Vermillion Council approves new law enforcement agreement with University of South Dakota

In the heart of Vermillion, city officials gathered to discuss a pivotal agreement that has long shaped the safety and security of both the city and the University of South Dakota (USD). The meeting, held on May 6, 2025, centered around renewing a partnership that grants law enforcement powers to the university police department through the Vermillion Police Department, a collaboration that dates back to the early 1990s.

Chief Bridal of the Vermillion Police Department highlighted the strong cooperative relationship that has developed over the years, emphasizing the shared goal of maintaining a safe community for both residents and students. As the current agreement is set to expire on June 30, 2025, the council reviewed a new proposal that aims to modernize and streamline the existing terms.

Key changes in the new agreement include the removal of outdated language and the elimination of financial obligations that were never enforced. This means that while the previous agreement specified payments from USD to the Vermillion Police Department for each officer, this requirement will no longer be part of the new terms. Additionally, the language surrounding training programs has been updated to reflect current practices, ensuring that both departments can continue to collaborate effectively on officer training.

The agreement also extends the duration from three years to five, allowing for a more stable and long-term partnership. Chief Bridal reassured the council that these changes would not impact the financial standing of the city, as there are no new costs associated with the updated agreement.

After a brief discussion, the council unanimously approved the new agreement, reinforcing the commitment to a safe and cooperative environment for the community and the university. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that this partnership would continue to play a vital role in the safety and well-being of Vermillion's residents and students alike.