City wants input on event center's future

BROOKINGS — The City of Brookings has launched a survey to gather community input on the Dacotah Bank Center’s future use.

The Dacotah Bank Center is a City-owned event and gathering facility that serves residents and visitors through meetings, conferences, sporting events, concerts, and community celebrations.

“The management contract for the Dacotah Bank Center is set to expire at the end of 2026,” said Kristin Zimmerman, director of the Brookings Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department. “This is an opportunity to step back and consider the long-term role the facility could play in our community.

There are several potential paths for the facility’s future use, and community feedback will be an important part of guiding decisions.”

The survey provides an opportunity for the public to share their priorities, concerns and ideas. The City is asking all residents to complete the survey, which should take about five minutes. To participate, visit www.cityofbrookings-sd.gov/DBCsurvey. The online survey will close at 11:59 p.m. March 1.

Printed surveys are available in the west lobby of the Brookings City & County Government Center, 520 Third Street. Completed surveys can be returned in the secured box in the same location no later than March 1.

“The community survey is the start of the conversation,” said Deputy City Manager Johnny Mays. “After we’ve had time to review the survey results, we’ll be holding public meetings to present survey feedback and continue the conversation about the future of the Dacotah Bank Center.”

The public meetings are currently scheduled for March 18. More details will be available as the date draws closer.