Sioux Falls Candidate Survey on the Arts
With the City election coming on June 2, SculptureWalk surveyed all City Council candidates to find out their ideas on the arts. We are providing their comments verbatim, without comment. We are not endorsing a candidate, simply providing the information. City Council Candidates are presented in alphabetical order.
City Council Candidates
Responding to date (5/13/26): Vince Dahn, Zach DeBoer, Brady Kerkman, James Oppenhiemer, and Zak Okuwe
Responding: Joe Batcheller, Christine Erickson, Greg Jamison, and Jamie Smith
Vince Danh, City Council At-Large A
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
Sioux Falls has real foundations for the arts, and I say that as someone who has been part of them for decades. SculptureWalk, LiRa Dance Theatre, Spotlight Theatre, Headlights Theatre, the Washington Pavilion, the Festival of Cultures — these aren’t just events on a calendar. They’re proof that this city has the creative community to become something even greater. The potential is enormous. But so is the risk. I’ve written about art drain: the quiet exodus of artists who love Sioux Falls but choose Minneapolis or Denver because the conditions for a sustainable creative career are stronger there. When they go, they take something that’s hard to quantify but impossible to miss. To encourage cultural development, I’d push for arts programming that activates public spaces year-round, not just downtown, not just in summer. I’d support micro-grants for small creative organizations and individual artists. And I’d make sure arts and culture are part of new neighborhood development conversations from the beginning, not an afterthought.
What role do you believe the arts play in our city’s economic development and quality of life?
I’ve been pushing back on a word: investment. When we frame the arts as an investment, we ask what’s the return. What’s the economic impact. How do we justify the line item. And when the return isn’t measurable enough — or doesn’t come fast enough — the case falls apart. That’s the wrong frame. Investment is a one-way transaction. You put something in, you expect something back, and when the numbers don’t land, you cut the budget. Engagement is something else entirely. It means going to where people are. It means treating our creative community not as a line item to be justified, but as a living part of who we are. SculptureWalk doesn’t just draw visitors, it anchors Downtown as a place worth coming to. LiRa doesn’t just put on shows, it gives artists a reason to stay in Sioux Falls instead of leaving for a bigger market. The arts don’t produce a metric. They produce meaning. And meaning is what makes Sioux Falls feel like home rather than just an address. A city serious about the arts doesn’t ask “can we afford to invest in them?” It asks “can we afford not to?”
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
My relationship with the arts in Sioux Falls goes back further than most. I’m an alum of the Dakota Academy of the Performing Arts — now Spotlight Theatre — where I performed with the Plays for Living Theatre Company. That’s where it started. Since then I’ve stayed close as a performer, organizer, and supporter: competing in Dancing with the Sioux Falls Stars benefiting Empire Mental Health Support, performing with LiRa Dance Theatre in their 10th season, serving on the board of Sioux Falls Stage & Gallery, and organizing Lunar Fest, which brings Vietnamese and Asian American arts and culture to the whole community. As a DTSF Inc board member, I’ve pushed to continue the momentum of ours arts programming in the city’s core. I’ve also spent years photographing and uplifting arts and culture across Sioux Falls — from the Festival of Cultures to Headlights Theatre to visual arts exhibitions throughout the city. Through 4Front Studios, our Mission 100 initiative helped 100 local businesses, many in the creative sector, improve how they tell their stories. On the policy side, I’d support expanding storefront activation grants to include arts uses, push for arts-inclusive language in the development review process, and ensure the Arts and Cultural Plan is tied to a real implementation budget with measurable milestones and also uplifts our culturally diverse populations and less established artists.
Would you support incentives for developers to include arts or cultural components in projects?
Yes
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
A plan without implementation is just a document. And implementation without engagement is still just investment, and I’ve been pushing back on that frame throughout this campaign. Investment funds a plan and checks a box. Engagement means city leadership shows up to the openings, the hard budget conversations, and the community tables, and keeps showing up. My deeper concern is this: an arts plan that only reflects part of our community isn’t a plan for Sioux Fall. It’s a plan for some of Sioux Falls. As a Vietnamese American who grew up here, organized Lunar Fest, and spent years photographing the Festival of Cultures and communities that don’t always make the press release, I know how easy it is for culture to become a footnote in conversations where it should be central. Art is universal. It crosses language, income, background, and neighborhood. This plan only works if it actively engages our Karen, Somali, Latino, Vietnamese, and Indigenous communities, not as an afterthought, but as co-creators. I’d advocate for dedicated staffing, measurable outcomes tied to the plan’s goals, and real sustained dialogue with diverse communities across every corner of this city. Not a transaction. A relationship.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
I’m open to that conversation, and I think it’s the right one to have. The intent of the entertainment tax and the goals of the Arts and Cultural Plan are closely aligned. Both exist to make Sioux Falls a more vibrant, culturally alive city. I’d want to understand the current financial picture of the venues that tax supports before committing to a specific reallocation. But a city that frames the arts as engagement rather than investment, as I believe we should, has to be willing to look at every tool available. There may be smart, sustainable ways to broaden the impact of those dollars, especially for the organizations and spaces this plan is designed to strengthen. That’s a conversation I’d be glad to lead.
