Barry Cox

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.

The commission facilitated a United Way Christmas cash raffle drawing and approved a curbside Christmas tree pickup service provided by Guest Pro Tree Service. Key business items included the purchase of a reconditioned three-phase transformer for the hydro line, the approval of final designs and contingency budgets for the Sturgeis Electric Center project, and the authorization to lease additional vehicles through the Enterprise Fleet Management program, which included a transition to a vehicle stipend model for the Director of Public Safety.