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Reversing Downtown Decline in Centerville, South Dakota

Centerville, a town of about 900 people located 40 miles southwest of Sioux Falls, has become a statewide leader in downtown redevelopment by implementing a strong vacant building ordinance.
A decade ago, Centerville faced decline with 14 vacant storefronts in its downtown district; in 2017, the Centerville City Council passed an ordinance using inspections and fines to compel property owners to renovate or sell.
Economic development coordinator Jared Hybertson and local officials leveraged about $100,000 in grants to revitalize buildings, while business owner Christen Cunningham converted a former storage building into a thriving clothing boutique.
The town of Hurley, located 30 miles southeast of Sioux Falls with 385 residents, sought Centerville's guidance after enacting its own ordinance in October 2024, though enforcement remains challenging with limited municipal staff.
According to Paula Jensen, vice president of Dakota Resources, downtown revitalization requires constant commitment beyond beautification. "It's making a decision to incrementally improve their Main Street and show that they're in it for the long haul," she said.

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Reversing downtown decline in Centerville, South Dakota

This small eastern South Dakota town is well known for its deep agricultural roots, its popular Fourth of July celebration and its regionally famous bakery specializing in bi-colored “zebra donuts.”

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