
South Dakota State Penitentiary. KELO.com New file photo.
SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO.com) — Sioux Falls city leaders are drawing a firm line in the debate over where to build South Dakota’s next men’s prison. Mayor Paul TenHaken and Police Chief Jon Thum say four of the proposed sites, two inside city limits and two just outside, are the wrong fit for a new prison. They argue those areas are key to future growth and development, not just for Sioux Falls but for the entire state. Instead, they support two other locations farther south, including one in the Worthing area and another in Lincoln County. Their push comes as the state’s prison task force continues weighing options, with its next meeting set for June 3rd in Pierre.
Meanwhile, the mayor of Mitchell wants his community to take a thoughtful look at the idea of hosting South Dakota’s next men’s prison. Mayor Jordan Hanson says a 160-acre site southeast of Mitchell is being considered for a new state prison. He’s asking residents to weigh all sides of the proposal, pointing out that Mitchell has the infrastructure and location to support a large facility like this. Hanson admits the topic is divisive, but says many of the concerns, like crime and lack of workforce, may be more perception than reality. He believes good-paying jobs will draw workers, and says if the state is serious about Mitchell, the conversation should be too.
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