Northeast Radio SD: On-Demand Local Listen

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - In a move set to shake up South Dakota’s Republican primary, Navy veteran and local business owner Justin McNeal has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate. McNeal, a political newcomer, is positioning himself as a grassroots alternative to two-term incumbent Senator Mike Rounds, focusing his campaign on fiscal responsibility, term limits, and a return to “principled leadership.”
During an interview with Northeast Radio SD, McNeal laid out a platform centered on what he calls the “Unholy Trinity” of Washington politics: special interests, lobbyists, and career politicians.
From the USS Key West to South Dakota Business
McNeal’s journey to the political stage began far from the campaign trail. A Navy veteran, McNeal served as a nuclear engineer on the fast-attack submarine USS Key West, based out of Pearl Harbor.
“I enlisted in the Navy right out of boot camp in August of 2001, just weeks before 9/11,” McNeal shared. “The military straightened me out and gave me a perspective on service and sacrifice that I carry with me today.”
After his service, McNeal earned an MBA and built a successful career in finance in Hawaii before returning to his roots in South Dakota. Today, he is the owner of Dakota Biochar, a company dedicated to addressing wood accumulation in the Black Hills National Forest and improving soil health for South Dakota farmers.
Tackling the $38.5 Trillion Elephant in the Room
The central pillar of McNeal’s campaign is the national debt, which recently surpassed $38.5 trillion. McNeal argues that neither party is having an honest conversation with the American people about the long-term sustainability of the federal budget.
“We can have it hard now and easy later, or easy now and hard later,” McNeal said, echoing the advice he gave families during his years as a financial planner. “Most Americans are willing to do the hard work now if they see a realistic plan.”
McNeal’s “hard work” involves tackling the largest line items in the federal budget: Social Security and healthcare (Medicare/Medicaid). He points out that Social Security is projected to run out of full funding by 2032 and argues that the current “formula” must be addressed to ensure the program’s survival for future generations.
The Case for Term Limits
One of the sharpest contrasts McNeal draws with Senator Rounds concerns seniority. While Rounds has served as both Governor and Senator for decades, McNeal views long-term incumbency as a “liability” rather than an asset.
“Seniority in Washington has become a liability for South Dakota,” McNeal contended. “When you’ve been in politics for 40 or 50 years, what’s making you want to work with the person across the aisle? Everything has become so divisive.”
McNeal is a staunch advocate for federal term limits, citing the South Dakota State Constitution, which limits federal elected officials to 12 years (two terms in the Senate and six in the House). “The people of South Dakota overwhelmingly supported term limits in the ’90s and again in the 2000s,” McNeal said. “I’m ready to get into the fight and then find the next person in line to take over.”
A Grassroots Path to Victory
Facing an incumbent with a significant fundraising advantage and the backing of the party establishment, McNeal is banking on a “lean and mean” ground campaign. He has made it a point to reject special interest money, a decision he says allows him to remain beholden only to the people of South Dakota.
“Respectfully, they can keep their money,” McNeal said of special interest groups. “We’re running a grassroots campaign because this is not an insurmountable hill. We only need 100,000 votes to win this primary.”
McNeal concluded his interview with a call to action for South Dakotans to engage in the political process and “be the change they wish to see in the world.”
The primary election is scheduled for June 2nd.
Learn more at www.justinmcneal.com
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586851280654
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Kassidy Peters, a mother, professional, and daughter of former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, recently sat down for an interview with new broadcaster Steve Jurrens at Northeast Radio SD.
The conversation explored her multifaceted life, touching on her roles as a co-host of a holistic health podcast, a development officer for Pheasants Forever, and a mother navigating the challenges of modern life.
Finding Harmony in Holistic Health and Family
Peters co-hosts the podcast “Threads of Wellth” with her sister, Kennedy. The podcast, which focuses on simplified holistic health, was born from Peters’ own journey toward wellness after becoming a mother.
“I was noticing that it seems so complicated to be healthy nowadays. Everything is you’ve got to do this, and you have to do everything all at once, and it has to be perfect, otherwise you might as well not even try,” Peters remarked during the interview.
She emphasized that their approach is about making health applicable to modern life, inspired by the simpler lifestyles of previous generations.
“Think about like a hundred years ago, our ancestors ate meat and drank milk and got sunlight, and they probably lived longer than we do today in some cases. So that’s really kind of the model that we follow is holistic, yes, but let’s make it applicable to the modern-day life.”
A Passion for Conservation and Community
In her professional life, Peters serves as a development officer for Pheasants Forever, a conservation organization dedicated to habitat restoration and youth mentoring. Her role involves raising funds for various programs, including the PATH program and the Legislative Action Fund.
“My heart is to find the people that care about what we’re doing at Pheasants Forever—restoring habitat, conservation, youth mentoring—finding the people that care about that because they want to be connected to our mission and what we’re doing.”
Peters, an avid hunter herself, highlighted the importance of conservation for all South Dakotans, not just hunters.
“Even if you’re not a hunter, I think everybody can agree that we need our grasslands, and they’re at a huge threat across the country. Everybody can agree that we want our future kids to have open air, clean air, clean water, places to run on.”
Navigating the Public Eye with Faith
Being the daughter of a prominent political figure has brought Peters into the public eye, presenting both opportunities and challenges. She recently visited the White House and spoke at a healthcare summit at Mar-a-Lago, where she shared her perspective as a mother and patient on the traditional healthcare system.
“I got up and just shared what I have learned about it from my standpoint and why I believe the traditional healthcare system is broken. It’s not set up to help cure people or even help people over illnesses and getting to the bottom of really why people are struggling.”
The public exposure has also brought scrutiny and even threats, particularly in recent months. Peters credits her faith and the support of her family, including her husband Kyle Peters, a city councilman, for helping her navigate these difficulties.
“Faith is number one for me. Staying true to that, no matter where life takes you, that always has to be number one because it’s so easy in every situation to have more of a worldly mindset. I can’t do anything in my own power; it’s through the Lord.”
Looking Toward the Future
When asked about her future aspirations, Peters expressed contentment with her current roles and a commitment to making a positive impact through conservation and community service.
“Whatever I know the Lord has called me to do is make a difference. So no matter what I’m doing, that’ll be my aspiration.”
For those interested in supporting Pheasants Forever, Peters encouraged them to visit their website or get involved with local chapters. She also invited listeners to connect with her through her podcast, “Threads of Wellth,” and her personal social media channels.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