Zach DeBoer, City Council, Central District Candidate
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
Sioux Falls has huge potential for cultural development because we already have the ingrediants (sic) that make a city vibrant: artists, engaged neighborhoods, historic spaces, and strong community pride. To grow that, we need to invest in public art, preserve historic buildings, support local creatives, and create walkable public spaces where people can connect. I also believe we should dedicate a percentage of funding from public works projects toward the arts, so that when we build streets, parks, and public spaces, we are also investing in the character and identity of our city. Even small investments in arts and culture can create pride, strengthen neighborhoods, and make Sioux Falls a place people want to stay and invest in.
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
The arts are essential to both economic development and quality of life because they help create places people want to live, visit, and invest in. Public art, music, theaters, galleries, festivals, and historic preservation bring energy to our neighborhoods and strengthen local businesses, tourism, and downtown vitality. They also give people a stronger sense of identity and pride in their community. I’ve seen through my own work (painting murals and other placemaking projects) that when we invest in the arts, we can create memorable, welcoming, and unique spaces that people want to return to and care for.
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
I’ve supported the arts in Sioux Falls in several measurable ways. I personally painted two notable murals in the city (the Sioux Falls postcard mural across from the Orpheum and the train mural at Monks), in addition to several utility box wraps, and helped coordinate other murals and art installations within the city. From 2014–2018, I ran Exposure Gallery & Studios, where we provided affordable studio space for artists, hosted monthly First Friday art shows, and organized several large-scale arts and culture events downtown. I led the effort to preserve the Community Youth Mosaic wall downtown when redevelopment threatened its future, and now it is officially included in the city’s public art maintenance schedule. During my six years on the Visual Arts Commission, I successfully pushed for a mural ordinance that helped encourage more public murals across Sioux Falls, and I advocated for the creation of a city Arts Coordinator position to better support artists and public art citywide. All of that, combined with over a decade in art education, I’ve worked to support both the artists creating culture and the public spaces where that culture lives.
Would you support incentives for developers to include arts or cultural components in projects?
Yes
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
I would support the Arts and Cultural Plan by making sure it becomes a working document, not something that just sits on a shelf. Too often cities spend time and money creating plans that never get implemented. I would actively work to achieve the goals outlined in the plan by supporting policies, funding, and partnerships that turn those ideas into real projects. That means investing in public art, supporting local artists and creative businesses, preserving cultural spaces, and making sure arts and culture are part of our broader economic development strategy. A strong plan only matters if we are willing to follow through on it.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
Absolutely.
Brady Kerkman, City Council Candidate, SE District
What role do you believe the arts play in our city’s economic development and quality of life?
This question reminds me of the large Festival of Cultures event that was held in Falls Park. I had the honor of attending this event for many years by representing an organization. We are a growing city and we come from all walks of life. Events like this help promote an open and welcoming culture that fosters unity and community.
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
Anytime we can include arts into our community, we are a more rounded and inclusive community. Arts allow for creativity that can help our city grow in new ways. As we continue to grow as a City, arts also add to economic development by both local residents and for those traveling to Sioux Falls to partake in such experiences. When we attract visitors to our city, we strengthen our economic development through our hotels, restaurants, shopping, and more.
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
As noted above, I have been an active participant in the Festival of Cultures, Levitt at the Falls, concerts at the Washington Pavilion, and enjoy the walk paths around Sioux Falls that combine art and nature. I would be a strong advocate that we continue to build on this success.
Would you support incentives for developers to include arts or cultural components in projects?
Yes
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
In light of the fact that I have not seen that plan, since it has not yet been released it, I would not be able comment specifically on it. However, I will say that I support increasing arts and culture into the community. I think the sculptures downtown, the Arch, and the orchestra; to name a few, expand our views and perspectives as a growing and inclusive city.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
As I am running for the Southeast District City Council seat, this topic has not come up when visiting with residents and businesses, as I am there to listen. Therefore, as I am running to serve them and not my own agenda, I would need to have this conversation with those within the Southeast District before making a strong stand. I would commit to having these conversations with residents and businesses, effective immediately to best serve this district and the support for arts and culture.
