Mayor TenHaken increases security at city hall

Mayor Paul TenHaken has been the leader of Sioux Falls for about nine months, and among the changes he has made is increased security at city hall.

People who visit the mayor's office are now greeted by a security guard.

TenHaken told KSFY News the improved safety is important, but the guards do more than just protect city employees.

"They're really kinda facing people who are coming into this building," he said. "There are a lot of people who come in that are looking for permitting, they're directing them there, so they're a face and a first point of contact. They're kinda fulfilling two roles."

TenHaken said there have been a few incidents where someone has come into his office and he has felt threatened.

The security is paid for by the City's public safety budget, and many of the guards are retired police officers.