Top Story: Major Boost for the Beacon Center
The Beacon Center received a significant financial lift through a $49,000 contribution from Relyea Bank. In addition to the direct donation, the bank successfully secured a grant on behalf of the center. Officials described this unexpected level of support as "discovering a golden ticket," particularly as government funding for such programs becomes increasingly scarce.
Public Health & Safety Updates
Fish Consumption Advisory: Following mercury testing for 2026, health officials have issued new guidelines. Residents are advised to limit consumption of Walleye (over 18") and White Bass (over 15") from Goose Lake, and Walleye (over 25") from Lake Alice. Mercury levels are attributed to atmospheric sources from outside the state.
Launch of CodeRED: Watertown and Codington County have officially moved to the CodeRED emergency notification system. This replaces older cable-based alerts with text, call, or email notifications for life-threatening emergencies and community updates like snow removal.
Action Required: Residents should register at watertownalerts.com or text WATERTOWN to 36475.
Sobriety Checkpoints: The South Dakota Highway Patrol has released a revised schedule through March. Checkpoints are planned for 15 counties, including Codington, Brookings, and Day.
Local Development & Professional News
TIF Education: Financial expert Toby Morris (Colliers Securities) clarified the use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) in South Dakota. He noted that TIFs do not take money from schools or increase property taxes for existing homeowners. Watertown currently has eight active TIF districts, representing over $100 million in value, including a 72-unit affordable housing development.
AGC Election: Joel Schumacher of Webster Scale has been elected to the 2026 Horizontal Council for the Associated General Contractors of South Dakota.
Food is Medicine Initiative: SDSU Extension is advocating for a network that allows healthcare providers to prescribe medically tailored meals to patients with chronic illnesses. An informational meeting for providers and farmers is set for April 9.
Criminal Investigations
The Brookings County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information regarding a series of burglaries at the Twin City Fan facility in Elkton. An unidentified suspect entered the production area on February 13 and February 22, stealing approximately 20 tool batteries and chargers valued at $6,000. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office or Brookings Area Crime Stoppers.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

