Torrington local news summary

Council gives initial approval to new e-bike, scooter regulations

Mayor cites safety concerns as impetus for new scooter rules

City purchases used transformer to replace failed unit

Veterans Day to alter residential trash pickup

Fire department reports successful trunk or treat, high call volume

Goshen County Library honored with statewide award

UW extension reports growth in 4-H youth program

Council gives initial approval to new e-bike, scooter regulations

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – The Torrington City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved the first reading of a comprehensive ordinance aimed at improving the safety of electric bikes, powered scooters, skateboards and traditional bicycles. The proposed regulations, developed in response to resident concerns about unsafe riding, would require helmet use for anyone under 16 operating an e-bike or powered scooter. The measure also establishes a downtown “dismount zone,” clarifies rules for sidewalk and walking path usage, and introduces a $25 fine for juvenile offenders that requires a court appearance with a parent to discuss safety. Police Chief Matt Johnson, who presented the ordinance, said the goal is to change behavior and prevent accidents, not to be punitive. The ordinance will require two more readings before it becomes law.

Mayor cites safety concerns as impetus for new scooter rules

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – In his opening remarks, Mayor Herb Doby framed the new e-bike and scooter ordinance as a necessary measure to protect the “health, safety and welfare” of citizens. He said he and council members, along with the police department, have fielded numerous calls from residents about children on e-bikes and scooters running stop signs, emerging from alleyways and endangering pedestrians. While noting that parental oversight is the best solution, Doby said an updated city ordinance is needed to address new technology and ensure devices are used in a “safe and considerate manner.”

City purchases used transformer to replace failed unit

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – The council approved the payment of bills, which included a $37,000 purchase of a used substation transformer from Southern Public Power District in Grand Island, Nebraska. The 2007 model transformer was acquired to replace a unit that recently failed. Electrical Supervisor Dana Youtz told the council an independent testing agency confirmed the transformer is an “excellent purchase for the price.” Youtz noted the timing was fortunate, as replacing the unit during lower-demand fall months is significantly easier than it would have been in the summer.

Veterans Day to alter residential trash pickup

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – Streets and Sanitation announced that the upcoming Veterans Day holiday will alter the residential trash pickup schedule. Because the holiday falls on a Tuesday, residents with Tuesday pickup will have their trash collected on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025. The Wednesday pickup schedule will remain unchanged. Residents were encouraged to take note of the one-day change for the Tuesday route.

Fire department reports successful trunk or treat, high call volume

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – Fire Chief Luis Correa reported to the council that the recent Trunk or Treat event was a major success, with an estimated 1,000 children in attendance. The department, in partnership with a local church, distributed nearly 600 9-volt batteries for smoke detectors. Correa also noted a recent increase in fire calls, including mutual aid for a structure fire in Fort Laramie, a car fire and multiple dumpster fires. He also announced that the department will participate in the annual Christmas parade and that a new countywide youth firefighting program is being launched to help with recruitment.

Goshen County Library honored with statewide award

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – The Goshen County Library has received the Wyoming Library Association’s prestigious Outstanding Library Award, according to a report presented to the county commission Tuesday. The report, delivered by a library board representative, highlighted projects like the new Makerspace as key to earning the award. In addition to the award, the library announced it is launching a new Veterans Peer Support Group in partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Cheyenne and will begin a programming series in November based on Ken Burns’ documentary on the American Revolution.

UW extension reports growth in 4-H youth program

TORRINGTON, Wyo. – The Goshen County 4-H program is growing, with nine new families and 19 new members joining in October, the University of Wyoming Extension Office reported to commissioners Tuesday. The update was part of a broader report on the extension’s recent community outreach activities. Shelbie Hanlon, the Goshen County 4-H Educator, detailed a busy fall schedule that included an Ag Expo for fourth graders, a social media contest during National 4-H Week and various project meetings. The report underscores the extension’s ongoing efforts to engage local youth and families in agricultural education and leadership development.

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