Carbon pipeline, eminent domain powers roil Public Utilities Commission race

South Dakotans have more than 36 years of elected office experience to choose from on their Nov. 8 ballot when they decide who should represent them on the Public Utilities Commission for the next six years.

Republican incumbent Chris Nelson is aiming for another term on the three-member panel that helps resolve disputes that arise between customers and utility companies, a post he’s held since terming out as South Dakota’s Secretary of State in 2011. Standing between the 58-year-old and a third term is Jeff Barth, the Democrat in the race, a seasoned public servant in his own right, having spent the better part of the last two decades as a county commissioner in Minnehaha County.