Public Meetings - Sheridan, Wyoming

The regular council meeting of the Sheridan City Council was called to order at 5:30 p.m. on May 18, 2026, with Mayor Bridger presiding. The meeting included community updates, staff presentations, public comments, a public hearing, and several votes on contracts and resolutions. The meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda unanimously. - Approved the consent agenda containing four items: reappointment of Margaret "Maggie" Marnot to the Planning Commission (term expiring June 30, 2029), appointment of Councilmember Bev Lightman to the Police Department Civil Service Commission (term expiring June 30, 2029), minutes of the May 4, 2026 regular council meeting, and claims. All passed without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - Dennis Fox spoke during public comment, urging the council to vote against placing the one-cent general purpose excise tax (GPET) on the ballot and encouraging citizens to vote for a lower 5% sales tax. He argued that the tax has become a "slush fund" for politicians and violates the Wyoming Constitution by allocating tax dollars to private entities. He quoted Article 16, Section 1, and called for better fiscal management. Public Hearings - New Restaurant Liquor License No. 17 for OLAS Market: A public hearing was held at 6:12 p.m. The license includes a fenced patio as part of the approved consumption area. The state confirmed no corrections were needed. Councilmember Wood inquired about whether the fence must be built before outdoor sales; Assistant City Clerk Michael Shapiro clarified that indoor sales can proceed immediately. The license was approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Community Update – Sheridan Arts Council (SAC): President Sean Day introduced the SAC board and outlined programs supported, including Concerts in the Park, youth scholarships, and partnerships with the WYO Theater and Sheridan College. He noted increased student participation (from 10 to 16 last year, and from 0 to 20 at Sheridan High School) and requested continued city funding via GPET. Councilmembers expressed strong support for the arts. - Community Update – Sheridan County Justice Office: Acting Administrator Dane Pearson provided an annual report for FY25, reporting 82 juveniles served (average 35/month), 21 adults in adult treatment court (average 12/month), and 222 adults undergoing random UA/PBT testing (average 80/month). He also presented FY26 year-to-date numbers and a proposed FY27 budget. Mayor Bridger acknowledged the office's sensitive work and thanked the staff. - Staff Update – Tax Increment Financing (TIF): Public Works Director Hans Mercer presented an overview of TIF, explaining it is a public financing tool used in blighted areas to fund infrastructure improvements. He noted that TIF is only allowed under urban renewal in Wyoming (W.S. 15-9-101) and requires a blight study. Examples from Cheyenne and Casper were provided. Councilmember Brantz clarified that TIF is not intended for greenfield development. Councilmember Wood expressed hope that economically underdeveloped areas could qualify, but Mercer noted the strict blight criteria. No vote was taken; the presentation was informational. - Resolution 08-26 – GPET Ballot Placement: City Administrator Stu McCray presented financial data showing the average household pays about $240 per year for the fifth penny (one-cent GPET), with residents paying roughly one-third of total collections ($2 million out of $5.4 million received in FY25). He explained that 48% of GPET funds go to community projects, 32% to partner support, 8% to utilities, and 12% to equipment reinvestment. City Attorney Brad Timmish explained the resolution is an endorsement to place the question on the November 2026 ballot. After discussion, the resolution was approved unanimously (yes on all council votes). - Bid Award – Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation: Utilities Director Dan Roberts reported that Prospect Construction submitted the low bid of $8,171,540 (engineer's estimate was $9 million). The project includes electrical upgrades, a redundant belt press, pump station upgrades, and HVAC improvements. Funding comes from a $14 million zero-interest Clean Water SRF loan. Councilmember Wood expressed confidence in Prospect after learning of their wastewater expertise. The bid award was approved unanimously. - Contract with IAFF Local 276: Human Resources Director Heather Dopes presented a two-year contract with the firefighters' union, featuring a schedule change to a "48/96" (48 hours on, 96 hours off) starting January 2027, adjusted vacation accruals, average paycheck elimination, and pay increases of 1.75% for firefighter grade and 2.25% for upper grades for both FY27 and FY28. Councilmember Patzig noted the change will improve work-life balance. The contract was approved unanimously. - City Administrator Contract: City Attorney Brad Timmish presented a three-year agreement for Stu McCray (May 24, 2026 – June 30, 2029) with a $170,000 annual salary (a 10% increase), the same annual raises as city employees up to 2.5%, and a six-month severance for termination without cause. Councilmember Leckner opposed the severance clause, stating he would vote no. The contract was approved 6-1 (Councilmember Leckner opposed). - Council Comments & Committee Reports: Councilmembers reported on CEDA (north-end project progressing), NEWUI (Wyoming Association of Municipalities offering treasurer support), CAST (air service exceeding 90% load factor), SAWS (water system improvements), and SPAC (preparing for Third Thursday events). City Administrator Stu McCray announced a public meeting on Sheltered Acres park (May 20, 5:30 p.m.) and a public meeting regarding YDot's Coffeen Avenue proposals (May 27, 5 p.m. at Ramada Inn). McCray also thanked outgoing IT specialist Glenn Manry and noted that Kaylin Herring was selected as his replacement. Finally, McCray highlighted Public Works Director Hans Mercer's heroism: on May 13, while off-duty at Lake DeSmet, Mercer rescued a 21-year-old woman and her dog after she fell from a paddleboard into 48-degree water; the woman was hypothermic but recovered. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda and OLAS Market liquor license unanimously. - Approved Resolution 08-26 to place the one-cent GPET on the November 2026 ballot (unanimous). - Awarded bid for wastewater treatment plant rehabilitation to Prospect Construction for $8,171,540 (unanimous). - Approved two-year contract with IAFF Local 276 (unanimous). - Approved city administrator contract for Stu McCray, 6-1, with Councilmember Leckner dissenting due to the severance clause. - The meeting was adjourned at 7:18 p.m.