Watertown hits a home run for hope! 🔔🏒We sat down with Captain Dennis Jolly to get the final tally on The Salvation Army Watertown, SD 2025 Christmas Campaign, and the numbers are absolutely incredible. Watertown didn't just meet the goal—they blew it out of the water!💰 The Result: $353,000 raised (surpassing the $244k goal by over $109,000!)🙌 Local Impact: 82¢ of every dollar stays right here in town to fund rent assistance, free meals, and emergency help.A massive shoutout to the Watertown Shamrocks for their 70+ hours of bell-ringing and to Dennis Bentien, who put in a staggering 46 hours to help his neighbors.The holiday season might be over, but the work continues. Captain Jolly is now issuing a $40 Lenten Challenge to keep the pantry full and the meal program running strong.Check out the full story on how your donations are being put to work:💻 salarmywatertown.org#WatertownSD #SalvationArmy #CommunityStrong #RedKettleSuccess #DoingTheMostGood
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

🌟 Meet the "Individual of the Month" Changing Lives at Watertown Middle School! 🌟Codington Connects is proud to honor @Project SUCCESS and Coordinator Haley Rau for their incredible work with our local youth. 🏫 From student-led leadership groups like PEEPS (now 90 members strong!) to providing a safe space for kids to talk through mental health and substance use challenges, Haley and her team are building a stronger, healthier Watertown.Highlights from the interview:Self-Reporting on the Rise: More students are choosing to quit vaping and seek help before getting into trouble.PEEPS Power: Students are leading the charge to improve school culture and language.Community Connection: Over 40 local businesses partnered for the recent "Carnival of Careers."Check out the full story of how they are bridging the gap for our kids! ⬇️www.codingtonconnects.com OR https://wms-projectsuccess.weebly.com/ #WatertownSD #CodingtonConnects #ProjectSUCCESS #YouthMentorship #CommunityStrong
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Watertown Figure Skate Club (WFSC) delivered a powerhouse performance at the 36th Annual Leap and Compete Competition in Wahpeton, North Dakota, this past weekend. Sending 17 skaters to represent the club, WFSC athletes returned home with 18 gold medals and nearly 50 podium finishes, marking one of the most successful outings of the season.
Team Resilience on Display
The competition featured strong performances across all levels, from introductory Snowplow Sam groups to the club’s advanced competitive team. Beyond the hardware, Coach Taylor Johnson highlighted the athletes’ personal growth, noting that the weekend was defined by skaters stepping out of their comfort zones and debuting new programs with confidence.
Standout results included multi-category dominance from several skaters:
Joella Stein: Clinched 1st place in both Freeskate and the crowd-favorite Showcase category.
Madison Johnson: Secured top honors in Compulsory and Spins.
Saralayna Johnson, Elsie Hoverstadt, and McKenzie Friese: All earned 1st place finishes in both Freeskate and Compulsory events.
Insights from the Rink: Interview Highlights
During a recent appearance on Northeast Radio SD with news broadcaster Steve Jurrens, Coach Taylor Johnson and advanced skater Joella Stein shared a behind-the-scenes look at the club’s success and philosophy.
“We have a lot of focus and preparation before we go anywhere,” Coach Johnson noted, addressing the nerves often associated with high-level competition. “I do have some ‘Nervous Nellies’ on the team, but they’re pretty together and prepared before we step on the ice.”
Advanced skater Joella Stein, who dazzled judges with an interpretive routine to “Dude Looks Like a Lady” while dressed as Mrs. Doubtfire, emphasized the community aspect of the sport. “It’s just so fun meeting different people and making so many friends,” Stein said. When asked about her favorite part of the Wahpeton weekend, she noted, “Being with the team and just competing and having fun.”
Coach Johnson also touched on the lifestyle required for those eyeing the highest levels of the sport, such as the Olympics. “It’s more of a lifestyle choice. Those athletes aren’t going to school full-time; there’s really no outside life but the training,” Johnson explained. “Here, we encourage multiple sports. It makes everyone a better, well-rounded athlete.”
