Unless you are planning to vote absentee, and numbers show that many in Moody County already are, you have just under four weeks to decide who you will be casting a vote for in the November 2022 Midterm elections.
If you are unaware of who may be running for the offices that you’ll be asked to choose from, the Moody County Enterprise hopes the following is helpful to learn a bit about the candidates, their priorities and their stances on some of the issues, in advance.
You’ll be asked on November 8th to choose:
The state’s lone representative in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Incumbent Republican Senator John Thune is facing Democrat Brian L. Bengs and Libertarian Tamara J Lesnar. South Dakota’s current U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson faces a challenge from Libertarian Collin Duprel.
South Dakota’s next Governor. Governor Kristi Noem (Rep.) and Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden will face Jamie Smith and Jennifer Keintz on the Democratic ticket and the Libertarian Party’s Tracey Quint and Ashley Strand.
Secretary of State (responsible for preserving South Dakota’s public documents). Democrat Thomas A Cool will face off against Republican Monae Johnson. Incumbent, Steve Barnett, is not seeking reelection.
Attorney General. Marty Jackley will be the lone name on the ballot.
State Auditor (the taxpayers’ watchdog, keeping a check on the manner in which state tax dollars are being spent.) Incumbent Rich Sattgast faces Democrat Stephanie Marty and Libertarian Rene Meyer.
State Treasurer. Josh Haeder (Rep.), who is seeking another term, faces a challenge from Democrat John Cunningham.
Commissioner of School and Public Lands. Democrat Timothy Azure and Republican Brock Greenfield are vying for the seat previously held by Rep. Jarrod Johnson.
Public Utilities Commissioner. As the conversation about C02 pipelines moves forward, this is a race many locally are watching closely and discussing. Incumbent Chris Nelson (Rep.) faces a challenge for the seat by Jeffrey Barth (Dem.)
Locally, the races that Moody County residents will want to familiarize themselves with specifically:
State Senator, District 25. Incumbent Tom Pischke is the only name on the ballot. Pischke is seeking re-election but this time hopes to move to the Senate after serving in the House since 2017.
State Representative, District 25. Democrats Dan Ahlers and David Kills A Hundred are challenging Republicans John Hansen, an incumbent, and Randy Gross.
Sheriff. Incumbent Troy Wellman faces challenger Rob Neuenfeldt.
Register of Deeds. Incumbent Kris Grootwassink (Dem.) is being challenged for her position by Independent Brittany Bennett.
County Commissioner. David Reker (Rep.) and Garnet Paulsen (Ind) are vying for the seat being vacated by longtime Commissioner Rick Veldkamp in one district while incumbent John Schiefelbein (Dem.) will look to defend his seat against a challenge from Independent Jerry Doyle in another.
You’ll also be asked about retaining two Supreme Court Justices whose terms are set to expire, to vote on judges in the Third Circuit Court, to vote on the expansion of Medicaid in South Dakota, and as well, on Initiated Measure 27, which would legalize the possession, use and distribution of marijuana.
Unsure of who you might vote for in the local races, especially? On pages 10 and 11, the Moody County Enterprise hopes to offer a glimpse into each local candidate’s life and viewpoints so that you might make the most informed decision possible.
The polls will open at 7 a.m. on November 8th and stay open until 7 p.m.
Did you know…”when South Dakota became a state in 1889, the federal government granted the state over 3.5 million acres of land. In each township sections 16 and 36 were to be used for schools and other public purposes. These are known as common school lands. If these sections were already settled, the government provided replacement lands known as indemnity lands.
Additional lands were also provided and could be divided as the State wished. The South Dakota Constitution divided these lands between the state’s universities, the School for the Visually Handicapped, the School for the Deaf, State Training School, and the Developmental Center in Redfield.
To manage these lands and the money they generated, the constitution established the Office of the Commissioner of School and Public Lands.
According to the constitution, common school and indemnity lands were either to be sold or leased and the proceeds deposited in a permanent trust fund for education. The principal could be increased, but never diminished. Interest from the fund was to be used for funding education.
Each year the office returns approximately $12 million to school districts and endowed institutions. The money is generated from grazing, mineral, oil and gas leases, interest on the Common School Permanent Fund, and interest on land sales contracts.” - from sdpubliclands.sd.gov.

