RAPID CITY, S.D. (KELO) — After the Rapid City Council approved the Libertyland USA TIF Project, voices throughout the community started to speak up.
People have been circulating petitions, and now a potential public vote could be on the horizon.
Petitions to put the Libertyland USA TIF Project to a public vote were turned in ahead of the deadlines.
Just over 2,500 signatures are needed.
“They turned in exactly double that number. So then the process unfolds with our city finance office that they go through the petitions, making sure everything is valid. Looking at the signatures, the addresses, the registrations,” Public Information Officer Darrell Shoemaker said.
If there are enough confirmed signatures, the council will plan for a vote.
A special one-time election could cost up to $100,000.
“Is that a good use of taxpayer money to hold a special election? If we don’t hold a special election, then this item would be on the June 2026 ballot, which is when it would be put on a ballot,” City Council President Rod Pettigrew said.
With a mandatory 30-day window, it will allow time for the campaigns and the voters to prepare.
“It allows both sides of the issue to give them ample time to get their word out, to talk to the general public about the issue, one way or another so that they can make an informed decision when the election is going to be held,” Shoemaker said.
“I think there should still be discussion because prior to the vote people are going to want to know answers, they’re confused. I think the citizens should stay engaged with their council people and amongst themselves, and both sides. Get well educated and understand the whole process prior to casting their vote,” Pettigrew said.
The earliest any special election could be held on the issue would be in early to mid-November.
