Dell Rapids council designates west-side City Hall parking spot for Minnehaha County deputies

Councilmembers voted to relocate and reserve a marked parking spot for Minnehaha County Sheriff's deputies at the west side of City Hall after staff said the sign had been installed administratively and generated social media criticism.

City staff explained the designation aimed to slow traffic near Fourth Street, provide a visible sheriff presence at City Hall and give deputies a guaranteed parking spot to use as an operations staging point during emergencies. "It was criticized pretty roundly ... on social media," staff said, describing the decision as administrative and non-enforcement in intent.

Captain Syska of the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Department told council deputies regularly use City Hall and that the marked spot helps with daily operations and communication with city staff. "The sign to me, you know, I'm pretty indifferent to the sign," Captain Syska said, noting law enforcement presence at government buildings is common.

Business owners and several councilmembers objected to using a Main Street customer parking space; one business owner said one spot ‘‘isn't gonna kill it’’ but noted downtown parking is limited. Councilmember Gary moved to place the designated spot on the west side of the building to avoid removing a Main Street space; Wendy seconded. Finance Officer Claire called the roll: a majority voted yes and Ron Sagen recorded a nay.

The motion passed and council members said they would coordinate sign placement and messaging. Council did not change the underlying arrangement that deputies may park on Fourth Street when needed.