STURGIS, S.D. – The Sturgis city council passed final reading this week of an ordinance that will now allow for an election to fill a council or mayoral vacancy.
The ordinance was written in the aftermath of former Mayor Mark Carstensen’s sudden resignation and the procedure taken in filling the vacancy.
The city had no ordinance in place allowing for a special election, therefore appointment by the City Council was the only option available.
Sturgis Council Vice President Ruth Kopp says the ordinance will authorize the City to hold a special election to fill future vacant City Council or mayoral positions.
Additionally, the ordinance highlights the requirements associated
with the special election and notes the specific statutes which the special election operates under.
In recent Council meetings, there has been strong citizen support for the option of holding a special election to fill a mayoral vacancy.
