STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB) – The Sturgis City Council held their first meeting in April Monday night where they discussed a proposed ordinance that will allow for an election to fill a council or mayoral vacancy.

The ordinance follows the resignation of Mayor Mark Carstensen and the procedure taken in filling the vacancy.

The city had no ordinance in place allowing for a special election, therefore appointment by the City Council was the only option available.

The ordinance, if passed, will authorize the City to hold a special election to fill future vacant City Council or mayoral positions.

During discussion Monday night, councilor Aaron Jordan recommended the city keeping both options available.

The council also had some questions on notice requirements in the ordinance and statutory requirements as to when an election could be set.

Further discussion of the ordinance is expected at the next meeting.

In recent Council meetings, there has been strong citizen support for the option of holding a special election to fill the recent mayoral vacancy.