City Plans for Future with Commission Action
PIERRE, SD – Through the series of actions taken at the Jan. 21 meeting, the Pierre City Commission set the stage for short and long-term utility operations.
Landfill Compactor
The commission gave approval to purchase a $22,500 used compactor for landfill operations. According to Solid Waste Superintendent Val Keller, the compactor will help replace the city’s 1999 compactor that has been failing.
The piece of equipment provides uniform compaction for the waste material allowing more efficient disposal at the landfill.
Water, Wastewater Studies and Treatment Support
Staff asked for and was given permission to request proposals for both a water distribution study and a wastewater collection study. While small scale water distribution studies have been done in the past, the city is asking for a comprehensive study of the distribution system. The city’s most recent wastewater study was completed nearly 20 years ago.
“These studies help us keep our utilities healthy by detecting vulnerabilities, assessing capacity constraints, and identifying how to best plan for future needs,” said Gidget Palmer, City Project Manager.
The requests also include ongoing engineering support for water and wastewater operations.
Slurry Seal
Tuesday evening, the commission also moved forward with its 2025 slurry seal plans by requesting bids to apply the treatment to approximately 40 blocks of city street.
Slurry seal is a process that was first used by the city during the 2024 construction season. It’s an oil-based seal that improves traction control and prevents moisture from penetrating the street surface.
Aggregate Base Course
Additionally, the commission approved a request to bid the aggregate base course the city uses to rebuild streets. The gravel is also used for other city projects.