Community Support: Pizza Hut Fundraiser
To maintain this competitive momentum and support upcoming club costs, the WFSC has partnered with Pizza Hut for a community fundraising event on Tuesday, March 3rd. Supporters can contribute by dining in or ordering online using the promo code TY.
“The big thing is they just have to make sure they tell [the staff] if they’re at Pizza Hut that we’re here to support the team so we get the credit,” Coach Johnson added during the interview. A portion of all eligible sales will go directly toward funding club programs and the much-anticipated annual ice show.
Registration Open for “March Madness”
The club is also looking toward the next generation of skaters by opening registration for its four-week “March Madness” Learn-to-Skate Session. Classes are held on Thursday evenings and cater to a wide demographic:
Ice Explorers: Introductory levels for 2- and 3-year-olds.
Core Programs: Snowplow Sam and Basic Skills for youth.
Adult Classes: A growing program for skaters aged 15 and older.
“We debated on taking March off, but with the Olympics and all the fun activities, it’s not going to happen,” Johnson joked. “We’re going to be running two sheets of ice at the same time to get everyone in.”
Looking Ahead to the Annual Ice Show
While the competitive season continues, the club is also shifting focus toward full-time show rehearsals starting later in March. The annual ice show serves as the season’s grand finale, allowing all members—from beginners to the advanced team—to perform for the community.
“We are so proud of the hard work these athletes put in every single day,” said Coach Johnson. “The season isn’t over yet—let’s keep building.”
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Fresh off a record-breaking Farm Show, the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce is maintaining its momentum with a full slate of community events. Chamber leaders Mackenzie Ries (Director of Ag Engagement) and Karen Aiken (Director of Membership Engagement) recently shared a packed March calendar, featuring the conclusion of a local culinary tradition, a massive St. Patrick’s Day celebration, and the launch of professional development programs.
Final Days of the Watertown Burger Battle
The clock is ticking for local foodies as the Watertown Burger Battle officially concludes this Saturday, February 28. Residents are encouraged to visit participating restaurants to try unique creations that give back to the community.
Participants must turn in their punch cards to the Watertown Chamber office by Tuesday, March 4, to be entered for various prizes, including gift cards from the participating restaurants. Even if the card isn’t full, it is still eligible for the drawing. Votes for the “People’s Choice” winner can be cast via QR codes at the restaurants or online.
St. Patrick’s Day: Parade, Prizes, and a $500 Pot of Gold
Watertown’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is set for Saturday, March 14, 2026. The day is packed with activities, including:
Pancake Feed: Hosted by the Knights of Columbus from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Run for the Gold 5K: Registration begins at 9:00 AM at Dempsey’s Pub.
Patrick’s Day Parade: Lineup starts at 11:30 AM with the parade kicking off at noon from the IC Church.
Pet Contest: A festive pet outfit competition held at Happy Tails K9 following the parade.
The Chamber is also selling commemorative buttons for $5 each (or 5 for $20). These buttons enter buyers into a drawing for high-value prizes, including $500 in Watertown Bucks, a 21-mph adult electric scooter, a Blackstone griddle, and an Apple Watch.
Developing Future Leaders
Registration is currently open for two premier professional development series:
Leadership Watertown: Starting March 31, this 8-week course meets Tuesdays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It includes community tours, networking, and professional headshots for a tuition of $400.
Leadership Lab: Beginning March 2 at Mount Marty University, this $600 course is led by Dr. Melissa Meidinger. It focuses on hands-on leadership theory and self-assessment.
www.water
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

