Sturgis City Commission approves burning ordinance, lead line funding plan, and Electric Center construction manager selection

The Sturgis City Commission met Wednesday, February 11 for its regular meeting, approving revisions to the city’s burning ordinance, a plan to pursue federal infrastructure funding for lead service line replacements through Michigan’s Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund, and the selection of a construction manager for the Sturgis Electric Center project.

Burning ordinance passes 6–1

Commissioners held a second reading of revisions to the city’s burning ordinance, presented by Sturgis Fire Department Captain Cody Cripe, with minimal changes from the first reading on January 28.

The most outspoken opponent during the first reading, Commissioner Marvin Smith, remained the lone dissenting vote. Commissioners approved the ordinance 6–1, with Commissioners Linda Harrington, Cathi Abbs, Justin Wickey, Aaron Miller, Vice Mayor Jeffrey Mullins and Mayor Frank Perez voting in favor.

One of the main revisions, following commissioner feedback at the first reading, allows outdoor wood furnaces or wood boilers installed as of February 1, 2026 to continue operating. Those units must still burn approved fuels and not create a nuisance.

City moves forward on lead service line funding

Public Services Director Barry Cox presented an opportunity for the city to pursue federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding administered through the state’s Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund. Cox said the funding could “turbocharge” Sturgis’ lead service line replacement program ahead of the state’s 2037 deadline.

The city’s proposed project plan includes replacing approximately 400 lead service lines.

“Part of the reason this is appealing is if we can take a good chunk of the burden off of our own staff to do that work, take it outside,” City Manager Andrew Kuk told commissioners.

Cox said that as of the end of 2025, the city has approximately 1,500 lead service lines remaining to be replaced. Since 2018, the city has replaced roughly 400 lines.

Commissioners unanimously approved the $29,800 contract with Fishbeck to develop and submit the project plan required to apply for the funding. Cox noted there is a risk the city may not receive funding but said it is a risk worth taking.

“I think equally important is the time thing,” Commissioner Cathi Abbs said, referencing staffing constraints and the challenge of replacing lines at the current pace. “For us to do it is almost near impossible.”

The vote passed 7–0.

AVB selected as Electric Center construction manager

Commissioners also selected a construction manager for the Sturgis Electric Center project.

The city chose AVB Construction, the second-lowest bidder among finalists, following interviews and a recommendation from Ghafari, the consulting firm assisting with the selection process.

According to the agenda packet, the construction manager will “provide valuable feedback attempting to avoid issues and added costs during construction.”

Commissioners unanimously approved the AVB bid for $342,069.

“The city is going to lean on Ghafari a little bit with their expertise in this area. Building new facilities is not something that I’ve done in the past,” Electric Department Superintendent Chris McArthur said when asked about selecting AVB despite lower bids. “After the interview process, we felt most comfortable with AVB.”

Representatives from AVB and Frederick Construction were present at the meeting.

Zoning changes and DROP program approved

Commissioners unanimously approved a second reading of zoning ordinance amendments. The changes allow certain promotional banners to be displayed on the rear façade of buildings while prohibiting them on street-facing façades in specific business districts.

Commissioners also unanimously approved the Deferred Retirement Option Plan, or DROP program.

The commission packet describes the program as a supplemental benefit for retirement-eligible city employees who choose to remain in active service. While enrolled in DROP, employees continue receiving wages and benefits, while their calculated pension amount is placed into an escrowed DROP account that accrues interest.

The Sturgis City Commission will next meet Wednesday, February 25.

Maxwell Knauer is a staff writer for Watershed Voice.