Category: Gubernatorial News

Governor Daugaard’s Weekly Column: A Message To The Graduating Classes Of 2015

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A Message To The Graduating Classes Of 2015

 

A column by Gov. Dennis Daugaard:

 

Congratulations to the class of 2015! To all high school, college and technical school students now approaching graduation in South Dakota, I commend you for reaching this milestone. After years of studying, taking tests and writing essays, you’ve finally made it. Congratulations on all you have achieved!

 

Most of you probably already have a good idea of what you’ll be doing next – what additional education you’ll seek or what career you’ll pursue. Whether you’ve decided to stay in South Dakota or pursue a career or education elsewhere, I hope you’ll ultimately consider a future here in our state. There are a number of reasons to consider living and working here.

 

First, we have the fourth lowest unemployment rate in the nation at 3.5 percent, compared to the national rate of 5.5 percent. Job opportunities are better here than in most places.

 

Secondly, the tax burden in South Dakota is low. We are among only a few states without an income tax, meaning you can keep more of the money you earn. Money that can repay student debt, buy a house someday or replace that car you drove into the ground in school.

 

Third, not only do people keep more of the money they earn in South Dakota, but that money will buy more here than in other places. According to a U.S. Department of Commerce report, South Dakotans experience a very low cost of living in the United States. We don’t spend as much money on housing, insurance, food and the other everyday needs. In fact, we have some of the lowest costs in the nation.  In New York, California, Washington, D.C., or many other places, you will find costs that are 10 percent, 12 percent, even 18 percent higher than the national average.  In South Dakota those costs are only 88 percent of the national average.

 

Now some people will say, “There may a low tax burden and low cost of living, but I won’t get paid as much if I live in South Dakota.” Actually, when it comes to per capita personal income, we fare pretty well. Nationally, we rank in the top half. And, if you adjust the per capita personal income for the low cost of living, we are the fifthbest in the nation. If you adjust for lack of income taxes, we rank third in the nation.

 

Beyond the financial reasons, though, South Dakota is a great place to live because we have a good quality of life here. Our communities are safe, our public schools are high-quality and our people are friendly. We also have clean air, clean water and beautiful scenery.  And you can’t put a price tag on the love and support of your family, here in South Dakota.

 

My hope is not that you will never venture outside of our state, but rather that you would consider a more permanent future in South Dakota. Your dreams can come true – right here at home.

 

 

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Governor Daugaard’s Weekly Column: Celebrating Agriculture’s Leadership In Conservation

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Celebrating Agriculture’s Leadership In Conservation
A column by Gov. Dennis Daugaard:

DaugaardIn South Dakota, agriculture is a tradition and a way of life. As our No. 1 industry, agriculture defines who we are as South Dakotans and the practices that we pass on from generation to generation.

One of those practices is conservation. No one understands the importance of being good stewards of the land better than our farmers and ranchers. Their livelihoods depend on it. Because 80 percent of land in our state is privately owned, conservation efforts employed by farmers and ranchers are integral to the quality of our natural resources.

Each year in conjunction with Earth Day, South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, South Dakota Grassland Coalition and Sand County Foundation bestow the Leopold Conservation Award on a farming or ranching family that demonstrates outstanding land, water and wildlife conservation.

This year’s Leopold Conservation Award recipient, Jorgensen Land and Cattle, knows what it means to be a good steward of the land. The Jorgensens’ management style on their farm and ranch near Ideal – which consists of 10,000 acres of non-irrigated cropland, 850 head of cattle and a hunting lodge – demonstrates that good conservation practices can benefit the environment and a family’s bottom line. They believe the soil is their greatest asset, which is why they have been no-till since 1991. Their decisions are always based on a personal responsibility to care for and improve the land.

I congratulate the Jorgensens on winning this award. I am grateful for their stewardship and for all landowners across South Dakota who treat the environment with such care. Their passion and dedication help ensure our natural resources will be there for generations to come.

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While councilors grumble over his self-promoting billboards, SF Mayor Huether out trying his 2018 stump speech.

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Will the TV Commercials starring the mayor imploring us all to come to Sioux Falls be coming shortly?

