Public Meetings - Sheridan, Wyoming

The Sheridan City Council met on November 2, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:54 p.m., with Mayor Bridger presiding. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation by Joel Bingman, and a moment of silence for Paul Del Rossi, described as a devoted city champion who died earlier that day in Billings. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved after council pulled the Sheridan Recreation District rules and regulations from consent and moved them to new business. - Council approved the consent agenda: minutes of the regular council meeting of October 19, 2026; minutes of the special council meeting of October 22, 2026; and claims. Public Comments & Testimony - No member of the public signed up to speak, and no one came forward during the public comment period. Community Updates - Christine Dietrich presented for Habitat for Humanity of Eastern Bighorns. She said the local affiliate has operated in Sheridan for 32 years and expanded into Buffalo; Habitat International is marking 30 years. She was recently elected to the Habitat for Humanity International U.S. Council, described as the first Wyoming representation in 50 years. Programs include traditional homeownership with 30-year 0% interest loans, home repairs, a temporary crisis fund, and a housing land trust. The affiliate is on houses 80 and 81, has served 103 families and 311 individuals through the traditional program, and welcomed five new partner families that week. Home repairs had nine completed year-to-date and served 42 people; the temporary crisis fund ran out of money before year-end because demand exceeded available anonymous funding. Weston Village had 29 of 30 homes sold or under contract, with certificate of occupancy on the 30th home in October. Buffalo's Eagle Summit project is planned for 24 lots plus five acres of community space. Dietrich confirmed that GPET funds discussed for Sheridan were not used in Buffalo and were strictly for traditional Habitat ownership programs. - Cassie Sundberg and Rachel Ramsey presented a Zonta Club of the Wyoming Bighorns proclamation. The club is in its third year as a chartered Zonta club and is participating in the 16 Days of Activism from November 25 to December 10. Zonta International was described as having more than 26,000 members in 64 countries and more than 1,100 clubs, with the Zonta Says No campaign active since 2012. A panel discussion is scheduled for November 18 at 5:30 p.m. at The Hub with the Advocacy and Resource Center, Sheridan Memorial Hospital sexual assault nurse examiners, a Sheridan College criminal justice instructor, and Levi Dominguez of the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office. Orange ribbons will be placed on downtown trees around November 23-24 and removed December 11. The proclamation designates November 25, 2026 as Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women Day in Sheridan. Staff Update: Fleet - Fleet and Administrative Coordinator Heather Kaplinski reported that when she began working on fleet at the end of FY23 there was no master list. She built one from physical files, Google files, and CityWorks, then had divisions verify it. The shared master fleet spreadsheet includes owned assets, surplus history, tentative replacement schedules, and insurance information. - The city fleet contains 393 assets, excluding small and attractive inventory. That includes 7 passenger vehicles outside police and fire; 36 police assets; 55 light-duty trucks up to one ton; 5 heavy-duty class 4, 5, and 7 vehicles; 13 dump trucks; 2 vacuum trucks; 3 sweepers; 42 pieces of equipment; 25 trailers; 11 trailer-mounted equipment items; 27 utility vehicles; 17 solid waste, recycling, and hook-lift trucks; 15 Sheridan Fire Rescue assets; 57 lawn, parks, and golf assets; 39 snow equipment items; 6 forklifts; 1 scissor lift; 6 generators; and 29 miscellaneous items. - Over the last four years, the city purchased 109 assets and expensed almost $10.8 million. In FY26 the city had received 21 of 23 budgeted assets, awaiting a fire engine replacing Engine 2 and a bucket truck. In the current year, 12 of 19 budgeted assets had been received, with six police and passenger trucks expected by the end of January and the second fire engine replacing Engine 1 expected in the third quarter of calendar 2027. Surplus activity over four years produced almost $710,000 in net proceeds from 76 of 85 surplused assets; some items were returned, scrapped, or transferred, including an ambulance to Wyoming Regional EMS. - The city uses Cartegraph as its asset management system, excluding fire and police, with data tracked from January 2025 forward. The Vehicle Replacement Rating score is on a 1-to-100 risk scale but is not expected to be useful for six to eight years. Fuel cards are through WEX, with 1.7% off the posted pump price credited quarterly; on-site tanks remain with Farmers, with a 2% discount. Kaplinski said estimated replacement costs assume a 5% annual increase and described the fleet as improved, perhaps a B-minus, while warning that a full citywide replacement schedule would require significant reserve funding. - Council members praised the level of detail and tracking in the fleet update. Old Business: Rezone at 4250 Yellowtail Drive - City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented the second reading of PL-26-39, Ordinance 2307-26, to rezone 26.30 acres at 4250 Yellowtail Drive, Lot 1 of Eagle View subdivision, from Higher Education District with a small R3 Residential strip to B2 Business District. The property is owned by Sheridan College and houses the college agri-park; the adjacent future high-tech business park phase two is in the light industrial area of the Wrench Ranch master plan phase two. Staff sent notices to six surrounding property owners, published a legal ad, and verified posting; no public questions, comments, or concerns were received. