Perkins County in northwest South Dakota is one of 60 counties statewide that might have to consolidate if an effort to merge those local governments passes the Legislature.

The resolution is scheduled for its first committee hearing Wednesday.

It would place on the 2010 general election ballot a proposed constitutional amendment to begin a process of limiting counties to
no fewer than 25,000 residents or 5,000 square miles, whichever is less.

Representative Brian Dreyer of Rapid City is sponsoring the measure because it would save local taxpayer money and give counties the money they need to modernize.
 
But Perkins County Finance Officer Sylvia Chapman says it would be another blow to local residents who would lose more local
control.