PIERRE, S.D. (KELO.com) — Gov. Kristi Noem says she and South Dakota state government are working cooperatively with the Yankton Sioux Tribe to solve flooding issues that have troubled the reservation since early this spring.
Noem’s press secretary Kristin Wileman says the Governor and others have given the flooding problems in the Lake Andes area considerable thought and assistance.
“Governor Noem visited Lake Andes and the Yankton Sioux Tribe housing development in July to extend a helping hand and see first-hand the impact of flooding there,” Wileman said. “She discussed with tribal officials a number of issues, including the outlet pipe and tribal plans to drain the lake using pumps. She shared our view that the pipe was working within its design guidelines, as well as the limited impact any pumping would have on water levels.”
Wileman says that since then, state officials have worked closely with FEMA to inspect 76 affected homes and make arrangements to assist the Tribe in repairing damage and if necessary move individuals to temporary housing.
“The State’s plans to raise the highway grade specifically include plans to raise a secondary road between Tribal housing and the highway to Lake Andes,” Wileman said. “The State has indicated that work will be done at no cost to the tribe and requires only a tribal resolution authorizing work on their road, which we have not received.”
Wileman says the state will continue to work closely with FEMA and the tribe to ensure it can take advantage of the variety of resources available to help those impacted.