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval, and staff recommended approval. - Schroeder said the assessor's office called after the first reading to clarify that property tax exempt status depends on both ownership and use; a city-owned parcel leased to a private business generating commercial income could likely be taxed. Councilmember Patzick said he had spoken against the rezone at first reading because of concerns about nonprofits and churches holding property for speculation or keeping land off the market and about tax-exempt property shifting the burden to other taxpayers. He said he would set aside his personal view and vote yes because the Planning Commission recommended approval, no public comment was received, staff supported it, and the request was a legal rezone. Schroeder confirmed the subject property is not currently in the Gateway District or Wrench Ranch master plan and a B2 rezone would not make it subject to that plan. - The second reading passed on a roll-call vote with all recorded council votes in favor. New Business: Sheridan Recreation District Rules and Regulations - Alex Mock, executive director of the Sheridan Recreation District, presented the updated rules and regulations. Councilmember Patzick questioned whether board removal provisions and purchasing provisions conflicted with Wyoming statutes cited in the transcript as 18-9-201 and 18-9-202. He noted the rules allow the board to remove a director by two-thirds vote and allow the executive director to oversee purchasing with board supervision and approval, while the statutes discuss removal by the governing body and payment approval with the treasurer's signature. Mock said the rules were developed under attorney Christopher Sherwood, based on the 2003 rules and the city-school agreement, and that the main purpose of the update was to align with the agreement's change from five to seven board members. Mock said the board reviews and approves claims monthly, and requiring the treasurer to sign every check would make recruiting a volunteer treasurer difficult. He said the district has no immediate deadline, but changes would need to go back to the Recreation District Board and the school district, likely pushing final approval to December. - Mayor Bridger raised concern about council-appointed members being subject to removal and supported legal review. Councilmember Patzick moved to postpone approval until the two issues are checked against Wyoming statute and corrected if necessary; the motion was seconded and passed 6-1. Council Reports and Announcements - CEDA is moving forward to fill its director position and is working on a job description and pay range. - The Northeast Wyoming Alliance had no recent meeting; Kelly Miller sent legislative updates as the session approaches. - The Critical Air Service Team reported airport construction, lit bollards along the pathway between regular and long-term parking, completed taxiways with a larger de-ice area, and reopened runway 14. Four flights will be added starting in January on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays; starting in June, all days will have three flights. Free airport parking was highlighted. - Public hearings on changes to the Sheridan Area Water System operating and ownership agreements will be advertised for public comment; the first is November 18 at 9 a.m. in council chambers. - DSA reported that the streets department provided snowplows for Monster Mash, which drew 975 kids and adults to the museum; holiday shopping spree runs all November; the Capitol Christmas Tree will be in Sheridan on December 9 from 6 to 8 p.m.; and an artist talk with Alston Littleton about the Iron Rider sculpture is November 7 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the museum, with the talk at 4:30. - City Administrator reminded residents that Election Day is November 3 and that taking political signs from private property can result in trespassing or misdemeanor theft charges. He also noted upcoming gaming commission accountability measures for Calcutta fundraisers and the November 11 screening of Returning from Vietnam at Sheridan College. He congratulated Ashley for achieving Certified Municipal Clerk designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. - A council member announced the Sheridan County Community Holiday Dinners will return December 6 at the Ramada from 4 to 7 p.m., with plans for 1,000 meals, Santa giving gifts to children, and free tickets required so organizers can count meals. - A council member asked Public Works Director Hans about completion of the South Sheridan Avenue project and new WYDOT delineations; staff said they would research and respond. The mayor encouraged residents to continue patronizing businesses in the construction area. Key Outcomes - Rezone of 26.30 acres at 4250 Yellowtail Drive to B2 Business District approved on second reading as Ordinance 2307-26; all recorded council votes were in favor. - Sheridan Recreation District rules and regulations postponed 6-1 pending legal review of board removal and payment approval provisions against Wyoming statutes; the item will return after review by the Recreation District Board and school district, likely in December. - Consent agenda approved, including October 19 and October 22, 2026 meeting minutes and claims. - No public comment was offered. - The meeting adjourned at 6:54 p.m.

The Sheridan City Council held a special meeting on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 2:30 PM with a quorum present. The sole agenda item was approval of $172,920 in quarterly payments to the Sheridan Recreation District for July and October 2026 (a contractual obligation). Key Outcomes - Approved the July and October quarterly payments to the Sheridan Recreation District in the amount of $172,920. The motion passed unanimously (4 ayes: Lumen, Whitzel, Patzig, Mayor Bircher; absent: Brandt, Wood, Lightman). A motion to adjourn was also approved unanimously.

