The latest episode of Meeting with the Mayor featured Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun discussing preparations for the city’s Independence Day celebrations, infrastructure improvements and recent changes in city government.

Speaking with guest host Amy Rose, Salamun outlined plans for Rapid City’s participation in the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, which will bring several days of events to downtown Rapid City in early July.

“Rapid City celebrating in a big way,” Salamun said while describing concerts, community events, a parade and a first-of-its-kind drone show planned for the city.

Among the highlights will be a July 2 evening parade organized by the Festival of Lights group and a drone show designed to tell the story of America through animated displays in the night sky.

“You’re going to want to be there, you’re going to want to take photos. It’s just going to be pretty cool, unique,” Salamun said. “We’ve never had a drone show in Rapid City.”

The mayor also encouraged residents to volunteer for the festivities, which are expected to draw both local residents and visitors to the Black Hills.

Salamun provided an update on staffing at City Hall, explaining the recent appointment of Carla Cushman as Rapid City’s new city attorney. He said the transition followed the departure of longtime City Attorney Joe Landin after more than two decades with the city.

“Carla Cushman, who’s outstanding and she’s a workhorse, gets things done in a timely fashion,” Salamun said. “She is now the official city attorney.”

The episode also highlighted the city’s efforts to address potholes. Salamun said the Streets Division exceeded its May goal of filling 3,000 potholes by completing repairs on approximately 4,300 potholes throughout the city.

“They set the goal. They had a plan and they got it done,” Salamun said. “To have 4,300 in a month, that’s really remarkable.”

Looking back at Tuesday’s primary election, Salamun thanked residents who participated and encouraged voters to stay engaged ahead of upcoming runoff elections.

“You get a chance to choose governor, bottom line,” he said. “And I hope West River shows out in a big way.”