Council reviews crime response plan near Bishop Dudley House amidst public safety concerns

Safety concerns for vulnerable populations took center stage at the Sioux Falls City Council meeting on March 4, 2025. Council members and community speakers highlighted the urgent need for enhanced safety measures around the Bishop Dudley House, a facility that serves individuals experiencing homelessness.

One speaker emphasized the dangers faced by guests walking to and from the facility, stating, "It's unsafe for them. There are predators out there," underscoring the risks involved in their daily activities, such as retrieving meals or accessing public transportation. This sentiment was echoed by others who called for immediate action to protect these individuals from potential harm.

In contrast, Michael Stengland, a council member from the Northeast District, voiced support for a proposal aimed at addressing crime in the area. He argued that the focus should not solely be on homelessness but rather on the crime issues that affect the community. Stengland pointed out that the proposal would empower police to respond more effectively to crime in a specific location, suggesting that the current discussions have overlooked the broader context of safety and crime prevention.

Stengland noted, "This is a specific response to a specific problem at a specific location," advocating for a solution that allows law enforcement to operate more freely without bureaucratic obstacles. He acknowledged that while homelessness is a significant issue, the proposal is not intended to be a comprehensive fix but rather a targeted approach to enhance safety in the immediate vicinity of the Bishop Dudley House.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue on the matter, as council members and community members alike recognized the complexity of the issues at hand. The discussions reflect a growing awareness of the need for balanced solutions that address both safety and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in Sioux Falls.