The regular city council meeting was called to order at 5:30 PM on October 19, 2026, with all council members present. The meeting included community updates from Sage Community Arts, a fiscal year 26 fourth-quarter budget review, public comments, a public hearing on a rezoning request, and a resolution for a stop sign installation. The meeting adjourned at 6:41 PM. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously by voice vote. - The consent agenda (minutes of October 5, 2026, and claims) was approved with one recusal: Mayor Bridger recused himself from item 129 due to a conflict of interest. Public Comments & Testimony - Thomas Jones spoke about the proposed four-way stop at North Scott Street and East Brundage Street. He opposed the current plan, arguing it would increase traffic on Sheridan Avenue, and instead urged the council to prioritize a four-way stop at Sheridan Avenue and Brundage Street near the M-M Center, citing blind spots and heavy traffic from west-side development and high school students. The mayor noted staff would review the suggestion. - Gene Hale, Emergency Manager for the Veterans Administration, read a thank-you letter expressing gratitude for the city's rapid response to a water line break at the VA facility on the previous Friday. He praised the professionalism and collaboration of the city utilities department. Discussion Items - Community Update: Sage Community Arts – Executive Director Jill Benson presented highlights of the organization's year, funded in part by GPEP grants. Key statistics included: 11 art camps with 156 youth campers, 15 community classes with over 120 participants, $19,000 in art sales with 65% returned to artists, and a traveling exhibition opening in Casper and Texas. She emphasized that all exhibitions and programming remain free to the public. Council members thanked her and expressed hope that GPEP funding would continue in November. - Staff Update: Fiscal Year 26 Fourth Quarter Budget Review – City Treasurer Darla Hawkins presented the final quarterly review for FY26. Revenue in the general fund exceeded budgeted amounts. Enterprise fund revenues were artificially deflated due to loan revenue budgeting in FY26 (to be corrected in FY27). Expenditures were mostly within budget (80–94% for governmental funds), though enterprise funds had some categories over budget. Fleet purchases faced challenges with price increases and lead times; two items (wildland skid unit and loader) were deferred to FY27. Hawkins noted that all departments remained within budget as required by state statute. She also announced that future budget reviews will be consolidated into two semi-annual presentations. Council members praised the transparency and work of the treasurer. - Public Hearing: Rezone PL-26-39 (Ordinance 2307-26) – City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented a request to rezone 26.3 acres at 4250 Yellowtail Drive from Higher Education and R3 Residential to B2 Business District. The applicant intends to build a church on the property. The B2 district allows a wide range of uses but excludes heavy industrial uses. The property is currently vacant and split-zoned due to past annexation and subdivision. Adjacent uses include light industrial (gateway district), Sheridan College Agri-Park, and vacant land. The planning commission unanimously recommended approval. No public comments were received. Council discussion included concerns about removing the property from the tax rolls if owned by a church (Councilmember Brantz opposed for this reason) and whether the rezoning constituted spot zoning. Staff argued B2 was the most appropriate district given the light industrial context. The motion to approve the first reading passed 6–1, with Councilmember Brantz voting no. - New Business: Resolution 2126 – Stop Sign at North Scott and East Brundage – City Engineer Thomas Marnot presented the resolution to install all-way stop control at the intersection. The crash warrant was met, with seven reported crashes between 2024 and 2026 (six over three years is the threshold). The intersection had previously been temporarily converted to a four-way stop during downtown construction, receiving positive feedback. Staff recommended permanent installation. The resolution was approved unanimously by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing – Rezone (Ordinance 2307-26): Approved on first reading by a vote of 6–1 (Councilmember Brantz opposed). The ordinance will require two more readings. - Resolution 2126 – Stop Sign Installation: Approved unanimously. The Public Works Director is authorized to proceed with installation of all-way stop signs at North Scott Street and East Brundage Street. - Consent Agenda: Approved with one recusal (Mayor Bridger on item 129). - Future Action: The council noted that the Sheridan Area Water System joint city-county meeting on November 18 at 9 AM will take testimony on revisions to operating and ownership agreements. The Christmas stroll button design winner will be announced the following day. Staff will evaluate the suggestion of a no-left-turn restriction at Park Street during the Work Street bridge replacement project.

The Sheridan Mayor and City Council held a study session on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 5:59 PM. The meeting opened with two staff presentations: a proposed rezoning for a 26.3-acre property on Yellowtail Drive and a proposed all-way stop conversion at North Scott Street and East Brundage Street. It ended with general discussion of potential future agenda items. No formal votes were taken. Agenda and minutes were not provided; this summary is based on the raw transcript. Rezone – PL-26-39 / Ordinance 2307-26 - City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented a request to rezone a 26.3-acre property at 404250 Yellowtail Drive, currently zoned Higher Education with a small R3 Residential sliver, to B2 Business District. The property is Lot 1 of Eagle View Subdivision. - The applicants plan to build a church on the property in the future. B2 was identified as the best fit, partly because it is the closest zoning district to the light industrial uses planned in the surrounding area. The parcel was annexed in 2013 with the intent of a First People Center for Education Headquarters, but that original vision never materialized. - The property is in the Gateway District and is governed by the Wrench Ranch Master Plan. Surrounding uses include High Tech Business Park Phase 1, the future High Tech Business Park Phase 2, Sheridan College Agri-Park, and commercial and light industrial uses. The 2017 future land use map showed agriculture for the area, but staff said actual development and planned infrastructure make B2 more appropriate. - B2 allows all uses except a list of 47 prohibited heavy-industrial uses and does not allow special exemptions. Maximum building height equals the width of the fronting right-of-way; Yellowtail Drive is 120 feet wide. There is no minimum lot size; setbacks are zero except dwellings require a 10-foot rear yard and 5-foot side yards; parking requirements depend on the use. - Staff sent notifications to six surrounding property owners, published a legal ad, and posted a sign on the property. No questions, comments, or concerns were received. Staff recommended approval; the Planning Commission was scheduled to review the item that evening. A rezone requires three readings, beginning the following week. - Council questions included the original education use, the future west corridor/beltway connection (shown in front of the property), and the tax implications of a possible church. One council member questioned whether rezoning 26 acres to B2 for a potential nonprofit church would reduce taxable economic potential. The mayor and staff responded that B2 allows a broad range of