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Sioux Falls Residents Overwhelmingly Support City Funding for the Arts
Survey finds 9 in 10 Sioux Falls residents back public investment in arts and culture programs
Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:31am
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A recent survey conducted as part of Sioux Falls' first-ever city-led arts and culture strategic plan found that as many as 90% of residents support the city allocating public funds for arts and culture programs. The findings were presented to the City Council earlier this week, highlighting strong community backing for increased investment in the local arts scene.
Why it matters
The survey results come as the city works to develop its first comprehensive arts and culture plan, which aims to guide future strategy and decision-making around supporting the creative sector. The plan is seen as an important step in recognizing the arts as critical 'infrastructure' that requires planning and investment, similar to other public services.
The details
Consultants from Arizona-based Keen Independent Research gathered feedback from the public and local arts stakeholders over the past few months, including conducting interviews, focus groups, a public information session, and collecting over 670 survey responses. Early themes from the input include a desire to see more art outside of downtown, more affordable spaces for creating and performing, and greater overall support for local artists.
- The Sioux Falls City Council received the first update on the arts and culture strategic plan on Monday, February 3, 2026.
- The strategic plan is expected to be finalized later this spring.
The players
Alex Keen
Consultant from Keen Independent Research, the firm leading the development of Sioux Falls' arts and culture strategic plan.
Jennifer Smith Hoesing
Chair of the Sioux Falls Arts Commission, who expressed enthusiasm for the high level of community engagement in the planning process.
What they’re saying
“You have strong support in this community for arts and culture. The community wants more.”
— Alex Keen, Consultant
“That helps to create long-term outcomes that are strong for the community and not just creating a strong plan that lives on a shelf.”
— Jennifer Smith Hoesing, Arts Commission Chair
What’s next
Consultants will now take the public and stakeholder feedback to put together the final strategic plan, including specific recommendations for the City Council. The Council will then vote on whether to approve the plan once it's completed.
The takeaway
The overwhelming public support for increased city funding of the arts underscores the community's recognition of the arts as essential civic infrastructure. As Sioux Falls develops its first comprehensive arts and culture plan, it has an opportunity to make strategic investments that strengthen the local creative sector and enhance quality of life for residents.