Big Things are Happening at Rising Star Athletics!
 
We had an incredible time in the studio with Anna Check, owner of Rising Star Athletics, and the talented athletes of Team Infinity!
 
Based in downtown Watertown, South Dakota, Rising Star is more than just a gym—it’s a community. From gymnastics and tumbling to birthday parties and competitive cheer, there is truly something for everyone!
 
Team Infinity is Heading to Florida!
The girls have been working hard and recently earned a prestigious bid to a national competition in Florida! To help cover travel, coaching, and competition fees, they are hosting a special fundraiser.
 
Event: Chase the Ace Fundraiser
Where: Sandy's Bar, Grill & Casino
When: Thursday Nights, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The Pot: Currently over $5,200!
 
Can’t make it? You can still support them via Venmo! Check the Rising Star Athletics Facebook Page for details.
 
Mark Your Calendars:
 
New Season Sign-ups: Starting in March!
Try Cheer for FREE: The entire month of April is open to anyone in the community who wants to give cheerleading a shot—no experience necessary!
Whether you’re looking for competitive travel cheer (ages 9–16+) or want to join a “Little Littles” team like Shimmer or Sparkle, reach out today!
 
Facebook: Rising Star Athletics
Let’s help Team Infinity reach the finish line!
 
#RisingStarAthletics #TeamInfinity #WatertownSD #CheerLife #ChaseTheAce #SupportLocalAthletes #Gymnastics #Tumbling
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

I. Local Community Events
Try Hockey For Free Clinic: On March 7th, the Prairie Lakes Ice Arena will partner with USA Hockey to host a clinic for children ages 4-9 with no previous ice experience.
Watertown School Board Race: The race for the Watertown School Board is underway, with incumbent Rochelle Rossman filing for re-election to provide “thoughtful, steady leadership” as the district navigates new challenges. Nominating petitions are due by 5 p.m. on March 24th, and the election will take place on June 2nd.
Top 4 Under 40 Finalists: 11 finalists were announced for Watertown’s “Top 4 Under 40” awards, including:
Tia Hutte of Dakota Bank
Shane Hardy of the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation
Derek Barton of Four Seasons Small Engine Repair
Codington Connects Awards: The Human Service Agency was named the “Agency of the Month” for its Project Success program, which provides prevention and support services for local students. Additionally, Hailey Rau was named the “Individual of the Month” for her role as the Project Success Coordinator at Watertown Middle School.
II. Local Crime and Public Safety
Hypothermia Incident: A 23-year-old Milbank man was hospitalized with severe hypothermia after being found in a downtown Brookings alleyway. He was initially stabilized at Brookings Hospital but later transferred to Sanford Health in Sioux Falls for advanced care.
DUI and Parole Violation: A 44-year-old Sisseton man was arrested at Lake Poinsett after driving his 2024 GMC Sierra into the lake. He was found with a blood alcohol content of .238, nearly three times the legal limit. The man was already on parole for a prior felony DUI and is now being held at the Brookings County Detention Center.
III. State and Federal News
SAVE America Act: Native American outreach groups are expressing concern over a new federal election bill supported by Senator John Thune. The bill would require in-person proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections. Critics argue that many tribal IDs lack the required birth details and that the cost of obtaining new documentation could disenfranchise elders and those living in poverty.
Illegal Reentry Sentencing: A Honduran national, Pedro Murillo, was sentenced to time served for illegal reentry after being deported three times previously.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - In the world of South Dakota public finance, few names have as much experience as Toby Morris. As the Managing Director at Colliers Securities, Morris has spent over 25 years in the trenches of economic development, helping cities, schools, and the state navigate the complex plumbing of infrastructure funding.
In an exclusive, wide-ranging interview, Morris sat down with news broadcaster Steve Jurrens at Northeast Radio SD to demystify Tax Increment Financing (TIF)—a tool he describes as both the most powerful and the most misunderstood weapon in a city’s growth arsenal.
 
The Basics: What is a TIF, Really?
To understand a TIF, Morris says you have to stop thinking about it as a “handout” and start thinking about it as a reimbursement for infrastructure.
Historically, cities and counties paid for roads, water lines, and sewers that enabled towns to grow. But as public budgets have been compressed by inflation and rising costs, that burden has shifted to developers.
“Really what it is, it’s being able to apply property tax in a particular area to offset infrastructure,” Morris explains. “A TIF reimburses the developer over a period of years for a cost they experienced over a period of months”.
“Lack of infrastructure is our biggest impediment that we have in South Dakota for responsible growth... What a TIF does is as that increment grows—meaning as more valuation is within that area—it offsets the upfront cost that a developer had related to infrastructure.”
 
Debunking the Myths: Schools and Tax Hikes
The two most common fears regarding TIFs are that they take money away from school children and that they cause property taxes to rise for everyone else. According to Morris, both are mathematically incorrect in the state of South Dakota.
The School Funding “Hold Harmless”
“The school’s general fund is held harmless,” Morris asserts. Because South Dakota schools are funded primarily on a per-student basis, a TIF actually helps schools by encouraging housing growth that attracts more students.
“Whether you have 12 kids in third grade or 20 kids in third grade, you still have those fixed costs,” Morris notes. “The schools will make it up on a per-student basis”.
Your Property Taxes
“Are my taxes going to go up? No,” Morris says flatly. TIFs do not impact the tax rate of existing homeowners. In fact, Morris argues that TIFs are the key to eventually lowering taxes.
“In order for taxes really to go down or to stabilize, you need growth,” Morris explains. “Growth increases the valuation... when these TIFs dissolve, say 12 or 15 years later, that valuation goes into the bigger formula. The bigger the valuation, the lower the mill levy. The lower the mill levy, the lower your property taxes are”.
 
The “Smell Test”: Preventing Corporate Welfare
With the rise of social media, TIFs have become more controversial, leading some to label them “corporate welfare.” Morris, who receives two to three calls a week from developers seeking a TIF, says his firm accepts only a fraction of them.
He uses what he calls a “Smell Test” (a personal version of the “But-For” test) to ensure the public isn’t being taken for a ride.
“If you know something’s going to happen and they’re going in regardless to an area that’s already developed, then it doesn’t smell right, it doesn’t go in,” Morris says. He also notes a rising “sense of entitlement” among some developers that he actively pushes back against.
“I’ve never done one where a developer fee is part of a TIF. We keep it highly restricted to just infrastructure.”
 