potential revenue-generating uses, and the planner noted the property is owned by John E. Rice and Sons, with a majority held by the University of Wyoming. The land use plan update was also discussed; Schroeder said work with a consultant had recently begun and public engagement is expected in November. Stop Signs – Resolution 2126 - City Engineer Thomas Murnault proposed adding two stop signs at North Scott Street and East Brundage Street, converting the intersection from a two-way stop to an all-way stop. Traffic on Brundage already stops; Scott Street currently has free-flowing north/south traffic. - The recommendation is based on crash history and MUTCD guidelines. The intersection had seven crashes in the 2021–2023 window and seven crashes in the 2024–2026 window, exceeding the MUTCD threshold of six crashes in 36 months. The Transportation Master Plan also lists it as one of the city's higher-crash intersections. - Nearby development and activity has increased, including the new Co-op building, the Columbus building, Burns Insurance, a new apartment complex, and the Whitney Center/hockey rink area. The proposal only adds the two stop signs; no restriping or reconfiguration is planned. - Council members noted positive feedback about temporary stop signs used during construction and asked about the existing westbound turn lane onto Scott Street. Murnault said the painted turn lane serves the westbound-to-northbound movement from Sheridan Avenue. The recommendation to approve the resolution and authorize the public works director to act was scheduled for the following council meeting. General Discussion and Potential Future Agenda Items - City Administrator Stuart McRae said Dan Roberts will sit in for him at the next regular meeting because McRae will be at the ICMA conference. - Councilmember Jack spoke in favor of integrating lower-income housing with market-rate housing. He proposed, for example, asking a developer building 80 houses to make about 10% (eight houses) lower-income units in exchange for a lot-cost incentive, and using smaller lots or smaller homes to blend incomes rather than separating low-income housing. - Councilmember Jack also asked for an economic development update on manufacturing recruitment, noting the last large manufacturer in the area was Weatherby about eight years ago. McRae said the city is reviewing the job description for the person who solicits economic development; the mayor suggested scheduling a CETA update and noted the business park will provide additional lots. - Councilmember Greg praised the new stop signs at Burkett and Gold and the removal of three oversized flower containers. He also said the recent Citizens Academy raised housing and incentives questions and asked to explore possible city housing incentives with staff or a broader committee. - A council member voiced concern about taxpayer-funded housing incentives, saying it is not the city's job to build houses but to create a regulatory environment conducive to building housing. - The same council member proposed considering a resolution opposing data centers within city limits, citing water scarcity and Wyoming's headwaters for five major river systems, and said it could set an example for surrounding jurisdictions. The mayor said no data center has expressed interest in Sheridan, that water-use considerations should be examined further, and that he is willing to look into the issue. - The 2021 housing study was also discussed. The mayor said it projected a need for roughly 900-plus housing units over 10 years, through 2031, and that the city has been broadly on track, with multifamily housing and apartments as the main gap. A council member asked for updated numbers comparing the study recommendations to current progress; staff agreed to provide that comparison. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or ordinance adoptions occurred at this study session. - Staff recommended approval of PL-26-39 / Ordinance 2307-26; the rezone will go to council for three readings starting the following week. - Resolution 2126 is scheduled for council action the following week; staff recommended approval and delegation to the public works director. - Staff will provide updated housing data comparing the 2021 housing study to current conditions. - Council will continue discussion of housing incentives and economic development/manufacturing recruitment; the mayor indicated willingness to research data-center water use and potential local policies.

The October 12, 2026 Sheridan City Planning Commission meeting was called to order by Chairperson Kerbs. Commissioners Franklin, Benson, Peterson, Campbell, and Chairperson Kerbs were present; Commissioner Franzman was absent. The agenda and minutes from September 28, 2026 were approved unanimously. The sole agenda item was a public hearing and recommendation on a rezone request (PL 26‑39, Ordinance 2307‑26) for 4250 Yellowtail Drive. Consent Calendar - Agenda: Adopted as presented. - Minutes: Minutes of September 28, 2026 approved. Discussion Items - Rezone Request (PL 26‑39, Ordinance 2307‑26). City Planner Shorter presented the application. The 26.3‑acre property, Lot 1 of Eagle View Subdivision, is currently zoned higher education with a sliver of R3 residential. The applicant requests a B2 business district designation to allow construction of a church. The current zoning dates to the 2013 annexation, when the higher‑education classification was intended for a Native American education center that never materialized. When the lot was subdivided in 2024, the zoning was not updated, resulting in misaligned property and zoning boundaries. Adjacent parcels are part of the Wrench Ranch Phase 2 master plan (gateway district) and include light‑industrial, commercial, and mixed‑use zones. The B2 business district permits any use except 47 specified heavy‑industrial uses (e.g., acid manufacture, asphalt production, stockyards), with no special exemptions allowed. Building height is limited to the width of the right‑of‑way (120 feet on Yellowtail Drive); there are no minimum lot sizes, no setback requirements except for dwellings (10 ft rear, 5 ft sides), and no architectural or landscaping regulations. The 2017 future‑land‑use map designated the area for agriculture, but subsequent infrastructure investments have attracted industrial and commercial development, making B2 a more appropriate classification. Staff recommends a positive recommendation. Commissioner questions addressed: - Buffers and proximity of churches to industrial uses (staff: no special buffer requirements; the church’s location is the applicant’s decision). - Treatment of ancillary uses like a school (they are considered part of the primary church use). - Misaligned zoning and property lines (staff acknowledged the issue and will require a concurrent rezone when the adjacent parcel is subdivided). - Commissioner Franklin inquired about a potential historic grazing restriction that might affect properties west of the arena. Staff responded that no such restriction appeared in the title commitment for this property; if it exists, it would be addressed at the building‑permit stage. - Public Comment: No public comments were offered. Key Outcomes - Motion: A commissioner moved to recommend approval of PL 26‑39 (Ordinance 2307‑26) to the Sheridan City Council. The motion was seconded. - Vote: The motion passed by unanimous voice vote (all ayes, no nays). - Next Steps: The ordinance will have three readings before the City Council, starting October 26, 2026. - Commission Announcement: Chairperson Kerbs announced the resignation of Commissioner Morneau and that the seat is being advertised. Commissioners were reminded to give notice of any attendance conflicts, particularly with the reduced membership. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m.

