STURGIS, MI (WTVB) – The Sturgis City Commission is grappling with a deep internal rift following the resignation of City Manager Andrew Kuk, a departure that has triggered both public outcry and a formal challenge to Mayor Frank Perez’s leadership.
Kuk, who served the city for over a decade in various roles before becoming City Manager in 2023, officially resigned earlier this month.
While some commissioners have framed the move as a clean slate for the city, the decision has been met with fierce resistance from residents. During a marathon four-hour public meeting this week, dozens of community members filled the chambers to defend Kuk’s record, with many accusing a “voting bloc” on the commission of forcing out a capable administrator for political reasons.
The fallout has centered largely on Mayor Frank Perez. In the wake of the resignation, Commissioner Travis Klinger and others have publicly criticized the Mayor’s conduct, leading to a formal motion to censure Perez.
Critics allege that the Mayor has overstepped his authority, created a hostile work environment, and bypassed standard protocols to influence personnel decisions. The censure discussion has highlighted a 5-4 or 6-3 split within the commission, reflecting a city government struggling to find common ground.
Adding to the instability, the city is also dealing with the departure of City Attorney Bonnie S.R. Penno, leaving Sturgis without its two highest-ranking administrative officials simultaneously.
While the commission recently appointed Barry Cox, a retired former city manager, to serve as the interim lead, fears remain that the “toxic” political climate will deter qualified permanent candidates from applying.
Residents and business owners have expressed concern that this administrative vacuum will delay essential infrastructure improvements and undermine the city’s long-term economic growth.
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