STURGIS, S.D. – In a low voter turnout, opponents to developing part of the Marcotte Property were successful at the polls Tuesday in a special election held in Sturgis.
The city annexed the Marcotte Property in 2016 after acquiring it from the Game, Fish and Parks Department. The approximate 60 acre parcel used to be public hunting ground, but became unsuitable for that use due to encroaching development.
The city of Sturgis proposed hiring a developer to develop the eastern edge of the property with much needed homes. It would also provide a park as well as connections to various biking and hiking trails surrounding Sturgis. A water park and batting cages to be built near the community center were also part of the package. The city planned to keep the entire western section open, green space.
But, opponents gathered just enough signatures to send the issue to a special election. They wanted a five year moratorium on any development of the property.
Unofficial results from Tuesday’s election show 662 votes for the moratorium and 554 votes for the development plan.
City officials say the ‘Yes’ vote on the referendum means the Marcotte property will remain undeveloped for the
next 5 years.
The related improvements including the neighborhood park, the splash park/aquatics area, batting cages, and improvements to roads and trails will not take place.
Election results will be finalized after the votes are canvassed.
