How much are we spending on this?
We learned this week that some 2,600 tons of steel will be needed to build our new Sioux Falls events center. We also learned that Egger Steel and Gil Haugan Construction along with two out-of-state firms will be working that steel into place over the coming months.
What we did not learn – and may never know – is just how much all that steel work might cost. As in earlier rounds of sub-contractor bid lettings, the city’s construction manager at risk isn’t releasing any information on the bids. The city hasn’t seemed inclined to find an avenue to present it either, though there is always hope for a change of heart.
I know city taxpayers wouldn’t mind a more detailed report.
Another interesting public record dispute centered on government spending is playing out in Huron.
The Huron School District reached a settlement agreement with a former superintendent. The Mitchell Daily Republic has been trying to find out what the agreement provides, but has been denied a copy. Reporters did discover that the former superintendent has been receiving nearly $11,000 a month since his resignation.
The newspaper is appealing the school board’s refusal to provide the information. The dispute will be heard by the state Office of Hearing Examiners. It’ll be interesting to learn the decision.
The same general question is involved: Shouldn’t Huron taxpayers know what this agreement is costing?
