I get it all the time, “Scott, have you liked any mayor since you have lived in Sioux Falls?” My answer is always the same, “No.”
I would love to see a dozen or more candidates running for mayor next Spring. I think the last time we had that many candidates is when Munson ran for a second term (well he decided not to, then everyone jumped in the race, then he got back in at the last minute).
Some basic traits would be someone who understands the US Constitution, the State Constitution and City Charter. They also should be a non-partisan at their core, and would prefer someone who has been a registered indy most of their lives. They also have to be a consistent local voter. I don’t care about race or gender, but I would like to specifically see a (younger) retired person in the position who isn’t looking to climb any ladders or do favors for friends but has the best interest at heart of the citizens. They should have also worked in a leadership position in their career, either as a CEO of their own company or a director or manager in the public sector.
I guess I am looking for someone who will run the city like an administrator and let the council handle the policy and the purse strings, like they are supposed to. I know I am asking a lot, but let’s keep our fingers crossed and don’t forget your jumping jacks.
Tell me in the comments what would be your ideal candidate.
I know when Kermit Staggers ran for mayor he got accused of not working with the developers and Kermit told me, “I’ll work with developers on re-zones and regs to make sure their projects get done, but handouts and tax rebates, not so much.”