This study session of the Sheridan City Council covered five main agenda items: discussion of a resolution to place the 1-cent General Purpose Excise Tax (GPET) on the November 2026 ballot, a new restaurant liquor license for Ola's Market, a bid award for the Shared Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project, a discussion of the FY27 budget format, and general items for future agendas. No formal votes were taken; decisions are expected at the next regular meeting. Discussion Items 1. Resolution 08-2-6: GPET Ballot Question City Attorney Brad Timish presented the resolution to approve submitting the 1% GPET continuation to Sheridan County voters in the November 2026 general election. The tax funds are allocated to categories including facilities/infrastructure, public safety, water quality, open space, parks/pathways, community development, public health/community projects, heritage/arts, and seniors/family. Council members discussed the broad applicability of these categories, with one member noting that the city has become dependent on this optional tax for general operations and that citizens may not fully understand that. Another member emphasized the importance of GPET for infrastructure projects. The city administrator noted the county is waiting for at least two municipalities to vote before scheduling its own vote; the council plans to vote on the resolution next week. Members agreed on the need to better educate the public on GPET spending without advocating for a particular vote. - Key Statistics: The GPET has been in effect since the late 1980s, voted every four years. The city receives approximately 66% of the 1% tax collected in the county. 2. New Restaurant Liquor License for Ola's Market City Clerk Ashley Foster presented the application for a standard restaurant liquor license for Ola's Market, located at 1841 South Sheridan Avenue. The establishment now serves food (burgers, etc.) and wants to offer beer/wine. The application includes a fenced patio for alcohol service. No public concerns have been received. The state approval is pending, and the assistant city clerk will present the item for council approval next week. 3. Bid Award: Shared Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project Utility Director Dan Roberts presented the bid award recommendation for the remaining priority improvements at the wastewater treatment plant. The project includes electrical upgrades (transformer/switchgear replacement), belt press replacement, raw sewage pump station rework, and headworks expansion (adding a second rotamat). The project was bid on April 28, 2026, receiving five bids. Prospect Construction submitted the low bid of $8,171,540, which is under the engineer’s estimate of approximately $9 million. The project is funded by a $14 million zero-interest, 30-year loan, which also covered the earlier North Clarifier replacement. The available budget for this remaining work is $9.5 million. Council members asked about Prospect Construction’s qualifications; staff confirmed they are a qualified, responsive bidder with an office in Sheridan and positive prior experience. Construction is expected to begin summer 2026 and last one year. - Key Statistics: Bid amount: $8,171,540. Total loan: $14,050,000. North Clarifier replacement cost: approximately $2.85 million. Remaining project budget: $9.5 million. 4. FY27 Budget Discussion The council reviewed the draft FY27 budget format. Members asked about the organizational structure of the budget document, specifically how departments are grouped and whether color-coded tabs (as used in the prior year) will be included. Staff indicated they are working to add similar navigation aids, but confirmed that if not available, members may need to use highlighters. Council also asked about the cigarette tax line item and whether it includes vaping products; staff will research and confirm. 5. General Discussion of Future Agenda Items City Administrator Stuart provided updates: several police officers are attending National Police Week in Washington, D.C.; the chamber’s governmental update meeting is scheduled for May 13; public restrooms are now functional with a rigorous cleaning schedule; candidate filing for municipal elections begins May 14 and runs through May 29; and the administrator will attend a WAM board meeting. Council also noted public interest in a presentation from the hospital on critical care, and a request for an update on Dragon Wall’s alcohol license (the business has renewed but not yet opened). Key Outcomes - GPET Ballot Resolution: Council will vote at the next regular meeting. The county is awaiting city action before scheduling its vote. - Ola’s Market Liquor License: Approval is expected at the next meeting, pending state confirmation. - Wastewater Plant Bid Award: The council is expected to award the bid to Prospect Construction at the next meeting. Staff will also explore using remaining project funds for additional eligible work. - FY27 Budget: No decisions made; format clarifications will be addressed before final adoption. - Future Agenda Items: The council requested scheduling a hospital presentation and seeking an update on Dragon Wall's opening.