The Sheridan City Council met Monday, October 5, 2026, beginning at 6:05 p.m. Councilmember Lumen was absent. The meeting opened with an invocation by Mr. Cullen of First Assembly of God Church, followed by roll call and unanimous approval of the agenda. Council heard community updates, a building division report, conducted a public hearing on a business park plat, approved two capital items, and postponed a decision on ARPA interest distribution. Consent Calendar - The council approved the agenda as presented by unanimous voice vote. - The consent agenda was approved with no opposition; the mayor recused from item 178 citing a conflict of interest. The consent agenda included: - Appointment of Chad Rootlog to the Fire Civil Service Commission for the unexpired term of Aaron Linden, expiring December 31, 2028. - Professional services agreement with Shanner & Franklin LLC for municipal court prosecuting attorney. - Minutes from the regular council meeting of September 21, 2026. - Claims list. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak or offered comments during the meeting. - The public hearing for the Blacktooth Business Park plat was closed at 6:23 p.m. after no public comment was offered at the council level. Community Updates Museum at the Bighorns - Wendy Neeson, vice president of the board, reported the museum relocated downtown from its former Fifth Street location, with the move occurring around December 2024. - Since reopening, the museum has served over 500 elementary-age students through downtown history tours and scavenger hunts and hosted nearly 300 people through organizations such as the Wyoming Archaeological Society, Downtown Sheridan Association, and Wyoming History Society. - More than 3,200 visitors have come through the museum since reopening. - Permanent exhibits are being finalized with an organization from Cheyenne and are expected to open in 2027. - The County Three fundraising campaign will launch publicly in the next couple weeks; donors can contribute as little as $3 via QR code. Sheridan Community Foundation - Mark Kinner, president, and James McGuinness, vice president, presented the foundation's mission to support charitable giving and encourage philanthropy in Sheridan. - The foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity, organized for about three years, with nearly $3.5 million in assets and 5% of the fund distributed annually. - Eleven nonprofits have signed up with combined endowments of approximately $1.3 million, generating an additional $65,000 per year for their charitable missions. - The foundation also operates a community fund for smaller nonprofits; a $500 grant to the Claremont Arveda Historical Center was cited as an example. - The Class of 1976 has adopted the foundation as a reunion charity, and some families have included planned gifts in their wills. - Councilmembers thanked the presenters and praised the charitable, community-minded culture of Sheridan. Staff Update: Building Division - Permit Technician Ashley Garcia presented the building division update for March through September 2026. - The division reported 102 residential permits, including more than 30 residential additions or alterations; 7 new commercial permits; and nearly 30 commercial additions or alterations, for 138 permits overall. - There were 769 simple permits, largely roofing permits, 73 new contractor license applications, 337 license renewals, and 1,940 inspections. - Active projects include Citco Federal Credit Union moving into the old Best Western office, an addition at Emit for powder coating, and Sheridan College Science Center renovations to the existing 22,000-square-foot building plus a two-story addition of about 14,000 square feet. - A student-built house has been permitted and will later be moved to a permanent foundation; students are learning carpentry and the administrative side, with subcontractors handling plumbing and electrical. - General permit thresholds cited: $3,000 valuation or 200 square feet for building work; $1,000 for electrical or plumbing work; and 240 square feet for accessory sheds or utility buildings. Public Hearing and Council Action: Blacktooth Business Park Final Plat - City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented PL-26-34, Resolution 2026, for the final plat of Blacktooth Business Park at 3150 Heartland Drive. - The 53.72-acre site is zoned B2 Business District and falls partly within the city's entryway corridor; the subdivision will create 15 lots ranging from 0.84 to 12.5 acres, with no minimum lot sizes or open-space requirements in B2. - Two new rights-of-way will be dedicated: Heartland Drive as a 39-foot roadway with a 5-foot sidewalk and 10-foot pathway within the park, and Dry Ranch Road in a 60-foot right-of-way with improvements up to Solutions Way, including a 20-foot gravel emergency access road requiring a variance. - Secondary access will be satisfied through a physical connection to a transportation corridor in the adopted transportation plan, including future Middle East Corridor and Dry Ranch Road projects. - Fire-safety review noted the existing Dry Ranch Road/Brundage Lane bottleneck; future apartment development or other high-demand uses would require a fully constructed secondary access. Commercial fire flows cannot currently be achieved at the highest elevations on lots 13, 14, and 15 without future pressure-zone extensions or fire protection measures, so a note was added to the plat. - Staff mailed notices to eight surrounding property owners and received no public comments. The Planning Commission heard from two neighboring individuals who raised questions about construction access, parking, and visibility but otherwise supported the project, and voted unanimously to recommend approval with the requested variance. - Council approved the final plat and variance, with approval contingent on the dedication of the Heartland Drive right-of-way through the Whitney Benefits property. New Business Fifth and Main Curb Reconstruction Bid Award - City Engineer Thomas Marneau recommended awarding the Fifth and Main curb reconstruction project to SSR Construction Inc. for $73,637.50; the engineer's estimate was $79,846.25. - The project will replace the existing 30-foot curb radius