MITCHELL, S.D.(KMIT)- Mitchell voters will decide the fate of the Lake Mitchell project – next year.  The Mitchell City Council last night approved a June 4, 2024 election date on a 5-3 vote.  Voters will decide whether to approve a $25 million loan to dredge and clean up the algae-ridden lake.  The Mitchell City Council’s vote on the issue last month ended in a 4-4 tie, so it did not pass.  Mitchell Mayor Bob Everson had hoped the council would approve a special election in September of this year.  Councilman Dan Sabers proposed the June 4, 2024 general election date, saying he wants to maximize voter turnout.

Councilman Marty Barington opposed waiting until June of next year.

A heated exchange regarding the proposed election date followed between Mayor Everson and Council President Kevin McCardle with McCardle accusing the mayor of lying.

McCardle then called for a vote on the issue, which cut off all council discussion and disallowed public comments.  Meanwhile, a public health watch was issued yesterday for Lake Mitchell due to elevated algae levels.  The public is advised to stay away from visible algal blooms in Lake Mitchell.