Public Meetings - Sheridan, Wyoming

The Sheridan City Council met on January 19, 2026, with Mayor Bridger presiding. Councilmember Brands was absent. The meeting included community updates, a human trafficking prevention proclamation, a second-quarter budget review, several liquor license approvals, a major PUD amendment, and a failed motion regarding a business park final plat. A special meeting was announced for January 26, 2026, to consider the Sheridan County Housing Land Trust grant request. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, including the minutes from the regular council meeting of January 5, 2026, and the claims list. Public Comments & Testimony - Mindy Garner addressed the council, expressing concerns about city services and enforcement, referencing a street sweeper incident, a flat tire caused by a broken street post, and her son's legal issues. She also mentioned a neighbor's suicide related to online exploitation. She said she plans to pursue the matter. - No public comments were heard on the liquor license items or the Teal Springs PUD amendment. Discussion Items - Downtown Sheridan Association Update: Executive Director Zoila Perry presented highlights from the past year, including Third Thursday events averaging 3,000–5,000 attendees, the pow wow with 370 parade participants and roughly 1,600 attendees, Main Street Monster Mash with over 1,000 participants and 46 businesses, and a holiday shopping spree that generated $172,133 in downtown spending from 2,497 entries. She also announced upcoming events, including a Peeps-themed Easter art show, and noted volunteer opportunities. - Human Trafficking Proclamation and Uprising Update: The council recognized January 2026 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Terry Markham of Uprising described trafficking patterns in Wyoming, including non-familial, familial, and online-based trafficking. He cited ICAC data showing over 1,600 cyber tips in 2025, and noted that 1 in 10 surveyed youth in Wyoming (ages 12 and up) reported experiencing sextortion. He also reported the state's first teen suicide linked to sextortion in Saratoga. Uprising has reached over 7,000 youth and conducted more than 1,000 awareness events. - Second Quarter Budget Review: Staff presented the first quarterly budget review for fiscal year 2026, covering revenue and expenditures as of December 31, 2025. Councilmember Lightnum asked about lower-than-expected public benefit fund revenues; staff explained that timing of payments and modified accrual accounting affected the numbers, and that the fund historically meets its goal by year-end. - Liquor License Approvals: - Approved a new bar and grill license for Smith Alley Brewing Company (150 North Main Street). Councilmember Lightnum noted the brewery will hold dual licenses but will only pay the higher fee per statute. - Approved the ownership transfer of restaurant liquor license 12 for Cowboy Cafe (138 North Main Street) from KMR Enterprises to KIMR Enterprises, an administrative change due to tax ID issues. - Approved the ownership transfer of retail liquor license 7 for Ice House (412 Whitney Lane) from Penalty Box LLC to Ice House LLC, a 100% ownership transfer for tax and operational purposes. - Teal Springs PUD Amendment (Ordinance 2300-26): City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented the proposed amendment to the Teal Springs PUD Phase One Master Plan. The amendment changes dwelling unit size requirements and adds a geotechnical report requirement for each lot. All property owners in the PUD signed consent letters, and the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval. Councilman Patzig asked about floodplain and geotech details; engineer Jeff Feck of Morrison-Maierle confirmed topsoil was stripped and replaced, and that no fill occurred in the floodway. Matt Frisbee of Teal Springs provided a project update. The council approved the amendment on a unanimous roll call vote. - Buckingham Iron Business Park Final Plat (Resolution 3125): Kelly Schroeder reviewed the county subdivision into six lots off East Ridge Road, with council recommendations for water infrastructure and paving of Bucking Iron Circle. A motion to approve was made but died for lack of a second. The mayor noted that four people wished to speak, but the council moved on to committee reports without taking further action. Key Outcomes - Approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda. - Approved three liquor license actions (Smith Alley Brewing, Cowboy Cafe ownership transfer, Ice House ownership transfer). - Approved the Teal Springs PUD amendment on a unanimous roll call vote (all present council members voted aye). - Failed to act on the Buckingham Iron Business Park final plat; the motion was not seconded. - Announced a special meeting for January 26, 2026, to consider the Sheridan County Housing Land Trust request.

