A Proposal for Renewal and Care

Renewal and Care in a Thriving City

You've seen the signs about panhandling.

You've heard the news stories about crime.

You’ve been hassled for cash while walking downtown.

You've probably even driven by and shaken your head.

I commit to working with the administration, city councilors, and the community on a comprehensive plan that supports downtown development while caring for the most vulnerable in our city. Our national safety net entangles people rather than equipping them to step forward into opportunity. It’s time for local action that is focused on treatment, education, and employment.

Homelessness is on the rise, and there is consistently an overwhelming amount of loitering and other issues east of downtown, often along Eighth Street. Downtown Sioux Falls is booming with major projects underway on the East Bank. It is desired and expected that downtown Sioux Falls would continue to expand and flourish, and remain a popular destination. We must not take the easy path of simply moving the problem. 

What ideas do I propose?

1)    Implement Street Teams
Training teams to approach people and connect them to appropriate services.

2)   Housing First Initiative
Putting families into a safer housing environment for one year to get children established in education
and parents established in employment.

3)    Food Distribution Discussion
Discerning as a neighborhood the most appropriate food distribution plans to reduce waste, litter, and loitering.

4)  Employment Focus
Integrating an employment opportunity into a day shelter and providing meaningful work that can provide dignity
and an entrance into long-term employment.

5)    Helpline Network of Care Participation
Encouraging appropriate organizations to fully participate in an existing database to share information
and appropriately care for people in the system of care in our city.

Stay tuned in the weeks ahead for details on each idea.