Tom Pischke
Republican
District 25 State Senator
Hometown: Corsica, SD
Current residence: Dell Rapids, SD
Family: Lisa, wife / 4 children
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? For the past six years in the House of Representatives, I’ve been recognized by recognized and/or endorsed by Conservative organizations such as the National Rifle Association, SD Gun Owners, Family Heritage Alliance, SD Right to Life and SD Citizens for Liberty as being a staunch defender of our life, liberty, our Constitutional Rights and the SD Republican party platform.  Our Constitutional Rights are slowly eroding away year after year because of policies implemented by Democrats and weak Republicans and I’m sick and tired of it.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? To defend the Constitutional Rights of the people in South Dakota
2. What do you see as your primary role? To defend the Constitutional Rights of the people in South Dakota
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? The devaluing of our money due to Biden-flation, higher taxes, and the indoctrination of our children in our schools
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? We need to stop the reckless spending in DC, we need to stop the unnecessary spending on crony capitalism ideas in Pierre and parents need to be more involved in the education of our children.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? For the past six years, I’ve been a champion of trying to fix the issues in our family courts.  Too many times, our courts decide to reduce the fathers of our children to visitors in their lives and that is not in the best interest of the child.  I will also work hard to defend the Constitutional Rights of the people in South Dakota
6. Why are you the best person for the job? Because I’m principled and I don’t cave to pressures from the Governor, the bureaucrats or the lobbyists.

Dan Ahlers
Democrat
Disitrict 25 State
Representative
Hometown: Dell Rapids
Current residence: Dell Rapids
Family: Amy, wife and children Jackson & Aaron
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? As a business owner, community volunteer and leader, I believe it is important to give back to your community. It’s a blessing to have these kinds of opportunities and a waste not to do something good with it.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I have been watching the partisanship, fighting and lack of responsiveness in our state legislature. South Dakotans deserve representation that can set party politics aside and work for them.
2. What do you see as your primary role? Listen to what the people I represent are telling me isn’t working or is a top priority and work on those issues.
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? Investment of federal infrastructure money, Access to affordable healthcare and Growing the state’s workforce.
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? As a business owner and former chamber president, I understand the importance of these issues on the user end. Good infrastructure, like the availability of high-speed internet, is vital to remaining competitive in today’s economy. Affordable healthcare is essential in recruiting and retaining good workers. Our state needs more workers. We need to retain more of our college and technical school graduates. Sixty-four percent of our graduates leave South Dakota. Our response can’t be the typical “they will come back later when they want to start a family.” That’s a poor strategy.
With my legislative experience, including my time as an appropriator, I understand the importance of investing our resources wisely. How we invest each dollar will determine our future economic success. Bringing broadband to rural areas will improve access and opportunity for South Dakota’s thousands of home-based and rural businesses. Quality roads will ensure the transportation of South Dakota products. Affordable healthcare options will help our employers retain good workers. I bring experience in both policy and the application. Having this type of experience will lead to good investments and better policy.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? During my time in the legislature, I worked on several bills concerning education and special education. Supporting our educators and ensuring a quality education for our children is a high priority for me.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? I have the experience and a proven track record for solving difficult problems. I believe it is important to listen to the people I serve. Almost every piece of legislation I brought as a legislator came from someone who took the time to visit me in my business or called me on the phone and said “This isn’t working. Can we do something to fix it?” If more elected officials made this their focus, the state of politics in this country wouldn’t be so negative.


David Kills A Hundred
Democrat
District 25 State
Representative
Hometown: Flandreau
Current residence: Flandreau
Family: Debra Loomis, Mother; Garrie Kills A Hundred, Father; brothers, Eric Kills A Hundred, Donovan Kills A Hundred and Ryan Kills A Hundred; sisters, Robin Kooi, Mary Kills A Hundred and Katherine Kills A Hundred
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I was elected and served on the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribal Executive Committee from 2016-2020. Even with the pandemic, supply chain issues, and downward turn the economy has taken, the actions my fellow council members and I took has led to levels of economic prosperity not seen in decades. While I cannot take full credit for the good fortunes that the tribe has had, I do feel fortunate and proud that I helped get my community to a better place than it had even 5 years ago
Questions
1. Why are you running for office? .     I decided to run for office because I am genuinely worried about the direction the state of South Dakota is moving towards. 2022 saw South Dakota prohibiting transgender girls from participating with their cisgender peers. These bans are discriminatory and misguided, but worse is that it is just the start. Several bills have already been filed across the US, in places like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Florida, and Arizona to name a few, that would prevent transgender kids from accessing gender-affirming healthcare, learning about LGBT issues in schools, and even accessing bathrooms consistent with their gender identity. Also, things like the South Dakota’s DOE proposed Social Studies Standards Revision. Giving it the benefit of the doubt, it is shoddy. And at worst a white washing of history. And many school kids are not taught about things like the Tulsa Race Massacre 1921, the Rosewood Massacre 1923, the Wilmington Race Riots 1898 (the only successful Coup d’état in American History), The uprising of 1862 in Minnesota. I wish I could say that I am overreacting, but it was not that long ago when other groups of people were prohibited from using the same restrooms as other people.
