Sturgis & Meade County, South Dakota

After the rediscovery of an 1894 Meade County time capsule, the debate has circled what precisely to do with the relic. Now, the local historical society has an answer – add on and reinstall.

In a unanimous vote, the state Open Meeting board declares Sturgis city government violated open meeting law during the transition from city manager format. It comes as municipal government has dealt with myriads of challenges throughout the process.

Changes have come fast for local government in Sturgis. Now, after a flurry of resignations, a new mayor is named, and special elections are scheduled.

For months, the community of Sturgis has been wrapped in governmental turmoil. Now two more city officials have tendered their resignations, including the mayor and a councilmember.

With months of turmoil in Sturgis city government, some citizens are actively seeking to recall the current mayor. The main issue stems from her appointment following the prior mayor’s resignation.

The city of Sturgis has had a tumultuous year in government. Now, more changes could be looming for the community.

For the Haugen Family, rodeo means everything.

Tourism is South Dakota's second largest industry. The largest tourist event is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors in early August. This episode examines the wide-ranging impact of the annual rally.

Amid a budget crunch, a change in government format, and multiple resignations in city hall, the city of Sturgis faces a challenging year ahead.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism is looking to attract younger bikers to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.