at the northwest corner with a 44-foot radius, allowing large trucks to turn without hitting the curb or ADA panels. The city acquired an additional 127 square feet of right-of-way behind the traffic signal pole for ADA compliance. - The project is funded by GPET, the community's extra penny sales tax. Council approved the bid award by voice vote without opposition. - Future work on Fifth Street includes the Fifth and Valvista signalized intersection project planned for spring/summer 2027. Whitney Benefits Right-of-Way Dedication - Council considered and approved the dedication of a permanent 60-foot right-of-way by Whitney Benefits to the City of Sheridan, related to the Heartland Drive extension and Blacktooth Business Park plat. ARPA Interest Distribution to Habitat for Humanity - City Treasurer Dara Hawkins explained that $70,700.30 in interest accrued on ARPA funds received by Sheridan County is unrestricted and was being considered for allocation to Habitat for Humanity. Any spending would still require a budget revision. - A councilmember moved to postpone the item to the November 16, 2026 regular council meeting; the motion passed by voice vote. - The stated reason was to wait for election results and better understand potential impacts on city finances, including a 50% property tax initiative and the fifth penny ballot measure. The mayor spoke in favor of postponement. Council Comments and Committee Reports - Mayor reported on the Sheridan Economic Education and Development Authority, including continued work on the business park and discussions about a potential CETA board role in housing. - Reports were given for Northeast Wyoming Alliance, Critical Air Service Team, and Sheridan Area Water Service; SAWS has updated its ownership and operating agreement and will discuss it at the October 14 commissioner/city meeting. - City Administrator Stu reported that SPAC is beginning fundraising for the Iron Rider sculpture and that representatives from Hill Point Developers, a Georgia-based apartment developer specializing in roughly 300-unit complexes, are considering Sheridan for housing development. - Rotary Club is working with public works on restoring and relighting the North Main sign; the Fire Department will receive the 2026 Citizens Choice Award plaque on October 6 at 7:30 a.m. - Early voting was announced to begin October 6. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda and consent agenda, with the mayor recusing from item 178. - Approved the Blacktooth Business Park final plat and associated variance. - Awarded the Fifth and Main curb reconstruction contract to SSR Construction Inc. for $73,637.50. - Approved the permanent 60-foot Whitney Benefits right-of-way dedication. - Postponed the $70,700.30 ARPA interest distribution decision to November 16, 2026. - Adjourned by unanimous voice vote after committee reports.

The Sheridan City Council held a study session on September 28, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting covered six agenda items: distribution of American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) interest earnings, a professional services agreement for a municipal court prosecuting attorney, the final plat of Blacktooth Business Park, a bid award for the Fifth and Main curb reconstruction project, and a brief update on the citizen academy. No formal votes were taken; discussions were held to provide staff with direction for future action. Discussion of ARPA Interest Funds - City Treasurer Darla Hawkins reported that $70,700 in interest earnings from ARPA funds previously designated for the housing land trust project were now unrestricted. She presented options: allocate the funds to another housing project (such as Habitat for Humanity), other city priorities, or retain in the general fund. - Mayor and Council discussed the request from Habitat for Humanity for the funds. Councilmember Steve Brant expressed concern that the discussion had already occurred with the organization before council input, and suggested holding the funds due to uncertain future revenues, particularly from a potential property tax proposition. Councilmember (unnamed, referred to as Councilwoman) echoed concerns about city finances, noting reserves at minimum levels and the need for equipment funding. Another councilmember (unnamed) supported rolling the interest into the original housing program, calling it "clean." A fourth councilmember (unnamed) agreed with the majority to return the money to the general fund, stating Habitat for Humanity's housing production was minor relative to need and opposing government-subsidized construction. Legal counsel confirmed the interest was unrestricted general fund money because ARPA obligations were satisfied. Staff had no position and sought council guidance. - Outcome: The council consensus leaned toward retaining the funds in the general fund, but no formal action was taken. The item is expected to appear on a future council agenda for a vote. Discussion of Professional Services Agreement for Municipal Court Prosecuting Attorney - City Clerk Ashley Tragmo presented a proposal to contract with Shannon and Franklin LLC (currently the city attorney firm) for the prosecuting attorney position, left vacant by the appointment of Mr. Lanegar as municipal court judge. The contract is identical to the previous one and will not affect the FY27 budget. The transition is expected to be effective next week. - No council questions or opposition were voiced. The item is anticipated to be approved at the next regular council meeting. Discussion of Final Plat of Blacktooth Business Park (PL-26-34) - City Planner Kelly Shorterwalk presented the final plat for 53 acres at the bottom of Dry Ranch Road (3150 Heartland Drive), zoned B-2 business district. The subdivision proposes 15 lots (0.84 to 12.5 acres) with no minimum lot size or open space requirements. New right-of-way dedications for Heartland Drive and Dry Ranch Road are included. A variance request seeks to improve Dry Ranch Road with a 20-foot gravel emergency access instead of full city standard (39-foot paved). Secondary access will be satisfied via a connection to a transportation corridor identified in the 2026 Transportation Master Plan (Middle East Corridor and Dry Ranch