There are great people in this state that are making strides in moving us forward at the local and state level. People like Emily Pieper who has worked tirelessly to see the Cresent Street Bridge in Flandreau repaired. Not just in the interest in preserving local history, but to connect the students at the Flandreau Indian School once again to the city of Flandreau. People like Senator Troy Heinert, Representatives Shawn Bordeaux, and Oren Lesmeister who I have worked with previously. They have always been friends to the tribes and the people of South Dakota, I hope to be one of those people that can help move us forward.
2. What do you see as your primary role? I would be providing a voice in Pierre for those who are typically overlooked by their elected officials
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? Education. Workers’ rights. Women’s reproductive health.
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? I believe that the State of South Dakota should be able to provide a livable wage and adequate resources for the educators of its children.
Workers’ rights in South Dakota could also use some updating. Raising the minimum wage to $15.00, a state law requiring employers to provide rest breaks and meal periods would be a suitable place to start.
I am worried the direction that women’s reproductive health rights have taken recently and will work hard to see that change. The overturning of roe v. wade coupled with state bills like proposed House Bill 1248, Senate Bill 183 in 2021 and proposed House Bill 1311 in 2022 are unfortunate examples of women’s reproductive Health rights being further eroded in South Dakota
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? I would like to see a more affordable Daycare system in place for employed parents. I have personally seen the blessing that affordable daycare can be for single parents who are the sole providers in their households. I would work extremely hard to make that possible across the state of South Dakota.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? Government is nothing new to me. I took immense pride in serving the people of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe and would work just as hard for everyone in District 25 and South Dakota.

Jon Hansen
Republican
District 25 State Representative
Hometown: I grew up my hometown of Dell Rapids.
Current residence: Dell Rapids.
Family: Wife, Sheila, and we have 5 young children: William, Garret, Lily, Jude, and Hope.
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I’m a 5th generation South Dakotan dedicated to faith, family, friendship, and freedom. I’ve served in the legislature for 7 sessions and am the Speaker Pro Tempore of the House, Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, and Chairman of the Rules Review Committee.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I feel called to serve to fight for strong families, constitutional rights and freedom, low taxes, quality education, responsible spending, and respect for the dignity of human life. Our great state has been passed down by those generations who came before us, and I want to preserve its greatness now and into the future. It’s our responsibility to be good stewards of our home and pass along an even better state to future generations of South Dakotans.
2. What do you see as your primary role? My primary role in the legislature is to serve the people and fight for South Dakota conservative values. All of the big corporations and special interests already have their lobbyists, so when I go to Pierre, my focus is on South Dakotans, not special interests.  
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? I’m concerned about irresponsible government spending that’s leading to inflation and rising costs for life’s basic necessities.  I’m concerned about the government taxing your hard earned money and redistributing it to big special interests who donate
 the most to political campaigns. I’m also concerned about radical left ideology invading education, healthcare, and big business.
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? On spending: I will continue to be conservative with your tax money, fight for lower taxes, and spend in ways that actually benefit you and your family. For example, last session I passed a measure in the House to eliminate the state sales tax on groceries.
 I’m optimistic that next session the Senate will come on board and pass this historic tax cut to bring relief from inflation and rising food costs to South Dakota families. On the radical left: I will fight for excellent education free from fringe political indoctrination, I’ll fight the radical attempt to legalize taxpayer funded abortion up to birth in our state Constitution, and I’ll fight for you when big corporations try to violate your God given rights.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? Some of the most rewarding work in the legislature comes from helping constituents with their needs.  I’ve had the pleasure of working with constituents on everything from local road funding to enhancing newborn screenings to helping families with their newly adopted babies.  If I can ever be of any assistance to you, please feel free to contact me and I’ll be happy to help.
6. Why are you the best person for the job?  I’m a dedicated public servant with a proven track record of effectiveness on behalf of the people I represent.  I’ve demonstrated that, even when we disagree on the issues, we can still be civil and respect others. I would be honored to have your vote to continue serving our district in Pierre.

Randy Gross
Republican
District 25 State
Representative
Hometown: South Dakota born. Lived in many places during my “growing up” years including South Dakota, Minnesota, Pakistan, India (8-12th grades) and Washington State.
Current residence: On our farm in rural Moody County about 9 miles north of Flandreau
Family: d Wife of 51 years Susan, four adult children and 7 grandchildren
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? Faith, family, and freedom are driving forces in my life
1. Why are you running for office? I first ran for office when my predecessor came and asked that I run.  Since then, I have been encouraged to run for reelection by many constituents and fellow legislators.  Public service at every level is an honor and a challenge.  I appreciate the challenge and am honored to serve others
2. What do you see as your primary role? My primary role is to act in the best interests of the citizens of the 25th District (upon redistricting) and the state of South Dakota within the guidelines of our state constitution.  I believe our state motto sums it up “Under God, the people rule”.
