Mitchell named South Dakota's Community of the Year for third time

Yahoo

01-03-2025

Feb. 28—MITCHELL — Mitchell's growth has transformed the city, according to locals. Now, that progress has earned it the title of Community of the Year.
Earlier this week at the Governor's Conference on Economic Development, it was revealed that Mitchell has been named South Dakota's Community of the Year. This prestigious recognition celebrates the city's continued commitment to economic growth, housing development, and workforce expansion, highlighting its role as a key leader in the state's future development.
The achievement of being named Community of the Year marks Mitchell's third time winning the award. Mitchell was first recognized in 1988, when the award was introduced, and again in 2011.
"This is a great achievement for our wonderful community and will further our current momentum we have going in Mitchell," said Mayor Jordan Hanson.
Mike Lauritsen, CEO of the Mitchell Area Development Corporation (MADC), explained that the award recognizes the collective efforts, vision and teamwork that have helped Mitchell become a standout community. He highlighted the city's growth through new housing, substantial business investments and major projects like the $500 million High Plains Soybean Processing Plant, positioning Mitchell for continued success and progress.
Lauritsen says a key moment in Mitchell's journey to earning this recognition came last fall when Gov. Kristi Noem visited for a series of ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Lauritsen made sure to use the opportunity to show the governor the city's momentum firsthand.
"We're seeing construction happening everywhere — housing, businesses, infrastructure," Lauritsen said. "The momentum is real, and I made sure to point that out while she was here."
Lauritsen's pitch to Noem included showcasing Mitchell's latest developments, from the creation of 100 new housing lots to the relocation of 52 families through the Chamber's $1,000 "Move to Mitchell" program. He emphasized how these initiatives address the growing housing and workforce needs in the city, making Mitchell a place where families and businesses can thrive.
At Noem's request, Lauritsen quickly organized a lunch with families who had relocated to Mitchell through the Chamber's relocation program. Lauritsen noted that Noem was particularly engaged during this meeting, asking questions and showing genuine interest in the experiences of the new residents.
"She was very engaged and wanted to hear about how the process was working for them," Lauritsen said. "I think it really resonated with her when she saw how our efforts are paying off in real, tangible ways."
The $500 million High Plains Soybean Processing Plant is another development that Lauritsen pointed to as a major game-changer for Mitchell and the surrounding region. The plant, which is expected to create 75 new jobs, is the largest economic development project in state history. Lauritsen highlighted how the project will strengthen the region's agricultural economy, benefiting local farmers and creating a ripple effect in Mitchell's economy.
"This soybean processing plant will not only provide high-quality jobs but also support value-added agriculture in the region," Lauritsen said. "When it opens, we'll see more money circulating in the community."
Mitchell's commitment to expanding its economy and addressing local needs is not slowing down. Lauritsen pointed to the city's ongoing projects, such as a low-interest loan program in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Transportation to build a transportation loop around the soybean plant. This new infrastructure will reduce transportation costs for area farmers and contribute to the plant's success.
"This project will make a significant difference for local farmers," Lauritsen said. "It's all about making it easier for them to get their product to market, and that's a win for the entire community."
Laurie Cooper, director of operations for the Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce, attributes the city's prime location, right off the interstate, as a key factor in its success.
"We are the gateway to the west," Cooper said. "And because of that location, we are always driving the workforce, holding job fairs, and constantly marketing the town to businesses outside of our borders. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, and we are always trying to grow and make Mitchell better."
Looking ahead, Lauritsen also revealed that the Mitchell Area Development Corporation has signed a purchase agreement for a 20-acre industrial park aimed at attracting distribution centers. The site, located adjacent to the interstate, will provide another boost to the local economy. The corporation is currently seeking a zero-interest loan through the Rural Electric Economic Development (REED) fund to help with infrastructure development at the new park.
"We're very optimistic about what the future holds," Lauritsen said. "These projects are just the beginning. Mitchell has a lot of momentum, and we're going to keep pushing forward."