I encourage every eligible voter in Sioux Falls to vote on this issue, but please, inform yourself. I myself will be voting ‘NO’ because I think we don’t really need one RIGHT NOW. But I am not endorsing this project one way or another. I’m just grateful that the public finally gets to decide.
Personally I like voting absentee. Just go down to the Minnehaha courthouse, show your ID, and vote away. It’s convenient, and you have no excuse for not having time to vote. You have 30 days. Go do it.
Here is a link to the sample ballot.
Some of the language is debatable. This paragraph concerns me;
There will be no new taxes, no increase in property taxes, and no increase in sales tax rates authorized by the current City Council to pay for the Project.
Notice the word current. There is nothing stopping future council’s for voting to increase your taxes and rates to help pay for this project.
This election will advise the City Council as to whether the public supports proceeding with the Project. The City Council has selected the Sioux Falls Convention Center site as the site to build the Project. The Council has also adopted a resolution stating that it will not proceed with the Project if the proposal is not approved by a majority of those voting in this election.
This is an advisory vote. In other words the city council can do whatever. What will be considered a majority for instance? What if it is a close vote? 49.9% to 50.1%? What if it is a blowout either way? We all know that only two councilors are against building the EC, and they are not even that strongly against it. Six votes would be very easy to get. Very easy. Consider this when voting.
Debt service reserves and other reserves are also not included in the Project costs. Project costs also do not include additional capital improvements that may be incurred in future years.
This should also include operating costs. I’m sorry, I just struggle with the fact this facility will make money and not need subsidies. The city has a track record of not having public facilities being self-sufficient.
Like I have said, I encourage absentee voting, but I also encourage you inform yourself before voting. You can look at the city’s presentation here.