(STURGIS) – Sturgis City Commissioners approved the first reading of an adult use recreational marijuana ordinance.

City Manager Mike Hughes presented two versions of the ordinance Monday night. One was based on the proposal presented by Commissioner Justin Wickey during the November 13 meeting. The other proposal was a revised version of the draft ordinance presented November 13 as well.

While there are some minor changes to the revised ordinance, Hughes says one of the changes involves the addition of language related to the transfer of a license from one entity to another.

After some spirited discussion, the Commission voted down the ordinance based on Wickey's proposal 5-4.

Commissioner Jeff Mullins then made the following statement. ...... {LISTEN}.

Mullins says the Commission needs to make sure Sturgis is a business friendly community. ...... {LISTEN}.

Mullins says with the businesses building new structures or rehabbing current ones, it will put them on the tax roles along with using electricity and water which will generate revenue for Sturgis.

Mullins then made a motion to accept the revised version of the draft ordinance as a first reading. After a second to the motion, it was approved by a 5-4 vote.

A second reading will be held during a future Commission meeting.