Michael Waldner, a resident of Madison, has been appointed to lead the establishment of South Dakota’s Municipal Cybersecurity Grant Program, as announced by Dakota State University on Monday. This program, under the Attorney General’s Office and in partnership with the university, is aimed at enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure for local governments in the state.
The $7 million funding for the program was approved by the Legislature in response to the increasing concerns regarding cybersecurity among city and county governments. The program will offer secure email solutions, technical support, risk assessments, and specialized training to municipalities, cities, and counties in South Dakota.
Waldner, who previously directed South Dakota’s centralized education email system, will oversee the program as its director. With experience in managing statewide network projects, Waldner is well-equipped to lead this initiative. The need for improved cybersecurity measures for local governments has become more urgent following recent cyberattacks on Brown County, Hutchinson County, and the city of Sioux Falls.
Attorney General Marty Jackley emphasized the importance of this program in making South Dakota a model of cybersecurity for the nation. The initiative is a four-year program scheduled to conclude in the summer of 2028, with an advisory council providing support and guidance. With cyber threats on the rise, this program aims to strengthen the defenses of local governments and protect the sensitive information they handle.
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Photo credit southdakotasearchlight.com