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? 1.Inflation is negatively impacting everyone and must be reduced. 2. Quality educational/training opportunities are essential to the future of our state. 3.Personal freedom and individual responsibility are key elements of South Dakota culture and must be preserved.
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? While there is little any state can do about inflation, we must budget conservatively and prepare for times when funding will not be flush. Taxes are the citizens money and should be managed as such.  I supported eliminating the state sales tax on groceries during the last legislative session.  It did not pass.
All citizens should have access to a variety of quality educational opportunities including public and private options.  Our universities and technical institutions both provide graduates for essential career opportunities and need to be supported.
Citizens and their families are the ones who should be primarily responsible for both  making and supporting the decisions that impact their own futures.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? My background is in agriculture.  Farming and ranching are still the backbone of our state’s economy.  I hope to impact issues that will keep our farms and rural communities strong and sustainable well into the future.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? My personal background (farmer, retired banker, military veteran, adoptive parent, teaching experience, international living, civic involvement, etc.) helps me to see the big picture and relate to the many, varied situations that come before the legislature.  In addition, I have been recognized by my fellow legislators as one who can work with others and effectively communicate goals and solutions.  I have chaired legislative committees and been elected by my fellow legislators to the Legislative Executive Board.

Rob Neuenfeldt
Independent
Sheriff
Hometown: My hometown is Lewisville, a small community in south central Minnesota.  I attended and graduated from Truman High School in 1990
Current residence: Flandreau
Family: Lacy Neuenfeldt, wife; Sons, Bryant & Bryce; Step Sons, Dylan, Pierce & Eric
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I currently work for the Flandreau Police Department as the Patrol Sergeant and held that position for a little over three years of the nearly 5 years with the department.  As the first line supervisor I am tasked with completing the schedule and keeping 24/7 coverage for the residents and visitors of Flandreau.  I am a certified FTO (Field Training Officer) and use those skills while actively training new officers and reviewing the current ones as part of my supervisory role.  I have written countless search warrants to apprehend offenders and to solve cases such as the liquor store burglary on Wind St. and residences where drugs are being distributed.  Cases such as these take time and a dedication to the community to keep investigating, even as other cases are coming in.  I also received a letter of appreciation from the Daytona Beach Police Department for helping them apprehend a fugitive wanted in connection with a sexual assault against a child and take him off the streets of Flandreau.
Prior to coming to the Flandreau Police Department I was the Chief of Police for the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe.  During that time I learned a great deal about the Native culture and how deeply it is ingrained in Moody County.
I began my law enforcement career with the Moody County Sheriff’s Office.  While there I learned the unique duties the Sheriff’s Office is responsible for.  Such as contract law enforcement with the Colman, Egan, Trent, and Ward communities.  Civil processes and paper service.  The Sheriff’s Office also handles all the inmates for the county, regardless which state agency made the arrest.  While at the Sheriff’s Office I also trained new deputies and did the deputy scheduling.
My public service career spans into four decades.  During high school I enlisted in the MN Army National Guard, attending basic training at Fort Benning, GA in June of 1989.  I worked for the St. James Ambulance Service for nearly 15 years, almost all of that as a Captain.  Field training new EMT’s and scheduling 24/7 were part of my duties.  I was also voted on to the Ambulance board of directors, which was responsible for the departmental budget and oversight.  While an EMT I performed ems services for various employers.  I was nominated for the Hometown Hero Award after my supervisor had a heart attack on the shop floor.  CPR and a defibrillator saved his life that day, and he has had many birthdays since.
In my off time Lacy and I operate a small acreage. We produce garden fresh food for ourselves and share our excess with others.  The “sunflower patch” I plant in our pasture across from The Spot has had countless visitors stop and take pictures.  Over the past few years I have become a beekeeper and also learned the art of making our own maple syrup.  We raise a few chickens and turkeys also.  I am an avid deer hunter and constantly strive to improve wildlife habitat and food sources.  
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I believe in Moody County and have chosen to make it my home.  I will work tirelessly to improve the Sheriff’s Office locally.  As a former nationally registered emergency medical technician I can attest that national recognition did not help me save any more lives than my local state certification, it just costs more money!
2. What do you see as your primary role? I wholeheartedly do not believe there is a primary role for the Sheriff.  As with most law enforcement positions you are required to wear many hats and your role changes with each one.  One minute you might be dealing with a death, a baby being born, an intoxicated individual, or a person in mental health crisis ready to end it all.   I would consider a major role of the Sheriff to be the the department head.  In that capacity the Sheriff should be leading by example.  The Sheriff should be looking at the services the office provides to the county and how to do them as efficiently and effectively as possible.
