HURON –– The Beadle County Commission heard from commissioners Jared Zerfoss and Denis Drake about their review of space in the courthouse that would be suitable for court services, who had requested space within the courthouse at a recent commission meeting.

After reviewing available space in the building, Zerfoss and Drake reported that the best space would be an office on the first floor of the courthouse across from the treasurer’s office.

Drake expressed that for office space currently, this will work, but any remodeling of the space should come through the commission. The commission put the space to a vote, and it passed unanimously.

Highway Superintendent Jason Fritzsche discussed the work his department has been doing with the mild winter thus far. He also discussed the towns and townships meeting held Tuesday evening at the highway building.

County Treasurer Jacque McCaskell met with the commissioners to discuss uncollectable property tax on leased sites, primarily unpaid taxes on mobile homes. She reported that more than $11,000 was unpaid county-wide in 2024.

Commissioners asked the next process for the unpaid taxes, and leased sites have a different procedure, though if taxes remain unpaid, the Beadle County Sheriff could ultimately hold a sheriff’s sale of properties to collect the unpaid taxes.

McCaskell also discussed the upcoming changes in her office as the new 605 Drive program implemented statewide will lead to the treasurer’s office being closed on Friday, Feb. 14, and her staff coming in for additional training on what was to be a holiday, Monday, Feb. 17.

Finally, she discussed recent charge backs at her office when accepting credit and debit cards. Due to the processing company that works with the treasurer’s office, charge back reports do not reach McCaskell’s email until they’re already beyond the time frame to dispute. She reports that she has not made the decision yet, but she is strongly considering no longer accepting cards at the window. Online processing would not change.

Director of Equalization Kim Eichstadt presented the 2025 FEMA ordinance information to the commission. The commission approved the changes for the ordinance.

Commissioners also approved two plats.

Emergency Management Director Dave Jensen presented a resolution to allow him to apply for funds through the Hazard Mitigation Grant. This was approved, as was the 2025 roster for the dive team, storm spotter team, and cert team.

Commissioners approved a partial tax abatement for Bethesda Church for property at 1581 Simmons Ave. SE, in Huron.

The commission adjourned to reconvene at 7 p.m. for the annual towns and townships meeting.

The next commission meeting is set for Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 9 a.m. in the commission room on the second floor of the courthouse.