Commission approves five‑year WIC lease; board notes 60‑day termination clause and $2,000 monthly rent

The Yankton County Board of Commissioners voted to approve a five‑year lease with the Department of Health for office space in the county building to house WIC program staff.

County staff described the agreement as a five‑year lease at $2,000 per month with a 60‑day termination clause allowing either party to end the lease with notice. The board approved changes to the contract after a short discussion; Commissioners moved and seconded the motion and the measure carried by voice vote.

Why it matters: The lease sets terms for a state program operating in county‑owned space. Commissioners expressed a preference for shorter leases during budget planning but noted the contract includes a 60‑day termination provision that gives the county flexibility.

Key details - Lease term and rent: The contract presented to the board is a five‑year lease with monthly rent of $2,000. County staff said a $500 rent increase was included compared to previous arrangements. - Termination and flexibility: The lease includes a clause allowing either party to terminate with 60 days’ notice. Several commissioners said they would have preferred a one‑year lease but accepted the 60‑day out as practical given the lease has been signed. - Utilities and services: The contract specifies that phone and Internet service for the leased space will be paid by the state; county staff pointed to contract language (page 2, section 4.2) clarifying that responsibility. - Motion and vote: Commissioner Don moved approval of the lease changes; Commissioner Ryan seconded. The board voted in favor.

Board remarks Some commissioners said during the discussion that future budget cycles should account for annual increases in rent for state tenants and that the county should not indefinitely subsidize state programs. Others emphasized the board can terminate with 60 days’ notice and renegotiate at the appropriate time.