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? I am going to limit this to the top concerns I have for Moody County.  I believe most of the residents of Moody County are predominantly more concerned with what is happening right here.
1. Fiscal Responsibility - The taxpayers of Moody County, myself included, are struggling with increased expense for everything.  I have identified ways to cut $100,000 of taxpayer funded expense from the budget, if not more.  This will not be an easy task, but it is an achievable one.  It will take a fresh set of eyes and a vision for the future.  It will take a lot of change and that change will be almost immediate with your vote and support.
2. Employee Recruitment and Retention - This is a huge issue, and an ongoing issue for the Sheriff’s Office.  A turnover of at least 19 deputies in the last 10 years should not be acceptable in anyone’s book.  The number of dispatchers may be double that or more, again unacceptable, even with a few dispatchers becoming deputies.  The expense for training over and over and over again is astronomical.  Change is needed!  Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results doesn’t work!
3. Public Perception - Having spoken to concerned residents in the county, there are very significantly different responses to this issue.  More often than not people want to discuss how many “cops” are in Flandreau.  And on the other hand, the other communities talk about never seeing them.
The quick reply is some days, such as court days, there is an abnormally large amount of law enforcement present in Flandreau. That gives an exaggerated comprehension of how many officers are on duty at a time.  Also on any given day you may have Flandreau Police, SD Highway Patrol, Sheriff’s Deputies, GFP Officers, and Tribal Police assisting each other.  
Safety also comes into play and on a regular basis Flandreau PD has the only Officer readily available.  The Sheriff’s Office, Highway Patrol, and Tribal Police do not staff a 24/7 schedule and are on an on-call basis.  It is difficult to detect and or deter criminal activity without anyone on duty.
Also, along with this is public relations.  I will have a completely open-door relationship with the public.  Come in and see me, flag me down, give me a call, or come on a ride-a-long and see exactly how I perform my duties.  As some have asked, as the Sheriff do I need to be publicly injecting myself outside of my normal duties unless requested?  That’s a double-edged sword.  The real answer is no, law enforcement doesn’t and quite frankly should not be wasting taxpayer dollars for this
The alternative answer is yes it can be a useful tool in the community by seeing Officers outside of a working situation.
 4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? I am dedicated to improving the fiscal responsibility of the Sheriff’s Office.  This can and will be accomplished by a thorough restructuring of personnel, duties, and expenditures.
I am dedicated to improving the employee recruitment and retention.  This can be accomplished through a change in the recruiting and hiring processes.
I am dedicated to improving the public perception of law enforcement in Moody County.  This can and will be accomplished through a new public program I am developing and will implement upon being elected.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? We have a major methamphetamine and fentanyl issue across our country that is killing our friends and loved ones.  I will continue to write search warrants, to investigate distributors, and bring those persons involved before the courts.  Law enforcement can not effectively do this alone, through new community partnerships I believe we can make an impact.  It is unrealistic to believe we can stop it completely, but we can learn to help each other protect our families from this deadly plague.
Rural patrol is almost non existent.  I have been told contract towns are getting less time than they should.  Again, these types of issues will be almost instantly changed when I am elected.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? With a fresh set of eyes and a new vison I believe I can make the needed changes and stop the cycle of constant turn over.  I will improve the relationships between all the law enforcement agencies in our communities.  As I’ve said before, doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results doesn’t work!  As my opponent has clearly proven.
As your Sheriff I will bring CHANGE.  Change for the better.  More LOCAL training, better employee retention, and savings to the taxpayers on a level never previously considered possible.  I will make this possible by using my decade of experience with the three local law enforcement agencies within Moody County.  With the knowledge gained from each, I will be able to better develop the unique working relationships needed to effectively and efficiently serve all of the people of Moody County.
And lastly I made a promise on February 7, 2007 to my Mom, unknowingly that was the last time I would hear her voice.  I fulfilled that promise on her heavenly birthday on a Sunday morning in 2012 by accepting a job offer right here in Moody County.  Miracle, coincidence, or pure luck?  I don’t have that answer but I have to believe it was the best birthday present I never got to share with her.  Being raised by a single mother in the 70’s and 80’s when it was rather uncommon still, gave me a humble start to life and greater understanding that you need to work to achieve your goals.  As your Sheriff, I am willing and ready to dedicate myself to the hard work it is gong to take to achieve my goal of change for the better!

Troy
Wellman
Independent
Sheriff
Hometown: Grew up northwest of Colman in Moody County.
Current residence: Flandreau
Family: Wife,  2 kids and 7 grandkids
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I have dedicated my adult life to serve and protect the residents of Moody County.  I have over 25 years in Law Enforcement serving in Moody County and have led the office with the best of my ability.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I am running to be re-elected as Sheriff to be able to continue the kind of leadership law enforcement needs, compassionate and able to lead in difficult situations.
