• Council OKs plans for data center amid public opposition. The Sioux Falls City Council on Tuesday night unanimously approved a request to rezone a northeast Sioux Falls property to pave the way for a data center. That measure came with vehement opposition (and several hours of testimony) from the public – including outbursts of "shame on you," "f*** you" and "cowards" after councilors approved the rezone request.
  • The outbursts were so strong, Mayor Paul TenHaken had to call for a five-minute recess during the meeting, which ultimately ran until about 11:30 p.m.
  • Upon re-convening, councilors voted 4-3 to reject the preliminary subdivision plan, but moments later voted to re-consider that vote. Upon reconsideration – and after an amendment from Councilor Rich Merkouris limiting water usage to the center – the preliminary plan also passed unanimously. That essentially means the data center is OK to move forward as planned. Check back in Friday's newsletter for more context.
• Is joining a gym on your 2026 resolution list?* The Sioux Falls Family YMCA has you covered. You can join now and get your first month free with ongoing memberships starting at $45/month. Or you can sign up the whole family starting at $55/month. Membership access includes the fitness rooms, gym, racquetball courts, pickleball courts and locker rooms -- which also include a sauna and steam room. Members also have the option to participate in a boxing program. Learn more here and get started today.

*Denotes a paid partnership