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Public commenters raise immigration, DEI, housing and train‑crossing concerns at Sioux Falls meeting
Summary
During public input, residents asked the city about immigration policy and government retaliation, urged the removal of DEI policies, reported tenant and code‑enforcement issues at local properties, requested train‑crossing signage on Rice Street, and celebrated a new local business license.
Several members of the public used the council's general‑comment period on Dec. 3 to raise a range of civic concerns and to thank the council for recent approvals.
Mike Curtis, a longtime Sioux Falls resident and veteran, asked whether the city has ordinances, plans, or policies related to mass immigration/deportation and how the city differentiates legal from illegal residents. He also asked whether the city has protections against governmental or political retaliation. The mayor offered to have the mayors or the chief's office follow up with more detail after the meeting.
Sam Kligman, owner of Big Lost Meadery, thanked the council for approving a retail wine and malt beverage license and described plans to open a brewery/meadery and restaurant on Lake Lorraine, including local hiring and a projected early‑March opening.
Sierra Broussard raised concerns about police calls to properties managed by a landlord she identified as "Tazeek," disputed an email from an attendant union and urged that landlords be given time to address maintenance and eviction history before tenants are displaced. The mayor and staff said they would follow up as needed.
Adam Bus, a first‑time speaker, asked the council to consider adding digital signage warning drivers about long train crossings on Rice Street to help motorists choose alternate routes and reduce traffic backups.
Chad Bishop urged the council and Mayor Ted Aiken to remove diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies from city government, arguing they create division and shift focus from essential services; he cited a recent item and asked the council to lead by rescinding such policies.
The mayor repeatedly offered to have staff or the chiefs office follow up with speakers on specific operational questions rather than providing answers at the meeting.
