Justin Wickey returns to Sturgis City Commission
City Clerk Kenneth Rhodes administered the oath during the commission’s regular meeting. Wickey previously served three years of a four-year term before resigning to attend to an out-of-area commitment.
Justin Wickey was sworn in Wednesday as 2nd Precinct commissioner on the Sturgis City Commission, marking his return to the board after stepping down in 2021.
City Clerk Kenneth Rhodes administered the oath during the commission’s regular meeting. Wickey previously served three years of a four-year term before resigning to attend to an out-of-area commitment.
“It feels good to be back here,” Wickey said during commissioner comments.
His appointment comes as the city moves forward with several key infrastructure projects.
Commission approves substation change order
The commission approved a $70,000 change order for the Stateline Substation project. Originally planned to operate with a single 15 MVA transformer, the project will now incorporate two existing city-owned transformers.
City staff said the dual-transformer setup will improve reliability and reduce long-term costs. The change order includes $15,000 for a second relay panel required for the new configuration.
Wastewater pump upgrade moves forward
Commissioners also approved a $108,790 purchase for new pumps at the wastewater treatment plant. The project replaces three pumps installed in 1972 in Intermediate Clarifier No. 1.
The city selected energy-efficient dry-fit submersible pumps from Vaughan, which will integrate with the plant’s current control systems. JK of Michigan was awarded a $51,785.39 contract for mechanical installation. The contractor was vetted by engineering firm Fleis & VandenBrink.
Zoning amendments introduced
The commission held first readings of two proposed zoning ordinance amendments. One would require accessory buildings over 200 square feet to have exterior finishes matching the primary structure. The other mandates solid surface materials, such as asphalt or concrete, for front-yard driveways and parking areas, with aggregate allowed beyond that. Edge containment would be required for new or expanded gravel areas.
Board reappointments approved
The commission also approved several board member reappointments and discussed vacancies across various city boards.
Najifa Farhat is a staff reporter for Watershed Voice.
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Commissioner Richard Bir, who said he worked as a city landscaper for 20 years, questioned why the city needs to contract out any of the work — something he said was not done during his tenure. Bir said he was one of two full-time employees at the time and had no trouble maintaining city properties.
He questioned why the current staff — two full-time employees and a third primarily administrative position — requires outside help.
Director of Public Services Thomas Sikorski said the city has added properties over time, increasing workload and the need for additional manpower. He also said the department has struggled to attract seasonal workers, particularly college-age applicants who have typically filled those roles.
Celebrating our sixth birthday and Local News Day
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Local meeting primer: Sturgis City Commission
The Sturgis City Commission will meet Wednesday, April 8 for its regular business meeting, with a largely routine agenda that includes contract approvals, infrastructure work, and an update on staffing.