James Oppenheimer, City Council, Central District
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
Sioux Falls has enormous potential to continue growing as a regional cultural destination. We already have strong anchors like Levitt Sioux Falls, SculptureWalk, and our expanding local arts community. The next step is to build on that momentum by making the arts more accessible, more visible, and more integrated into everyday life. I would encourage that development by supporting public‑private partnerships, expanding opportunities for local artists to showcase their work, and ensuring that cultural programming reaches every neighborhood. I believe the arts thrive when the city creates space for creativity, when organizations collaborate, and when residents feel invited to participate. Sioux Falls can continue to grow culturally if we keep investing in the people and places that make our city vibrant.
What role do you believe the arts play in our city’s economic development and quality of life?
The arts are one of Sioux Falls’ greatest economic engines and quality of life drivers. Events like Levitt concerts bring thousands of people downtown, supporting restaurants, small businesses, and tourism. SculptureWalk has become a signature attraction that draws visitors year‑round and helps define our city’s identity. Beyond the economic impact, the arts create a sense of belonging. They make our public spaces more welcoming, inspire creativity, and strengthen community pride. A city with a strong arts presence is a city where people want to live, work, and raise families. The arts aren’t just entertainment, they are part of what makes Sioux Falls feel like home.
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
I consistently support the arts by attending and promoting community events like Levitt Sioux Falls concerts and SculptureWalk installations. I use my platform to highlight local artists and encourage community participation. As CEO of the YMCA, I’ve helped bring artists and performers to Camp Leif Ericson and supported downtown art initiatives that strengthen our city’s cultural identity. Going forward, I would continue supporting the arts in measurable ways by advocating for funding, partnering with arts organizations, and expanding opportunities for local artists and musicians to perform and showcase their work.
Would you support incentives for developers to include arts or cultural components in projects?
Yes
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
I would support the Arts and Cultural Plan by working closely with Maren Engel, the City Arts Director, and the broader arts community to ensure the plan’s recommendations turn into real action. I want to see a structured plan with clear steps, annual checkpoints, and resources attached so artists and musicians can thrive here. Art and live music create vibrancy in Sioux Falls, and I would advocate for a plan that strengthens that energy across the city.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
I would absolutely consider it. If the Arts and Cultural Plan identifies needs that strengthen Sioux Falls’ cultural infrastructure and improve quality of life, then it makes sense to explore whether a portion of the entertainment tax could responsibly support those priorities. The focus should always be on investments that enhance the city’s vibrancy and benefit residents.
Zak Okuwe, City Council, Central District
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
Sioux Falls has tremendous potential for cultural development as our city continues to grow and diversify. Arts, music, food, festivals, and cultural events bring people together and strengthen community pride. I would encourage collaboration between the city, local artists, nonprofits, businesses, and neighborhoods to help support those opportunities.
What role do you believe the arts play in our city’s economic development and quality of life?
The arts play a major role in creating a vibrant city. They support tourism, local businesses, downtown activity, and help attract and retain workforce talent. Beyond economics, arts and culture bring people together and improve quality of life.
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
While I’m not an artist myself, I’ve supported community events that partnered with local musicians, performers, and cultural groups to bring people together.
Would you support incentives for developers to include arts or cultural components in projects?
Yes
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
I would support the plan by reviewing its recommendations carefully and looking for opportunities that strengthen downtown, support local artists, improve quality of life, and encourage public-private partnerships.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
I would be open to exploring it, while ensuring our existing venues remain financially stable. If investments in the Arts and Cultural Plan provide long-term community and economic value, I believe those conversations are worth having.
Mayoral Candidates
Joe Batcheller, Candidate for Mayor
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
Sioux Falls has enormous potential for cultural development because we’re at a point where people increasingly choose cities based not just on jobs, but on quality of life and community identity. Arts, culture, entertainment, public spaces, and local experiences all shape whether talented people choose to stay here, move here, or invest here. We already have strong anchors like the Washington Pavilion, SculptureWalk, and the Levitt, and a growing local arts community. The next step is building a more connected and intentional cultural ecosystem across the city. As mayor, I would encourage that development by: Supporting implementation of the Arts and Cultural Plan; Encouraging public-private partnerships; Integrating arts and culture into neighborhood development and placemaking; Supporting activation of public spaces and downtown; Ensuring artists, nonprofits, and cultural organizations have a seat at the table in city planning discussions. I also think cultural development should reach all parts of the city beyond the core.
