Mitchell & Davidson County, South Dakota

Some conversations and arguments surrounding a proposed prison site in Mitchell were brought forward in an organized community debate.

The cost of land for a proposed prison site in Mitchell is now nearly double its original price tag. Landowner James River Farms increased its asking price from $18,000 to $35,000 per acre.

While discussions around a new state prison continue, one of the proposed sites is holding community forums to provide information to the public.

Opposition to a proposal to build a state men’s prison in Mitchell is growing. A second major city leader who previously backed the idea is now coming out against the project.

The Davison County Sheriff said after hearing strong resistance from the public, he is dropping support for a proposal to build the state men's penitentiary to Mitchell.

A governor-appointed task force is narrowing the number of possible men’s prison sites.

There’s a chance the new men’s prison could get located somewhere other than the greater Sioux Falls area. Widespread public opposition to a proposed 1,500-bed, $825 million, men’s prison in a field in Lincoln County has a governor appointed task force looking at other options.

After many years and much local debate - Lake Mitchell is set to be drained and cleaned later this year.

The Avera Race Against Cancer takes place May 10 with events in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Mitchell, Pierre and Yankton.

A task force looking to craft a proposal for a new men’s prison will weigh the pros and cons of 11 East River locations at its next meeting.