State of the City Highlights Key Investments, Fiscal Responsibility
Published on April 14, 2025
Mayor Paul TenHaken presented his seventh State of the City Address Monday afternoon at the Canopy by Hilton in the Steel District in downtown Sioux Falls. In the address, he stressed the importance of foundational investments in public safety and infrastructure, especially as Sioux Falls grows, and the need to continue to cast a vision for the future of the community, even amid economic uncertainty.
“Sioux Falls is the community it is today because of a strategic focus on foundational investments, fiscal responsibility, and collaborative leadership, all things we will continue focusing on in 2025 and beyond,” said TenHaken.
Throughout the address, the Mayor highlighted various numbers that share the City’s story over the past year and what’s ahead. The numbers shared included statistics of initiatives, costs of projects, and the data on how many people have been helped by various programs supported by the City. Specifically, numbers like the violent and property crime per capita, which is at a five-year low, the millions of dollars in transformational transportation projects in Sioux Falls in 2025, and the private donations invested in the City’s Parks and Recreation system since TenHaken took office in 2018.
One topic of importance that will be an ongoing discussion in 2025 and beyond is the effect of Senate Bill 216. This bill was passed in the 2025 legislative session with the intent to provide property tax relief to residents. Over the next ten years, the City of Sioux Falls estimates it will lose $25 million in operating expenses because of the bill.
“The growth of Sioux Falls geographically and in population is a good thing. Strategic, smart growth means a strong economy and a great quality of life,” said TenHaken. “We are in a strong financial position, and even amid economic uncertainty, it’s essential we continue to think big with visions like the Riverline District and expanded recreational options in order to ensure our community stays vibrant.”
A theme woven throughout the speech was a focus on the people behind the numbers who make Sioux Falls the great place it is today. The late Craig Lloyd was honored for his commitment to housing in Sioux Falls. Julie Haddock, the nurse manager at The Link, was recognized for her work in addiction care. The 2024–2025 Mayor’s Youth Council was also spotlighted for their dedication to learning more about local government and how it operates.
“It’s essential the next generation feels empowered to use their voices and provide input on the decisions we’re making today that will impact them for years to come,” said Mayor TenHaken. “The Sioux Falls we love today did not happen by accident. It takes all of us coming together as One Sioux Falls and serving our community, whether it’s through mentoring, volunteering, or even deciding to run for elected office.”