Mark Larson, Code Enforcement Officer for the City of Box Elder, was named Code Enforcement Officer of the Year last week by the South Dakota Association of Code Enforcement (SoDACE).   The award is given each year to a member of the association for their outstanding contributions to their municipa lity as a code enforcement officer, contributions to their community as a citizen, and personal accomplishments.   Larson was recognized for creating positive impacts on the community through his dedication, professionalism, and skill in carrying out the mission of the Box Elder Code Enforcement Department.   “Through exceptional communication, investigative, and critical thinking skills, Mark consistently develops creative and effective solutions to a wide variety of code enforcement challenges,” said Box Elder Building and Code Enforcement Supervisor Chad Tomjack. “Mark has been firm when necessary and collaborates when possible. This balanced approach reflects the very best of the profession of a Code Enforcement Officer.”   One of Larson’s most notable accomplishments this year was his assistance in managing a large, complex situation which had been a code issue in the city for over a decade. Mark became involved in the project during the later stages, but through his persistence, attention to detail, and effective coordination among multiple stakeholders, a viable resolution was finally reached.   Larson also assisted in executing a contract to clean up two separate trailer parks of abandoned homes and significant amounts of trash and debris, significantly improving neighborhood conditions and the quality of life for surrounding residents.   “These projects required careful planning, collaboration, and oversight, all of which Mark handled with professionalism and efficiency,” said Tomjack.   Tomjack also credits Larson for developing cooperative relationships with other City departments, streamlining processes, improving communication, and ensuring complex enforcement efforts move forward efficiently and effectively.   “What truly sets Mark apart is his ability to take on these major projects while maintaining his existing workload at a high level of performance,” said Tomjack. “On a day-to-day basis, Mark has done an excellent job working to keep our community clean, safe, and a great place to live by emphasizing voluntary compliance whenever possible. This approach has fostered cooperation, trust, and positive relationships between code enforcement and the public.”   Larson was presented with the award during the annual SoDACE Training Conference, which was held at Drifters Event Center in Fort Pierre on May 6-7, 2026.   SoDACE, an affiliate of the South Dakota Municipal League, is a statewide association that works to advance, educate, and improve efforts of state, county, city, and other political subdivision employees who are actively involved with and responsible for the enforcement of housing, municipal, county, state, or federal codes. For more information, visit www.sdmunicipalleague.org/codeenforcement. ...read more read less