Sioux Falls’ newest public health director, Joe Kippley, was approved by the Sioux Falls City Council on Tuesday evening. Mayor Paul TenHaken appointed Kippley last week, citing his background in law and healthcare as being of great benefit to the city. TenHaken also reassured the council that any potential conflicts of interest arising from Kippley’s role as a Minnehaha County commissioner would be handled by the city’s legal team.
Councilor Curt Soehl expressed support for Kippley’s appointment, mentioning that he had participated in Kippley’s interview process and wholeheartedly endorsed him. The council will keep an eye out for conflicts of interest, but overall, they are confident in Kippley’s abilities to serve as the public health director.
The city has been without a permanent public health director since the resignation of Charles Chima in June 2023. In the interim, Amy Richardson and Angie Uthe have been serving as temporary directors. With Kippley now officially appointed, the city looks forward to having strong leadership in the public health sector once again.