Sturgis considers the future of multiple city jobs

The city of Sturgis has had a tumultuous year in government. Now, more changes could be looming for the community.

Following a fundamental change in governmental format, multiple resignations from city leaders including the former mayor, and a reported budget shortfall, Sturgis municipal government is looking to trim fat.

In this situation, that means considering the future of multiple city positions. Mayor Angela Wilkerson said one job potentially on the chopping block is city engineer.

“In eliminating the city engineer position, we would just stick with that contracted firm to do all that work we have them contracted to do now,” Wilkerson said. “So, there would be some savings there.”

Additionally, community relations could lose a role too, the director of communications.

“Right now, in order to make sure we have a good budget for 2025 we were able to get some savings by having some of those duties go back to some administrative staff like they have in the past,” Wilkerson said. “So, we would just go back to having other staff do those functions.”

The proposed budget was not universally supported. Councilmember Kevin Forrester said he’s left with too many questions.

“We’re going to need that far in advance of the October meeting, so I hope the items I outlined in the ordinance are included tomorrow when you send out this information,” Forrester said. “Because this spreadsheet, again at least the versions I’ve seen, are not adequate.”

The next meeting of the Sturgis City Council is scheduled for Oct. 7.