Leader-Courier and Dakota Dunes/North Sioux City Times move to Fridays

The Leader-Courier and Dakota Dunes/North Sioux City will move their publication day from Thursday to Friday beginning the second week of January 2026. Publisher Shannon Jost said the change also adjusts the weekly deadline to Tuesday at noon, instead of Monday at noon.

County announces road closures

The Union County Highway Department has closed a segment of 471st Avenue and adjoining 306th Street through late summer to accommodate a major bridge replacement project over Brule Creek.

Crews have closed 471st Avenue to through traffic between 305th Street and 307th Street. Additionally, 306th Street is closed to eastbound traffic heading from the Interstate 29 interchange at Exit 31.

NSC tackles flood recovery

The North Sioux City Commission advanced dual initiatives on disaster recovery and residential expansion during its regular meeting on June 17, establishing a new tax increment finance district for flood-impacted areas and accepting millions of dollars in public infrastructure at the Union Crossing subdivision.

Mayor Chris Bogenrief opened the session by swearing in Vincent Tucker to a three-year term on the City Commission. Tucker won the seat in the June 2 municipal election, securing 293 votes (56%) over challenger Jeffrey Myers, who received 230 votes (44%).

Anderson Class A coach of the year

Bringing home Dakota Valley’s first ever state title for sanctioned high school softball was an incredible feat and to continue the good cheer, Panther head coach Jason Anderson was recently named Class A coach of the year (COTY) by the South Dakota Softball Coaches Association (SDSBCA). The honor is exciting for Anderson, however nothing tops winning a state championship as he wants all of the credit to go to his team who worked hard in the off-season, came together during the regular season and looked strong throughout their state tourney run. 

Dakota Valley renews superintendent contract

By shannon jost timesleader1@gmail.com The Dakota Valley School District Board of Education locked in leadership and pushed forward on infrastructure upgrades during its regular meeting Monday night. In a series of brisk moves, the board approved an amended contract renewal for Superintendent Garrett Schmidt, greenlit a major commercial kitchen upgrade and reviewed administrative reports detailing surging elementary test scores and a high school gymnasium network project. The meeting was called to order at 6 p.m. by Board Chairperson Steve Kistner.

NSC planners advance flood‑recovery TIF

The North Sioux City Planning Commission on Wednesday advanced a new tax‑increment financing district intended to help the McCook Lake neighborhood recover from the 2024 flood and approved a four‑lot plat tied to a townhome project nearing completion.

Commission Chair Peter Holbrook opened the meeting with all regular members — Benson, Christenson, DeVries, Holbrook and Layhee — in attendance. Planning and Zoning staff member Ross Kuchta, Economic Development Director Andrew Nilges and Building Inspector Gary Roan were also present.

Lilly named SD Finance Officer of the Year

Amy Lilly, Finance Officer for the City of North Sioux City, SD, was named Finance Officer of the Year last week by the South Dakota Governmental Finance Officers’ Association.

The award is given each year to a member of the association who exemplifies excellence in municipal finance, dedication to public service, and a commitment to strengthening both their community and the profession.

Lilly was recognized for providing leadership, stability, and a steady hand during one of the most challenging periods her community has ever faced.

County commisioners certify primary election

Commissioners met twice last week, canvassing the June 2 primary election, drawing precincts for a post‑election audit and reviewing construction progress and department operations as the county prepares for upcoming moves into the Turner building.

Commissioners Kevin Joffer, Michael Dailey, Tom Kimmel, Peggy Ustad and Bob Ballard attended both the June 4 special meeting and the June 9 regular meeting.

June 4: Primary canvass and audit drawing

A Message from Mayor Chris Bogenrief

As summer gets underway, it’s exciting to see our parks, trails, ballfields, community spaces, and the lake come alive once again. This time of year brings more opportunities to get outside, connect with neighbors, and enjoy everything that makes North Sioux City such a special place to call home.