2. What do you see as your primary role? Being a leader in all aspects of our job. I lead by example when interacting with people on their worst day, ranging from getting arrested to receiving news of an unexpected loss of a loved one. Being fair in law enforcement matters while still following the laws we are sworn to enforce.
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? In no particular order.
The ongoing drug problem we face.  As a whole, the “system” is inadequate navigating between punishment and treatment.
Continuing to balance the cost to provide the coverage we as a society have come to expect and deserve with the ever-shrinking tax dollar.
The safety and security of the citizens of Moody County.  
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? The first issue I noted in question 3 is bigger than something we can fix locally. I will continue to work with the stakeholders at the state and/or federal level to problem solve how the issues can be resolved.
As for the two things that I listed above that are in my control, I plan to continue to strive to maintain the services that residents have come to expect as well as being fiscally responsible.
The safety and security of the citizens of Moody County will always be my priority.  I direct my Deputies to be fair while enforcing the law.  If we can maintain law and order with a warning or a chat versus a ticket,  that is at their discretion. If they feel a ticket is warranted, then that’s fine, too. Regardless of the crime committed, we must treat those that we deal with as if they are someone’s mother, father, sister, brother, etc.  We don’t deal with bad people we deal with people that make bad decisions.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why?  I will continue to serve and protect the citizens of a Moody County and stay involved at the State and National levels to promote, advance, and assist with public perception of the office of Sheriff as well as be a voice for small communities.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? I have been in this role for 16 years so far.  That means I know what the struggles are, balancing between the budget and providing the best coverage we can, and how to get things done with limited resources and staffing.

Kris
Grootwassink
Democrat
Register of Deeds
Hometown: I grew up near West Union, Iowa and graduated from North Fayette High School.
Current residence: My husband Brad & I live just south of Flandreau. Brad has lived here for many years and his daughter Tanya graduated from Flandreau.
Family: Husband Brad, step daughter’s Tanya, Mandy & son Lee Grootwassink and 2 grand children.
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I am Kris Grootwassink the current Register of Deeds for Moody County. I moved to Flandreau in the fall of 2007 to be closer to my family that live near here. I was hired at the Flandreau Veterinary Clinic and worked as Veterinary Assistant and Office Manager for Dr. Juescke for several years until his retirement.
I have been in the Register of Deeds Office since April of 2014. I started as Deputy Register of Deeds and worked with Gail Meyer-Deelstra for 3 years until her retirement.
I was appointed as Register of Deeds by the Moody County Commissioners in the fall of 2017. I then was elected into office having run uncontested and sworn into office in January of 2018.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? The Register of Deeds office is not a Political position but is and elected position. We are here to serve the public and treat all equally without regard to party affiliation.
2. What do you see as your primary role? The Register of Deeds Department is responsible for recording, indexing, preserving & maintaining real property documents.
We issue certified copies of birth, death & marriage certificates and issue marriage licenses. The Department assists attorneys, realtors, surveyor, Banking officers and the general public with retrieval of these permanent records.
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? dd
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? Since I have been in Office we have upgraded our Computer software program to add the ability to electronically record documents through selected E-vendors.
We hired a Scanning company to come to Moody County and scan our old land records books that we did not have the ability to do ourselves so that they ore now digitalized and more easily accessible.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? I attend workshops that are provided by the South Dakota Association of County Officials so that I may  acquire continuing education credits to become certified and maintain certification.
 I have one part time employee and together we work hard to provide the best customer service that we can. I also work hard to stay within our proposed budget.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? I am proud to have the opportunity to work for the residents of Moody County.

Brittany Bennett
Independent
Register of Deeds
Hometown: Flandreau
Current residence: Flandreau

Family: Husband: Neil. Daughters: Sydney and Madyson. Parents: Tim & Kelly (Lenning) Ullom. In-laws: David & Kathi (Oldenkamp) Bennett. Grandparents: Tim & Joan (Parsley) Sheridan, the late John Ullom and Sidney & Diane (Warborg) Lenning. Sister, Kayla (Jerrick) Charles and Brother, Tony Ullom.
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I have successfully owned/operated a small business, an in-home daycare, since June 2, 2014. My business has allowed me to meet many community members that I would otherwise have not. I feel that because of this I have a better understanding of the needs of all our community members and not just a select few.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I am running for office because I want to help the community that is helping raise my children be successful. I have gained a lot of knowledge during the last 8 plus years running my own business and now I want to put that knowledge to use for our whole county.
2. What do you see as your primary role? I see my primary role is providing the best customer service and knowledge to the residents of Moody County when they visit the Register of Deeds office. The Register of Deeds duties will include the filing, storing, and retrieving of legal documents and completing those duties in a timely manner.
