OTHER NEWS
Meet the candidates running for municipal, school positions on April 13 ballot

Statement: I want to serve on the Sioux Falls School Board because I am passionate about our children's education and the future of our public school system. I believe that our children and our public schools are our city's greatest and most important assets.

Statement: I would like a second term to continue the development of innovative programs to prepare our students for higher education or help them enter the workforce with marketable skills. I have worked hard to make our district a safe place to educate our children while working within tight budgets during difficult economic times.

Statement: As Mayor, my governing philosophy will be to give our citizens the best possible service from their government at the least possible cost to our taxpayers. I will focus on job creation, good streets, safe neighborhoods, clean water and creating a modern efficient city government that cooperates with other governments in the region.

Statement: I want to lead the city for the same reason that inspired me for six years on City Council: to make sure we create opportunity for all. I want our children and grandchildren to have the opportunity to choose to live, work and play in Sioux Falls.

Statement: Growing up in Sioux Falls I enjoyed an incredible environment, strong public safety, access to parks, quality education and much more. As a young adult, I moved back to start my own business, Fuddruckers. I want all of our children to have the same opportunities as I did.

Statement: As a state senator and city council member, I have always been devoted to the American principles of limited government and unlimited opportunity for individuals and businesses. As Mayor, will accept as a sacred trust the responsibility to govern with these principles on behalf of all the people.

Statement: Public service can make a powerful difference. Sioux Falls is faced with challenges that demand strong executive leadership. My 25 years in business, insatiable work ethic, passion for stewardship and record of success will provide just that. It is time to infuse business acumen into city government. Just watch me!

Statement: This community has been really good to me and my family over the last 35 years. It's time for me to pay them back with my service. I want to make sure Sioux Falls moves forward and I leave it a better place for my children and grandchildren.

Statement: This city has given a great deal to us and I wish to repay a small portion of that debt with public service. Sioux Falls is sitting at a crossroads. I look forward to meeting the challenge of making Sioux Falls even a better place to live and work.

Statement: I have dedicated over 20 years working to make Sioux Falls a better place to live and work through my employment, non-profit organizations and volunteer activities that improve the lives of citizens of our community. I am working hard to bring a new and different voice to the City Council.

Statement: A growing Sioux Falls needs an aggressive and energetic voice on the City Council. As a retired educator and former state senator, I now have the time, energy, experience and leadership to work with the new mayor to create more jobs and get people back to work.

Statement: I believe in a safe, pro-business, vibrant and progressive city. As owner of J&L Harley-Davidson and a lifelong resident, I have been involved in many organizations and events to promote our city. As a city council member, I will continue to work hard to keep those values for future generations.

Statement: I want to provide the citizens of Sioux Falls an effective voice in city government. I believe the citizens of Sioux Falls deserve a representative that is willing to listen to their concerns prior to making decisions on issues that come before the council.

Statement: Many of us have had to tighten our belts and re-evaluate our spending priorities. Our city government needs to do the same. I will work to take better care of our infrastructure and to utilize our existing programs and facilities more efficiently without raising taxes and fees. Citizens will come first.

Statement: I am the only Central District candidate with experience in creating a positive public program. I want to be part of the leadership as we focus on what we can do and what we should do as we prepare for new growth in this new economy. Learn more at www.MichelleErpenbachforCouncil.com.

Statement: I wish to serve on the city council because I am concerned about there being responsible and accountable people serving the people of Sioux Falls.

Statement: Sioux Falls is the city where I was raised, giving me local dedication and civic pride. Starting a business in Sioux Falls has been a wonderful experience. I would like to be more involved in the future growth and prosperity of Sioux Falls by serving on the city council.

Statement: I want to continue to hear the concerns I've heard over the years and do what I can to address those issues — promoting a strong business environment, encouraging controlled growth, maintaining a stable infrastructure, and securing a safe and beautiful city within the confines of the taxes that we pay.

Statement: The efficient allocation of resources and making good investments at the bottom of the business cycle has historically differentiated first rate entities. Upcoming endeavors determined will have over-weighted implications for young families and a consensus building representative of those interests should be part of the group decision making process.

Statement: Sioux Falls is a great place to live and raise a family. I also believe in the importance of community service. Whether in a leadership role for United Way, as a past school board member or directing coalitions to better our community, after my family, nothing has been more rewarding.