What role do you believe the arts play in our city’s economic development and quality of life?
Arts are both an economic driver and a quality-of-life investment. Economically, arts and culture help attract workforce talent, support tourism, generate small business activity, and increase the vibrancy that employers increasingly look for when deciding where to grow. A strong cultural environment helps make Sioux Falls more competitive with peer cities. From a quality-of-life standpoint, arts and culture create community identity and connection. They activate public spaces, bring people together, and help make Sioux Falls feel like a more dynamic and welcoming city. When people talk about building a city where young professionals stay, families thrive, retirees remain engaged, and entrepreneurs invest, arts and culture are part of that equation.
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
I’ve served on the State Theatre Board for about a decade and was instrumental in pitching its restoration to T. Denny Sanford. I lead the conception of ArtBox—26 utility boxes in downtown wrapped in art from local artists. This was a partnership between DTSF, the City, SFAC, and Bloomberg Philanthropies. Under my leadership, DTSF created a pipeline for local musicians, with its street musician program, many of whom have gone on to perform at the Levitt and Washington Pavilion. What’s more, DTSF has supported hundreds of regional artists with free vending opportunities at events (Art & Wine Walk, Block Parties, Innoskate, Riverfest, etc.) as well as placemaking opportunities (Holiday Plaza, murals).
Would you support incentives for developers to include arts or cultural components in projects?
Yes
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
The value of the plan will depend on whether it becomes an actionable roadmap rather than a document that sits on a shelf. I would support the plan by: Prioritizing initiatives with measurable community impact; Aligning implementation with broader city goals like economic development, tourism, downtown vitality, and neighborhood engagement; Incorporating aspects of the plan into policy and processes to ensure implementation; Building partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, philanthropies, and community organizations; Looking for opportunities to phase implementation responsibly over time. I also think accountability matters. If we adopt priorities, we should define what success looks like and regularly report progress to the public.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
I would be open to evaluating whether there are strategic opportunities to align some investments with broader arts and cultural priorities, but I’d want to carefully review the legal framework, existing commitments, financial impacts, and the recommendations of the plan itself before making promises about reallocating revenue. Those venues are important community assets and economic drivers, so we need to ensure they remain financially sustainable. At the same time, I think it’s reasonable to ask whether there are ways to leverage our existing investments to better support citywide cultural development, neighborhood activation, tourism, and community engagement. My approach would be collaborative and data-driven, focused on achieving measurable public benefit while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Christine Erickson, Candidate for Mayor
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
Sioux Falls has made significant progress over the years and holds tremendous potential for continued cultural development. As our city grows, there is a real opportunity to continue building a vibrant, well-rounded community that attracts residents, visitors, and businesses alike. This is especially true as downtown expands east toward the Smithfield site. Successfully doing so will require leadership from city government and strong partnerships with the private sector, the philanthropic community, and nonprofit organizations. Cultural growth doesn’t happen in isolation—it requires collaboration. I also believe in thoughtful planning that integrates arts and culture into broader economic development and policy-making efforts, ensuring that growth reflects the character and creativity of our community.
What role do you believe the arts play in our city’s economic development and quality of life?
The arts play a significant role in both economic development and the quality of life of our residents. It creates a sense of place, attracts tourism, and makes Sioux Falls a more desirable place to live work and play. We see this firsthand in the SculptureWalk, which has been a destination for residents and visitors alike for 23 years. For businesses looking to relocate or expand, quality of life matters—and a strong arts and cultural scene is part of that equation. At the same time, arts organizations contribute to our local economy through jobs, events, and visitor spending. It’s both an economic driver and a community asset.
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
I have supported efforts that strengthen partnerships and investment in community amenities, including arts and cultural initiatives. One extremely successful project is the Levitt. During my time on the council, I was able to help push this project forward, even when we were met with resistance early on. It’s exciting to see the community embrace the Levitt and the venue’s expansion thanks to the generosity of our philanthropic community. As mayor, I would continue to support measurable outcomes by prioritizing projects that demonstrate community impact—whether that’s increased attendance, expanded access, or economic return through tourism and local engagement. I also believe in supporting organizations through collaboration and ensuring they have a voice in long-term planning, so we make decisions that lead to tangible, lasting benefits.
Would you support incentives for developers to include arts or cultural components in projects?
