How Sioux Falls' Anti-Encampment Ordinance Changed

How Sioux Falls' anti-encampment ordinance changed

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Sioux Falls City Council chair Rich Merkouris told his fellow councilors and the public Tuesday night that homelessness was his motivation to serve on the council. "This is why I ran for city council, was the issue of homelessness," Merkouris said Tuesday during the council meeting. Applesauce, pickles on the menu at food rescue event Wednesday in an interview with KELOLAND News, he reiterated that impulse. "This…

Sioux Falls officials want softer approach to removing homeless camps

A temporary structure discovered along the Big Sioux River Greenway in Sioux Falls. (Contributed / City of Sioux Falls)A plan to remove temporary camps and structures typically used by homeless residents along the Big Sioux River and other public spaces will go to a rare third week of considerations after the City Council agreed to substantial changes on Tuesday.The council unanimously agreed to several adjustments in the plan, including requiri…

City Council softens plan to remove homeless camps, hoping to link services, ensure safety

A plan to remove temporary camps and structures typically used by homeless residents along the Big Sioux River and other public spaces will go to a rare third week of considerations after the City Council agreed to substantial changes on Tuesday. The council unanimously agreed to several adjustments in the plan, including requiring that police or other city workers must attempt to connect the person with appropriate social services, post a notic…