I got word this morning that Triple Check the Charter will start circulating petitions today. They had a few things to smooth out with the city first, but it looks like a green light.
I would expect them to be at the SE Fair this week and at Levitt this weekend. Remember, the quicker they get the proper signatures the sooner we can have a special election.
You can download the petition instructions and petition HERE.
Look at the data where past mayors have broken tie votes HERE.
Thanks for the link to on-air comments by Belfrage. On the one hand, I think “Who cares what he thinks?”. On the other hand, I’m glad to hear he seems to have grown up a bit. . . . he can actually state he respects people who engage in public affairs on issues they’re passionate about, even if he disagrees with them. However, I still don’t think anyone’s listening: in spite of rambling for a half hour and inviting call-in opinions, he only got one call – apparently from some pal of KELO who showed up to their recent blood drive.
I will sign the petition but I would much rather throw out home rule.
I agree with LJL.
Home Rule Charter reminds me of how Nazi Germany came into power circa 1935. Political parties were eliminated and citizens brainwashed into accepting their leader with deity status. The state has no authority over Sioux Falls. The Strong Mayor has dictatorial power. A simple majority of bribed councilors votes favoring disbursal of funds into corrupt private entities. Everything is a promise not kept. Mayors leave office millionaires. Democracy isn’t recognized. Citizens lose their rights and appeals. Some are jailed with Penny Bond status. Infrastructure collapses despite a 540 million budget for a population of 170k. The best answer is a new government that’s a return to DEMOCRACY.
DS raises (above) the issue of the ballooning COSF budget. In another recent comment from DS, he cites a budget figure from the recent past to put in context the leap these budget levels represent over a relatively short period of time. While it’s good PTH is listening to citizens that roads & infrastructure need to be prioritized, this ought to be done without the budget growing exponentially. Time to rein in expenses, bloated salaries & adding absurdly over-compensated new positions. “Director of Culture” to hand out participation trophies? Give me a break.
Next it will be a free snack bar for employees . . . wait . . . the SFPD already have that at the Hospitals.