Why I'm Running for
Pennington County Commissioner
As a lifelong resident of Eastern Pennington County, I have been able to witness the changes in our county firsthand. Knowing that there is more change and challenges on the way for our county we need to have people who are willing to work together and look at all ideas and options when making decisions that could impact our county for a very long time. I will work to ensure we honor the work done by others who have blazed the trail to this point while keeping an open mind to plans and ideas that address the challenges we will have in our shared future.
Pro-Business, Pro-Growth
Scroll to learn more about my goals as commissioner and experience for the job…
GOALS AS COMMISSIONER
STREAMLINE COUNTY GOVERNMENT
- Development shouldn’t give you a headache. We must refine processes used by various branches of county government to standardize what is needed by both applicants and county employees so it is easily understood by both sides.
- I will work to get the government out of the way so growth that is beneficial to the county and residents can happen with less red tape and less cost to all involved.
Provide relief to the many
property owners of our county
- We must be realistic about our approach to the issue and truthful about what we will be able to gain for the taxpayer. Operating costs for the county will only increase, especially as the influx of new residents continues to grow. There is no silver bullet for this issue, but if we have an educated and thoughtful debate about ideas, we can start to implement change that can be beneficial to the taxpayer and keep the county’s needs in mind.
- I am not proposing any additional taxes in the county. Instead, a review of the current system and common sense approach is vital to support future growth while meeting current needs.
- As a small business owner, I am used to making hard decisions and am prepared to tackle these difficult issues.
EXPERIENCE
10 YEAR WALL, SD CITY COUNCIL MEMBER
During my tenure on the Wall City Council from 1999 to 2009, I spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing our community’s infrastructure and addressing pressing issues. Serving on various equalization boards, I gained invaluable insight into the complexities of property tax equalizations, witnessing firsthand the challenges and frustrations stemming from the existing property tax structure. One significant accomplishment was overseeing the completion of our new sewer lagoons, a critical project to accommodate Wall’s growing population and prevent environmental hazards caused by outdated sewage containment systems. These lagoons, situated on city-purchased land, required meticulous planning and approximately 10 miles of trenching to connect them to the existing infrastructure. Additionally, I was involved with securing a new well for the City of Wall, essential for augmenting our aging wells and mitigating capacity issues. Moreover, I actively advocated for the preservation of essential services, ensuring that our local clinic remained operational during periods of financial strain. On this journey to serve as Pennington County Commissioner, I am committed to applying the same foresight, dedication, and passion for positive change that characterized my tenure on the Wall City Council. Together, we can build a brighter future for all residents of Pennington County.
30-YEAR BUSINESS OWNER
As a seasoned business owner with three decades of experience, I proudly lead Ken’s Refrigeration and Heating, a cornerstone of Wall, South Dakota’s business community since its establishment in 1969 by my dad Kenneth Hansen. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the various challenges and rewards inherent in the operation of a small business, instilling in me a deep understanding of its intricacies. Following my graduation from Wall High School in 1990, I pursued further education with a specific focus on assuming responsibility for our family enterprise. In the spring of 1994, I earned my degree in HVAC-R from Mitchell Vo-Tech, equipped with the knowledge and skills essential for success in the industry. Taking over Ken’s Refrigeration and Heating over three decades ago, I initiated a period of expansion and innovation, transitioning the business from a one-man operation to a thriving entity with a dedicated team of four full-time employees, supplemented by part-time staff as required.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS VENTURES
My wife, Natalie, and I own and operate storage units and rental properties. This experience has taught us about the housing market needs in the county and the regulations that can promote growth or be barriers to development. In 2023, Natalie and I purchased Ann’s Motel and Cabins in Wall, South Dakota. We refurbished the property and renamed it Hansen Inn and Cabins, and now operate it as a year-round business. This experience in the hospitality industry has given us even greater insights into tourism’s important role in Pennington County and has prepared me to support this important revenue source on the Pennington County Commission.
VOTING INFORMATION
Click the buttons below for links to voting information.
2024 Primary Election - June 4, 2024
Voter Registration Deadline - May 20, 2024
Absentee voting begins - April 19, 2024
District 4 County Commissioner Voter Map
Click the button below for District 4 election polling places.
CONTACT
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