Road projects). Utility extensions (16-inch water main, 8-inch sewer main) will be installed by the developer. Fire flow limitations on lots 13–15 may require future suppression systems. No public comments were received. Planning commission was to consider the plat the same evening, with a recommendation to council contingent on dedication of Heartland Drive right-of-way through the Whitney Benefits property. - Council members asked about gateway zoning (entryway corridor overlay district applies to lots along I-90), the developer (Heartland Assets, LLC, registered in Las Vegas), and the awkward jog at Solutions Way. Staff noted the jog is not part of this subdivision due to unclear jurisdiction. The council expressed support for the commercial development opportunities. Discussion of Bid Award for Fifth and Main Curb Reconstruction Project - City Engineer Thomas Mono presented a project to improve the turning radius at the northwest corner of Fifth and Main streets from 30 feet to 44 feet, addressing truck tire tracks on sidewalks and ADA ramps. The city acquired 120 square feet of right-of-way behind the signal pole. Bids were opened September 15; SSR Construction Inc. was the low qualified bidder at $73,637.50 (engineer's estimate was $79,000). The project is funded by the "extra penny" sales tax. Construction is expected to take 30–45 days, with pedestrian detours but likely no vehicular detours. The project is the first phase of improvements to Fifth Street; a design for the Fifth and Valvista intersection (including dedicated left-turn lanes) is underway, with construction planned for spring/summer 2027. The Mydland Bridge deck replacement is also scheduled for summer 2027. - Council members praised the project for addressing truck safety. Questions focused on eliminating on-street parking along Fifth Street between Valvista and Main as part of the upcoming project, and coordinating detours during bridge work. Direction was given to proceed with awarding the contract at the next council meeting. Other Business - Mayor noted that Wednesday would conclude the seven-week citizen academy with a graduation ceremony and a "citizens choice award" for a city department. Councilmembers also commended the new 20-mph school zone light on Midland Avenue near the high school for improving traffic safety. Key Outcomes - ARPA Interest Funds: Council direction leaned toward retaining the $70,700 in the general fund, though no formal vote was taken. The item will return for action. - Municipal Court Prosecutor: The council will consider approving the contract with Shannon and Franklin LLC at the next regular meeting. - Blacktooth Business Park Plat: Staff will forward the planning commission's recommendation (contingent on Heartland Drive dedication) to the city council for final approval. - Fifth and Main Curb Project: The council will vote to award the bid to SSR Construction Inc. at the next meeting. Construction is targeted for fall 2026. - Fifth and Valvista Project: Design completion expected by late fall/early winter; bidding in winter; construction spring/summer 2027. On-street parking elimination on Fifth Street from Valvista to Main will be evaluated.

The Sheridan City Planning Commission met on September 28, 2026, to consider the final plat of Blacktooth Business Park (PL 26-34). The meeting began with roll call (Commissioner Franklin absent, others present), approval of the agenda, and approval of the September 14 minutes. The sole business item was the final plat, which was recommended for approval after discussion and public comment. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved unanimously. - Minutes from September 14, 2026, approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Final Plat of Blacktooth Business Park (PL 26-34, Resolution 20-26): City Planner Schroeder presented the proposal to subdivide 53.19 acres of B2-zoned land at 3150 Heartland Drive into 15 lots (0.84 to 12.5 acres). The plat includes a 10-foot pathway, a 39-foot roadway for Heartland Drive, a 20-foot gravel improvement on Dry Ranch Road (variance from full city standard), and utility extensions (16-inch water main, sewer) designed to support future development. Secondary access is provided via a physical connection to the Middle Eastern Corridor identified in the Transportation Master Plan, rather than a second roadway, due to jurisdictional complexities. Fire safety concerns were noted for lots 13-15 (inadequate commercial fire flows without additional suppression), addressed by a plat note requiring fire suppression at development. No public comments were received prior to the meeting. Staff recommended approval contingent on the dedication of Heartland Drive right-of-way through the Whitney Benefits property. Public Comments & Testimony - Jessica White (formerly Rome): Expressed concerns about traffic congestion, parking issues (U-Haul, MDU semi-trucks blocking Dry Ranch Road), and safety during construction. She requested that current parking problems be addressed before new development adds traffic. - Aaron Whiting: Raised visibility issues at the Dry Ranch Road and Brundage Lane intersection (blind corner, 40 mph speed limit, overgrown shrubs) and noted existing safety problems from businesses using the dirt road. He supported the project overall but urged mitigation of existing hazards. - The applicant’s engineer assured that access for neighbors would be maintained during construction. Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner moved to recommend approval of PL 26-34 final plat to the governing body, including the variance for the 20-foot gravel improvement on Dry Ranch Road adjacent to lots 6, 9, 10, and 11. Seconded. Motion passed unanimously (all ayes, no nays). - Contingency: Approval is contingent upon recording of the Heartland Drive right-of-way dedication through Whitney Benefits. - Next Steps: The item will go to the city council meeting next Monday (week of September 28). Staff also noted a vacancy on the Planning Commission due to Commissioner Morneau’s resignation, to be advertised soon. - Procedural Note: The chair initially forgot to call for public comment before the vote; public comments were heard after the vote, and the applicant and staff responded to concerns.

