To the editor:

I am writing to voice my wholehearted support electing Rhonda Kludt for City Commissioner of Huron. Rhonda is not just a candidate; she is a pillar of our community with a history of dedication to Huron that is truly inspiring.

For nearly 25 years as the Executive Director of the United Way, and has championed countless initiatives that uplift our community and ensure that our children and future leaders are supported. In addition to her career as a Kindergarten teacher for 20 years, Rhonda has effectively championed for our youth by supporting innovative programs like the Huron Youth Leadership Council, the Backpack Program, Safety City, Huron’s Preschool, Huron’s recycling service. She also serves as Vice President for the Huron Community Foundation and has been essential to the startup and success of the Student United Way—Huron Youth Leadership Council (HYLC). Under her guidance, the HYLC has earned the SD Association of Fundraising Professionals Youth in Philanthropy Award and granted over $40,000 towards vital youth leadership projects. Her belief in engaging the next generation reflects her commitment to ensuring Huron’s vibrancy and future success.

Rhonda’s volunteer efforts extend to include a long history of active contribution beyond our youth. She has been instrumental in the success of many local efforts that have become staples in our community as support services. Such services include Meals on Wheels, Senior Santa, People’s Transit, the Senior Center, Huron Library, just to name a few. She has also supported community enhancements like Huron Rising, Huron School District Foundation, Splash Central water park, and creating recreational paths and park areas. Rhonda’s contributions have touched each of us.

So I invite you to reflect on a crucial question:

If these are just a few of the successes Rhonda Kludt’s efforts have brought us as a part-time volunteer (note all while working full-time, raising her children and now grandchildren, contributing as an active church member, and doting wife of Doug) …how will Huron benefit when this is Rhonda’s full-time, dedicated, official role as City Commissioner?

The fact is most of the responsibilities associated with this elected position - driving community projects, fostering inclusive growth, engaging our youth, protecting our most vulnerable, saving taxpayer dollars - are the same tasks she has already successfully executed as a citizen who volunteered in her spare time. Her extensive experience and unwavering commitment make

Rhonda Kludt uniquely qualified to lead us further into a bright future as Huron’s City Commissioner.

Let’s do our Huron community a huge favor, and vote for Rhonda Kludt as City Commissioner; together we can elect a leader who will advocate tirelessly for our collective future.

Thank you for your time to read this editorial.

Ashley Kingdon-Reese
Huron