The inaugural class of Lennox Citizen’s Academy (LCA) concluded on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The program started in January with one session each month. The vision for the LCA was to provide an opportunity for anyone involved in Lennox to learn more about the community. Participants ranged from current residents to individuals that commute to Lennox for work, some new to the community and others with deeper roots in the Lennox area.
The first session held in January focused on public safety and emergency services. Harold Timmerman from Lincoln Country Emergency Management spoke to the group about the county’s involvement in and around Lennox. Participants also heard from Fire Chief, Mike Fodness, and Police Chief, Will Erickson and a few members from their teams.
Session two highlighted economic development and the business community. Ryan Solberg led the session and spoke about the role of the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance and Lennox Area Development Corporation. He led the group in a few planning exercises to demonstrate the complexity each proposal presents. The group also heard from Troy Larson, Executive Director of Lewis & Clark Regional Water System, who provided insight on the workings of regional, county and city water systems. Secretary Marcia Hultman from the South Dakota Department of Labor presented via Zoom and shared the challenges the state faces with workforce and the impact we see in our area of the state. Lastly the group heard from new business owner, Allie McLouth, who recently opened Prosper Country Warehouse & Event Hall just east of Lennox. Allie shared the process she and her husband went through as well as the challenges they faced to make her dream come to fruition.
In March, participants learned how the Lennox School District and several non-profits and churches impact and improve the community, and in some instances - work together. Alan Rops represented both the Lennox Lions Club and the Lennox Community Fund. Former Superintendent, Dr. Chad Conaway presented the district test scores and explained how Lennox compares to surrounding districts. He also spent time discussing the high school performing arts center and tennis court expansion project. Pastor Marc de Waard from Chancellor Reformed Church discussed his congregation as well as the Lennox Area Ministerial Association and LOVE In the Name of Christ of Greater Lennox and Turner County.
Session four focused on local government. Lincoln Country Commissioner, Jim Schmidt spoke on the current issues and challenges in the county. Sam Bowers, Lennox City Council President and Ward 3 Alderman shared with the group as well explaining the role of the city council and mayor. Lennox City Administrator, Nathan Vander Plaats, rounded out the presentation portion of the meeting. He explained his role in keeping the city functioning as well as ensuring all city and state ordinances and codes are upheld. Participants were then invited to the city’s wastewater treatment plant for a tour – a fascinating process that all citizens should take the opportunity to see. Contact City Hall if you’re interested in a tour!
The final session in May was a service project. LCA participants helped plant 24 new trees in Westerman Park. The trees were purchased with help from a forestry grant. They are a much-needed addition to the park after loosing several trees to a tornado a few years ago and more this year to emerald ash bore.
The LCA committee looks forward to the continuation of this program as well as additions and improvements!