The cost of lighting and heating your home is going up. Fortunately, you've never had more power to do something about it. Xcel Energy and MidAmerican Energy are both seeking permission from state regulators to increase the rates they charge Sioux Falls customers. Xcel Energy wants to raise its electricity rates by 8 percent, while MidAmerican is seeking an average 3.5 percent increase for natural gas customers.

South Dakota developer plans to build a $15 million, 110-unit apartment complex near downtown Rochester, plus 179 more apartments on the far northwest side. Stencil Homes of Sioux Falls, S.D., has purchased three buildings — Buckeye Liquor, the empty Flowers By Jerry shop and the 3rd Avenue Pet Hospital — on Third Avenue Southeast and Fourth Street, across from the Olmsted County Government Center and Rochester City Hall.