Sturgis Sets Special Mayoral Election for June 2nd

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The Sturgis City Council has scheduled a special mayoral election for June 2nd, 2026, following the resignation of Mayor Kevin Forrester on March 23rd. This will be the fourth mayor for the city since 2024, as Forrester is the third mayor to step down in that time period, citing health concerns and a desire to spend more time with family. The Council will not appoint an interim replacement, with Council President Tony Dargatz serving as mayor pro tem until at least April 6th.

Why it matters

Sturgis has seen significant political turnover in the mayor's office in recent years, with three resignations since 2024. This instability in city leadership raises questions about the underlying causes and the ability of the local government to provide consistent governance and direction for the community.

The details

Mayor Kevin Forrester stepped down on March 23rd, 2026, citing health concerns and a desire to spend more time with family. He is the third mayor to resign since 2024, following Angela Wilkerson and Mark Carstensen. The Sturgis City Council set a special election date of June 2nd, 2026 to elect the city's next mayor, rather than appointing an interim replacement. Council President Tony Dargatz will serve as mayor pro tem until at least April 6th.

• Mayor Kevin Forrester resigned on March 23rd, 2026.
• The Sturgis City Council set a special mayoral election for June 2nd, 2026 during a special meeting on March 27th, 2026.
• Tony Dargatz, the Sturgis City Council President, will serve as mayor pro tem until at least April 6th, 2026.

What’s next

The Sturgis City Council will hold a special mayoral election on June 2nd, 2026 to elect the city's next mayor.