STURGIS, S.D. – Candidates running for mayor and council in Sturgis introduced themselves and answered tough questions in a forum held at the community center theater last night.
Three of the candidates running for office were among those spearheading a failed petition seeking to force an election to eliminate the city manager form of government.
When asked about the city manager position, the three candidates changed course and said they feel the need to have a city manager, but want more transparency and imput from the city council.
Those candidates include Tammy Bohn for mayor, Justin Bohn running for Ward 4 and Brenda Vasknetz running for Ward 1.
Candidates also expressed their thoughts on the Sturgis Lakeside Adventure Park. Tammy Bohn and Brenda Vasknetz both believe the citizens of Sturgis shoud vote on the issue. Justin Bohn expressed a no support to the project. All other candidates expressed interest in seeing it become reality under the right conditions.
Candidates also discussed housing in Sturgis and the city’s role in using state to help build new homes.
The working relationship between the city, county and Meade 46-1 School District was also a topic, as was the use of executive session. South Dakota Codified Law allows city government to go into executive session for legal, contract or personnel matters. No action can be taken in executive session, and any action needed must be taken in an open official meeting.
Another candidates forum will be held on March 29, with the municipal election set for April 12.
