by Joe | Jan 19, 2026 | Local History, Political/government
One hundred thirty-seven years ago our state founders placed the capitol in Pierre because it lay near the geographic center of a young frontier state. That decision fit a time when travel was slow and the population thin. The facts that justified it no longer exist....
by Joe | Nov 2, 2025 | Local History, Political/government
Once a model of civic unity, the city now suffers from fragmentation and complacency. It’s time for leadership that brings us back together. Decades ago, Sioux Falls had something rare, a civic spirit that felt both personal and powerful. It wasn’t just about growth...
by Joe | Aug 18, 2025 | Local History, Political/government
The South Dakota Board of Regents made news last week with an announcement that many thought would never come: the state’s only medical school is moving from small-town Vermillion to Sioux Falls, the state’s population and health care hub. It is a rare example of...
by Joe | Dec 2, 2024 | Local History, Political/government
Sioux Falls has enjoyed impressive growth over the past seven decades. But much of this growth didn’t just happen for the sake of growth. Instead, it was due in no small part to visionary leadership. I hope current and future community leaders appreciate the...
by Joe | Sep 6, 2024 | Local History, Political/government
Sioux Falls has seen significant growth and success in recent decades, due in part to the strong leadership of its mayors. The city’s mayor-council system has granted mayors substantial authority to manage city government and offer community leadership. However,...
by Joe | Aug 7, 2024 | Local History, Political/government
As we approach the November election, voters will start to focus on the ballot issues they are being asked to decide. There are seven this year, which is about normal. Two of the seven are constitutional amendments submitted to voters by the legislature. They must get...
