Mike sent me two press releases posted on his site December 10 & 14.
12/10 • Huether Supports Events Center, Announces Opposition To Events Center Task Force Plan
Proposal Is Too Expensive, Broad in Scope
SIOUX FALLS, SD – At a press conference this morning, mayoral candidate Mike Huether reiterated his support for a new events center in Sioux Falls, but announced his opposition to a plan proposed by the Sioux Falls Events Center Task Force. Huether made clear that while he believes the city needs a new events center, the task force proposal is too expensive and goes beyond what is needed.
“We all can agree that without the support of the public, a new events center will never be built.
I wholeheartedly believe that Sioux Falls needs a new event center as it will certainly enhance economic development and our quality of life,†said Huether. “However the proposal as presented by the Events Center Task Force is too broad in scope and some of the recommendations amount to an irresponsible use of taxpayer money.â€
Huether detailed his specific objections to three aspects of the task force proposal:
Tearing down Howard Wood Field to make room for parking and spending millions to rebuild the structure elsewhere.
Spending additional tax dollars to expand the current convention center.
The overall cost of the project, estimated at $150 million to $200 million.
“We can build a new events center at the current location for a much more reasonable price that what has been proposed,†Huether continued. “Taxpayers want to invest in our city, but they are not frivolous – spending must be based on practicality and realistic needs.â€
Despite disagreements with the final product, Huether praised the work of the Events Center Task Force.
“I truly commend the Task Force members for their sacrifice and vision. Many of the members on the Task Force are my friends and yes, a couple of them are my neighbors. The time and effort they put into this process needs to be recognized. We just don’t agree on the solution this time.â€
12/14 • Huether Statement on City Council Event Center Vote
SIOUX FALLS, SD – Following a 6 to 2 vote by the Sioux Falls City Council to pass a resolution adopting the plan put forth by the Events Center Task Force, Mayoral Candidate Mike Huether restated his strong support for an events center while expressing disappointment with the Council’s action.
“This vote demonstrates how out of touch city government has become with the citizens of Sioux Falls,†Huether said. “Citizens want progress, but they want responsible progress. Without the support of the public, a new events center will never be built.â€
Huether announced his disapproval of the Task Force plan last week. He supports building an events center but is opposed to the task force’s recommendation to razing Howard Wood Field for parking, an expansion of the existing convention center, and millions of dollars of improvements to the Sioux Falls Arena.
l3wis 
