Updated benches installed around Flandreau
By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise
If you’ve noticed new benches appearing in Flandreau’s downtown and city parks, you’re not imagining things.
The City of Flandreau has begun replacing aging park benches with new powder-coated models as part of a parks improvement project. The city has worked to maintain close to 60 benches over the years, many of which are worn and weathered despite routine maintenance. This year’s budget included $5,000 to begin replacing the benches, with eight new benches purchased so far.
The project, however, has raised an unexpected question.
Many of the older benches were donated by local families in memory or honor of loved ones and include commemorative plaques. City crews have been carefully removing and saving each plaque. City Administrator Cohl Turnquist told the Flandreau City Council that staff has searched historical city records but has been unable to locate any donation agreements or policies outlining what should happen when commemorative benches reach the end of their useful life.
Because the new benches aren’t designed to accommodate the existing plaques, the city is now researching options to preserve those memorials while developing a consistent policy for future bench donations and replacements.
The updates were among several discussed during the council’s July 6 meeting.
Turnquist also reported that installation of new doors at the Community Center is expected to wrap up this week, with construction of a sidewalk connecting the building to the auxiliary parking lot anticipated within the next two weeks.
Work is also expected to begin soon on the new bike path, a partnership between the city and the Flandreau Development Corporation. More on what to expect there in an upcoming edition of the Moody County Enterprise.
The council also accepted Purple Heart Community designation signs from local representatives Randy Tollefson, Lars Perry and Bill Flippo. The signs will be installed at the entrances to Flandreau recognizing the city’s designation as a Purple Heart Community.
Mayor Dan Sutton also proclaimed July 6, 2026, as Chuck and Karen Tufty Day, recognizing Karen Tufty as she wrapped up 10 years of service on the City Council. She stepped into the role following the death of her husband, Chuck, who had served on the council for 13 years.
“I care so much about Flandreau. Chuck did, too,” Tufty said.
“We both just thought that if we could leave Flandreau a better place and contribute somehow … I really honestly do love Flandreau.”
Bill Nibbelink, meanwhile, was appointed to fill the Ward 1 alderman seat until the next municipal election and was administered the oath of office. Council members also selected Brad Bjerke as council president and Curt Ahlers as vice president, while reappointing Lori Kneebone as finance officer and Matthew Tysdal as city attorney.
Council members also approved a resolution establishing a $25 annual golf cart permit fee. Requirements to drive golf carts in city limits was printed in last week’s Moody County Enterprise and included the fact that driver’s must be licensed.