The boundary lines for one West River community are moving after city leaders approved an annexation plan despite opposition from some who live or own property in the area.
American Legion Post 311 was filled to the brim for a tense special meeting of the Piedmont Board of Trustees Tuesday evening to finalize an annexation claim for the city.
The area includes multiple homes and businesses. Philip Anderson, president of the board, cited South Dakota Supreme Court case Smith V. City of Rapid City in his defense of the annexation proposal.
“The people and property owners of an area proposed for annexation have neither the moral nor the legal right to stand aloof from the incorporating committee they are de facto part, enjoying most of the benefits," Anderson said. "People and businesses located just outside of a city often enjoy many of the services of a municipality without providing tax monies to support their costs.”
Further, Anderson raised concerns about potential developments on land in the Piedmont Valley and said annexation is a way to control growth.
Resident Carolyn Smith said she understands the intent of the board but questions their execution.
“Now, as a landowner, I know how all of you feel – but I also know how I feel," Smith said. "I grew up here and I know what they’re trying to stop. So, on one aspect I say it’s B.S., I totally agree with that, but the other aspect is I think this went wrong, people dealt with it wrong, people got mad – and you really all need to calm down or we’re not going to get anywhere.”
Water and fire services have been are benefits for new residents, but many are already on private wells and septic systems. The city of Piedmont does not have a police department, so any law enforcement responses would still come from the Meade County Sheriff.
Tyson Waddell owns an apartment building in the annexation plot. He struggled to see what new residents stand to gain.
"Where is the benefit for us that are being annexed?" Waddell asked. "I bet you I come through Piedmont every day, every morning. I spend money just like they do, I spend a ton of time in this area. That’s not going to change whether or not I’m annexed.”
The motion to annex the plot was ultimately approved, meaning new borders – and residents – for Piedmont.
