Circuit Judge Jerome Eckrich has denied Meade County's request for a restraining order to stop Sturgis from annexing 1,800 acres of land east of the city. Eckrich ruled Friday that Sturgis was within state law in seeking annexation and that counties are prohibited under state law from seeking an injunction against a city.

Meade County commissioners are expected to call a special meeting on Monday to discuss the ruling. In April, the commissioners rejected the city's request for annexation of the unplatted and agricultural land. But, Sturgis officials are moving ahead. A public hearing is set for Nov. 17.

The mayor has said that some Sturgis Motorcycle Rally patrons use the land, but the city doesn't get any money to provide police and fire services.