Realtor John Yuill has lived in Sturgis nearly his whole life.
"I've seen a lot of ups and downs, the positives and the negatives, and I encourage what we're trying to do. I really want to see this work," Yuill said.
He's part of a project that will help the community make improvements in areas such as economic development, health care and communications.
Called Future Sturgis, it is citizen-based, something that is "truly democracy in action," city manager David Boone said. In the first of two steps, locals have contributed opinions and ideas in listening sessions April 29 through May 11.
"We want to make Sturgis a better place and make it something people will be proud of," said Robin Shrake, the secretary and treasurer of Sturgis Area Business Alliance.
Sturgis is growing but its younger residents want to see it become more than the rally. There has been something of a business resurgence there in the last year, and the town feels poised on the verge of something better.
In the 20 listening sessions, more than 360 citizens voiced common concerns: lack of choices in retail, dependence on property taxes and the need for better communication and collaboration in the community, said Boone.
Many pointed out the positives and the negatives of the area in a "super focus group" Thursday night where nearly 100 people showed up. The city of Sturgis and "Future Sturgis" hosted the meeting.
"I think it was extremely positive," Boone said. "Citizens are getting engaged and making a conscious effort to improve the quality of life for all the residents."
Yuill was "pleasantly surprised" at the number of those involved, but Shrake thinks more should participate.
If people don't participate, they can't be upset with the results, Shrake said.
"It's their civic responsibility. Thank God we live in a country where we can vote and have a say."
Not only is it a duty, but the more people involved, the more ideas are expressed. Shrake said that "everyone has a good idea" and single women, business men and women and farmers and ranchers need to convey their suggestions.
Michele Loobey-Gertsch, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce, said different people have different issues and priorities for the town. For one it might be the rally, for another it might a lack of restaurants and another might struggle with having to drive to Rapid City for designer clothes. "The issues vary from person to person," she said. "We want to see people proud and enjoy their community."
The second step will include a panel of between 25 and 35 people chosen to make plans and goals for the improvement of Sturgis based on the information from the focus groups. The panel will develop a plan outline over the next few months to show at the next town hall meeting scheduled for late September or early October. City manager Boone will use management methods to achieve the goals.
Through "identifying strengths and building on those strengths, we'll add to the assets" Sturgis currently has, Boone said. This method is based on a curriculum called Creating Value-Added Communities, which Kristi Wagner leads.
"Sturgis is ready to turn the page and make it happen: to grow and develop rather than be reactive," said Wagner, CEO of Rushmore Center for Civic Leadership.
Yuill is ready to see this new process in action and can identify with others' pessimistic views.
"I understand the negative thoughts, because there's been a lack of progress for a long time; give the new process a chance," he said. "I wish people would look at the glass half full instead of half empty."
Contact Sarah Beu 394-8424 or sarah.beu@rapidcityjournal.com.
