September Trailblazer: Meet Tom Bisek

Tom Bisek stands next to his Bisek Farms truck in Lien township, Roberts County. photo courtesy Rachelle Bisek

Rooted in Leadership — When you think of a “township official,” you might picture someone who quietly tends to business at the local level. But in Lien township in Roberts County, one official has proven that township service can reach far beyond local roads and bridges. Tom Bisek has dedicated himself to both his township and to making a difference at the state level, earning respect across South Dakota as a changemaker with a personality all his own.

Bisek has been a familiar face in township government for many years, serving his community with a blend of dedication, energy, and good humor. He’s the kind of leader who can spark a laugh one minute and rally support for a serious issue the next. Bisek embodies the spirit of rural South Dakota - approachable, authentic, and deeply connected to the land and its people.

His impact extends well beyond his local township. From 2011-2024 Bisek served on the SD Association of Towns and Townships State Board of Directors, where his efforts have helped move programs forward that make a real difference in rural South Dakota. By showing up, paying attention, and speaking out, township voices can shape policy and bring about real change. He reflects, “You really need to get involved with the state legislature. What they are doing out there is affecting your life and South Dakota, we are a small state – so you really can make a difference.”  Bisek continues, “all you really need to do is get involved.”  

When asked about his proudest accomplishments, Bisek is quick to reference SB1 in the 2015 SD Legislative session, ensuring organized townships can levy up to $0.50 per $1,000 of taxable value for a secondary road capital improvement fund. Years later, he again worked tirelessly to get the RAIF (Rural Access Infrastructure Fund) program up and running. Bisek didn’t just lend his voice to these efforts, he was an integral part of pushing the ideas forward, building momentum, and ensuring the programs became reality.

Despite his broad impact, Bisek remains rooted in Northeast South Dakota, a place he deeply loves. Alongside his wife, Rachelle, farming has always been a central part of his life, and he values the relationships built through hard work and community connections. For him, township service is not just about government, it’s about neighbors helping neighbors, preserving rural traditions, and building a better future.

Tom Bisek is more than a township official; he’s a reminder of what leadership looks like when it’s fueled by passion, grounded in community, and carried out with a spark of personality. His story shows us that township government isn’t small at all… it’s the foundation of rural South Dakota, and with leaders like Tom, that foundation is strong.

Written by: Loree Gaikowski, SDATAT Legislative Director

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💡 Know Someone Who Deserves Recognition?

We want to hear from you! If you know a township official, board member, grader operator, clerk, treasurer, or township advocate who goes above and beyond, nominate them for a feature in Township Trailblazers.

📧 Email your nomination (including name, township, and a few sentences about why they deserve recognition) to:legislative@sdtownships.com

Let’s celebrate the people who quietly keep South Dakota’s townships strong—one gravel road and one board meeting at a time.