Equity Drafting Table Responses
October 1, 2016
STATION 1
When was the last time you witnessed inequity? 1. “Crime-free” housing is a proxy for talking about certain groups of people (e.g., mentally ill, those experiencing poverty, communities of color, LGBT). It’s a vehicle for further marginalizing them and stigmatizing their efforts to find safe housing. It works against equity. 2. Parks and the care and upkeep affluent neighborhood vs. working class core neighborhood. 3.
Inequity permeates all aspects of our community, unfortunately. This event is lovely and informational, but attendees are not representatives of Sioux Falls’ diverse communities. Ergo, results gained from today will not reflect the opinions of all citizens.
4. Has been a long time, so that is good. 5. Witnessed a bicyclist race among Lincoln High cross county teams from behind yelling “Biker! Biker! Biker!” 6. Every single day. 7. Pedestrians and bikers are at risk. Cars drive into crosswalks, cars turn right when crosswalk signal, signals to walk, and drivers are distracted. 8. When shared with cars, crossing wide/fast streets on foot is scary. 9. Inequity among park upkeep and maintenance. 10. Generally the transportation system. Bus system is limited, walking is dangerous along automobile corridors Minnesota, and 57th, and 12th and 10th; bike paths are not safe. 11. Inequity with parks and outdoor water activities for the youth, particularly west-central and northwest areas.
What do you love about your City? 1. I love that Sioux Falls has a sustainability department that is engaging the public to consider our role in promoting equity and social justice. 2. The parks and art. 3. With the YMCA pools closed, a place to swim is appreciated. (Lap swim, not a mere space to play in the winter.) 4. I love the library system. 5. That it is growing and changing open to new ideas and improvement. Awesome downtown. 6. For the most part, people are generous and kind. 7. The Parks and Rec department is outstanding! Bike trails and river greenway. 8. Restoration of historic buildings and properties. 9. Jessica Lantgen and coworkers.
STATION 2 Note: Only questions which received an answer are listed.
Do you feel like new businesses in your neighborhood are positively influencing your neighborhood? (Business) 1. We need more new businesses, like grocery/food stores on West 12th, Marion, and Tea Ellis. 2. “New” doesn’t always mean a greater positive impact. Gentrification always poses challenges to creating equitable communities. Example: people lose their favorite coffee shop and/or restaurant that bring great support to growing community events. 3. Instead of sprawling suburbs, create infill communities where services already exist.
Do you have a park or green space with amenities (playground, restrooms) in your neighborhood? (Community + Public Space) 1. Traditionally, Terrace Park has been the neighborhood park for the Cathedral Historic District, even though it’s further away than the city (preference). 2. Love Lyon Park! 3. Yes, Terrace Park.
Do you feel supported and protected by police/firefighters? (Governance) 1. The police and fire departments do respond to emergencies and protect neighborhoods.
DTP/O66089.ai