STURGIS - The Sturgis City Council has started the process to fill the vacancy created when Ward 3 Councilor Preston Williams resigned earlier this month.

Williams had about 11 months remaining in his term as one of two Ward 3 councilors. His resignation was effective as of June 3. The other councilor in Ward 3 is Jim Thompson who won a seat on the board in April and will serve until May of 2027.

At the Sturgis City Council meeting Monday, June 17, the council agreed that the process for filling the vacancy would be to ask for applications, interview applicants at an upcoming council meeting and then make a selection.

Deadline for applications is 6 p.m., Monday, July 1.

The announcement for the vacancy is now on the city’s website and Facebook page. An application for the position can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/mv2ajt9k

Applicants will be asked to ensure they are a resident of Ward 3 and a registered voter. They also will be asked to provide information such as their name, address, and on what commissions, committees and boards they have served.

Applicants also will be asked how their appointment to the City Council will enhance the city. 

Interviews will be conducted at the July 15, Sturgis City Council meeting. 

Mayor Angela Wilkerson clarified that the only questions asked of candidates will be from council members.  So, if someone from the public has anything specific they'd like to ask of all candidates, they should contact their Ward representative so that the councilor can ask the questions of candidates.  

The selection of the new council member will also take place at the July 15 Sturgis City Council meeting. The person chosen will take office that night.