Clark County Public RecordsSouth Dakota

Clark County, SD, maintains a notably low crime rate compared to national averages. Violent crime rate stands at approximately 1.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime is around 8.2 per 1,000. In 2022, fewer than 10 violent crimes and about 50 property crimes were reported. The sheriff’s office encourages active community reporting and rapid response, helping to maintain public safety. Overall, Clark County is considered a safe and secure area for residents.

Clark County, SD, had 2,466 registered voters for the 2022 general election. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, overseen by the County Auditor’s Office. There are 10 polling locations across townships and cities. In the 2020 presidential election, 74% voted Republican, 24% Democrat, and 2% other. Major election issues include agriculture, rural healthcare, and school funding. The county is predominantly Republican, with GOP-affiliated officials holding most local offices. Voters can register at the courthouse or by mail; photo ID is required at polls. Elections are governed according to South Dakota state law.

As of the 2020 Census, Clark County, SD had a population of 3,837. The median age was 45.7 years, with 21.9% under 18 and 24.3% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution was roughly even, with 50.4% male and 49.6% female. Racially, the population was 96.2% White, 1.7% Native American, 0.2% Asian, and 1.9% Hispanic or Latino of any race, reflecting limited diversity in the county.

Clark County, SD has approximately 4 public schools serving K-12, including Clark High School. The high school graduation rate is around 93%, while roughly 18% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety measures are consistent with state standards, and students boast average test scores near South Dakota’s average. Educational programs include agricultural studies, arts, and vocational tracks. Adult education opportunities are limited but available through regional offerings. Overall, Clark County’s schools reflect small class sizes and a close-knit community focus.

As of 2022, Clark County, SD, had an employment rate of about 57%. The leading industries are agriculture (26%), education and health services (20%), and manufacturing (13%). Most workers are employed in management, sales, and office occupations (31%) and production, transportation, and material moving (21%). About 69% of residents commute alone by car, with a mean commute time of 17 minutes. While most are employed within the county, approximately 26% commute to neighboring counties for work.

Clark County, SD, features a homeownership rate near 77%, with median home values around $110,000 as of 2023. Rental units account for about 23% of housing, with median gross rents at approximately $650/month. The county’s housing is primarily single-family homes, mixed with some farmhouses and small apartment complexes. Most neighborhoods are rural or small-town, with Clark and Garden City as main communities. Property values have seen modest annual increases of 2-4%. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 1.3% of property value, resulting in median annual tax bills near $1,400.