Sioux Falls Mayor Meets With Tribal Leaders

Discussions focus on addiction, homelessness, and healthcare for Native Americans in the city.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:47pm

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A first-of-its-kind roundtable meeting brought tribal leaders together with the Sioux Falls mayor. The discussions centered around addiction, homelessness, and healthcare for the large Native American community in the city. Mayor Paul TenHaken said the city is looking into ways to provide more resources, and the leaders also discussed the possibility of hosting a Powwow to help bring the communities together.

Why it matters

This meeting represents an important step in improving relations and addressing the needs of the Native American population in Sioux Falls, which makes up a significant portion of the city's residents. Addressing issues like addiction, homelessness, and healthcare access are crucial for supporting this community.

The details

The roundtable discussion brought together Lower Brule Tribal Chairman Boyd Gourneau and other tribal leaders with Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken. They discussed ways the city can provide more resources and support to the Native American community, including the possibility of hosting a large Powwow event similar to the one held in the Black Hills.

  • The roundtable meeting took place on March 16, 2026.

The players

Boyd Gourneau

The chairman of the Lower Brule Tribe.

Paul TenHaken

The mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

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What they’re saying

“It will probably help the quality of life for Native Americans in Sioux Falls.”

— Boyd Gourneau, Lower Brule Tribal Chairman (dakotanewsnetwork.com)

“The city is looking into ways to provide resources to the large Native American community in the city.”

— Paul TenHaken, Mayor of Sioux Falls (dakotanewsnetwork.com)

What’s next

The city and tribal leaders plan to continue discussions on how to best support the Native American community in Sioux Falls, including the possibility of hosting a large Powwow event.

The takeaway

This roundtable represents an important step in improving relations and addressing the needs of the significant Native American population in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. By working together, the city and tribal leaders can find ways to provide more resources and support to this community.