Opening Session

Leading Under Pressure

Read the moment. Make the Call. Own the message.

A difficult resident interaction. A tense internal conversation. A crisis in the community. A department stretched thin. In those moments, every role matters whether you are interacting directly with residents and the media or working behind the scenes to keep your municipality moving forward. Strong communities are built by people who know how to stay steady under pressure, make thoughtful decisions, and support one another when it matters most.

Learn how to cut through the noise to understand what a situation truly requires; distinguish a worthwhile risk from a reckless one; own the message during difficult conversations; and create a more connected, accountable, and supportive team.

Presented by three-time Emmy Award winning broadcaster and veteran journalist Anne Marie Anderson, who has spent decades in the locker rooms and boardrooms of elite performers, championship teams, and some of the most pressure-filled environments in sports and media.

Tues. Afternoon (Pre-conference)

Golf Scramble

The traditional opening event for conference! Bring your clubs and hit nine holes at Moccasin Creek Country Club. Open to all SDML Conference attendees and all skill levels. Cash and other prizes awarded.

Sponsored by the City of Aberdeen and the South Dakota Municipal League. Golf cart sponsor JEO Consulting Group, Inc.

Thursday Morning

Wake-Up Wellness

Start your day off right with a 5K walk/run at Aberdeen's one-of-a-kind Wiley Park! All levels of experience welcome. Participants receive a free gift. 

Sponsored by the Health Pool of South Dakota, SDML Workers' Compensation Fund, and the South Dakota Public Assurance Alliance.

Thursday Noon

Excellence Luncheon

Features the induction ceremony for the newest class of the SDML Hall of Fame, and announcement of the winner of the prestigious Excellence in Municipal Government Award.

Sponsored by the First National Bank in Sioux Falls and BankWest, Inc.

Thursday Evening

A Night at the Races

Get ready for an unforgettable evening at A Night at the Races! 

Join us for thrilling virtual horse racing, spectacular derby attire, and plenty of chances to win big. Enjoy great food, lively entertainment, and the electric atmosphere as you cheer on your horse to the finish line. Whether you're placing bets, bidding to win, or just soaking in the fun, this is one event you won’t want to miss!

All Conference

Visit the Exhibits

Discover the latest in products and services from the exhibitors and sponsors. Over 60 companies will be onsite to offer their expertise on emerging trends and how you can stay current.

Tentative

Candidate Forum

We've invited both the democratic and republican candidates for governor to share their plans for South Dakota and answer questions from municipalities.

Friday Morning

SDML Annual Meeting

Help determine the direction of the SD Municipal League at the annual business meeting. We'll hear updates and reports, discuss the 2027 Statement of Policy, and elect new officers.

Other Sure Bet Sessions

• Elected Officials Session
• Affiliate Meetings
• Aberdeen City Highlight Tours
• Federal ADA Compliance
• TIF Talk (Tax Increment Financing)
• Cybersecurity for Municipalities