For more than 30 years, Jerry Zeimetz has played a pivotal role in shaping the City of Beresford. He began his public service career in 1990 as deputy finance officer, later serving on the City Council. In 1999, Jerry became Beresford’s first city administrator, a position he held until his retirement this past fall.
During his tenure, Beresford experienced remarkable growth and transformation. Under Jerry’s leadership, the community saw expansion of the industrial park, the arrival of new businesses, significant infrastructure improvements, and enhanced amenities such as Volunteer Park and the Bridges Golf Course and Clubhouse. His vision helped move Beresford from “just a small town” to a thriving, confident community with a strong future. In recognition of his lasting impact, Jerry was inducted into the South Dakota Municipal League Hall of Fame.
Jerry’s commitment to Beresford extended well beyond City Hall. For 25 years, he served on the Frostbite 4 Race Committee, helping guide one of the community’s favorite winter traditions. What began as a small local race grew into an annual event that brings together runners, families, and volunteers—no matter how cold a South Dakota winter may be.
Throughout his years on the committee, Jerry assisted with fundraising, coordinated snow and ice removal on race routes, and worked closely with an outstanding group of volunteers to ensure the race ran safely and smoothly. One of his favorite roles was helping organize the post-race festivities at the Bridges Event Center, making sure runners had a warm place to gather and enjoy a bowl of chili or chicken noodle soup after braving the winter course.
Jerry says the most rewarding part of serving on the committee was the people including the volunteers, sponsors, city staff, and participants who made the Frostbite 4 possible year after year. Although he stepped away from the committee two years ago, he remains proud of what the community has built and looks forward to cheering from the sidelines for many races to come.
Congratulations Mr. Jerry Zeimetz!
