The Dakota Valley Board of Education moved through a full agenda on Jan. 12, taking action on staffing, transportation, facility projects and a proposed cell tower lease during its regular monthly meeting.

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The Elk Point Chamber is inviting the public to hear directly from their state lawmakers later this month during a Legislative Cracker Barrel scheduled as part of the 2026 South Dakota legislative session.

The Dakota Valley Parent-Teacher Organization invites the community to support the next generation of local entrepreneurs at the first annual Dakota Valley Spark Market, a studentrun marketplace designed to introduce young learners to entrepreneurship and business skills in a hands-on, engaging way.

The Union County Commission opened the new year Tuesday with a full reorganization session, approving 2026 salaries, confirming dozens of annual appointments and setting polling places for the upcoming election cycle during a wide‑ranging meeting at the courthouse. Commissioners Kevin Joffer, Mike Dailey, Bob Ballard, Tom Kimmel and Peg Ustad were present for the 8:30 a.m. meeting.

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Finding the best winter books for patrons is always on the agenda for the North Sioux City library, but it is especially true as they usher in the new year. With the kickstart to 2026, there also comes the “Flurries of Fun” reading challenge. Librarian Liane Welte and her staff are thrilled to be organizing this 8-week program. They have been promoting it since the fall and are working hard to engage bookworms.

The Union County Commission moved through year‑end business Tuesday, approving contingency transfers, contracts and project actions during its Dec. 23 regular meeting at the courthouse.