I ask, because Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether seems awfully eager for the 2018 Gubernatorial campaign to begin.  First, he put up all these billboards with his face plastered all over them, and now he’s starting to travel around the state making thinly veiled campaign speeches:

Huether was in town Wednesday to impart some of what he’s learned from his own experiences of running a city and was quick to point out that while he is a great supporter of Yankton, he also intended to issue the city as challenge to strive to be better.

“I’m here for a reason — I love this town, but I am going to mention some things today that are going to make some of you uncomfortable, and I think you need it,” he said. “There were times in my life where I was challenged to an even greater level. … Yankton, I’m going to do the same for you today. “

For nearly two hours, Huether testified on the importance of confidence, partnerships between public and private enterprises, and keeping the fiscal house in order while stressing the critical need to maintain and procure solid infrastructure systems and quality-of-life investments in the community.

Read it all here.

“For nearly two hours, Huether testified on the importance of confidence…?”   I can hardly imagine!  And Is it just me, or does he say “I” an awful lot?

huether

This is just the latest move in shameless self-promotion from the state’s highest ranking Democrat as he continues with his self-aggrandizing, and naked lust for higher office.

It’s not as if this comes as a great shock, given that it’s been standard operating procedure from Huether since he was first elected. But as the months tick away until he’s out of office and moving on towards the next one, it seems as if it’s only getting worse.

In addition to his antics that make the media, I’ve actually had people note to me that in a speech or two, Huether actually compared himself to Governor Bill Janklow. Because by including it in his speeches, he somehow thinks it will become so. Forgetting the fact that the former Governor didn’t actively seek the spotlight, as opposed to seeking to get things done.

With Huether stepping up the “I love Mike Huether” campaign machine, it’s going to be a long, long three years until 2018. Especially for the residents of Sioux Falls.

Governor Daugaard’s Weekly Column: The Excellence Of The South Dakota National Guard

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The Excellence Of The South Dakota National Guard
A column by Gov. Dennis Daugaard:

DaugaardAs the commander-in-chief of the South Dakota National Guard, I know well the role the National Guard plays in defending our nation and responding to domestic emergencies here in our state. I’ve witnessed their service firsthand while visiting members in Kuwait and Afghanistan, and I appreciated their service when they were called to respond to emergencies here at home.

Not long after I came into office, the Missouri River flooded. Though we received very little notice, the National Guard was ready to respond. In a matter of hours, soldiers arrived on the scene to help with sandbagging, traffic management, levee construction and patrols. Nearly 2,000 Guardsmen came to affected communities to help with the response, and they worked for 96 continuous days in 12- to 15-hour shifts.

For this and all other major weather disasters we’ve faced over the past five years – the 2012 drought, Winter Storm Atlas, flooding along the Missouri and Big Sioux, and the Wessington Springs tornado – the National Guard has been there to lend a hand to South Dakotans.

Beyond responding to disasters here at home, many of our National Guard soldiers have served abroad. Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the National Guard has deployed more than 7,200 soldiers and airmen overseas and at home in support of the Global War on Terror. Right now, for the first time in a decade, none of our National Guard soldiers or airmen are currently deployed overseas.

That will change in May, when the 114 Fighter Wing will deploy to the Pacific Theater. South Dakotans stand in support of the 250 airmen of that unit and we are grateful for their commitment to answer the call of duty abroad. It is because of their sacrifice and the sacrifices made by others who have served that we are free. Thanks to them, we live in a place where we have freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and more.

The soldiers and airmen of the South Dakota National Guard are some of the most dedicated, capable, and reliable men and women I’ve ever known. For over 153 years, this leading force has been dedicated to serving the citizens of South Dakota and the nation. Now more than ever, the National Guard is seeking quality men and women to be part of this professional, respected, dependable and highly-skilled force.

I encourage those looking to be a part of a winning team to join this elite organization. Be a part of the history, tradition and legacy that is our South Dakota National Guard. Visit sdguard.com for more information.

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First Lady Linda Daugaard’s Column: Some Advice For New Parents

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Some Advice For New Parents
A column by First Lady Linda Daugaard:

First LadyMuch has changed for Dennis and me in the last five years. Moving from Dell Rapids to Pierre to serve as governor and first lady has been quite the adventure. But there are other titles we’ve recently acquired that we value even more: grandpa and grandma.

