The City of Hot Springs, SD, held a meeting on October 6, 2025, where discussions centered around the organization of a Native American Day event and the associated public safety concerns.
A key speaker highlighted their experience coordinating the first two Native American Day parades in Sioux Falls, which included managing over 115 floats and securing necessary resources such as security personnel, barricades, and portable restrooms within a tight timeframe of three and a half weeks. The speaker expressed confidence in their ability to replicate this success in Hot Springs, emphasizing their coordination with local law enforcement.
However, concerns were raised by city officials regarding the feasibility of organizing such an event in just 11 days. Questions were directed at the adequacy of the proposed security measures, noting that while volunteers had been arranged, they did not include law enforcement officers. Officials stressed the importance of public safety and the need for proper law enforcement presence to ensure the safety of all participants and attendees.
The discussion underscored the challenges of event planning within a limited timeframe and the critical role of law enforcement in community safety during public events. The meeting concluded with a call for further dialogue between event organizers and local authorities to address these concerns and ensure a safe and successful event.