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? The Register of Deeds is not a political position, but it is an elected one. I would say my top three concerns in no order would be customer service, running an efficient budget, and knowledge of services the office provides to the public.
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? I would like the voters to know that as a small business owner my business’ successfulness depended greatly on my customer service, my accounting and banking experience, and job performance ability. I worked with gods most precious creations and was able to provide a safe, fun, and secure environment for not only the children but parents as well.
I also know as a business owner the value of time and a dollar. I will work my hardest to make sure I am putting the counties taxpayers’ dollar to good use.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? I see myself working on staying up to date on the best practices with the Register of Deeds office.  Whether that be with webinars, in person training or networking amongst other county Register of Deeds offices throughout the state.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? I feel like I am the best person for the “job” because I am driven and passionate about why I would like to be the Register of Deeds. I don’t just see this position as a “job”, I view it as an opportunity to continue to help Moody County grow and be successful.
Thank you for taking your time to get to know me.

Jerry Doyle
Independent
Moody County
Commissioner 1
Hometown:  Flandreau
Current residence: Flandreau; I have lived in Moody County my entire life.
Family:  Wife Kathy; children, Amy Pierson, Carol Price, Michael Doyle and Dawn Christenson; 11 grandchildren three great-grandchildren
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I have experienced many things; truck company owner, field rep for SD Farmers Union, sold door to door and adjustor for Federal Crop insurance. I’ve been involved in community events such as Flandreau City Band, a substitute driver for Moody County Transit, musicals and the Crystal Theatre and a member of American Legion Band.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I am running for office because I miss the job, the people involved both locally and Statewide! I was a commissioner for 8 years and Chairman for 3 years. I think I can do a good job for the citizens of Moody County!
2. What do you see as your primary role? Serving the people of Moody County with my experience and common sense!
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? 1. The Carbon Pipeline. 2. I would hope something can be done to stop the Turnover in Law Enforcement. 3. Roads and Bridges and help for County Highway Department.
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? From what I have learned I am against the Carbon Pipelines. I think the moratorium against the pipeline is a good start. Realizing the PUC has the final say.
Don’t have a solid answer as far as Law Enforcement turnover. We are a small county and hard to compete with counties with a larger tax base. Need to balance wages between taxpayers and salaries.
Roads and bridges are an ongoing thing. The 5-year plan is a good way to work on this issue!
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why?  Other issues would be keeping the Ambulance Department going! It is my hope that an agreement can be worked out with the city to move the ambulance garage to the current fire station.
Fully staff the Highway Department.
Continued support for the Moody County Transit bus and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Moody County. Both are much needed items the citizens of the county cannot provide for themselves.
Keep the budget balanced
6. Why are you the best person for the job? I am the best person for the job because of experience, common sense, and willing to listen to the citizens of Moody County.

Garnet Paulsen
Independent
Moody County
Commissioner 3
Hometown: I grew up in the Sioux Falls/Tea Area, graduating from Harrisburg High School. But, I consider Flandreau my hometown as I have lived here since 1977!
Current residence: Northeast of Flandreau
Family: Husband, Arnold
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I want the voters to know that I am very committed in doing things right, I will try and try until I achieve success! (Just ask my husband about the chocolate fudge recipe many years ago a Christmas time)
I knew nothing about farm life until I met and married my husband 45 years ago. I feel I’ve learned a great deal about agriculture and the livestock, which I truly love working with.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I am running for District 3 commissioner because I am a very concerned citizen of Moody County. I also feel that I can bring a fresh perspective to the table. I have the time, willingness, and energy to devote to the job!
2. What do you see as your primary role? My primary role as District 3 commissioner is to be a voice and represent all the residents of the county! And to make the best and right decisions for the citizens!
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? 1. Co2 Pipeline
2. CAFO’s
3. Continue working on the infrastructure within the county.
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues?  I want the voters to know that I will work diligently on all and any aspects and concerns that pertain to the county as they arise. I am very concerned about the Co2 pipeline, not only to the affected landowners, but everyone who is near the proposed line. I have the same concern about CAFO’s as to the impact to property owners near the sights and the continued road usage in those areas.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? I will work on all issues that arise, that will affect the future of the county. So, in other words, anything in the future that needs to be addressed. We need to work on what is best for the future generations of Moody County.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? I believe that my 45 years as a Moody County resident, 20 years serving as a Supervisor on the Union township board, 25+ years as a school bus driver, that I have gained a great deal of knowledge about the infrastructure and local government makes me the best choice for the job!
I am very committed to represent and do the best as I can for all the residents of the county. I believe that in the 45 years as a Moody County resident, I have gained a lot of knowledge.
I also encourage anyone to reach out to me at 605-864-9836 or gapaul1277@hotmail.com with any questions or concerns.

