Council approves consultant for All West franchise negotiations

Council hires consultant for Visionary Communications agreement

Officials aim to shield residents from franchise fee hikes

Council member warns of decline in city's net financial position

City clarifies golf course subsidy and fiscal reporting

Council member urges support for struggling local businesses

Old Uinta County Memorial Hospital to be put up for public bid

Fort Bridger Airport project moves forward

Sheriff secures contract for Forest Service patrols

Two appointed to Veterans Board

O'Neill named to Economic Development Commission

Council approves consultant for All West franchise negotiations

EVANSTON, Wyo. - The city council voted to approve an agreement with River Oaks Communications to provide consulting services for the renewal of the All West Communications franchise agreement. The motion passed despite opposition from a council member, who questioned the high hourly rate of $285 and the lack of a competitive bidding process. City Attorney Mark Harris stated that while he did not seek other quotes, the city's procurement policy does not require competitive bids for professional services and the agreement includes a "not to exceed" cap on expenses.

Council hires consultant for Visionary Communications agreement

EVANSTON, Wyo. - In a separate but related measure, the council approved a consulting agreement with River Oaks Communications regarding a request from Visionary Communications for a new franchise agreement. A council member cast the sole dissenting vote, reiterating concerns about the selection process and cost.

Officials aim to shield residents from franchise fee hikes

EVANSTON, Wyo. - Council member Mike Sellers and Mayor Kent Williams emphasized that the primary goal of the new franchise negotiations should be protecting the end consumer from increased costs. Sellers expressed concern that franchise fees could be passed on to residents who are already facing financial strain. Mayor Kent Williams agreed, noting that while the city needs to secure appropriate revenue for the use of rights-of-way, negotiations should ensure that the city is not "at the bottom of the barrel" while preventing unnecessary financial burdens on citizens.

Council member warns of decline in city's net financial position

EVANSTON, Wyo. - During council comments, a council member raised concerns regarding the city's recent audit, which indicated a decrease in the city's unrestricted net position of approximately $3.7 million to $4.2 million from the previous year. The member urged department heads to distinguish between wants and needs heading into the next budget cycle to avoid depleting the city's savings. City officials clarified that while the city spent more than it took in due to capital projects — such as roof repairs and the Roundhouse renovation — the city remains in a positive financial position overall.

City clarifies golf course subsidy and fiscal reporting

EVANSTON, Wyo. - Following public questions regarding the profitability of the city golf course compared to the Parks and Recreation Department, a council member clarified that the city generally subsidizes the golf course by approximately $200,000 annually. However, the member argued that this subsidy returns "tenfold" in economic development for the community. City Treasurer Trudy Lym noted that financial reports for the golf fund are available in the monthly expenditure reports, though fiscal year differences can make season-to-season comparisons complex.

Council member urges support for struggling local businesses

EVANSTON, Wyo. - A council member expressed concern over the lack of foot traffic in local stores, noting that they have recently found businesses completely empty during peak hours. The member urged residents to be mindful of local merchants and to avoid taking business out of town, emphasizing that supporting local commerce is essential during what is traditionally a difficult time of year for retailers.

Old Uinta County Memorial Hospital to be put up for public bid

EVANSTON, Wyo. - The Uinta County Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to advertise the Old Uinta County Memorial Hospital building for public bid, setting the minimum asking price at $332,000 to match the property's current assessed fair market value.

Fort Bridger Airport project moves forward

EVANSTON, Wyo. - An independent engineer's review of fees with Venture Services regarding the Fort Bridger Airport was approved by the commission for a cost of $1,850. The contract involves reviewing the scope of work for the Reconstruct NE GA Apron and Hangar Taxilanes Project, specifically covering design and bidding phase services.

Sheriff secures contract for Forest Service patrols

EVANSTON, Wyo. - Authorization was granted for Uinta County Sheriff Andy Kopp to enter into a $5,000 contract with the U.S. Forest Service to maintain law enforcement patrols on service roads. The expenditure ensures continued coverage in those jurisdictions.

Two appointed to Veterans Board

EVANSTON, Wyo. - Samuel Ottley and Bernadette Ottley were appointed to three-year terms on the Uinta County Veterans Board following a unanimous vote by the commission Tuesday.

O'Neill named to Economic Development Commission

EVANSTON, Wyo. - Rocco O'Neill was appointed to the Uinta County Economic Development Commission for a three-year term following a unanimous vote.

Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below:

Contact Us