Yes
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
I look forward to reading the City’s Arts and Cultural Plan when it’s released. As your mayor, I will work with the city’s arts coordinator to seek out opportunities to implement its recommendations by prioritizing those that align with community needs, and that are fiscally responsible. Implementation will be key—we need to make sure the plan is actionable and integrated into broader city planning efforts. I would also ensure continued collaboration with the City’s Arts Commission, arts organizations, stakeholders, and the community to guide decision-making as we move forward.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
I would be open to having that conversation, but I would approach it carefully. Those funds currently support important city-owned facilities, so any changes would need to be evaluated in terms of impact and sustainability. If there are opportunities to align funding with broader cultural goals while still maintaining our existing commitments, I think it’s worth exploring. The key is making thoughtful, balanced decisions that maximize benefit for the community as a whole.
Greg Jamison, Candidate for Mayor
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
The potential lies in shifting the focus from large scale, downtown only projects to neighborhood driven culture. encouraging this growth requires a balance of fiscal responsibility and community empowerment without creating long term debt or unnecessary bureaucracy.
What role do you believe the arts play in our city’s economic development and quality of life?
In a rapidly growing city, the arts play a mechanical role in driving revenue and maintaining a competitive edge at attracting and retaining talent. It also will boost the local multiplier effect by increasing foot traffic to local businesses.
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
I was on the city council when we approved the agreement with Levitt and advocated for it’s approval. I’ve always supported the sculpture walk and recommend it to others looking for something to do in Sioux Falls.
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
I know there have been challenges with the direction of arts and culture in our city (who is in charge). The plan will need to be reviewed and considered fully before I can say how I would support it, but I believe the plan will outline what the city’s responsibility will be. I look forward to the opportunity to work on a plan going forward.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
I would consider it. The use of tax dollars are intended to be used for things in our community that the private sector will not fund or should not be responsible for its function. Funding for the Arts has been a long challenging road for Sioux Falls and I can see the value of stabilizing that effort.
Jamie Smith, Candidate for Mayor
What do you see as the potential for cultural development in Sioux Falls, and how would you encourage that development?
As a long time supporter of the arts, I am incredibly excited about the potential that Sioux Falls has to become the cultural hub of the reason. As we continue to grow, we’ll bring in new citizens from a wide range of cultural backgrounds who can contribute to our arts scene. Through our existing arts infrastructure (Washington Pavilion, the Sculpture Walk, Orpheum, Premier Center) and more robust investment in arts programming, I want to make Sioux Falls the focal point of the region for people to visit and enjoy art in every form!
What role do you believe the arts play in our city’s economic development and quality of life?
When I served on the Sioux Falls Arts Council, I saw firsthand how investment in the arts nets a massive return on investment for Sioux Falls. When folks come to see the arts, they come to eat at our restaurants and shop at our local businesses. Moreover, the arts are just plain good for community. When we highlight local artists and create space to show off their talents, we become a more connected city. Whether for their economic or social benefit, the arts are a great avenue for our growth.
Can you share a specific example of how you’ve supported (or would support) the arts in a measurable way?
My family and I have been performing in choirs and the theater for years. My wife, Kjerstin, played Donna in Sioux Empire Community Theater’s production of Mamma Mia! My sons, Johnathan and Isaac, both performed in DAPA shows for many years. Isaac is in school for musical theater! Personally, I sing in my church choir at St. Mark’s Lutheran and have made guest appearances with the Hegg Brothers in the past. As a patron of the arts, I consistently attend arts and cultural events around Sioux Falls. In my formal role on the Arts Council, I worked with my fellow board members to advance arts opportunities around our city. I’ve been blessed to be involved with the arts my entire life and would love to support them as Mayor!
Would you support incentives for developers to include arts or cultural components in projects?
Yes
The City invested in an Arts and Cultural plan that will be released in May, how would you support the plan?
As a servant leader, I want to give folks the opportunity to do great work and get out of their way. I’ll be a consistent advocate for the Arts and Cultural plan by ensuring that the right voices are in the room, and I’ll also ensure those voices are heard by working collaboratively to see the vision of the plan through. We have a great team in City Hall, and our arts scene will flourish with consistent support from the Mayor’s office.
The City’s entertainment tax (the third penny sales tax) is allocated for city owned entertainment venues (The Washington Pavilion, Orpheum, Premier Center, Convention Center, & Arena), would you consider allowing a portion of that revenue to be spent on needs outlined in the Arts and Cultural Plan?
I would certainly consider this plan! As we consider funding allocation in our next budget, I think creating more consistent revenue sources for arts and cultural programming needs to be a key component of our development.
Thank You.
Thank you to all candidates who participated. Congratulations on your candidacy and thank you for your service to Sioux Falls.
SculptureWalk Sioux Falls, a non-profit arts organization committed to supporting the Arts in Sioux Falls.
