Former Congresswomen Stephanie Herseth-Sandlin, former South Dakota Supreme Court Justice Richard Sabers, former City Attorney Duane Anderson, former State Senator Sandy Jerstad, Matt Miller, and yours truly, Rick Knobe, former Sioux Falls Mayor,  appeared at the Sioux Falls City Council Meeting Monday November 2, 2015 strongly suggesting a reconsideration of their vote to obstruct public input of an important life safety issue facing Sioux Falls.

Two weeks ago on a 3-5 vote, Council Members Kenny Anderson Jr. , Greg Jamison, Dean Karsky (all of whom have higher political aspirations) Kermit Staggers and former legislator Christine Erickson, denied the public the right to be heard on the proposed ordinance which would restrict the use of hand held electronic devices while driving on the congested streets of Sioux Falls.

The decision to obstruct public comment speaks loudly about these elected officials desire and ability to deal with unique and controversial issues. I do not recall previous local elected officials denying public input on any ordinance. No explanation was given at the meeting two weeks ago, or Monday night for their individual votes to obstruct public input.

The ball is now in the hands of Anderson, Karsky, Jamison, Erickson, and Staggers. Which one or two of them will be able to admit their mistake, call for a new vote, and allow for the process to move forward?

I am sure many people are against the proposed ordinance. I am also sure those same folks would be upset if the council had acted to implement the ordinance without a chance for public comment.

This is not about the issue. This is about the process. What will be the next item the council arbitrarily decides isn't worthy of public input?

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