BIG STONE CITY, S.D. (KDIO Radio & Northern Plain News) — Big Stone City Mayor Steve Brown called the regular council meeting to order Monday, May 5, in front of a packed house of area residents.

After regular business, Brown opened the floor for public comment on the proposal to build the South Dakota State Men’s Penitentiary at the site of the closed Saputo plant.

Economic Arguments and State Involvement

Grant County Development Executive Director Traci Stein was invited but declined to attend, instead sending a letter outlining the potential economic benefits of the proposed facility. Stein wrote that the prison would provide more than 400 full-time jobs, benefiting local schools, housing, and businesses, and generating economic activity during construction. She emphasized the proposal is in a preliminary phase and not a final decision, with the state still reviewing site options.

The Project Prison Reset Committee and a South Dakota Governor’s Office representative joined the meeting via Zoom.

County Officials Address Transparency

Grant County Commissioners Bill Tostenson and Mike Mach attended the meeting. Residents questioned why the public had not been informed sooner and whether the proposal was made behind the city’s back. Tostenson explained that the commission supports development in Grant County and signed a letter of support for the proposal on April 23, but was unaware of the specific location at that time.

Law Enforcement Raises Public Safety Concerns

Grant County Sheriff Kevin Owen expressed concerns about increased traffic accidents and incidents if the prison is built, noting his office would need more staff to handle additional calls for service. Owen’s biggest concern was the lack of infrastructure to support released inmates, as there are no probation or parole offices or halfway houses in the area.

He clarified that the proposal is not a Grant County law enforcement issue, but he has fielded many calls since news broke and is available to answer questions.

Residents Voice Opposition and Alternative Ideas

Many area residents, especially those living near the former Saputo plant, spoke against the proposal, citing concerns about maintaining the area’s peace and quiet. Only one resident spoke in favor, while some remained neutral. Some attendees asked about utilizing the empty prison in Appleton, Minnesota, but officials said it is not an option because it is out of state.

Noel Cummins, representing the American Legion in Big Stone and Milbank, suggested the site could be used for a veteran’s home and said he would pursue that possibility.

Next Steps: State Task Force and Legislative Review

Grant County Commissioner Doug Stengel attempted to reassure residents, stating, “You’re not going to get this prison here. The chances are near zero.”

The meeting included many questions but few answers. The 29-member state task force, which includes lawmakers, state officials, and law enforcement, will meet monthly until a special legislative session scheduled for July 22.

The group is expected to share its findings at that time. Task force members are listed on the state’s Boards and Commissions website under the Project Prison Reset Committee.