Energy & Regulation: Black Hills Energy is seeking a South Dakota rate increase plus a $19.70 monthly surcharge for the average residential customer to help recoup costs tied to the Lange II power plant, with collection potentially starting in December pending Public Utilities Commission action. Tourism & Local Tax Revenue: The 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally generated just over $1.4 million in state and local taxes—up against a weaker year-over-year total, with fewer vendors and slower traffic cited as drivers. City Finance: Rapid City’s sales tax receipts stayed strong in June, with general sales tax up 6.6% and first-half collections running ahead of budget, even as tourism-related growth cooled. Workforce Development: The Mitchell Chamber is hosting a Sept. 17 Workforce Summit at Mitchell Technical College focused on customer experience, hiring, training, and leadership. Education & Talent Pipeline: Gov. Larry Rhoden announced 618 Build Dakota Scholarship recipients for 2026-27, marking Cohort 12 of the program. Food Security: Feeding South Dakota says more than 130,000 South Dakotans face food insecurity, and it’s launching Hunger Action Month efforts including donation matching and a statewide volunteer-a-thon. Public Safety Tech: South Dakota law enforcement use of Flock automatic license plate readers is drawing pushback, and the attorney general is drafting legislation to limit their use. Local Innovation: Rapid City moved toward a biochar partnership to divert wood waste from landfills, aiming to extend landfill life and reduce disposal pressure.