The Sheridan City Council held a study session on Monday, January 12, 2026, starting at 5:30 PM. Six items were discussed: a housing land trust grant sponsorship request, three liquor license matters, a major PUD amendment for the Teal Springs subdivision, and general council business. No formal votes were taken; these items are scheduled for action at future council meetings. Housing Land Trust Grant Request - Christine Dietrich, executive director of Habitat for Humanity, presented on behalf of the Sheridan County Housing Land Trust, accompanied by Johnny Law and Meredith Saca. She requested the City of Sheridan sponsor an application for the Wyoming Unmet Housing Needs Grant in the amount of $1.6 million for land acquisition. - The property is the Vendor Lane/Vendor West subdivision. The front lot is zoned R3 and could accommodate seven fourplexes; the back lot is zoned M1 for a minimum of 30 single-family lots. The project is expected to serve at least 58 households. - The grant application is due at the end of January 2026, and funds must be encumbered by June 30, 2026. The State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB) will review applications in early February, with awards anticipated at the April 2, 2026 SLIB meeting. - As a nonprofit, the land trust cannot apply directly; a city, town, county, or tribe must sponsor. The city would submit the application and receive funds on a reimbursement basis, meaning the city would need to front the land purchase cost. City staff noted that cash reserves could be used via a budget revision. - Council discussions: A council member asked why the county was not involved; Dietrich explained only one sponsor was needed and the city was approached first. Another council member questioned the city's financial exposure and the status of the first project. Dietrich reported that in the Weston Village project, 10 homes have been sold, 10 are under contract, and the remaining 10 are scheduled for completion by December 2026. - Funding questions: The organization has a $300,000 match from the Standish Family Fund over three years. If the city's pending ARPA interest request (approximately $56,828.60) is approved, the remaining shortfall would be just over $50,000; without it, the shortfall is about $130,000. - Several council members expressed appreciation for the organization's work and support for the request, while one council member said they would not support it until they better understood the city's role and previous funding. No action was taken. Liquor License Items - Smith Alley Brewing: Ashley Foster presented a request for a new bar and grill liquor license (No. 8). Smith Alley currently has a microbrewery license and would hold a dual license, allowing it to serve hard alcohol, wine, and other spirits. The license requires an active food permit and 60% of sales from food. The fee is $10,500 for year one (corrected from an earlier $10,000), then $1,500 per year thereafter. The city has 10 bar and grill licenses; this would be the fifth. A council member was told that state statute requires paying only the higher fee when holding a dual license. - Cowboy Cafe: Administrative transfer of restaurant liquor license No. 12 from KMR Enterprises LLC to KIMR Enterprises LLC. The change is needed because the federal government shutdown delayed the LLC conversion. The same entity, applicant, and ownership are retained; KMR will dissolve after the transfer. - The Ice House: Administrative transfer of retail liquor license No. 7 from Pental Panel Hebox LLC to The Ice House LLC. The transfer consolidates ownership under one entity for tax and accounting purposes; owner Christ Medved is the same for both LLCs, and the current lease between the two will be nullified. Teal Springs PUD Amendment - City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented a major amendment (PO-25-37 / Ordinance 2302) to the Teal Springs PUD phase one master plan. The amendment affects all lots in the subdivision, located south of Brendage Lane and west of Coffeen Avenue. - Two changes are proposed to Section 7.1 of the PUD Design Report: (1) reduce the minimum dwelling size from 2,400 square feet to 1,800 square feet; (2) remove the slab-on-grade-only requirement and instead require a geotechnical investigation report for each lot before construction. - The developer requested the changes to address market demand for smaller, more affordable homes and to allow foundation flexibility. The subdivision has been removed from the floodplain through a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR-F) process, but high groundwater remains a concern. - City Engineer Tom Warner explained that crawl-space foundations are more likely than basements, and the geotechnical report will guide foundation design. Any lot still in the floodplain must be built two feet above base flood elevation. - All property owners in the subdivision signed letters authorizing the proposed changes. Notification was sent to 23 surrounding property owners and a legal ad was published; no public comments were received. Staff recommends the Planning Commission approve the application for consideration by the governing body. - Council comments included: one council member questioned how the governing body could change approved rules when it has previously said rules are fixed; another expressed strong support for the smaller minimum square footage as an affordability measure; a third noted that existing property owners' expectations were considered, but acknowledged the signed authorization letters. General Discussion & Future Agenda Items - City Administrator Stuart reported that the city-county quarterly session will be held the next morning (January 13, 2026) at 9:00 AM. - The city transitioned to a new payroll system in the current pay period; there are some minor issues that HR is resolving. - The elevator in the city building is still malfunctioning despite a circuit board replacement, and further repairs are planned. - Stuart will resend the housing land trust's request for $56,828.60 in ARPA interest funds to the council and mayor. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken at this study session. - The housing land trust grant request, liquor license items, and PUD amendment are expected to return to the council for action in upcoming meetings (liquor licenses next week; the PUD amendment will go to the Planning Commission and then to the governing body). - The city administrator will resend the ARPA interest fund request memo.

