SFBM
FEATURE
affordable and the entire area is reaping the rewards,” he says. “In 2011, we set an all-time record with our departing passengers, as well as with total passenger counts. And in the first three months of 2012, we are 25 percent ahead of the record year in 2011. That is huge!” And with a new terminal and concourse, more parking, new restaurant, bar and concession area, a business lounge and an air service committee established, the Mayor says we’re only going to soar higher.
Mayor Huether with wife CINDY and daughter KYLIE in their home
Part of Sioux Falls’ attraction is where the city’s namesake lies: downtown. And Mayor Huether couldn’t be more pumped with the energy level found there. “We’ve created enhanced partnerships with Downtown Sioux Falls, the Chamber of Commerce, Sioux Falls Development, Forward Sioux Falls, and Governor Daugaard’s team. Because of these excellent collaborations, we’ve been able to spur new development projects downtown and across the city.” The Mayor also mentions several business investments downtown with Avera, Raven’s Corporate Headquarters, the CNA Surety building, the Hilton Hotel, as well as major civic projects such as the River Greenway, tearing down the old river ramp, and the Sioux Falls Façade Easement Program. This program is designed for business development while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of buildings by providing resources to assist in revitalizing the appearance of significant buildings in the city’s core. Sid’s Crown Liquor is one business that is taking advantage of the program. “I’ve wanted to do this for a long time,” says Paul Damyan, president of Sid’s Liquor. “But Mayor Mike really came through for us. I highly commend him and all of his efforts. We very much appreciate the help of funding. It means a lot to not only me and the business but it’s also a dramatic improvement to keeping downtown Sioux Falls a crown jewel.”
Making an Impact From Within When it comes to changing the way city business is done, Mayor Huether has a can do attitude with internal departments as well, including departments like Sioux Falls Fire
Rescue. Chief Jim Sideras says, “Mayor Huether wants to be more involved with our department. I haven’t worked with other mayors directly but he wants to know how we operate and has us also asking questions such as, ‘are the operating procedures the same as in other businesses?’ We have to ask ourselves, ‘is what we’re doing comparable to other successful businesses?’ We deliver a service and we’re timely, fast and operate much like any other business. We just do it in life and death situations.” Chief Sideras also mentions the Mayor’s passion for the city. “He doesn’t have an off-switch,” he says. “I’ve known him before I was a firefighter and I’ve seen his commitment, both personally and professionally, to this city. He cares and he’s passionate. It’s great to see that kind of enthusiasm. He’s got his benchmarks and we’re going to help him because it will only benefit the city.” With everything Mayor Huether has accomplished so far, what are some of his goals for the city? True to Mayor Huether’s style, he has six on his to-do list.