Senate Bill 52 aims to expand South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery with $1.5M funding
February 12, 2025 | 2025 Legislative SD, South Dakota
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The Joint Committee on Appropriations convened recently to discuss Senate Bill 52, which seeks to authorize the expansion of the South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery. This meeting highlighted the urgent need for additional burial space as the cemetery approaches capacity.
Aaron Pollard, Deputy Secretary for the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, presented the bill, emphasizing the cemetery's significant role since its dedication on Memorial Day 2021. Since then, over 920 burials have taken place, with projections indicating that the current columbarium will be full in approximately four and a half years. The proposed expansion includes the construction of three additional columbariums, which would add 1,980 niches, ensuring burial options for veterans and their dependents for over two decades.
The funding request includes $1.5 million in federal funds, along with $75,000 each from general and other fund authorities, which represent the required 10% matching funds for the federal grant. Pollard noted that there is a strong possibility of reimbursement for these matching funds from the National Cemetery Administration.
Support for the bill was voiced by various stakeholders, including representatives from the American Legion and the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. They underscored the cemetery's importance as a respected and beautiful facility that serves the community's growing needs for veteran burials.
The committee members engaged in discussions about the funding structure, with Senator Vilhauer seeking clarification on the matching funds. The absence of opposition to the bill suggests a strong consensus on the necessity of the cemetery's expansion.
In conclusion, the discussions surrounding Senate Bill 52 reflect a proactive approach to addressing the burial needs of veterans in South Dakota. The anticipated expansion not only honors the sacrifices of those who served but also ensures that their families have a dignified place for remembrance. The committee's support for the bill will be crucial in moving forward with this important initiative.
Aaron Pollard, Deputy Secretary for the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, presented the bill, emphasizing the cemetery's significant role since its dedication on Memorial Day 2021. Since then, over 920 burials have taken place, with projections indicating that the current columbarium will be full in approximately four and a half years. The proposed expansion includes the construction of three additional columbariums, which would add 1,980 niches, ensuring burial options for veterans and their dependents for over two decades.
The funding request includes $1.5 million in federal funds, along with $75,000 each from general and other fund authorities, which represent the required 10% matching funds for the federal grant. Pollard noted that there is a strong possibility of reimbursement for these matching funds from the National Cemetery Administration.
Support for the bill was voiced by various stakeholders, including representatives from the American Legion and the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. They underscored the cemetery's importance as a respected and beautiful facility that serves the community's growing needs for veteran burials.
The committee members engaged in discussions about the funding structure, with Senator Vilhauer seeking clarification on the matching funds. The absence of opposition to the bill suggests a strong consensus on the necessity of the cemetery's expansion.
In conclusion, the discussions surrounding Senate Bill 52 reflect a proactive approach to addressing the burial needs of veterans in South Dakota. The anticipated expansion not only honors the sacrifices of those who served but also ensures that their families have a dignified place for remembrance. The committee's support for the bill will be crucial in moving forward with this important initiative.
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