Sioux Falls has appointed Joe Kippley as its newest public health director, following a tumultuous period without permanent leadership in the sector. Mayor Paul TenHaken made the announcement last week, citing Kippley’s background in law and healthcare as a valuable asset to the city.
Kippley’s appointment was met with approval by the Sioux Falls City Council on Tuesday evening, with Councilor Curt Soehl expressing his support for the decision. Soehl mentioned that he had participated in Kippley’s interview process and was confident in his abilities to serve as the public health director.
Despite some concerns about potential conflicts of interest due to Kippley’s role as a Minnehaha County commissioner, TenHaken reassured the council that any such issues would be handled by the city’s legal team. The council has been without a permanent public health director since Charles Chima resigned in June 2023, with Amy Richardson and Angie Uthe serving as temporary directors during that time.
With Kippley now officially appointed, the city is looking forward to having strong leadership in the public health sector once again.