David Reker
Republican
Moody County
Commissioner 3
Hometown: I grew up on farms in southwest Minnesota
Current residence: Trent
Family: Wife, Gwen
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I have been in the accounting field my entire adult life, employed for 5 years at a CPA firm, then for 20 years at a small manufacturing company, and finally as a self-employed contract accountant for manufacturing companies and small businesses.  It was particularly rewarding seeing small businesses grow into larger, successful businesses and to be able to be a part of that growth.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I am very interested in what is going on in the county and I want to be a part of the county’s success and growth.  Moody County is very rural.  Everyone is so friendly and concerned about one another and willing to help out when it is needed.  I want to help keep it that way.
2. What do you see as your primary role? My primary role is to represent the people in my district and my district’s needs, whether it’s farmers, town people or businesses; I must help find a balance for all of their needs.
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs?
a. The CO2 pipeline
b. CAFO’s
c. Inflation
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? a. I am against the proposed CO2 pipeline.  The companies have not been open with their plans and they do not appear to be willing to listen to the landowners’ concerns.  Another big concern is the safety aspects.  The County Zoning Ordinance will need to address the concerns.
b. I am in favor of working with businesses, but they need to be considerate of their neighbors and keep them informed of their plans and abide by agreements they make with the townships and the county.
c. Inflation will impact the county budget in the coming years.  There will be difficult decisions regarding roads and bridges, law enforcement issues, property valuations, taxes, etc.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? There are many community programs I am interested in serving; 4H, senior citizens, election process, etc.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? My accounting background is a great asset in dealing with the problems related to inflation and the county’s budget.  I have also been the Blinsmon Township clerk so I am aware of the issues townships deal with such as meeting with legal counsel, listening to residents about issues, and handling difficult situations.  Since moving to this area, I’ve attended many commissioner meetings and feel knowledgeable about county issues. I would be honored and privileged to serve the citizens of Moody County.

John Schiefelbein
Democrat
Moody County
Commmissioner 1
Hometown: I was born and raised on our family farm one mile west of Jasper, Minn.
Current residence: I have lived in the same house in Flandreau for over 60 years.
Family: My wife, Betty, passed away to cancer 30 years ago. We were blessed with two children, Susan and Steen. I also have two grandchildren, Alyssa (27) and Sean (18). We are a small family, but it makes it easy for us all to get together.
Most important thing you’d want voters to know about your life/career to date? I graduated from the University of Southern Minnesota with a double major in Business Administration and Political Science with a minor in Economics. I then worked full time in Armories in Sioux Falls, Luverne, Pipestone and Flandreau. I was Commissioned through Army Officer Candidate School. I volunteered for The Persian Gulf War. I served 28 years in the Army and Army National Guard. Also, proudly served as the Flandreau Boy Scout Master. I owned and operated a small trucking company that ran 17 states for over 20 years. I was the Moody County Highway Superintendent for 13 years and had 10 bridges built. I am currently in my 12th year as your County Commissioner for District 1.
Questions:
1. Why are you running for office? I am running for re-election because as you can see, I have devoted most of my life to public serv ice and I find that most rewarding and self-satisfying.
2. What do you see as your primary role? My primary role, if re-elected, will be to continue to work with our County Board members to manage the affairs of Moody County in a conservative fiscal manner.
3. What are the top three concerns you have in regard to current affairs? The top three concerns that I currently have for our County are 1. Inflation. 2. Drugs and 3. Hazardous material pipelines.
4. What do you want voters to know about your stance on those issues? Inflation has hit our County budgets hard as well as yours. Overlaying our roads has gone out of sight. Our Highway Superintendent is advocating using a new material for overlaying roads which is 50% less in cost. Minnehaha County is using it and I support it.
Drugs are on the rise. Our Sheriff’s Department has been doing the best as they can against this epidemic. In fact, really good. Last year, they confiscated 133 pounds of meth, other drugs, weapons and cash in Moody County. Our Board approved and recently received a new “Drug and Bite” dog. He is trained only to find the “hard” drugs and to assist the Officer in a confrontation. This will help our Officers with the drug problems.
Pipelines” Last March, our Board declared a moratorium on the pipeline. What this does is to give us one year to create an ordinance on pipelines because we have none. During this period, the pipeline is not to come into our County. I cannot nor will our Board, take a formal stance either for or against the pipeline until our ordinance and all hearings are completed.
5. What other issues do you see yourself primarily working on and why? No other major issues are in sight for Moody County.
6. Why are you the best person for the job? I hope the voters believe that I am the most qualified person to continue serving them. I am a Democrat, but party politics has no place whatsoever at the County level of government. I am retired and I have the time to go out and investigate any problems that may arise. In turn, call me if you have any concerns, comments or questions. I am your representative and hope to be in the future.