• 2
• Community ,
• 13 May

By Josh Kattenberg

Leadership Sioux Falls (LSF) is a program sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. LSF was started almost three decades ago by city fathers who wanted to make sure the city always had a source of talent who understood the internal workings, vision, and planning of the city. Each year 25-30 people from across the spectrum of businesses and public sector agencies come together to learn about Sioux Falls: the history, vision, planning, struggles, politics, and needs of our fast growing city.

After applying for three years in a row, I was finally accepted for LSF 28. So far I have thoroughly enjoyed this experience. Not only do I get out of the office and hang around with some great people, we have learned from current and past city leaders such as former mayor Rick Knobe, former council member Mike Crane, and Jeff Schmitt of the Sioux Falls Planning and Building Services, toured places such as the Orpheum Theater, St. Francis House, the Minnehaha County Jail and Corrections Center, and a guided tour of the city.

Interesting to note, former mayor Rick Knobe become mayor at 27 years of age after being a resident of Sioux Falls for only 3 years. Here’s a challenge…think of some 27 year olds you know and then picture them as the mayor of Sioux Falls. Hmmmm.