SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) -- Thumping his chest for emphasis, Mayor Mike Huether on Tuesday, talked about the healthy heart beat of Sioux Falls.
"The heart beat of our city has never pumped faster, and it's never been stronger than it is right now.", as he thumped on nearly every word.
In his final State of the City Address, Mayor Huether ticked off the accomplishments of his administration's eight years in office. He compared those accomplishments to building blocks in a strong foundation to meet the challenges of the future.
Financial vitality and debt management.
"I do think that we may have the strongest city government, in terms of our financials, in the country."
Infrastructure, including roads.
"We have repaired, rebuilt and replaced almost 500 miles of roads, takes us from Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Gillette, Wyoming."
Fighting crime.
While admitting a problem with drug-related crime, Huether said most crime statistics are down and that 46 new officers have been added to the police department during his time in office.
Huether also talked about successes in quality of life, water and sewer, handling emergencies, and a host of other "building blocks."
But Sioux Falls still faces many challenges. Huether said the biggest is "how we pay for things", as the city continues to grow. Other challenges include the lack of affordable housing and better public transit.
Mayor Huether closed his swan song speech in his own signature style.
"We've proven, not only to Sioux Falls and to South Dakota, but to America, that we got stuff done in government."
Sioux Falls new mayor will be picked in the April 10 election.