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Commissioners approve 20-year gas franchise for NorthWestern Energy
Summary
The Clark County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted Resolution 11-26 on April 21, 2026, granting NorthWestern Energy a 20-year franchise to construct and operate natural gas pipelines along county roads subject to indemnification and restoration requirements.
The Clark County Board of Commissioners on April 21 adopted Resolution 11-26 granting NorthWestern Energy the right to construct, lay and operate natural gas pipelines and mains along county highways for a 20-year term. The motion to adopt the resolution was made by Commissioner David Spieker and seconded by Commissioner Chris Sass; all commissioners voted aye.
The resolution conditions the franchise on NorthWestern Energy agreeing to indemnify Clark County and its employees against liabilities arising from pipeline work, restore affected areas at the company’s expense and comply with applicable South Dakota rules. The resolution text cites SDCL Section 7-8-23 as the authority under which the application was filed and states that "This will be in effect for twenty years." The board's vote adopted the resolution as written and recorded by Auditor Christine Tarbox.
The franchise becomes effective after execution of the company’s acceptance of the conditions set forth in the resolution. No amendments or dissent were recorded during the motion and vote.
