Filling the void of uncertainty
Ordinance could allow Sturgis hold election whenever officials resign or are ‘unable to perform duties’
RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - February 13, Sturgis Mayor Mark Carstensen resigned unexpectedly, putting the city in an unknown position. Eventually, the city created a special election ordinance to help fill the gap.
Two months later, Sturgis City Council held discussions to establish an ordinance allowing them to vote on whether or not it would be best to hold a special election or make appointments to fill the mayor seat and other vacancies. This ordinance would only apply when an elected official steps down before their term ends or they are unable to perform their duties.
When former mayor Mark Carstensen stepped down, the city had to act fast.
“There was still a year left on his term and so something needed to be done immediately. So, an appointment was the only process of choice for the city,” said Deb Holland, director of communications for the city of Sturgis.
City Council appointed former Ward 1 Council member Angela Wilkerson to fill the mayor’s seat and the remainder of Carstensen’s term, which ends in May 2025.
“We realized that you cannot have a special election to fill a vacancy such as the mayor or a city council member. Unless, you’ve already passed an ordinance per state law,” said Holland.
The special election ordinance had its first reading at the May 20 City Council meeting. If it passes the second reading at the June 3 council meeting, the public could be allowed to vote for a replacement.
“There was some concern about having people just apply to fill the vacancy and then be interviewed by the council to fill that vacancy. So, in this manner, the citizens of the community will have the opportunity to vote on that person,” said Holland.
The ordinance would also allow people to vote and help fill city council vacancies in the future.
Holland feels this ordinance could help avoid any issues going forward.
“I think it’s prudent you know to have that on the books because you never know what’s gonna happen. You know, it was surprising to many that the mayor did step down and it was immediate so there was still a year left on his term,” she said.
After the second reading, the ordinance will become effective 20 days after it is published in the official newspaper.
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