One Sioux Falls City Councilor is not going to give up the fight for what she believes as the gavel banged repeatedly at Carnegie Town Hall Tuesday afternoon.

The root of the strife is the City Administration Building and the ensuing petition drive that subsequently failed. City Councilor Theresa Stehly took exception to the Council moving to an executive session to discuss the matter further regarding Stehly’s involvement. Chairman Rex Rolfing ended up banging the gavel in attempt to maintain proper decorum.

Stehly exclaimed, “I have been told ‘Don’t let the tail wag the dog.’” The gavel banged soon after by Chairman Rolfing which abruptly stopped her. She then continued after repeated requests to stop to rail against the upcoming executive session.

Stehly continued to make her case by being willing to discuss her actions in public. Then in an attempt to pause the proceedings, an outburst from the citizens prompted a warning from Chairman Rolfing.

“I will entertain a motion to recess,” was the beginning of the end of discussion as the gallery responded with opposition to Chairman Rolfing’s attempt to regain control. A woman that shouted, “You’ve got to pay attention to the public, Rolfing,” was the last straw. Rolfing responded by notifying security that further outbursts would lead to removal.

The City Council did go into executive session on a 6-2 vote with Stehly refusing to participate stating that she considered the session illegal.

The executive session portion was scheduled in order for the Council to pore over “the qualifications, competence, performance, character or fitness of any public officer.”

You can see the exchange courtesy of Argus Leader reporter Joe Sneve who captured the moment on video from his seat in the Council chambers.


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