State Leadership: Gov. Larry Rhoden reappointed Bill Even to lead economic development and Jim Hagen to head Travel South Dakota, keeping two key posts in place as he begins his next term. Data Centers: Sioux Falls removed data processing and storage businesses from its industrial property tax break program, as the city weighs broader rules for the facilities. Local Taxes: Voters in Clay and Charles Mix counties will decide Nov. 17 whether to approve half-cent sales taxes intended to reduce property taxes on owner-occupied homes. Energy: Montana regulators approved NorthWestern Energy’s merger with Rapid City-based Black Hills Corp.; South Dakota regulators also approved the deal. Agriculture: USDA lowered its U.S. corn forecast and raised soybean production, citing higher yields in South Dakota and several neighboring states. Business: Ebenezer plans to acquire HME Care and manage eight South Dakota senior-living communities beginning in February; Lamar Advertising bought Newman Signs’ outdoor advertising assets, including billboards in South Dakota. Workforce: About 36,000 South Dakotans held multiple jobs in 2025—7.5% of the workforce, ranking the state seventh nationally.