety: Good Samaritan highlighted rural access gains and safety improvements in its 2025 Quality Report, including expanding Sanford Health virtual care across South Dakota facilities. Community Fundraisers: Bikes & Brews returns in Sioux Falls to raise money for congenital heart disease research, while Black Hills Energy added $10,000 to a Salvation Army energy-assistance fundraiser. Local Notes: Rapid City will temporarily remove yard waste and recycling containers near Fitzgerald Stadium for Firecracker Tournament parking; FitLot Park free coach-led workouts resume July 6.