Brookings Development News
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City of Brookings Council Meeting 6/23/2026
Published: Jun 23, 2026
DJR Design Studio Selected for Dakota Nature Park Public Art Installation
The council approved Resolution 26-042, awarding the Dakota Nature Park Public Art Installation Project to DJR Design Studio. The project involves installing a large sculpture at Dakota Nature Park, intended to draw interest to the park's entrance on 32nd Street. The Public Arts Commission received 167 applications from artists nationwide for this $250,000 project. A jury of arts professionals selected the final proposal based on criteria including organic subjects inspired by nature that aesthetically fit the space, with a focus on native South Dakota species. Funding for the project comes from the city's annual budget allocation to the Arts Commission, with funds for large projects accumulated over time since the 'Let's Play Ball' sculpture. Council members praised the proposal and the extensive artist selection process [cite: 191-361].
Brookings Revises Subdivision Rules for Better Connectivity and Infrastructure Warranties
The council heard the first reading of Ordinance 26-020, which would amend the subdivision regulations concerning Article Six: Subdivision Improvements and Design Standards. The revisions aim to address connectivity issues, refine street design standards, and adjust warranty periods. Key changes include limiting cul-de-sacs, requiring more intersecting streets to improve connectivity, and establishing a three-year warranty for trench settlement. The planning commission unanimously recommended approval after extensive discussion regarding potential increased costs and delays for developers, particularly concerning the warranty period. The estimated increase in bond costs for developers is approximately $750. The ordinance will have its second reading on July 14th [cite: 410-594].
Brookings Proclaims June as LGBTQ2S+ Pride Month, Highlights Community Celebration
The council recognized June as LGBTQ2S+ Pride Month with a proclamation. The proclamation highlighted the celebration of everyone's right to live without fear of prejudice, acknowledged the LGBTQ2S+ community as neighbors, friends, and family, and noted the city's vision of being a welcoming and inclusive community. It also recognized Brookings' consistent perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index for eight years and the work of local entities like the Human Rights Commission, Public Library, Arts Council, and Brookings Pride. The proclamation announced the community celebration on June 27th at Pioneer Park. Aaron Lavender Sto-Green, LGBTQ liaison for the city and Human Rights Commission, provided details about the Pride event, including performers, food, vendors, and community activities, and spoke about the historical significance of Pride Month commemorating the Stonewall Inn riots [cite: 115-185].
Brookings Council Considers Rezoning for Low-Impact Retail in Northern Plains Edition
The council reviewed a proposal to rezone Block 2 of Northern Plains edition from a Business Office District to a Planned Development District with an underlying Business B2A district. The developer applicant is seeking to introduce low-impact retail uses, limiting hours to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and prohibiting drive-throughs, convenience stores, businesses serving alcohol or cannabis, and tobacco/vape/nicotine sales. This change aims to accommodate a jewelry store and maintain control over retail uses. The planning commission and staff recommended approval [cite: 603-656]. Council member Specker inquired about tracking exempted uses, and staff explained that an Initial Development Plan (IDP) is approved with the rezoning, followed by a Final Development Plan, both of which are tracked and filed [cite: 666-701]. Council member Wendle expressed support for the thoughtful consideration of tenant compatibility and suggested continuing the conversation about commercial activity adjacent to neighborhoods that facilitates walkability [cite: 705-747]. Council member Hager questioned why a Planned Development District was chosen over rezoning to B2, and staff explained it allows for more control over retail uses and considers traffic and sightline safety due to the location on a hill [cite: 750-785]. Council member Avery noted that drainage issues, a previous concern, appeared to be addressed in the development [cite: 787-798]. Council member Avery also inquired about the use of the rear portion of the property, and it was mentioned that the developers, Winkx Jewelry, are considering securing the south parcel for future growth, potentially a second property, but also intend to leave some space as green space [cite: 813-847]. The item will have its second reading on July 14th [cite: 594].
Brookings Revises Subdivision Regulations to Improve Connectivity and Warranties
The council heard the first reading of Ordinance 26-017, which revises the city's subdivision regulations, focusing on Article Six: Subdivision Improvements and Design Standards. This process began nearly two years ago to address connectivity issues. Public Works collaborated to include revisions in the warranty section and cleanup language for street design standards. Key changes include addressing cul-de-sac issues by shortening their length and defining criteria for their use, enhancing connectivity standards by requiring intersecting streets in blocks previously allowing long linear blocks, and modifying warranty issues with a one-year warranty on curb/gutter/street and a three-year warranty on trench settlement. The planning commission unanimously recommended approval after discussing concerns about developer costs and delays related to the warranty period. The adjusted warranty cost for developers is estimated to increase by $750 on a $100,000 bond [cite: 410-592].
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