STURGIS, S.D. – Mark Carstensen began his 13th year as mayor of Sturgis when he called to order the 2023-2024 session of the Sturgis City Council Monday.
Carstensen said it has been a privilege to serve the community for more than a dozen years.
“We have come a long way from when I first took this seat,” the mayor said.
From Winter Storm Atlas to the 75 th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the mayor has been at the helm for some watershed moments in Sturgis during his tenure.
“I want to thank all of those who have supported me on this journey,” he said. “I believe Sturgis is in a good position and we will strive to continue on that path.”
Also at the meeting Monday, Beka Zerbst was elected council president by her fellow councilors. Zerbst concurred with the mayor’s assessment of the status of the community.
“I don’t have any specific goals beyond continuing to help keep Sturgis moving forward, and working hard for its citizens,” she said.
Zerbst also said she was looking forward to serving alongside councilor Angela Wilkerson who was elected council vice president Monday.
“She and I both really love our town. We work well together and will make a great team,” Zerbst said.
Wilkerson believes the coming year will be exciting with change on the horizon for Sturgis.
“Change can be scary, but there is also excitement to be found in it. Of course, with that, there may be times that are a bit trying as well,” she said.
Specifically, Wilkerson cited the recruitment for a new city manager and also the Monday announcement by City Finance Officer Fay Bueno of her plans to retire in February of 2024.
“We’re entering a sizeable transition period which leaves a lot of unknown variables,” she said. “I think it’s going to be important to focus on making these transitions smooth for everyone – residents and city staff alike.”
Wilkerson commended the current transition team for doing an awesome job at keeping all the wheels moving in the absence of a city manager.
“They are ensuring that our current projects and plans continue to move forward and that is key,” she said. “If we continue to do things right, our residents shouldn’t be affected by, or even be able to notice any change. They should only continue to see improvements to their quality of life – led by city staff who truly love and care about this community.”
