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SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO.com) — The Sioux Falls City Council took action Tuesday night on three items that will change the downtown experience for visitors. Among them – a resolution to change a city ordinance to prohibit alcohol in public libraries. It’s against the rules to have alcohol at Sioux Falls public libraries, but that isn’t stopping some people. Siouxland Public Library Director Jodi Fick says there’s been an explosion of alcohol violations on library property this year.
Fick wants the City Council to make alcohol prohibition at the library a violation of the law, not just a rule. The Council unanimously approved first reading of the proposal. Council members also took action to put some teeth in efforts to clean up the Downtown district. Last week the Council approved funding for a public awareness campaign to discourage people from giving cash to people on the streets. Tuesday night, Council members approved first reading of an ordinance change dealing disorderly conduct. Police Chief Jon Thum spoke in favor of the change.
The Council voted unanimously to approve the change, which will come up for a second reading in two weeks. The other action taken by the City Council related to downtown could cause a dramatic change in the appearance of the area. Councilors earmarked $8.1-million that could become the site of a new convention center. The Council voted unanimously to set that money aside for the Riverline District purchase. But, it will require the approval of a new Riverline Task force before it’s a go. City Councilor Rich Merkouris says that task force is in the process of being formed.
The proposed convention center would cost hundreds of millions of dollars to build – a commitment councilors say will require the approval of city voters.
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