WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- In a move highlighting intergovernmental cooperation, the Watertown City Council has approved a sizeable reduction in building permit fees for the new Codington County detention facility. The decision came after a request from the Codington County Commissioners, specifically Commissioner Gabel, who attended the meeting.

Community Development Manager Brandi Hanten explained more to the council.

However, city staff recommended, and the council ultimately agreed, that a reduced fee of $10,000 be charged when the permit is issued.

Hanten stated that this reduced fee is intended to cover the city’s administrative costs associated with staff time.

Commissioner Gabel expressed his appreciation for the city’s consideration, echoing the sentiment of partnership.

Councilman Tupper strongly supported the fee reduction, stating, “It just doesn’t make any sense for one taxable entity to charge the other taxable entity that fee.”

Commissioner Gabel also provided an update on the detention facility project, noting that they are in the “thick of design development” and nearing the stage of drawing construction documents. He anticipates breaking ground sometime in July, with an estimated two-year construction timeline. The facility will be located on 212, on the edge of the city limits, near Discount Seeds, on the north side of the highway.

Following the discussion, the motion was unanimously passed by the council, with council members Lynn Jurrens and Kyle Peters absent.