Lawrence (Larry) Schmaltz
Lawrence (Larry) Schmaltz is a Professional Engineer and General Contractor from Belle Fourche with over 30 years of experience in engineering and environmental consulting. He currently serves as a Belle Fourche City Councilman and is a member of the SD Mines Professional Advisory Board and the college Foundation Board of Trustees. He is running for the South Dakota House of Representatives in District 28B in the 2026 Republican primary.
Why they’re
Sensible
Schmaltz brings rare technical depth to a legislative seat: a licensed PE and GC with three decades of infrastructure and environmental experience, combined with active service on the Belle Fourche City Council. His engineering background equips him to evaluate the practical costs and trade-offs of legislation affecting western South Dakota's land, water, and infrastructure. While he has no prior state legislative record, his local government service and professional advisory board work demonstrate a sustained commitment to community problem-solving in the District 28B region.
Also running for
SD State House · District 28B
Every other candidate filed for this seat, listed for transparency. Our Sensible slate reflects the full field — not just a single pick.