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Dell Rapids opens new city hall and event center

Dell Rapid's Mayor Tom Earley
Evan Walton
/
SDPB
Dell Rapid's Mayor Tom Earley

Dell Rapids officially opens its new city council building and event center called the “Riverside.”

Community leaders say its the latest jewel to the “small city with big attractions.”

A ribbon cutting ceremony including a chorus from Dell Rapids Public School and St. Mary Choir launches the opening of the new city hall.

Tom Ealey is the Mayor of Dell Rapids. He said this marks a significate milestone for the city.

“Hopefully city hall speaks to the goals and dreams of our community. A community which supports improvements and updates to our infrastructure. A community which supports continuous manageable growth. A community which supports education in the public and private sectors. A community which welcomes new families who decide to make Dell Rapids their home. And a community that meets the needs and desires of that family,” said Ealey.

Crowd at Dell Rapid's City Hall Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Evan Walton
/
SDPB
Crowd at Dell Rapid's City Hall Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

City Hall is designed to house city administrative and finance functions, Dell Rapids Chamber of Commerce, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Department, and other city-based offices. The Riverside offers a full bar, prep kitchen, and capacity for over 170 guests.

Amber Larson is the President of the Dell Rapids Chamber of Commerce. She said the new facility will bolster in-town events.

“On behalf of the Dell Rapids Chamber of Commerce we want to congratulate you, the city of Dell Rapids on this new beautiful city hall which will serve the community for many years. We look forward to the many events that will be hosted at the Riverside. This will both keep events here in town as well as bringing others here. It’ll support our businesses and our local caterers,” said Larson.

City hall remains on 4th street of Dell Rapids in a former Wells Fargo building. The building was purchased by the city in 2022 with renovations beginning in 2023.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Dell Rapid's new City Hall and Riverside Event Center
Evan Walton
/
SDPB
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Dell Rapid's new City Hall and Riverside Event Center

Mayor Ealey said the city was blessed with the purchase not only for its location but for its affordability. The new city hall and Riverside event center are now open for the community and visitors to enjoy.

Evan Walton is an SDPB reporter based in Sioux Falls. Evan holds a Master’s in English Literature from Southern New Hampshire University and was honorably discharged from the United States Army in 2015, where he served for five years as an infantryman.