There will not be a mayoral race in Pierre on the June 2 ballot.
Caleb Gilkerson collected enough petition signatures to challenge incumbent Steve Harding. But, at last night’s (Tues.) city commission meeting, city finance officer Twila Hight said Gilkerson’s residential address of 511 West Dakota Avenue raised the question of eligibility.
Attorney Dick Tieszen looked into the residency issues and provided this guidance.
Gilkerson says he does live at 511 West Dakota Avenue.
After over an hour of discussion, Pierre City Commissioners voted unanimously to support the determination that 511 West Dakota Avenue is not zoned residential and cannot be considered a legal residence under city ordinance.
Gilkerson operates Central Divers LLC and Steamboat’s Inc. in Pierre and the Sunset paddle wheeler docked in Fort Pierre.
Pierre mayor Steve Harding announced his intent to run for reelection back in January.