Becoming a grandma has reminded me how much new parents have to decide in nine short months. What color to paint baby’s bedroom, which stroller to buy, whether to know the gender ahead of time – the list of questions can be endless for first-time parents.

Though it can all be overwhelming, the decisions that really matter are those that affect a baby’s health. When Dennis was first elected, he was shocked to learn how many infants were not reaching their first birthday, and that South Dakota’s infant mortality rate was higher than the rates in surrounding states of North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Montana and Nebraska.

This unsettling truth led him to ask me to lead a task force on infant mortality in South Dakota. I worked with a group of doctors, nurses, tribal health care workers, midwives, social workers and Department of Health officials to understand the causes of the problem. In our research, we found that deciding against early elective deliveries (EEDs), abstaining from tobacco, learning safe sleep practices and receiving prenatal care are critical to an infant’s wellbeing.

Inducing early for non-medical reasons can be dangerous. There are no known health benefits for EEDs, and there are significant health risks for baby – low birthweight, respiratory syndrome, pneumonia and even death. I’m very pleased that 20 of South Dakota’s birthing hospitals have signed pledges to work with us to reduce EEDs.

The infant mortality rate for infants of mothers who smoke is almost twice as high as it is for infants born of non-smokers. Last year, about 15 percent of pregnant women smoked. Though that is an improvement from 2011 when the task force began its work, South Dakota still has one of the highest rates of mothers smoking during pregnancy.

Along with abstaining from tobacco products, it’s critically important for expectant mothers to seek the care they need during the first trimester. In South Dakota, 72 percent of women received prenatal care in the first trimester last year. I’ve heard stories from women who have been told to wait until they are 12 weeks along to schedule prenatal care visits. That’s not good advice. Those who seek that care early on are less likely to lose their child within the first year.

Also before baby is born, expectant parents should learn about safe sleep practices. Infants need to sleep on a firm surface covered by a fitted sheet. Pillows, blankets, toys and crib bumpers should not be in the crib. Babies need to be placed on their back and it’s best for them to sleep in light clothing. Family members and other caregivers also need to know about these important practices.

The good news is that the infant mortality rate is declining in South Dakota. According to the Department of Health, the number of infant deaths per 1,000 live births is down from 2013’s rate of 6.5 to 5.9 in 2014. Last year’s rate is also below 2011’s 20-year low of 6.3. It’s important we keep working to increase prenatal care, promote safe sleep practices, and decrease tobacco use and EEDs to make sure that decline continues.

I know from experience there’s no way to fully prepare yourself for parenthood. Don’t sweat the small stuff. No parent is perfect. Know that by concerning yourself primarily with your baby’s health and safety, you’ll be just what your little one needs.

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Governor Daugaard’s Weekly Column: Preparing For A Dry Year

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Preparing For A Dry Year
A column by Gov. Dennis Daugaard:

DaugaardIt’s only April and it’s already looking like it will be a dry year. Right now, 99 percent of the state’s ground is abnormally dry. About 13 percent is experiencing moderate drought. The drought area includes northeastern South Dakota and another portion in Meade and Pennington counties, leaving 132,149 South Dakotans who live in an area affected by drought.

Because it’s so dry, we’re at an elevated risk for fires. The fire danger is currently “very high” for the Black Hills and “extreme” in counties surrounding the Black Hills. Grassland areas throughout the state are under a “red flag warning” from the National Weather Service.

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture’s Wildland Fire Division helps with response to wildfires on forested, state and private lands. Just in the last few days, the Division has reported fires near Fort Pierre, at Custer State Park, in the Palmer Gulch area and in Harding County.

The Sheep Draw Fire in Harding County is the worst we’ve experienced so far this year. With wind gusts up to 70 mph, the fire grew to 6,430 acres in one day. In response, I ordered two National Guard helicopters to assist those on the ground in putting out the fire. As I write this, the size of the Sheep Draw Fire is now estimated at almost 14,000 acres, but thanks to local firefighters, the state Division of Wildland Fire and others who are helping, the fire is 85 percent contained.

This could be just the beginning of a difficult fire season. I know some fires are inevitable – we can’t prevent lightning strikes or control how much moisture we receive – but there are still ways we can prevent fires.

