STURGIS, S.D. – The Sturgis City Council Monday night decided not to appoint a mayor to serve for the two months ahead of a special election to fill the vacancy following the death of Kevin Forrester.

The council had two options under state statute – appoint an interim mayor or continue with a Mayor Pro-Tempore, currently being filled by Council President Tony Dargatz.

Council members decided filling the spot with a temporary hire was not practicable at this time.

Ward 3 councilman Jim Thompson again brought up the resignation letter from Kevin Forrester that had mentioned Rod Bradley fill in as mayor. Sturgis City Administrator Aaron Jordan says he had discussed that with Forrester ahead of his resignation.

With the council’s decision, Dargatz will remain at Mayor Pro-Tempore until the June 2 election chooses a new mayor.