Rock Springs local news summary
Week of September 15 2025
Ordinance Allowing Minors in Microbreweries Passes on Split Vote
City Advances Major Zoning and Land Use Overhaul
Suicide Prevention and Awareness Takes Center Stage
“Nerf Gun” Ordinance to Decriminalize Toy Guns Passes Second Reading
Commissioner, State Representative Clash Over Proposal to Eliminate Property Tax
Future of Ambulance Service, Potential for Taxing District, Under Discussion
County Approves Nearly $700,000 in New Vehicle Purchases
Young at Heart Senior Center Facing $220,000 Budget Deficit
Fire Restrictions Extended Amid Dry Conditions
Ordinance Allowing Minors in Microbreweries Passes on Split Vote
ROCK SPRINGS - The City Council approved an ordinance that will allow minors to be present in microbreweries until a specified time, a measure that passed on a split vote during its third reading. Councilor Jeannie Demas cast the dissenting vote. The debate highlighted differing philosophies on alcohol regulation and parental responsibility. A council member expressed concern about expanding alcohol access while simultaneously promoting suicide prevention, advocating for better education on the dangers of alcohol. Mayor Mickelson noted that national trends often see businesses self-regulating, and argued that government should put guardrails in place while allowing parents and businesses to be responsible. He stated the city could quickly revert the law if it becomes a problem.
City Advances Major Zoning and Land Use Overhaul
ROCK SPRINGS - The council heard the first reading of a comprehensive ordinance aimed at modernizing the city’s land use and zoning codes. The proposed changes, detailed by city staff, include updating fee schedules for the first time since 2014, clarifying definitions for "major" and "minor" automotive repair, and adding new categories for businesses like nicotine and wellness centers. Notably, the ordinance would permit recreational vehicles (RVs) in manufactured home parks under a new permit system, a move designed to address potential housing shortages. The changes also seek to regulate the placement of portable storage containers, often called ConX boxes, which are currently only permitted in industrial zones.
Suicide Prevention and Awareness Takes Center Stage
ROCK SPRINGS - The council issued a proclamation declaring September as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, highlighting a significant public health challenge in the community. Prevention specialists Shae Haney and another prevention specialist addressed the council, outlining free resources available to residents, including QPR and Mental Health First Aid training. It was noted that while Wyoming has one of the highest suicide rates in the nation, Sweetwater County has recently improved its ranking from the third to the fourth highest county within the state. The mayor encouraged residents to support one another and promoted upcoming awareness events.
“Nerf Gun” Ordinance to Decriminalize Toy Guns Passes Second Reading
ROCK SPRINGS - An ordinance designed to prevent teenagers from being charged with "discharging a firearm" for using a Nerf or Orbeez gun passed its second of three readings. Mayor Mickelson explained the change is intended to align the city’s code with common sense, as the current ordinance could technically classify using such toys as a serious offense. The amended ordinance will still allow for consequences if the toy projectiles are used in a way that causes damage to people or property, ensuring accountability for poor judgment.
Commissioner, State Representative Clash Over Proposal to Eliminate Property Tax
SWEETWATER COUNTY - A tense exchange unfolded between Commissioner Island Richards and a State Representative regarding a petition to eliminate property taxes in Wyoming. After the representative spoke in support of a public commenter, Commissioner Richards questioned her on the petition she signed, asking what plan the legislature has to replace the county's primary funding source. Richards noted that property taxes fund over 60% of the county budget, paying for essential services like libraries, emergency management, and road maintenance. The representative, stating she signed as a citizen, argued that other revenue sources exist and that cuts could be made, suggesting the petition was aimed at homeowner relief. The debate highlighted the growing friction between state-level tax reduction efforts and the practical funding needs of local governments.
Future of Ambulance Service, Potential for Taxing District, Under Discussion
SWEETWATER COUNTY - Commissioners are beginning to plan for the future of ambulance service in Sweetwater County, with the current contract with the current ambulance service provider set to expire at the end of 2027. Chairman Keaton West reported on a meeting with officials from the ambulance service to discuss long-term funding stability. A key option being considered is the establishment of a special improvement district, which would require voter approval on a future ballot. The county currently provides an annual subsidy of up to $1.8 million for the service. Commissioners expect to hold more in-depth discussions on the matter at an upcoming meeting to determine the best path forward.
