Annexation Studies – City Initiated Annexations

Existing rural subdivisions which lie within the city’s service area can be addressed by the annexation program as well. Timely annexation of these areas will prevent illogical jurisdictional boundaries and fragmented local government responsibilities. Furthermore, severe tax inequities within the urban area can be eliminated through annexation of subdivisions which enjoy a wide range of city facilities and services toward which they contribute no property tax support.

While annexation actions initiated by the city are often controversial and difficult, many problems can be avoided simply by adhering to an established annexation process. If key issues are resolved prior to annexation approval, much of the public misunderstanding and opposition can be prevented. The following annexation guidelines are applied:

1. Annex undeveloped land within the city’s planned growth area well in advance of its development.
2. Delineate annexation areas which represent logical service areas for the extension of major streets and utilities.
3. Annex contiguous rural subdivisions when it becomes feasible to provide city utilities and services.
4. Identify and attempt to mitigate any potential adverse economic, social, or environmental impacts resulting from annexation actions.
5. Make preparations to ensure an orderly transition of service responsibilities from the county and township level to the city.
6. Complete the timely extension of public services and facilities into annexed areas through coordination with the Capital Improvements Program.

Of utmost importance in the annexation process is the need to sensitively deal with the concerns of affected residences and property owners. By assuming political jurisdiction over an annexed area, the city also assumes a responsibility to protect the life-style and economic well-being of its residents. Particularly in established residential neighborhoods, consideration should be given to such things as zoning, and street and utility improvements which might adversely affect the character of the area.

SD Codified Law Reference

9-4-4.1.   Study required before annexation without petition. Except as provided by § 9-4-1, before a municipality may extend its boundaries to include contiguous territory, the governing body shall conduct a study to determine the need for the contiguous territory and to identify the resources necessary to extend the municipal boundaries.