STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB) – The Sturgis City Council met for their final October meeting Monday night, just hours after Mayor Angela Wilkerson tendered her resignation.

Wilkerson, who served as Mayor of Sturgis for just over seven months, said in her letter that she resigned due to the “relentless undermining and attacks” on her. In her letter, Wilkerson says she has hit roadblock after roadblock that were placed in her path by a new council majority. There was a petition circulating seeking to recall Wilkerson as mayor.

Wilkerson’s resignation follows the resignation of Ward 3 councilman Don Lanphur last week and Ward 1 Mike Bachand surprised the council by turning in his resignation at the meeting.

Bachand’s resignation leaves two council spots to fill, as well as the mayor.

The council had two choices in filling them – appointing someone to fill out the remainder of the term or to set a special election. City Communications Director Deb Holland explains the special election option.

The council voted to hold a special election to fill the three vacancies.

To abide by state law, the council will accept applications until November 21st. The special election will then be held on January 7, 2025. That will fall 91 days before the 2025 municipal election – just outside the 90 day mandate set by state law.