Happy Independence Day!

Hello D4 constituents,

It’s been a busy time over Independence Day!

My work on data center legislation continues. I’m working with stake holders from the Governor’s office, the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), Deuel County folks, industry experts, energy experts, water experts & other legislators. I first started this adventure shortly after session in April. In mid-June I met with Lt Gov Tony Venhuizen and Bill Even, the Commissioner of GOED. Nick Philips from Applied Digital also attended. This meeting was to continue to bring the idea forward in a positive manner, and to acknowledge that not everyone thinks it’s worthy of pursuit. I’ve three legislative drafts and we’re close to landing one for a bill next session. Keep an eye out for more updates. I’m looking forward to bringing this to the House Tax Committee, then on to the floor and ultimately to the Governor’s desk for signature.

In mid-June I spoke at the South Dakota Assessors convention in Mitchell. I’ve attended these before, but this was my first time as a speaker. It’s a fun group of people. After seeing what all goes into the state side of property tax and assessment and how small changes really impact the assessors, my admiration for these folks went up even more.   

Also, in June I spoke at the Coteau Area Conservation District’s meeting at Ft. Sisseton. Hat’s off to Angela Ehlers, state director. She put together a good meeting and I was happy to contribute. She asked me to speak about the role of lobbyists in drafting legislation, advocating for their cause and law making. This past session saw an attempt to defund some of her peers as she also serves as an advocate for the South Dakota Conservation Districts during session. Another part of her work is with the Leopold Conservation Award for South Dakota. Look it up, Barry & Eli Little won last year from Castlewood.

Independence Day found us in Kranzburg for the annual parade. Quite the parade. Loads of people from all over District 4 and everywhere else too. We next went over to Watertown for their parade. It’s always fun to see the people come out to support the local effort. Parades are fun, but also a lot of work! I remember taking little kids to parades. Driving through the parade reminded so much of that. What a fun thing to see all the little kiddos waiting for candy, wrestling with their friends for the treasure and being crestfallen when they were out scrambled for the goodies! After that Lake Poinsett was calling. The night ended watching fireworks with friends on the dock. Made my day to watch how patriotic people are.

I find it heartening people are largely in favor of economic growth here in South Dakota. After last session, with the fear and negative environment that was the underlying mood, it’s truly enjoyable to talk with other positive minds. It's been a good summer.

All the best,

Kent Roe

South Dakota District 4 House of Representatives

X:  Kent Roe@OxfordthomasRoe