City of Sturgis

The commission interviewed an interim city manager candidate and authorized an offer of employment. A public hearing was held to set 2026 millage rates for General Operating and Street/Sidewalk improvements. Major operational actions included approval for the purchase of transmission utility poles, a contract for the 2026 Crack Sealing Program, and agreements related to the North Centerville Road Storm Sewer rehabilitation. Additionally, the commission approved budget amendments, a property forbearance agreement, policies and fund agreements for the Sturges-Young Center for the Arts, and adjustments to Sturgis Fest scheduling.

The Sturgis City Commission meeting included a presentation on the Sturgis Neighborhood Program, focusing on housing rehabilitation, community partnerships, and upcoming construction trade projects. A public concern regarding unauthorized vehicles in Thristen Woods Park was discussed with a commitment to explore potential barriers. The commission approved a generation resource purchase contract with Mallister Cat, including a contingency budget, and adopted a resolution for the DWSRF project to commit to street resurfacing following lead service line replacements.

The meeting featured a presentation from the Small Business Administration regarding disaster loan assistance and resources available for parties affected by recent tornadoes. Public comment sessions focused on community traffic safety concerns, including reports of speeding on multiple residential streets, and a citizen complaint regarding noise ordinance violations caused by a continuously running backup generator. The Commission also reviewed and approved a proposal for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, detailing the equipment procurement, installation costs, and necessary budgetary oversight to ensure compliance with grant funding requirements.

The meeting focused on conducting interviews for the position of interim city manager, including an in-depth interview with candidate Doug Terry. Key discussion topics included leadership philosophy, management of city utility departments, strategies for fostering effective communication within the city administration, approaches to training and motivating city staff, and best practices for grant management and project selection.

The commission discussed a proposed electric generation project aimed at addressing local capacity shortfalls and reducing dependence on external market fluctuations. The presentation outlined the need for a 7.5 megawatt natural gas-powered reciprocating internal engine installation to enhance resource adequacy. Discussions covered site selection at 390 West Fawn River Road, the technical rationale for selecting this specific technology, and the project's connection to the existing local substation. The presentation emphasized how this investment supports long-term energy reliability and cost-effectiveness by mitigating risks associated with market volatility and supply chain constraints.