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Brian Ries has served as the mayor of Castlewood for seven years, focusing on community involvement and modernization.

Key accomplishments include updating city technology, connecting to the Sioux Rural Water System, and managing tornado recovery efforts.

The town opened a new wellness center in February 2025 in partnership with Prairie Lakes Healthcare to improve local services.

Brian Ries has been mayor of Castlewood for seven years. During that time, the town of fewer than 1,000 just 16 miles south of Watertown endured a major tornado and experienced some growth. The Public Opinion recently sat down with Ries for a wide-ranging interview.

Public Opinion: Tell me why you originally ran for mayor?

Brian Ries: I ran for mayor because I saw a real need for local l

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