We need to respect county burn bans when they’re in place. Where fires are permitted, never leave a fire unattended, completely extinguish fires before leaving the area and remind others to be cautious. Also, be mindful when operating equipment in dry areas.

Since I’ve been in office we’ve experienced floods, droughts, fires, blizzards and tornadoes. South Dakota weather is anything but predictable, but I know from experience that the perseverance and benevolence of South Dakotans are things upon which we can always depend. That being said, we need to do all we can to prevent fires, especially this year.

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Daugaards Invite Families To Attend Annual Easter Egg Hunt

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Daugaards Invite Families To Attend Annual Easter Egg Hunt

PIERRE, S.D. – The Governor and First Lady are inviting families to take part in the 62nd Annual Elks Easter Egg Hunt on the Governor’s residence lawn at 1 p.m. CDT on Easter.

“This will be the fifth year that Linda and I have participated in the mansion Easter Egg Hunt. We’re happy to have the opportunity to continue the tradition,” said Gov. Dennis Daugaard.

Children up to age 12 are invited to participate in the Egg Hunt. Steve Wegman, chairman of the Elks Easter Egg Hunt, estimates that up to 1,500 children participate each year. According to Wegman, the event is the oldest and largest family event in the state of South Dakota.

The event is sponsored by the Pierre Elk’s Lodge #1953. Those who would like to make a contribution toward the event should contact Wegman at 605-295-1221.

Governor Daugaard: Sen. Lederman Resigns; Governor Invites Public Input

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Sen. Lederman Resigns; Governor Invites Public Input

daugaard2PIERRE, S.D. – State Sen. Dan Lederman has resigned his seat in the South Dakota State Senate. Lederman, a Dakota Dunes Republican, also serves as assistant majority leader.

“Dan Lederman has been a vigorous advocate for his constituents and for South Dakota,” said Gov. Daugaard. “He will certainly be missed, and I wish the best to him and his family.”

Lederman has served in the state Senate since 2011, after serving one term in the state House. He was elected assistant majority leader in 2013.

Lederman represents District 16, which includes all of the Union County, and southern and eastern portions of Lincoln County, including the cities of Worthing, Canton, Beresford and Hudson.

His resignation was effective after the adjournment of the legislative session today.

Lederman’s resignation creates a vacancy that will be filled by gubernatorial appointment. The Governor is asking the public to nominate candidates to fill the position.

Those wishing to be considered for the appointment, or to offer nominations, should contact Grace Kessler in the Office of the Governor at 605-773-3661. Nominations should include the candidate’s name, current address, telephone number and relevant background information.

Gov. Daugaard expects to name an appointee by late spring or early summer.

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Governor Daugaard’s Weekly Column: Expecting Another Busy Year For South Dakota’s Parks

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Expecting Another Busy Year For South Dakota’s Parks
A column by Gov. Dennis Daugaard:

DaugaardSpring has sprung and summer is around the corner. Now is a good time to plan a summer trip to one of our state parks. If not a week-long vacation, consider at least a weekend or weeknight stay.

State parks are great vacation spots for out-of-state tourists, but they are also great destinations for South Dakotans to spend some quality time with family and friends. We’re fortunate to live in a state where beautiful outdoor opportunities are never too far away. We have an abundance of choices, too. We’re home to 56 state parks and recreation areas including Angostura, Good Earth, North Point, Okobojo and Custer State Park. Hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating – you can do all those things right here in South Dakota.

Last year, more people camped in South Dakota’s state parks than ever before. Our parks hosted over 290,000 nights of camping for in- and out-of-state guests – up 3.8 percent from 2013. State park staff members expect this year to be just as busy.

Linda and I are already planning a trip to Custer State Park. We are reserving our spots early because a number of Linda’s siblings and cousins will be joining us for a big family reunion.

Custer State Park takes reservations one year in advance. For other state parks, however, reservations open 90 days in advance. That means early summer dates are already available.  And, starting the first week of April, you’ll be able to make reservations for the Fourth of July weekend, which is the most popular camping weekend of the year.

Start planning your summer now so you don’t miss out. Make reservations for your favorite campground as soon as possible. To reserve your spot, visit campsd.com or call 1-800-710-2267.

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