Brief History

In 1970, South Dakota Governor, Frank Farrar signed an Executive Order identifying the boundaries of six potential Planning Districts in South Dakota. In 1972, the Black Hills Council of Local Governments was created when local officials in the area exercised their authority under the "Joint Exercise of Governmental Powers" (SDCL 1-24). Since that time, the Council has been addressing regional concerns relevant to an eight-county area of western South Dakota. The District includes the following counties and municipalities located with these counties: Bennett, Butte, Custer, Fall River, Harding, Lawrence, Meade, and Pennington Counties.

The purpose of the Council is reflected best by its mission statement: "...a technical assistance organization created by local governments working on problems that they identify."

To this end, the Council recognizes the relevancy of proper planning to the stability of the area and remains committed to reflecting the needs of its members in undertaking any projects or strategic planning endeavors.

Overview

Black Hills Council members are characterized by local governments of varying sizes that, because of changing socioeconomic and environment conditions, have become increasingly interdependent in seeking solutions to a wide variety of issues and concerns. Local elected officials need a forum for discussion of both local and regional issues, concerns, and problems. The Black Hills Council serves as that forum. It is within this framework that the Council has taken a lead role in a strategic planning process designed to resolve problems identified by its members and assist in determining the shape of the area's future.

2008-2009
Council Officers

Chairperson
Sharon Scudder
Sturgis 

Vice-Chairperson
Dean Wagner
Harding County 

Secretary
Eddie Clay
Hot Springs 

Treasurer
Stan Harms
Butte County

Past Chairperson
Joseph McFarland
Custer County