Mayor-Elect Christine Erickson Announces Transition Team
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sioux Falls Mayor-elect Christine Erickson today announced the members of her transition team. The transition team will assist Erickson in the early months of her administration as she leads city hall for the next four years.
“It was an honor to win this historic election,” said Erickson. “Now is the time for Sioux Falls to unite and get to work for the people of our great city. My transition team will play a crucial role in bringing together diverse ideas and voices for Sioux Falls as we move forward.”
The transition team brings together community leaders with backgrounds in finance, construction, business, leadership development, legal, media, public service and nonprofit organizations.
The transition team includes:
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John Beranek – Intersections Group
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Tamien Dysart – CEO and Co-Founder at Think 3D Solutions; Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce Board Chair
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Scott Erickson – President and CEO at American Bank & Trust; Commissioner at South Dakota Housing Development Authority
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Alex Jensen – Henry Carlson Construction; Sioux Falls City Council (2020-2024); State Representative (2015-2016)
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Rick Kiley – Retired Teacher; Sioux Falls City Council (2014-2022); Sioux Falls Charter Revision Commission (2025-present)
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Matt Paulson – Founder and CEO at MarketBeat
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Jodi Schwan – Align Content Studio; former Chief of Staff to Sioux Falls Mayor Dave Munson (2006-2010)
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Justin Smith – Woods Fuller Law Firm; Parks and Recreation Board (2026-present); Sioux Falls Charter Revision Commission (2015-2023)
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Karlie Solum – Director of Community Relations at Marsh McLennan Agency
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Kadyn Wittman – State Representative (2023-present); Sioux Falls YMCA Director of Development
Matt Paulson and John Beranek will serve as co-chairs of the transition team.
“The people serving on this team have each made substantial and positive impacts on Sioux Falls,” Erickson added. “They bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives, and I look forward to their advice and engagement as I prepare to lead our city. It is time to get to work for the people of Sioux Falls.”
Erickson will take the oath of office on Friday, July 17, alongside the newly elected members of the Sioux Falls City Council. She will become the 33rd mayor of Sioux Falls and is the first woman elected to the position.
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Anyone else questioning the Kadyn Whittman pick?
Me too
I served with Kadyn in the legislature and you have a highly intelligent person that’s been involved with serving the community well. I may be a Republican and she a Democrat but you have to remember that at the municipal level, it’s non-partisan. She’s a good choice.
David, I agree with your analysis completely. I’ve hunted with Kadyn and had a fantastic time. She’s smart articulate super fun to be around and could not care less of your political persuasion. Only what you think and your character.
For as diverse and populated as Sioux Falls is, I just see a lot of wealthy, white folks…
Ahhhh the racist card is played.
Ahhhh the “they played the race card again” card is played.
Ahhhhh they played the race card playing the race card about playing the race card again
And my axe!
Matt Paulson has bought his way into City Government, he has financed 7 of the 9 City Council Chairs, and owns 30% of the Dakota Scout, controlling the media, and has an avid interest in the Municipal Bond Market and Corporate Business Community. Now he has his place inside City Hall. He will say he has not financed the city council, but he hides behind his PAC to do so. This guy is a grifter.
There are only eight members of the Sioux Falls city council. I believe I have contributed to all of the current councilor’s campaigns except Sara Pankonin. No particular reason. I don’t know her very well.
I own about 8% of the Dakota Scout. I don’t know the exact percentage but I have Joe and Jonathan $10K or something like that to help them get started. They do not send investor updates and I don’t hear from them often.
I have no business interests in the municipal bond market. I have never received a TIF, a city contract, or a state contract (outside of an adjunct teaching gig at DSU 15 years ago.). Go look, you won’t find anything.
Maybe I just support candidates because I want to see good people run our government. 🤷♂️
There are 9 members of the City Council, the Mayor holds one of the 9 chairs.
Very good group of people! Very excited to see what Christine will do!
We’re getting a very umm “transactional” mayor.
She’s already getting showered in free stuff from the business community.
Ahhhhh the “businesses currying favor with free bling” card is played.