In the latest episode of the Meeting With the Mayor podcast, Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun discussed the upcoming election, the return of Summer Nights, preparations for Rapid City’s 150th anniversary celebrations, and his selection of a new city attorney.

With Election Day approaching, Salamun encouraged residents to participate regardless of their political preferences.

“You have to show up to vote,” Salamun said. “One of the great things about America is we elect our representatives and leaders and it reflects us. So it either reflects our values and our vision or it reflects our apathy because we just did not show up.”

The mayor also praised the return of Summer Nights, which held its first event of the season Thursday evening. Salamun described community events as an important way to bring residents together and said seeing families, seniors and children gathered downtown reinforced the value of the weekly tradition.

“If I could bottle this up and send it 50 years from now to a future generation, I hope they have that same sense,” Salamun said while reflecting on a recent community photo event at Main Street Square. “That’s what Summer Nights has.”

The conversation also touched on Rapid City’s ongoing 150th anniversary celebration. A time capsule containing community surveys, youth artwork, memorabilia and letters from local leaders is scheduled to be buried at Founders Park and reopened in 50 years. Salamun said organizers have secured more than $210,000 in sponsorships to support anniversary events and attractions, including a large drone show.

Looking ahead to the America 250 celebration, Salamun said residents can expect patriotic decorations throughout the city, including veteran banners and more than 20,000 red, white and blue flowers planted in local parks. He also noted the city received a signed response from President Donald Trump after extending invitations to national dignitaries.

The mayor concluded by announcing his selection of Carla Cushman as Rapid City’s next city attorney. Cushman has served as deputy city attorney and most recently held the role on an interim basis.

“She’s earned it,” Salamun said. “It was undeniable that she was the right person for the job.”