Wednesday night’s Sturgis City Commission meeting was the last for Commissioner Travis Klinger, who announced his resignation on March 8.

Commissioners conducted two interviews during a work session on April 12 for applicants Charles Huber and Emmanuel Nieves. “Since the interviews, Mr. Huber has pulled his name from consideration, saying that he may be selling his home and he didn’t really want to put us through this again if he did move out of the precinct,” Mayor Jeff Mullins said. With one applicant remaining, the commission voted unanimously 9-0 to appoint Nieves to the city commission, and he will be sworn in at the next meeting on May 10.

Klinger addressed his fellow commissioners at the close of the meeting, saying he learned a lot and appreciated all the information he gleaned during his time serving the City of Sturgis.

“It’s been very eye-opening to be a commissioner,” he said. “It’s taught me to be patient with my community, and I know my community will serve me well. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Honestly, I appreciate the community, I appreciate all you guys. I have grown because of this position.”

Vice Mayor Aaron Miller thanked Klinger for his service and all the time and effort he put into caring about the city. Mullins closed the meeting saying, “It’s been a pleasure working with you, Travis. I appreciate your time and your service to the community. Good luck in whatever it is that you’re doing.”

Beca Welty is a staff writer and columnist for Watershed Voice.