Board approves $18,342 emergency funds to replace Little Sioux Park ranger septic system

Woodbury County supervisors approved emergency funding of $18,342 to replace a failed septic system at the Little Sioux Park ranger residence after conservation staff described the failure and costs.

Dan Heisel, conservation staff, told the board the existing fiberglass system was more than 35 years old, with separated gray and black water components and was not repairable; he said the work required over-excavation and additional sand and materials, driving the cost to $18,342. Heisel said he did not have the funds in his department budget and asked the board for help.

Supervisors discussed funding options and whether to cover the expense from maintenance funds or split costs; one supervisor noted that conservation budgets run “razor thin” and expressed support for funding the emergency. Supervisor Taylor moved to approve the funds from gaming funds and Supervisor Nelson seconded; the board approved the appropriation 5–0.

Heisel said he had previously absorbed related smaller repairs in his maintenance fund and emphasized the emergency nature of the replacement, noting the ranger and family had no sewer service while the system was unusable. The board did not specify a repayment or offset plan during the meeting.

The action was recorded as emergency replacement funding and will allow the residence to be returned to service promptly.