County Approves Nearly $700,000 in New Vehicle Purchases
SWEETWATER COUNTY - The commission approved the purchase of ten new vehicles for various county departments, awarding bids totaling $697,544.50. The purchases, which were included in the 2026 capital projects budget, were awarded to Fremont Chevrolet GMC of Riverton and Fremont Motors of Lander. The new fleet vehicles include a Chevy Tahoe and three Dodge Durango pursuit vehicles for the Sheriff's Office, a Ford Escape, four Ram 2500 crew cab pickups for the Road & Bridge department, and a ProMaster cargo van for Facilities Maintenance.
Young at Heart Senior Center Facing $220,000 Budget Deficit
SWEETWATER COUNTY - The Young at Heart Senior Citizens Center is grappling with a significant financial shortfall, Chairman Keaton West reported during his commissioner comments. At a recent board meeting for the senior center, it was revealed that the organization is facing a $220,000 budget deficit. The board, which includes four new members, is working to understand the budget complexities and is planning a workshop to address the funding issues. The deficit poses a potential challenge to the vital services the center provides to seniors in the community.
Fire Restrictions Extended Amid Dry Conditions
SWEETWATER COUNTY - Citing ongoing dry conditions, the Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to extend Stage 1 fire restrictions. The order, which was set to expire on September 3, will now remain in effect until September 17, 2025. County Fire Warden Alan Adams reported that despite recent moisture, fuel levels remain low and other regional agencies, including the BLM, are keeping their restrictions in place indefinitely. The commission will revisit the issue at its next regular meeting.
Commissioner, State Representative Clash Over Proposal to Eliminate Property Tax
SWEETWATER COUNTY - A tense exchange unfolded between Commissioner Island Richards and a State Representative regarding a petition to eliminate property taxes in Wyoming. After the representative spoke in support of a public commenter, Commissioner Richards questioned her on the petition she signed, asking what plan the legislature has to replace the county's primary funding source. Richards noted that property taxes fund over 60% of the county budget, paying for essential services like libraries, emergency management, and road maintenance. The representative, stating she signed as a citizen, argued that other revenue sources exist and that cuts could be made, suggesting the petition was aimed at homeowner relief. The debate highlighted the growing friction between state-level tax reduction efforts and the practical funding needs of local governments.
Future of Ambulance Service, Potential for Taxing District, Under Discussion
SWEETWATER COUNTY - Commissioners are beginning to plan for the future of ambulance service in Sweetwater County, with the current contract with the current ambulance service provider set to expire at the end of 2027. Chairman Keaton West reported on a meeting with officials from the ambulance service to discuss long-term funding stability. A key option being considered is the establishment of a special improvement district, which would require voter approval on a future ballot. The county currently provides an annual subsidy of up to $1.8 million for the service. Commissioners expect to hold more in-depth discussions on the matter at an upcoming meeting to determine the best path forward.
County Approves Nearly $700,000 in New Vehicle Purchases
SWEETWATER COUNTY - The commission approved the purchase of ten new vehicles for various county departments, awarding bids totaling $697,544.50. The purchases, which were included in the 2026 capital projects budget, were awarded to Fremont Chevrolet GMC of Riverton and Fremont Motors of Lander. The new fleet vehicles include a Chevy Tahoe and three Dodge Durango pursuit vehicles for the Sheriff's Office, a Ford Escape, four Ram 2500 crew cab pickups for the Road & Bridge department, and a ProMaster cargo van for Facilities Maintenance.
Young at Heart Senior Center Facing $220,000 Budget Deficit
SWEETWATER COUNTY - The Young at Heart Senior Citizens Center is grappling with a significant financial shortfall, Chairman Keaton West reported during his commissioner comments. At a recent board meeting for the senior center, it was revealed that the organization is facing a $220,000 budget deficit. The board, which includes four new members, is working to understand the budget complexities and is planning a workshop to address the funding issues. The deficit poses a potential challenge to the vital services the center provides to seniors in the community.
Fire Restrictions Extended Amid Dry Conditions
SWEETWATER COUNTY - Citing ongoing dry conditions, the Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to extend Stage 1 fire restrictions. The order, which was set to expire on September 3, will now remain in effect until September 17, 2025. County Fire Warden Alan Adams reported that despite recent moisture, fuel levels remain low and other regional agencies, including the BLM, are keeping their restrictions in place indefinitely. The commission will revisit the issue at its next regular meeting.
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