Council approves Joe Kippley as Sioux Falls' public health director

Sioux Falls' newest public health director will be Joe Kippley, following the Sioux Falls City Council's approval of his appointment on Tuesday evening.

Mayor Paul TenHaken made the appointment last week, saying Kippley's background in law and healthcare would be of "tremendous benefit" to the city.

TenHaken also assured the council that the city's legal team would be ready and able to deal with any potential conflicts of interest that arise from Kippley's other role as a Minnehaha County commissioner.

Councilor Curt Soehl said the council would keep an eye out for conflicts as well, but made clear that as a participant in Kippley's interview process, he "wholeheartedly" supported the appointment.

More: Commissioner, Sanford clinic director appointed as Sioux Falls' public health director

The city has been without a permanent public health director since Charles Chima resigned in June 2023, with Amy Richardson and Angie Uthe serving as interim directors in that time.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Joe Kippley is Sioux Falls' next public health director