By Jodi Schwan

The ride-sharing service Lyft is coming to Sioux Falls, thanks largely to the efforts of a private citizen.

The company has received its state sales tax license and is in the process of completing its city license, city leaders announced today.

Council member Christian Erickson credited speaker, consultant and accountant Greg LaFollette for helping bring the service to town, saying his “belief in the ride-sharing concept helped move this closer to the goal line.”

Mayor Mike Huether called the announcement something that will give Sioux Falls a big-city feel and improved quality of life.

“The impressions this opportunity will provide the city of Sioux Falls, they’re big. They’re big for business people. They’re big for travelers. They’re big for job-seekers. They’re big for families,” he said.

Gregory LaFollette

Ride-sharing also will provide competition to other transportation services, improving pricing, service and quality, Huether said, adding LaFollette, who uses ride-sharing in other cities, put “positive pressure” on elected officials to bring it to Sioux Falls.

LaFollette is going through the process to become a driver and expects to find out in 48 hours if he is approved, Erickson said.

“We do have, ready to go, our Lyft app,” Huether added. “Soon, the press of a button will have a car at our doorstep in a very short period of time.”

Erickson said there’s isn’t a set start date yet.

The company is advertising for workers in Sioux Falls and surrounding communities and marketing the ability to make up to $35 an hour plus tips.

“It’s going to create a bevy of job opportunities for people,” Huether said.

“Competition is really, really good. It is. It’s going to provide more options than we have today. Everyone is going to have to step up their game.”

South Dakota was the last state for Lyft to add services.