City of Flandreau officials along with local police are looking at options to keep a closer eye on activities happening at City Park east of town.
City Administrator Cohl Turnquist informed the City Council at their latest meeting that, for the second time this summer, a vehicle struck the historic rock wall near the pond by the Japanese Gardens.
A mason has been hired to restore the wall, though another pillar now requires replacement.
It is also not the only park on the receiving end of destructive behavior after hours, Turnquist said. City Office and the park adjacent to City Pool along with the pool building itself have seen some minor damage, but enough to get the city’s attention.

Turnquist and Police Chief Zach Weber, along with neighboring residents, are considering various enhanced security measures, including the installation of security cameras, to try and better protect City Park and other local parks and resources.
Also heard at the most recent meeting of the Flandreau City Council:
● There is a potential anonymous donor who has discussed with city officials gifting a generous amount of money to enhance the local parks system. Nothing firm has been decided but this person grew up in the area and would reportedly like to do something of impact.
● The local Housing Committee plans to meet this week with developer Todd Meierhenry out of Sioux Falls on a potential housing project for Broad Avenue. The development being considered would likely include a range of options for individuals and families. There continues to be a shortage of entry-level, and every level of housing to meet local demand.
● Final revisions to the city’s Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance No. 622) were approved, but Ordinance No. 623, which concerns backyard chickens, still requires final approval.
● The First Reading of Ordinance No. 623, which would allow backyard chickens within city limits, was held. Key restrictions include: no roosters, chickens must remain in coops at all times, a six-chicken limit, and personal slaughter allowed out of public view. Coops must be freestanding and located at least five feet from property lines in rear or side yards. Chickens cannot be kept in homes or garages, and premises must be clean with controlled odors. Food must be stored in rodent-proof containers, and owners must obtain a permit. The ordinance also defines fowl to include quail and ducks.
● Cemetery lot fees are set to increase as a new section opens for purchase. The new prices are $800 for a half-lot and $1,600 for a full lot, the first adjustment since 2017. Retired funeral director Mike Skroch noted that the increase helps cover rising cemetery maintenance costs.
● As concrete work finishes around the Boys and Girls Club complex, more parking will soon reopen. However, with construction beginning on the nearby Early Childhood Learning Centers, part of the parking area will remain under construction. Once projects west of the school complex wrap up, the community center will also likely receive updates, including an ADA-compliant sidewalk and parking area.