The City Planning Commission convened on January 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM with Chairperson Daniel Kerbs presiding. Commissioners Franklin, Windsor, Peterson, Campbell, Morneau, and Lehman were present. The agenda and minutes from November 24, 2025, were approved unanimously. The sole substantive item was a public hearing and deliberation on a major PUD amendment for the Teal Springs subdivision. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: Moved, seconded, and approved by a vote of 6-0. - Meeting Minutes Approval: Minutes from November 24, 2025, approved by a vote of 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or written correspondence were received. Staff confirmed notification to surrounding property owners, legal advertisement, and posted signage elicited no questions or concerns. Discussion Items - Teal Springs PUD Amendment (PL 25-37, Ordinance 2300-26): City Planner Schroeder presented the request from the developer (FP Little Goose) to amend the Planned Unit Development regulations for the Teal Springs subdivision (south of Brundage Lane, west of Coffeene Avenue). Two changes were proposed: 1. Revise the minimum home size from 2,500–4,000 square feet to 1,800 square feet minimum living space (aligning with existing covenants). 2. Remove the blanket requirement for slab-on-grade construction and instead require a geotechnical investigation report for each lot to determine appropriate foundation design (e.g., crawl space or basement, if feasible). - Staff noted that all property owners in the subdivision had signed letters authorizing the applicant to pursue the changes, and all internal review comments had been addressed. - Commissioner Lehman inquired about covenants, and applicant representative Tyson Markham confirmed the minimum square footage in the covenants already matched the proposed 1,800 sq. ft. - Commissioner Peterson questioned the feasibility of basements due to high groundwater. Mr. Markham explained that the geotechnical requirement would allow lot‑specific decisions, noting some lots on Coffeene Avenue are well above groundwater. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Approval: Moved by Commissioner Franklin, seconded by Commissioner Windsor. The commission voted unanimously (6-0) to recommend approval of PL 25-37/Ordinance 2300-26 to the City Council. No conditions were added. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after a reminder of the next meeting scheduled for January 26, 2026.

The regular city council meeting convened at 5:30 PM on January 5, 2026, with Mayor Bridger presiding. Councilmember Lumen was absent. The council heard community updates, public comments, a public hearing on a budget amendment, and considered a final plat for the Bucking Iron Business Park. Several consent agenda items were approved, and the meeting concluded with an executive session. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda (5-1 vote with one delayed response). - Approved consent agenda items A–L (items included: resource allocation up to $5,000 for the 2026 YO Winter Rodeo; purchase of one single arm side loader from CMI TechO for $450,864; purchase of one dual arm side loader from CMI TechO for $480,560.20; purchase of one transit camera van from Q's Inc. for $269,171.16; purchase of one Pierce Enforcer Rescue Engine from Front Range Fire Apparatus for $1,177,826; reappointment of Mayor Rich Bridger to the Sheridan Area Water Supply Joint Powers Board (3-year term), the Critical Air Service Team (1-year term), and other reappointments; appointment of Jordan Cashup to the Board of Adjustments; approval of December 15, 2025 meeting minutes; and claims). Councilmember Brantz recused himself from item 147 (specific item not identified in transcript). Public Comments & Testimony - Harry Pollock (Sheridan resident): Expressed concern over the city's practice of budgeting for 15–22 unfilled “ghost positions” year after year, calling it inefficient and a potential “slush fund.” Urged the council to return unspent funds to taxpayers or restrict them to new hire positions. Also questioned the justification for $1.2 million in new vehicle purchases (agenda items 9C, D, and C) given budget gaps. - John Wilcox (Sheridan resident): Criticized snow and ice removal performance in December, citing a specific incident on December 17 (plow not seen until 8:30 PM) and dangerous conditions on December 27–28. Called for improved service. - James Schmidt (Sheridan citizen): Asked about the $450,864 price for the single arm side loader and was referred to the public works director for further discussion. - Eric Mansell (applicant, owner of Bucking Iron subdivision): Argued against the city’s recommendations to extend an 8-inch water main (approx. 