Have thoughts on eminent domain and the carbon sequestration pipeline debate? Wondering why property taxes keep rising?
Seldom do we get direct access to our local legislators during the session to ask questions or share thoughts on the issues that are most important to us.
Senator Tom Pischke and House Representatives Jon Hansen and Les Heinemann spend the better part of the first three months of each year working in Pierre — not a short jaunt.
That’s why, year after year of covering the local Cracker Barrel, I find it surprising that more people don’t take advantage of the chance to discuss the issues that matter most — right here at home.
This past weekend, our three legislators were available before, during, and after the Flandreau open forum. Not every community offers these opportunities to gather with legislators, and not everyone feels comfortable attending.

But, like voting, it’s an opportunity to make your voice heard and ask questions.
At a time when trust in government is low and transparency is questioned, these forums, one would believe, matter. They offer a rare chance to ask our legislators — two of whom are leaders in their respective houses — why they vote the way they do or even sponsor certain legislation.
Even when we disagree, these meetings are worth attending.
Are there too many commitments keeping people from attending? Did you even know this opportunity exists? Maybe you wonder if these forums truly influence policy.
Legislators at every level rely on hearing from us to shape their priorities. Hansen, Heinemann, and Pischke all pointed out to those in attendance last weekend that legislators hear plenty from lobbyists and special interest groups.
They need to hear from us, too.
We otherwise leave the direction of our communities in the hands of a few when we disengage.