Rotary hears from mayor, manager

BROOKINGS — The Brookings Rotary Club hosted Mayor Ope Niemeyer and City Manager Paul Briseno as featured speakers at its March 3 meeting. City Councilor and Rotarian Lisa Hager assisted. The two city leaders shared a video that provided updates on major municipal projects, infrastructure planning, and opportunities for community collaboration, highlighting ongoing efforts to support Brookings’ growth and quality of life.

Mayor Niemeyer outlined progress on several key city facilities. Planning and design work for a new Brookings fire station is nearing completion, with bidding anticipated to open in July 2026. The city’s goal is to have the building enclosed before winter, after which the current fire station will be demolished. He also shared updates on the proposed police station project, noting that the city has issued a request for proposals for a construction manager and expects design work to begin soon, with construction targeted for spring 2027.

Discussion also focused on the future of the Dakotah Bank Center and Larson Ice Center.

Mayor Niemeyer reported that recent community feedback shows support for a hybrid redevelopment concept that would better serve the community.

An open house is scheduled for March 18, with two time slots available to encourage broad public participation. City leaders are seeking community direction on the long-term future of the Dakotah Bank Center, which requires annual operating subsidies and significant capital investment from the city.

The Mayor addressed infrastructure and land-use updates across Brookings. He explained that the former Sixth Street water tower site was part of a land swap agreement with Brookings Municipal Utilities related to the new tower location.

The old tower is scheduled for demolition in May 2026, opening future possibilities for redevelopment of the site.

Niemeyer also discussed the planned boulevard extension near the university area. Clark Drew Construction will complete the extension, which will serve as a primary access route. The potential installation of a streetlight at the intersection will be evaluated by the South Dakota Department of Transportation, with decisions based on accident data and safety criteria.

The meeting also highlighted collaboration between the City of Brookings and the Brookings Rotary Club. Rotary members will take part in a district-wide clean water initiative on April 22 in recognition of Earth Day. The local project, developed in partnership with Public Works Director John Thompson, will focus on storm drain improvements designed to protect and promote clean water. Rotary members were encouraged to volunteer for this hands-on community service effort.

The program concluded with a reflective quote from Theodore Roosevelt, shared as a reminder of the value of civic engagement and service:

“Do what you can with what you have, where you are.”

— Brookings Rotary Club
Brookings Rotary is part of Rotary International, a global service organization dedicated to strengthening communities and addressing local and international needs through service and leadership.