The Sheridan City Council met on September 21, 2026 at 5:30 PM with Mayor Bridger presiding. Councilmembers Lumen, Brans, Lightnum, and Whitzel were present; Councilmembers Wood and Patzik were absent. The meeting opened with a prayer from Tony Foreman and proceeded through proclamations, consent agenda, public hearings, old business, new business, and council reports. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda as presented. - Unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included: - Bid award to Fremont Motor Company for three 2027 Dodge Durango pursuit AWD vehicles ($125,544). - Bid award to Laramie Peak Motors for one half-ton, one three-quarter ton, and one one-ton truck ($176,512). - Approval of minutes from the September 8, 2026 regular council meeting. - Approval of claims. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak; none were offered. Discussion Items - Hunger Action Month Proclamation (Community Update): Jenna Noel, Development Manager of the Food Bank of Wyoming, presented statistics showing that food insecurity rates in Wyoming are at a more than 10-year high, affecting one in seven individuals and one in five children. In Sheridan County, over 4,980 individuals (15.5% of the population) experience food insecurity. The Food Bank of Wyoming distributed over 12 million pounds of food in 2025. The council unanimously adopted the proclamation. - Fire Prevention Week Proclamation (Staff Update): Fire Marshal Gerald Johnston presented the proclamation for October 4–10, 2026, with the theme "Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower," emphasizing lithium-ion battery fire risks. He noted that the fire department hosted an open house on October 10 from 10 AM to 2 PM. Council members discussed safe charging practices and battery disposal. The proclamation was adopted. - Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation and Advocacy & Resource Center Update: Yvonne from the Advocacy and Resource Center provided a summer 2026 update. Key statistics for the prior fiscal year included: 238 victims of domestic violence served, 1,212 hotline calls, and 17 victims plus one child requiring 62 nights in safe shelter. In a three-month period, advocates made 479 individual contacts, assisted with protection orders 151 times (applied for 25, 14 granted), and provided financial assistance 36 times (annual budget of $35,000). Challenges included housing affordability and mental health access. The center receives funding from city and county taxes as mandated by state statute. The proclamation was adopted. - PL-26-32 – Allison Minor Two Subdivision (Final Plat) (Public Hearing): City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented a proposal to split a 1.81-acre B1-zoned lot at First Avenue West and Wetlands Drive into two lots (0.91 and 0.90 acres) for future multifamily development. Planning commission unanimously recommended approval. One public commenter raised parking questions. The hearing was held from 5:58 PM to 6:01 PM. Council approved the final plat. - PL-26-29 – High Eagle Miners Subdivision (Skipped due to agenda order error; actually handled later as Old Business? Note: Transcript shows the hearing was started but then corrected to move to Consent Agenda first. No further action on this item in the transcript.) - Old Business: Cloud Peak Ranch 15A Filing Rezone (Ordinance 2303-26, Third and Final Reading) : This rezone of 940 Cubby Ren Road from B1 to PUD (Planned Unit Development) allows outdoor storage of boats, RVs, and vehicles. The item had been postponed from August 17. Public hearing in July drew one comment about visual impact. The applicant intends to match the appearance of a neighboring storage facility. Planning commission and staff recommended approval. Council voted unanimously (all present ayes) to adopt the ordinance. - Bid Award – 2026 Crushing Project (New Business): City Engineer Thomas Marneau presented a bid award to Wagner Ranch Services for $64,125 to crush approximately 5,500 cubic yards (6,600 tons) of concrete and asphalt at the Sheridan landfill. The recycled aggregate will be used for soft-surface pathways, landfill roads, and utility backfill. The project saves about $119,000 compared to purchasing similar aggregate ($27.75/ton market price vs. $9.70/ton via crushing). Two bids were received; Wagner Ranch Services was the lowest qualified. Council approved the award. - Resolution 19-26 – Diagonal Parking on North Connor Street (New Business): The developer Landmark 228 LLC proposes a three-story, six-unit apartment at 260 East Brundage Street. The resolution approves five diagonal public parking spaces on the west side of North Connor Street within a public use easement. The developer will privately fund improvements and has signed a maintenance agreement. Staff recommended approval; council approved the resolution. Key Outcomes - Approved all three proclamations (Hunger Action Month, Fire Prevention Week, Domestic Violence Awareness Month) for October 2026. - Approved the consent agenda with four items (vehicle bids, minutes, claims). - Approved the final plat for Allison Minor Two Subdivision (PL-26-32). - Adopted Ordinance 2303-26 on third and final reading, rezoning Cloud Peak Ranch 15A Filing to PUD (unanimous vote). - Awarded the 2026 crushing project to Wagner Ranch Services for $64,125. - Adopted Resolution 19-26 authorizing diagonal parking on the west side of North Connor Street. - Council received reports from committee representatives on the Sheridan Economic and Education Development Authority (CEDO), Northeast Wyoming Coalition, Critical Air Service Team, Sheridan Water Service, and the Downtown Sheridan Association (including the Iron Riders sculpture project).