Rapid City, South Dakota – On Friday, Nov. 6, Ward 5 council members Laura Armstrong and Callie Meyer will open City Hall’s Circle of Friends Community Room for an informal town hall they’re calling “Friday Pie Day.” The gathering, set for 4:30 p.m., is designed as a low‑key opportunity for residents from all city wards to speak directly with their elected officials.
Unlike a typical council meeting, the event has no formal agenda. Armstrong and Meyer said they want the space to feel like a neighborhood conversation, where anyone can raise an issue, share a suggestion or simply get to know their representatives. “There’s no angle to it,” the council members explained. “We want people to approach us, sit down, whether they have an issue or not, just come and talk to us, maybe have a great idea.”
The council members emphasized that the town hall is meant to be a two‑way dialogue. They will provide updates on ongoing city projects and answer questions about public services, zoning, public safety and other matters that affect daily life in Rapid City. In turn, they hope to hear community concerns and ideas that can inform future council decisions.
Why a casual format matters
Armstrong and Meyer believe that a relaxed setting—complete with pie and coffee—helps break down barriers that sometimes keep residents from engaging with local government. By removing the formalities of a standard council session, they aim to foster a sense of partnership between elected officials and the neighborhoods they serve.
“We’re trying to make government feel more accessible,” Meyer said. “When people see us as approachable, they’re more likely to get involved and help shape the city’s future.”
How to participate
The event is open to all Rapid City residents, regardless of ward affiliation. No registration is required; attendees can simply walk in during the scheduled time. The council members encouraged anyone with a question—whether about road repairs, park improvements, public‑safety initiatives or city budgeting—to join the conversation.
For those who cannot attend in person, Armstrong and Meyer noted that they will be available for follow‑up calls and email correspondence after the town hall. They also plan to post a summary of the discussion on the city’s official website.
Community response
Local residents have expressed enthusiasm for the informal format. “It’s nice to have a chance to talk directly to our council members without the usual formalities,” said longtime Rapid City homeowner Maria Lopez. “I think it will help us feel more connected to what’s happening in our city.”
City Hall staff will provide the pie and refreshments, and the meeting will be held in compliance with any applicable health guidelines.
Armstrong and Meyer hope that Friday Pie Day will become a recurring event, offering a regular venue for open dialogue and community input. The council’s commitment to transparent, faith‑centered, family‑friendly governance reflects the values that many Rapid City families hold dear.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