The Sheridan City Council met on May 5, 2026, to receive the proposed fiscal year 2027 (FY27) budget from City Administrator Stu, Treasurer Darla, Public Works Director Hans Mercer, and Utilities Director Dan Roberts. The presentation covered revenue projections, operating funds, the capital project list, enterprise funds, and the adoption timeline. No formal votes were taken; the budget remains under council review. Discussion Items - Budget Revenue & Operating Funds: Total projected FY27 revenue is $52 million across all funds. Excluding project-specific grants, the three primary operating funds (general fund, GPET, and 8% distribution fund) are projected at approximately $26 million, up $752,000 from FY26. The general fund alone is projected at $18.4 million, compared to $17.8 million budgeted last year. Sales and use tax growth is expected to end this fiscal year about 7.5% above FY25, with a cautious 3% growth assumption built into FY27. The city faces a 7% increase in health insurance and 25–80% increases in property/auto insurance (utilities up to 80%). After subtracting salaries and benefits ($14–15 million), staff identified roughly $11.2 million in operating capability; after must-pay items, only about $1.046 million remains for new investments and reinvestments, down from $1.9 million last year. - One-to-N Priority List and Funding: The staff one-to-N list totals $4.7 million in needs. Items above the original funding line include a 3% employee pay increase ($269,000), parks projects ($54,000), ten public works items ($973,000), fire rescue items ($376,000), and new positions. To fund the list partially, staff proposed using $170,000 from excess cash reserves and $917,000 from unreserved fund balance, plus a $50,000 contingency, bringing funded items to about $2.1 million and leaving $2.6 million unfunded. Staff acknowledged this is not sustainable long-term and will bring service-level options to the governing body next year. - Personnel: The city is authorized for 147 general fund and 68 enterprise fund positions. Last year, there were 32 hires and 32 separations with no discernible trend; current vacancies are about 11. Proposed new positions include two utility meter technicians (enterprise funds), one senior accountant (general fund), and one IT support position. Staff emphasized that positions will be permanent and that cuts would be handled through attrition if needed. - Capital Projects (Hans Mercer): Key projects include the South Downtown project (large contract awarded), Fifth Street bridge repairs (est. $4.5 million, contingent on grant funding), Val Vista Street bridge complete deck replacement (preserving the humped profile), downtown restrooms in the 103 North Gould area (cap tax funded), and a $650,000 match for the Bighorn-Brundage intersection. The 5th Street sewer design is funded with $150,000 in enterprise funds. Contingency items include cell 9 closure costs (SRF loan), Thorn Rider restrooms (grant recommended but not yet awarded), and the Hub parking lot (WCDA block grant of $1.277 million). - Enterprise Funds (Dan Roberts): - Water fund: Revenue projected up 3.6% with no rate increase (fifth year of zero). Expenses projected down 9.5%. Fund balance increases by $35,000 to $9.4 million. The fund will make its first debt service payment on the Northeast Transmission Project ($110,000). SCADA system upgrade (Ignition) budgeted at $25,000 this year, $10,000 next, with $25,000 annual savings after 2.5 years. - Sewer fund: Revenue up 6%, expenses down 3.1%, fund balance up $106,000 to $3.5 million. A 2.95% rate increase is recommended (fifth year of a plan). The fund will purchase eight additional smart covers ($46,000), spend $80,000 on oxidation ditch gear replacements, and replace a 2004 tractor. - Solid waste fund: Revenue up 9.6% (landfill revenues from roof replacements), expenses up 4.5%, capital equipment of $758,000 (D6 bulldozer, 60-hp tractor, pickup, pressure washer), and $350,000 cash-funded landfill remediation. Fund balance drops by $827,000 to $5.2 million, still above the $3 million minimum. A 1.5% rate increase is recommended. Future rate projections are about 2.25–3.25% for water and sewer, and 2.25% for solid waste. - Budget Book Revisions (Treasurer Darla): The city adopted ClearGov software to produce the budget book. New features include clickable table of contents, combined capital project overview, glossary, organizational photos, and department pages that group expenses by fund, division, and object code. Object numbers were removed from many schedules; council members requested consideration of restoring org numbers. - Council Q&A: Councilors asked about redundancy analysis, high-cost/low-impact services, the senior accountant position, separation trends, the fire fund A obligation, the Val Vista bridge scope, and stormwater fee structures. The administrator noted that redundancy is limited and will be tied to workload; the stormwater enterprise discussion is ongoing, with testimony before the Select Water Commission on May 7. Key Outcomes - The FY27 budget was formally presented; no council action was taken. - Council members were encouraged to submit questions via email; one councilor planned to send 14 questions. - A budget study session is scheduled for Monday, May 11, 2026. - The finalized budget will be submitted to the Sheridan Press for publication on June 3, 2026, with a public hearing and adoption scheduled for June 15, 2026 (statutory deadline June 16, 2026).

The regular meeting of the Sheridan City Council was called to order on May 4, 2026, at 7:00 PM (presumed). The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation by Greg Green of Illuminate Church, and roll call. All council members were present. The agenda was approved unanimously. The meeting featured three proclamations, a detailed 2026 construction project update from the city engineer, and council reports. Proclamations - National Police Week 2026: Police Chief Travis Katiska presented the 2025 annual report, noting 10,661 calls for service, 737 custodial arrests, and a 30% decrease in mental health holds (from 679 to 476 welfare checks). The proclamation recognized May 10–16, 2026 as Police Appreciation Week and May 15 as Peace Officer Memorial Day. Chief Katiska also highlighted a safe exchange location at the police department and that two officers will attend National Police Week in Washington, D.C. - Pedestrian Awareness Month: Kate Gladden, daughter of Julie Fitzsimonds (killed in a crosswalk on May 28, 2025), read a proclamation declaring May 2026 as Pedestrian Awareness Month. She announced a pedestrian awareness walk on May 30 at 9:30 AM starting at the Sheridan Inn, featuring the campaign slogan “Eyes Up Lives Saved.” The proclamation noted that pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. have increased by 50% over the past decade and that Wyoming has high per capita pedestrian fatality rates. - Nurses Week 2026: Jennifer Raspond, President of the Wyoming Nurses Association, accepted a proclamation designating May 6–12, 2026 as Nurses Week. She noted that Sheridan County has more than 400 nurses serving the community. The proclamation highlighted nurses as the largest healthcare profession in Wyoming. Staff Update: 2026 Construction Projects City Engineer Thomas Marneau presented a comprehensive update on 16 city and private utility projects. Key points included: - Microsurfacing: 62,000 square yards south of 11th Street between Highland and Ridgeway Avenues, estimated to take one week. Quick-cure additive allows traffic within hours. - Pavement Rehabilitation & Rotomill Overlay: Terra, Turner, Riverside, and South Sheridan (from Brundage to the bridge) following water line work. Includes drainage improvements. - South Downtown Phase 1: Whitney and Shergee streets (historic area) – utilities replacement, drainage, and maintaining historic look. Funded by cap tax. - East Downtown: Laux and Works streets between Main and Gould – construction began May 4, 2026, awarded to Falcon Construction for $876,000 (below estimate). Includes drainage and ADA improvements. - Laux & Highland Traffic Light Replacement: Due to a truck accident last year; work began May 4, expected to last 3–4 weeks. - Blacktooth Park: Finishing landscaping and irrigation; future phases may include paving and accessibility improvements. - Emerson Park: Public meeting on May 20, 2026, to discuss improvements (tennis courts, parking, playground). Funded by a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant ($450,000 with $450,000 city match). - Landfill Projects: Evaporation pond construction (DEQ-funded, 75% grant), new administrative building ($3 million awarded to Axe Build), and Cell 9 closure with cap extension. - Wastewater Treatment Plant: North and South clarifier replacements nearly complete ($2.6 million); larger upgrades (HVAC, pumps, headworks, belt filter, electrical) to be awarded soon. - Private Utility Projects: MDU, Blue Peak, Visionary, and Range Communications expanding services; city managing permits. - Grand Central Station Phase 2: RV park off Fifth Street – 13 additional spaces and new bathhouse pending final inspection and Chapter 25 compliance, including entryway corridor landscaping. - Story House PUD: 84 lots, final acceptance anticipated August 2026. - Elmwood Estates: Subdivision with 104-unit apartment building; drainage and traffic plans approved, construction ongoing. Council members expressed strong support for the fifth and sixth penny sales tax funding for capital projects, noting that these taxes do not fund salaries. Consent Calendar The consent agenda was approved unanimously. Items included: - Raw water service agreement with Mullinax Incorporated. - Approval of the Wyoming Department of Transportation (YDOT) agreement for acceptance of East Fifth Street. - Minutes from the regular council meeting of April 20, 2026. - Claims. Council briefly discussed the raw water rate structure, noting that the city has a single rate for raw water, not tiered by volume. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public came forward to speak. Council Comments & Board Reports - CEDA: No new report; working on a north-end project and job description. - NUI (Northeast Wyoming Alliance): No recent meetings. - Critical Air Service Team: Meeting May 14, 2026; service remains strong. - SAWS (Sheridan Area Water Service): Quarterly meetings; upcoming meeting on Park Reservoir at the county building. - SPAC (Sheridan Public Arts Committee): Bumpers sculpture removed for East Downtown construction; sculptures relocated; vandalism to cranes at South Park repaired; artist Austin Camille headed to Cody. - DSA (Downtown Sheridan Association): Preparing for Winefest and Third Thursdays; a kiosk project nearing completion. - City Administrator Stu: Reminded council of budget presentation on May 5, 2026 at 5:30 PM; city council election filing begins May 14–29 (excluding Memorial Day); Sheridan will host statewide debates for U.S. House of Representatives in early August. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved unanimously. - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - Proclamations for Police Week, Pedestrian Awareness Month, and Nurses Week were recognized and adopted. - Council members expressed concerns about the condition of Grand Central Station RV Park (phase one) and urged that landscaping and code compliance be completed before phase two is approved. City staff assured they are tracking the issue and have a mechanism to withhold operational approval until all requirements are met. - No formal votes were taken on the construction projects or other items; the update was informational. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:30 PM (estimated).

The City of Sheridan held a study session on April 27, 2026, beginning at 5:30 PM. The agenda included two discussion items: a raw water service agreement with Molinax Incorporated and acceptance of the East Fifth Street right-of-way from WYDOT. The meeting concluded with announcements and general discussion. Discussion Items - Raw Water Service Agreement with Molinax Incorporated: Staff presented an agreement allowing Molinax to connect to the city's 30-inch raw water pipeline for dust suppression at a gravel mining operation west of town. Key terms: Molinax bears all costs for tapping and long-term maintenance; water is metered and billed at raw water rates (recommended 87 cents per thousand gallons, adjusted from 85 cents to account for a previous 2.5% rate adjustment); service is subordinate to city and SAWS demands; five-year term with no automatic renewal. Council expressed support, noting it would reduce water truck traffic through town. Questions addressed existing taps (only Wild Rose and upcoming Molinax) and applicability of future rate adjustments. Formal approval was anticipated at the next regular council meeting. - Acceptance of East Fifth Street Right-of-Way: Public Works Director Hans Mercer presented the fulfillment of a 2019 agreement with WYDOT to transfer ownership of Fifth Street from Main Street to the I-90 interchange to the city. WYDOT had designed and installed a traffic signal and ADA crossings. The city will assume maintenance (crack sealing, overlays, curb and gutter). The right-of-way includes a portion outside city limits that will be annexed. Mercer noted that this simplifies access for the Elmwood subdivision development, as their access road corner becomes city property. The quitclaim deed will go to the Wyoming Transportation Commission for signature in June. Council had questions about maintenance responsibilities and the annexation process. Announcements - Mayor thanked Sheridan Community Land Trust and SWCA for cleaning a two-mile section of Little Goose Creek, collecting 240 pounds of waste, and city crews for disposal. - Trees for Trash community cleanup scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 9 AM at Holly Ponds. - City Administrator Stu announced Westcom Inc. will repair a light pole at Laux and Highland from May 4-29, 2026, requiring the traffic signal to be down with temporary signs and traffic control, but no road closures. - Kendrick Golf Course ribbon cutting for new paths on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 8:45 AM, with council invited. - Stu acknowledged a shooting early Sunday morning, praising teamwork among public works, streets, fire rescue, DCI, and sheriff. - A councilor raised concern about a blind pedestrian crossing at Fifth and Highland, suggesting increased crossing time; staff noted existing ADA accessible lights and awareness of the individual. Key Outcomes - Council will consider formal approval of the raw water service agreement with Molinax Incorporated at a future meeting, with the rate set at 87 cents per thousand gallons. - The quitclaim deed for the East Fifth Street right-of-way will be signed by the Wyoming Transportation Commission in June; council will vote on related items at a subsequent meeting. - No formal votes were taken during this study session.

The Sheridan City Council met on April 20, 2026, for a regular meeting. The agenda included a third-quarter budget update, approval of a consent agenda, a bid award for the landfill building project, and adoption of the Sheridan County Emergency Operations Plan. Council members also provided committee reports and discussed future agenda items. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session for firefighter negotiations. Consent Calendar - Final acceptance of public infrastructure for River Strome Park Phase 2 subdivision. - Resolution 07-2.6 designating Midland Road between West Bist Street and Hill Pond Drive as a school zone. - Approval of the minutes from the regular council meeting held on April 6, 2026. - Approval of claims. Public Comments & Testimony - Maggie Wisneski, a local Sheridan resident, expressed concern that the city may be overtaxing residents based on a preliminary review of the budget presentation. She requested time to review the materials further and asked if she could bring questions to the next council meeting. Council members indicated she was welcome to do so and suggested she contact staff in advance for accurate information. Staff Updates - Third Quarter Budget Update: City Treasurer Darla Hawkins presented the budget update for January through March 2026. Revenue and expenditure slides showed trends across major funds. Sales and use tax revenue for fiscal year 2026 is well above historical averages. The solid waste fund shows 59% of revenue not yet received, largely due to slip loans for projects like the Cell 9 landfill cell, which was recently awarded. Federal revenue of $17.9 million remains unspent, tied to grant reimbursements. Councilmember Whiteson asked about salaries and benefits, and Hawkins confirmed they are on track. Councilmember Patzig inquired about police vehicle costs: the budget was $77,000, vehicles were purchased for $40,000, and the remaining funds cover outfitting. Discussion Items - Bid Award – Landfill Building Project: Dan Roberts, Utility Director, presented a bid award for the new administration and shop building at the landfill. The project is part of the landfill remediation effort. Two bids were received; Axe Build submitted the low bid of $3,016,909, which exceeded the architect's estimate of $2.7 million. Funding includes $580,000 from the Department of Environmental Quality (via deferred remediation costs) and the remainder from Clean Water SRF loans. The project is expected to be completed within one year. Council approved the bid award unanimously. - Sheridan County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP): Jesse Ludicus, Emergency Management Coordinator, presented the updated EOP, which replaces the 2022 plan. The plan is required by Wyoming Statute 19-13-108 and is necessary for federal assistance and grant eligibility. It outlines roles and responsibilities for natural and man-made disasters, but does not replace incident command. Councilmember Lumen raised concerns about the legal basis for forced evacuation, stating that Wyoming statutes do not clearly authorize such actions and that the plan could risk constitutional overreach, referencing COVID-era government actions. He proposed adding language to nullify actions that violate constitutional rights. Despite his objections, the motion to adopt the plan passed with a majority vote. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: Unanimous approval. - Bid Award Approved: Motion to award the landfill building contract to Axe Build for $3,016,909 passed unanimously. - Emergency Operations Plan Adopted: Motion passed despite opposition from Councilmember Lumen. The plan is adopted for the city, with other towns and the county already having adopted or pending adoption. - Committee Reports: No formal votes, but council noted ongoing work on CEDA (job description for director, business park phase 2), Sheridan Area Water System (updated operating agreement), SPAC Public Arts Committee (purchased a cat sculpture, repairing bases), and DSA (Main Street America conference, preparation for Third Thursday and Winefest events). - Future Agenda Items: Council requested a representative from the hospital to discuss the transition to a critical care hospital, and an update on the Story House project. The city administrator announced a public meeting on April 28, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in council chambers regarding the overlay service on Laux and Works streets. - Executive Session: The council voted unanimously to enter executive session under Wyoming Statute 16-4-405 to discuss wages, salaries, benefits, and terms of employment for firefighter negotiations. No motions or actions were expected to result from the closed session.

The City Council held a study session on April 13, 2026, beginning at 5:30 PM. Three main agenda items were discussed: a bid award for a new landfill administration and maintenance building, a resolution to designate a school zone on Midland Road, and adoption of the Sheridan County Emergency Operations Plan. The meeting also included general discussion and updates from the city administrator. Discussion Items - Item 1: Bid Award for Landfill Building (Axe Build) – Utility Director Dan Roberts presented a bid from Axe Build for $3,016,909 to construct a new administration and maintenance building at the landfill. The architect's estimate was $2.7 million. The project is funded through DEQ landfill remediation funds and SRF loans. The new building will replace a facility demolished due to proximity to a waste trench. It will include expanded locker rooms, shop space with tracks for tracked equipment, and improved site access. Completion is expected within one year. Council members asked about the turnkey nature of the bid, the potential for hiring an in-house mechanic (current mechanic costs average $130,000–$135,000 per year), and the durability of the track rails. - Item 2: School Zone Designation on Midland Road – Public Works Director Hans Mercer discussed Resolution 07-26 designating Midland Road between West Fifth Street and Hill Pond Drive as a school zone. The city engineer identified a need for this zone. The resolution also includes upgrading existing school zones with solar-powered flashers, funded by $50,000 from GPT funds (FY26 budget revision). The total project cost is approximately $50,000. Council members inquired about crosswalks; Hans noted that a future development (West Haven) will improve curb, gutter, and sidewalk, and the city is pursuing Safe Streets for All grants to further address pedestrian safety. - Item 3: Sheridan County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) – Emergency Management Coordinator Jesse Lucas presented the updated EOP, required by Wyoming statute. Changes since the 2022 version include clarified roles based on recent events (e.g., Elk Fire, large power outage), updated coordination capabilities, and improved public alerting. The plan does not grant new authorities but references existing statutes. Council member questions focused on the record of changes (currently blank), public access to changes, the inclusion of forced evacuation and vaccination site references (which Lucas stated reflect Wyoming statutes), and the absence of constitutional rights language (Lucas explained the plan does not grant authorities). Lucas agreed to provide a memo of changes for easier review. The county has already adopted the plan; the city is asked to adopt. - General Discussion and Updates – City Administrator provided several updates: - COMPASS Center for Families clarified they did not authorize use of their name/logo for a political rally and requested donation be redirected. - Warning about a scam involving fake invoices with wire transfer requests, impersonating city officials. - City-county meeting scheduled for 9:00 AM at the library with mayors from Ranchester and Claremont. - Parks partnership with VA: seasonal workers hired through VA programs, offsetting a third of costs. - Mayor announced a public meeting on May 27th, 5:00 PM at Ramada Plaza (Sibley Room) regarding the Coffee project. - Council member noted scheduled meetings on tax increment financing and accessory dwelling units in May. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the study session; items will likely proceed to a future regular meeting for approval. - Council expressed general support for the landfill building bid and the school zone resolution. - The Emergency Operations Plan was discussed; the city administrator agreed to provide a memo of changes, and adoption is pending. - The public was cautioned about the wire transfer scam. - Partnerships with COMPASS and VA were clarified and recognized as positive outcomes.

The Sheridan Planning Commission met to consider preliminary plat PL 26-9 for the Riverstone Village Subdivision, proposed by Stone Mill Properties LLC. The meeting included roll call, approval of the agenda and previous minutes, a staff presentation, discussion, and a unanimous vote to approve the plat with a condition on solid waste planning. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously after no additions or deletions were offered. - The minutes from the February 23, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously with no corrections or deletions. Discussion Items - PL 26-9 Riverstone Village Preliminary Plat – Staff planner Hans presented the proposal to subdivide 13.96 acres (zoned Gateway District) into 139 single-family attached townhome lots and 15 outlots at 1280 Dovetail Lane. The master plan allows two densities: 8 units per acre for standard attached and 10 units per acre for affordable housing. The applicant requested the higher affordable density, and staff supported this with a letter from Mr. Swain citing smaller lot sizes, shared walls, reduced infrastructure costs, and no high-cost amenities. The development includes 1.56 acres of open space across four lots, maintained by an HOA. The main road (Still Water Loop) will be a 60-foot-wide city street with sidewalks; private access easements (27 feet) will serve some homes. Parking will include two spaces per unit (garage + driveway) plus 76 on-street guest spaces. Solid waste collection will use clustered bins rather than door-to-door service; staff noted that details need finalization. A traffic impact analysis from the original master plan was deemed sufficient. No public comments were received from 37 notified property owners. - Commission members asked clarifying questions about building layout, parking configuration, and the solid waste plan. The developer confirmed buildings would have 4–6 units each, with garages accessed via the private drives. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve PL 26-9 – A motion was made to approve the preliminary plat for Riverstone Village Subdivision with the condition that any amendments to the solid waste and recycling plan shall be worked out prior to approval of the final plat. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (all ayes). - The meeting was adjourned shortly thereafter.

The City of Sheridan held its regular council meeting on April 6, 2026, with Mayor Pro Tem Weitzel presiding (Mayor Bridger absent). The meeting included a proclamation for Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, staff updates on the Hume Draw water assessment and the FY2025 audit, public comments, and approvals of two professional service contracts. Proclamation: Public Safety Telecommunicators Week - Police Chief Travis Kultiska and dispatcher Bella Ewan presented a proclamation recognizing April 12–18, 2026 as Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. - Chief Kultiska highlighted that the city’s communications center is staffed with 10 full-time telecommunicators and will be fully staffed as of April 15, 2026. In 2025, the center answered 8,183 911 calls, 27,704 administrative calls, ran 2,721 criminal histories, entered 25,210 CAD entries, and provided emergency medical dispatching 2,775 times. - Council members expressed gratitude and asked questions about multitasking and headset technology. Staff Updates Hume Draw Water Assessment - Parks Director Steve Gage presented findings from the 2023–2024 assessment conducted by WET. The 12 reservoirs in Hume Draw (9 holding water, 3 dry) suffer from restricted flow, failing infrastructure (gate valves tilting/collapsing), dense vegetation, and noxious weeds. Estimated repair costs were about $450,000 in 2024, likely higher for more durable replacements. - Council discussion: - Councilmember Wood confirmed the system can accommodate 50–100 year floods; failure of one pond would not cause cascading breaches. - Councilmember Lightnum raised concerns about fish safety in stagnant water, but staff noted fish exist only in Rotary Pond and the pond near the Haven. - Councilmember Patzang questioned the impetus for repairs—primarily aesthetics and flow—and noted the project would be a low priority on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), possibly 5–7 years out. - Councilmember Lumen emphasized that the dams are city-owned and outlet control structures should be prioritized for safety, not just aesthetics. She suggested a funding source. - Public comment: Ron Patterson offered to personally fund student workers from high school for cleanup and maintenance in Hume Draw and proposed phasing repairs over five years. 2025 Audit Review - City Treasurer Darla Hawkins presented the FY2025 audit. Governmental net worth grew by $8.6 million (down from $10.2 million in FY2024). Enterprise funds showed a slight increase after a $3.4 million loss in FY2024. Revenue remained strong, expenses decreased. - Six financial statement findings were reported: (1) preparation of financial statements, (2) material audit adjustments, (3) improper revenue recognition (all interrelated); (4) missed one federal grant in the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA); (5) budget violation (to be addressed with a budget amendment); (6) procurement suspension debarment oversight (Sam.gov changes). - Corrective actions include mandatory GASB training, year-round reconciliations, cross-training, and process improvements. No penalties were incurred. Councilmember Lumen praised the team’s efforts. Public Comments & Testimony - Ronnie LeBlanc: Expressed concern that two nonprofit entities (Compass and Food Bank) participated in a “No Kings” protest rally on March 29, 2026, which he characterized as seditious. He requested that publicly funded nonprofits avoid being identified with anti-government protests. - Maggie Wisneski: Questioned the award of the Safe Streets for All plan to Stantec (Canadian-based) rather than local firms (Engineering Associates in Wyoming, KLJ in Gillette). She noted Ayers Associates has a Sheridan office but headquarters in Colorado/Wisconsin. - Ron Patterson (as above under Hume Draw). Consent Calendar - Items: A. Award to Stantec for Safe Streets plan ($249,922.73); B. New city attorney contract; C. Trail license agreement with Sheridan Memorial Hospital; D. March 16, 2026 minutes; E. Claims. - Councilmember Lightnum pulled item A for discussion and recused himself from items 7, 234, and claims due to conflicts. The remaining consent items were approved unanimously. Discussion Items Award: 5th Street and Valvista Street Signal Intersection Design - City Engineer Thomas Morneau recommended awarding the design contract to Engineering Associates for $65,000 (funded by general purpose excise tax). The design includes dedicated left-turn lanes, enhanced pedestrian/ADA crossings, improved truck turning radii, and signal coordination with WYDOT. - Councilmember Lumen recused himself. Motion to approve carried unanimously. Award: Safe Streets for All Comprehensive Safety Action Plan - The $249,922.73 contract with Stantec Consulting Services (federal grant $200,000, city match $50,000) was discussed. Staff noted Stantec has a local Sheridan office (acquired WINC in 2020) and extensive experience (35 prior projects). The plan will address multimodal transportation safety, not just vehicular traffic. - Motion to approve carried unanimously. Council Comments & Committee Reports - Councilmember Wood: WAM virtual meeting April 15; in-person in Gillette May 18. - Councilmember Brantz: SAWS meeting April 8; finalizing operations/ownership agreement, paving way for cost-of-service analysis. - Councilmember Lumen: SPAC preparing for rodeo, purchasing sculptures (Stretching Cat stays, Stack Frogs to Mill Park, Anthem to Brundage & Gould). DSA preparing for Winefest. - Councilmember Weitzel: Joint Powers Board (probation) – admin change; services steady. - Councilmember Brantz: Thanked city staff for updating public arts database. Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent agenda (with item A pulled; others passed). - Approved: Award to Engineering Associates for 5th & Valvista signal design ($65,000). - Approved: Award to Stantec for Safe Streets for All plan ($249,922.73). - No formal action on public comment requests regarding nonprofit participation in protests or the specific selection of Stantec. - The Hume Draw assessment will be considered for low-priority CIP funding; Council will rely on public works and engineering recommendations for dam safety priorities. - Audit findings are being addressed with corrective action plans; no penalties incurred.