HURON — The Huron City Commission during consent agenda Monday evening accepted the planned retirement date for Huron Police Department chief Kevin VanDiepen, which will be effective April 19, 2024. VanDiepen has served with the department for 35 years. Commissioners also approved to post internally for the chief of police position to begin the search for VanDiepen’s successor.

To open the meeting, the commission convened as the board of adjustment for the city to review a variance request and annexation request filed by Lean Investments LLC at project address 1075 and 1027 Lincoln Ave SW.

This allows for storage units to be built on property adjacent to county land with proper building setbacks for traffic purposes between the facilities. Both requests were approved.

Ted Haeder, President/CEO of Greater Huron Development Corporation (GHDC) presented GHDC’s annual report to the commission. He highlighted the changes over the past year in development within the city.

Haeder noted that the Broadland Creek Residential Development has now sold all lots along with construction beginning on the Peaceful Pines Senior Living facility in the area. He also reported that nine lots have been sold in the Southtown Residential Development, with Wheatgrass Phase II a large addition in that area, providing 69 apartment units and 36 townhome units.

Haeder also noted the acquisition of 75 acres for future housing development by GHDC.

The downtown facade grant program is still being utilized by downtown businesses. Haeder expressed that with the construction on Dakota Ave., downtown businesses could utilize the facade grant to make improvements to rear entries for their business.

The GHDC President/CEO also referenced the partnership with the Huron School District to expand the CTE program to develop skilled, eager workers that remain in Huron upon graduation to enhance the workforce in the area. He also noted events that highlight Huron like the Karen soccer tournament held recently to feature what Huron has to offer to people coming to the city from multiple states.

Commissioners and Solid Waste Management superintendent Dale Fortin announced the 2023 Huron city summer cleanup, set for August 8-10 in conjunction with the Huron Day of Caring. City residents will be able to utilize the utility bill for unlimited access to dump rubble and metal items, furniture, carpet, doors, lumber, hoses, sheetrock, concrete, bricks, and multiple appliances.

Fees will still apply for items such as tires, electronics, and for freon evacuation of appliances. Assistance is available to haul items to the rubble site. Those needing assistance are encouraged to contact 605-353-8510 by August 4 to get registered for city pickup of debris and rubble.

Commissioners also:
• Approved the hire of Arnold Case for the Solid Waste Maintenance I position.
• Approved the plat submitted by Curt Kempf of Kempf Lots 1 & 2.

Commissioners finished the meeting with a work session discussion on the Rushmore Ave SW right of way.