Residents Support City Changes, Watch Carefully

SIOUX FALLS, SD - Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether promised to shake up city government, and he's living up to that promise. For the fourth time since taking office, Huether announced more staff changes in City Hall.

Since Huether took office he has shifted, replaced or removed a total of eight employees in City Hall. So how do the people who elected Huether feel about all of the changes?

"I think it's really fast, but I think it can be really good. I think it's good to have a new mindset in the government, and sometimes the only way to do that is quickly," Jennifer Dolan of Sioux Falls said.

From switching city leaders to slashing the budget, City Hall looks a lot different now than before Huether took office.

"I think they're going way too fast. He's got this events center, and he's got a time frame on it. That time frame's closing in on him," Mark Kimball of Sioux Falls said.

"Myself, I'd say I'm a little apprehensive.  Have to wait and see what's going to be cut, what's going to be changed," Carol McGinnis of Sioux Falls said.

People in Sioux Falls say they're excited to see the city move forward, but it has to happen cautiously.

"Well, we're not sure what to expect at this point. We know big budget cuts are coming, but what's that going to mean for us? Are we going to be cutting services to people that need them a lot, or is it some things in the budget that could already be cut that we won't miss so much," McGinnis said. 

Though the changes are happening quickly, most say they're willing wait before forming a solid opinion of the city's new leader. 

"I feel like he's got our best interest at heart. However, what he has to do with the budget and with money remains to be seen," McGinnis said.

"See what he does. Give the guy a chance. He's new, you know," Kimball said.

McGinnis says she'd like to see even more changes, especially with more opportunities for kids who play hockey or swim. Both sports are included in the Mayor's Capital Improvement Plan.