Solving the Housing Crisis
One of the most critical uses for TIFs in 2026 is workforce housing. In cities like Watertown, the high cost of property taxes can equal a month and a half of rent for a single unit, making “affordable” housing impossible to build.
Under South Dakota law, TIFs for multi-family housing come with strict “guard rails”:
Rent Limits: Rents must be kept at 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Price Ceilings: For single-family homes, the price cannot exceed South Dakota housing standards for a first-time homebuyer.
“The TIF can actually help stabilize that rent, keeping it low,” says Morris.
 
Success Stories: From Traxx to Webster
Morris points to Terex in Watertown as a gold standard for industrial TIFs. By helping a major employer expand, the community gained half a million square feet of industrial space and a “phenomenal employer” that generates significant economic spinoffs for local service providers.
He also highlighted the City of Webster, which took a “progressive and aggressive” stance by borrowing money to fund infrastructure for 100 single-family units. “It’s one of the greatest stories... because it’s truly becoming successful,” Morris says, noting they pre-sold 35 lots in a town that hadn’t seen major development in decades.
 
The “Cave People” and the Need for Transparency
Despite the benefits, Morris acknowledges that economic development is often more emotional than technical. He jokingly refers to some critics as “CAVE people” (Citizens Against Virtually Everything), but he takes their concerns seriously through a commitment to total transparency.
“As a registered municipal advisor, my ethics is to always be transparent,” Morris says. He advocates for the “guard rails" recently introduced in the legislature to ensure TIFs are viewed as tax money investments, not handouts.
The Bottom Line
Morris likens a TIF to a long-term investment in the community’s future.
“A TIF is no different than planting a tree. I’m not getting shade tomorrow, next week, or next year, but when the TIF rolls off... the benefits are there.”
For Watertown, a city Morris says has done a “very nice, responsible job with TIFs,” the shade from those trees is just beginning to be felt.
According to the 2025 South Dakota TIF Annual Report, Watertown currently has 8 active TIF districts. Collectively, these projects represent approximately $53 million in anticipated project costs and have generated a current total increment value of over $100 million.
Here is a breakdown of the specific active TIFs in Watertown that you can report on:
Industrial & Infrastructure Successes
Mallard Pointe Business Park (TIF #7): Created in 2019 to improve the business park for current and future tenants. This project has an anticipated cost of $7,000,000 and has already generated an incremental value of $22,451,276.
1st Avenue North Extension (TIF #5): This long-standing economic TIF (created in 2007) funded the extension of 1st Avenue North. It has been highly successful in increasing property value, growing from a base of $472,835 to a 2025 equalized value of $37,393,920.
Calvin Industrial Park (TIF #8 & #9): These two districts were created in 2019 to provide infrastructure for industrial growth. Combined, they represent approximately $1.4 million in infrastructure investment.
Housing & Downtown Redevelopment
Workforce & Affordable Housing (TIF #17): Created in 2021 specifically for affordable single-family homes. It has an anticipated project cost of $5.6 million and aims to provide 72 new homes for the community.
Downtown Improvements (TIF #10 & #12): Both districts focus on commercial and housing infrastructure to support growth in the downtown area. TIF #12 is a significant $5 million project aimed at creating jobs and encouraging growth.
Multi-Family Apartment Infrastructure (TIF #15): This 2021 project is the largest recent housing-related TIF in Watertown, with an anticipated project cost of $20,000,000. It has already generated over $14 million in incremental value.
Watertown TIF Summary Table
TIF District
Type
Primary Purpose
Anticipated Cost
Current Increment Value
#5
Economic
1st Ave N Extension
$3,832,439
$36,921,085
#7
Economic
Mallard Pointe Business Park
$7,000,000
$22,451,276
#11
Economic
Commercial/Housing Infra
$2,968,880
$5,506,981
#13
Economic
Apartments/Senior Center
$2,070,349
$5,973,687
#14
Economic
Commercial/Housing Dev
$4,358,406
$22,016,042
#15
Economic
Apartment Infrastructure
$20,000,000
$14,076,298
#17
Affordable
72 Affordable Homes
$5,600,000
$6,566,596
#20
Economic
Commercial Infrastructure
$2,500,000
$1,745,817
 
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA