STURGIS – The Sturgis City Council voted Monday to appoint Don Lanpher as the new city councilor for Ward 3.

Lanpher was one of four people who applied for the open Sturgis City Council seat in Ward 3. Others included Richelle Bruch, Francie Ganje-Severson, and Christopher Peldo. Ganje-Severson announced at the meeting that she was withdrawing from the race because of family medical issues.

The council voted 6-1 with six votes for Lanpher and one vote for Bruch.

The Ward 3 vacancy was created when Councilor Preston Williams resigned effective June 3. Williams had about 11 months remaining in his term as one of two Ward 3 councilors. 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.

Lanpher is retired after serving 46 years in law enforcement. On his application he said he wanted to be part of the decision-making process for the residents of Ward 3.

Lanpher was sworn into office following the vote.

Cutline: Sturgis Staff Attorney Eric Miller administers the oath of office to new Ward 3 Sturgis City Council member Don Lanpher.