Critics Hope Audit Brings Transparency to Building Projects

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Auditors will review how Sioux Falls picks construction firms and monitors building projects following complaints last year about a lack of transparency.

Argus Leader Media is suing the city for access to documents related to a $1 million settlement with contractors over faulty siding at the Denny Sanford Premier Center. The city hasn't made the settlement details public, citing in part a confidentiality agreement, leading to criticism from open government advocates.

Sioux Falls' Internal Audit Division says its audits this year will include a review of the city's practices.

Councilman Greg Jamison hopes the audit will include details on how the city's $117 million events center payment was spent. The number of subcontractors used in the project and how they were compensated also is expected in the report.

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