Mayor’s Face on Jobs Campaign Billboards Sparks Complaints

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether is drawing criticism for spotlighting himself on billboards and other advertisements for a new city-funded jobs website.

City Council member Michelle Erpenbach voted in favor of funding the website but criticized the ads promoting it. She says they look like a campaign ad.

Community Development Director Darrin Smith says the billboards aren't intended to promote Huether and his political career. Huether declined comment to the Argus Leader.

Huether earlier this month unveiled the website and ad campaign aimed at attracting applicants for more than 2,000 unfilled jobs. It involves the website www.SiouxFallsHasJobs.com , and billboard and kiosk advertisements in cities around the region.

The campaign also has ignited debate about the mayor's authority to spend taxpayer money without consulting the City Council.

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