2,700 ft) and pave Bucking Iron Circle, citing a cost of $600,000 (about $100,000 per lot) and a severe disproportionate burden. Noted that a nearly identical subdivision (WLM) did not have such requirements and that the utilities director had previously stated no plans to extend utilities. Offered to tie into city water if the city itself extended the line. - James Schmidt (speaking also on behalf of others): Supported Mansell’s position, emphasizing that the city’s recommendation carries significant weight under the MOU and that requiring the subdivider to pay for the water line would unfairly burden him while benefiting adjacent properties at no cost. Suggested the city could use its utility funds to bring the line and then the developer could hook in. Discussion Items - Black Mountain Nordic Presentation (Nick Flores, Executive Director): Reported on the organization’s winter trail grooming (over 30 miles) and new programming. Noted that trails are free to users—unique among comparable communities. Thanks to $10,000 in city GPEP funds used to purchase a new ATV with snow tracks (total cost $23,500). Announced new after-school Nordic programs with Sheridan County School District 2 and the YMCA. Winter campaign goal of $40,000 was 98% achieved as of the meeting. Discussion included council comments: Councilman Patzig questioned the fairness of using GPEP funds (taxpayer money) vs. charging users; Councilwoman Lightnum praised free access for students. - Public Hearing – Resolution 01-26, FY26 Budget Amendment 1: City Administrator Stuart McRae and Treasurer Dara Hawkins presented the budget revision. The amendment includes $2.4 million in emerging needs, partially funded by $5.36 million in general fund surplus from FY25. Key items: completing snow removal and striping funding ($60,000 to fully fund snow day pickup), pothole repair, Midland Road/Hill Pond crossing, uninterrupted power supply for police dispatch, a new fire engine, and a wildland fire module. Staff recommended removing $1 million earmarked for Gillespie Draw right-of-way purchases, pending results of a feasibility study due after the fiscal year. The council approved the budget amendment with that removal. - Item 10 – Final Plat of Bucking Iron Business Park (Resolution 31-25): Planner Kelly Schroeder reviewed the 20-acre subdivision (6 lots, zoned I2 industrial) located 1,200 ft south of city limits. Staff recommendations: (1) water infrastructure should be extended per city design standards (changed from “shall” to “recommended”); (2) decentralized sewer is acceptable; (3) Bucking Iron Circle should be paved to an appropriate rural section. After public comment, Councilman Brantz moved an amendment to remove recommendations 1 and 3 (water and paving). The amendment failed on a 3-3 tie (Mayor Bridger did not break the tie as per practice). The original motion to approve the plat also failed on a 3-3 tie. The matter will be reconsidered when all seven council members are present. Key Outcomes - Budget amendment (Resolution 01-26) approved with the removal of $1 million for Gillespie Draw right-of-way (those funds placed in unreserved fund balance). Motion passed on voice vote with no opposition. - Bucking Iron Business Park plat not approved; both the amendment to remove water/paving requirements and the original motion failed on 3-3 ties. The item will return at a future meeting. - Consent agenda approved with one recusal. - Adjourned to executive session at approximately 6:50 PM under Wyoming statute 16-4-405 (litigation) and then adjourned the regular meeting.

The Sheridan City Council held a study session on December 22, 2025, at 5:30 PM to discuss seven agenda items covering major capital purchases, a mid-year budget revision, and a county subdivision recommendation. No formal votes were taken; discussions will inform future consent and regular agenda items. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded. Discussion Items - Purchase of Two Side Loader Trucks: Fleet coordinator Heather Kamplinski presented quotes for a 2026 MAC-Heil single-arm side loader ($450,864) and a 2026 MAC-Lebre dual-arm side loader ($480,560.20) from CMI TechO. The purchases replace a 2013 and a 2016 unit, with budget shortfalls of $33,295 and $78,000 to be covered by solid waste fund cash balance. Utilities director Dan Roberts explained that due to 20-30% inflation on side loaders, the city plans to extend truck replacement cycles from 12,000 to 17,000 hours (approximately 7 to 10 years) to maintain fund balance health. Council members questioned the sole-source cooperative purchasing process and the rising costs. - Purchase of Transit Camera Van: A new Ford Transit all-wheel-drive camera van from Qs Inc. for $269,171.16 will replace a 1999 Ford E-450 with 8,752 miles but high idle hours. The purchase is funded from wastewater collection capital outlay, with a $19,171 shortfall covered by contingency. Delivery in 90-120 days. - Purchase of Pierce Enforcer Rescue Engine: A new fire engine from Front Range Fire Apparatus for $1,177,826 will replace a 2009 Spartan engine. The total includes a $500,000 Mineral Royalty Grant and $250,000 from the general fund over two years; an additional $178,000 will come from a budget revision. Delivery is expected in Q3 2025, with a savings of over $130,000 compared to the original quote. Fire Chief Harnish noted that both existing engines (2009 and 2008) are currently out of service, leaving only one operational engine. - FY26 Budget Revision No. 1: City Treasurer Darla Hawkins and Administrator Stuart McRae presented the first budget revision. Staff identified $3.2 million in requests, including $723,600 from the original "one-to-end" list and $2.46 million in new items (e.g., street sweeper, snow day pickup costs, emergency water line repairs). The general fund has $6 million in cash reserves; the revision proposes using $800,000, leaving a 25% reserve for routine expenditures. The revision also includes a budget tool software purchase (ClearGov) and adjustments to enterprise funds (water, sewer, solid waste, golf). A public hearing is scheduled for January 5, 2026. - Bucking Iron Business Park Subdivision (PL25-33): City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented a proposed 20-acre, 6-lot industrial subdivision off East Ridge Road. Staff recommended that the city send comments to the county recommending: (1) water infrastructure be extended, (2) a decentralized sewer system be accepted, and (3) Bucking Iron Circle be paved to an appropriate rural standard. Council members debated the precedent, cost to the developer (approximately 2,700 feet of water line), and fire protection needs (nearest hydrant 1 mile away). Some council members opposed requiring water and paving due to business friendliness and the city's missed requirement in a neighboring subdivision (WLM). The discussion concluded with a plan to vote on the recommendation at the next meeting on January 5, 2026. Key Outcomes - No final decisions were made; all items are pending future council action. - The budget revision will be formally considered at the January 5, 2026, meeting following statutory publication. - The subdivision recommendation will be voted on January 5; some council members indicated opposition to water and paving requirements. - Staff will review the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the county regarding urban service area standards. - A consent agenda item for up to $5,000 in in-kind support for the Yo Winter Rodeo will be included on the January 5 agenda. - Councilmember Lumen requested a future workshop on using Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to incentivize utility extensions.

The Sheridan City Council met on December 15, 2025, for a regular meeting that included a community update from the Chamber of Commerce, a staff update on budget revision, and a public hearing on the final plat of the Bucking Iron Business Park. The council also approved the consent calendar and employee handbook updates, and tabled the Bucking Iron plat to the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, which included reappointments to the Planning Commission (Jeff Peterson and Ryan Franklin), Board of Adjustments (Joseph Crump), Tree Board (Zach Hauk and Peter Weinbergs), Sheridan Public Arts Committee (Greg Gloomin, Zoya Perry, Aaron Butler, Sarah Mentok), and Fire Department Civil Service Commission (Aaron Lindman), as well as minutes from the December 1, 2025 regular council meeting and claims. Councilmember Lumen recused herself from the appointment of Zoya Perry. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the designated public comment period. However, during the public hearing on the Bucking Iron Business Park, Eric Mansell (property owner and applicant) and James Schmidt (owner of County Trash and potential lot purchaser) spoke in opposition to the city staff recommendations requiring extension of water line and paving of the internal road, citing high costs and lack of necessity. Community Update – Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce - Teresa Dedmore, CEO, and Aaron Sopko, board president, presented the Chamber's annual update. Highlights included: distribution of 8,500 community directories and 1,900 welcome bags; digital reach of 3,112,500 (up from 250,000); member directory visits of 293,868 (up from 26,563); job posting views of 63,139 (up from 33,188); 84 attendees at small acreage management lunch programs; approximately 1,000 attendees at Chamber lunch programs; 1,700 attendees at business after-hours events; 185 attendees at the Ignite conference; 216 students participating in Manufacturing Month tours; 526 Leadership Sheridan County alumni; 103 ribbon cuttings in 2025; and $192,793 in Chamber Bucks issued in 2025 (cumulative over $1 million in five years). The Chamber also highlighted partnerships with EDTF, Travel & Tourism, and DSA, and plans to engage younger business members (ages 20–39). Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the Chamber's work and discussed collaboration among community organizations. Staff Update – Budget Revision Timeline - City Administrator Stuart McCray presented the budget revision timeline for FY26. The revision reflects a general fund increase of $2,778,697 and a GPET fund increase of $73,509, primarily due to unspent allocations from FY25 (including vacancies) and new revenue (e.g., interest from ARPA funds). The public hearing is scheduled for December 22, 2025. Council members asked clarifying questions about the sources of funds and the impact of unfilled positions. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – Final Plat of Bucking Iron Business Park (PL-25-33, Resolution 31-25): The subdivision is a 20-acre county parcel located in the joint planning area, proposed to be divided into six industrial lots. City staff recommended three conditions: (1) extend water infrastructure, (2) sewer may be served by decentralized system since centralized is not available, and (3) the internal road (Bucking Iron Circle) shall be paved. The applicant argued against these conditions, citing high costs (estimated $350,000+ for water, $200,000+ for paving, total up to $1 million), lack of cooperation from an adjacent landowner for an easement, consistency with a prior similar subdivision (WLM, approved without water), and adequacy of existing wells (tested and approved by DEQ). James Schmidt spoke about affordability concerns for his business. Council members debated the need for fire protection, the feasibility of future improvements, and the importance of consistency. After discussion, a motion to table the item to the next regular council meeting (December 22, 2025) passed 4–2. The council requested additional information on past similar subdivisions (e.g., WLM and Gillespie) and the fire department's approval letter. - New Business – Employee Handbook Updates: Human Resources Director Heather Doak presented two updates: adding a compensatory time off policy (employees may convert overtime into 1.5x compensatory time, up to 40 hours per fiscal year) and changing the attendance policy from two to three consecutive days without contact before considering resignation. The council approved the updates unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved (unanimous). - Employee handbook updates approved (unanimous). - Bucking Iron Business Park final plat tabled until the December 22, 2025 regular meeting by a vote of 4–2. Staff will gather additional information on comparable subdivisions and fire protection requirements. - Council member reports included updates from CETA (meeting date pending), Critical Air Service Team (no new developments; Gillette airport closure may boost Sheridan loads), Water Services (discussion on water rights acquisition and projects), and Sheridan Public Arts Committee (replacing weathered signs, testing new materials).

The Sheridan City Council held a study session on December 8, 2025, with a light agenda covering three discussion items: updates to the employee handbook, a review of the city’s future land use plans, and a preliminary review of the Bucking Iron Business Park subdivision plat. The meeting also included a general discussion of future items led by the city administrator. No formal votes were taken; all items were presented for council discussion and feedback. Discussion Items Employee Handbook Updates - Presenter: Heather Doe, Human Resources Director - Proposed changes: - Addition of a compensatory time off policy: employees who work overtime can choose to receive compensatory time (1.5 hours off for each hour of overtime) instead of overtime pay. The policy caps accrual at 40 hours per fiscal year, with any unused hours paid out at the end of the fiscal year. This change is enabled by a new time and attendance and payroll system going live on December 21, 2025. - Change in the no-call-no-show termination policy: currently, two consecutive days of absence without notice results in termination; the proposed change extends that to three consecutive days before considering resignation. Staff noted they actively attempt to contact employees before that point. - Follow-up on prior year’s overtime policy: Heather Doe reported that since the policy clarifying that employees should not work off the clock without pay was implemented a year ago, there have been no reported issues or complaints. - Council questions: Councilor Brant asked about tracking increments (tenth of an hour) and confirmed that compensatory time is capped at 40 hours and will be paid out at year-end. The mayor noted that sending emails after hours is common but no response is expected. Future Land Use Plan Discussion - Presenters: Kelly Schroeder, City Planner, and Dan Roberts, Utilities Director - Overview: Kelly Schroeder explained the two main land use documents: the City of Sheridan Land Use Plan (2017) and the Joint City-County Land Use Plan (2017). Both are nearly 10 years old but remain useful for guiding planning decisions. She highlighted key chapters: - Chapter 3: Existing land use often does not match zoning (e.g., Coffeen Avenue zoned industrial but used commercially). - Chapter 5: Community values and guiding principles (connectivity, housing types, etc.). - Chapter 7: Future land use map – a broad vision, not zoning. - Chapter 8: Next steps – 24 recommendations to align city code with the plan; some already implemented (downtown overlay, M2 industrial zoning, historic design standards), others still pending (zoning code reorganization, infrastructure tie-ins, PUD components). - Joint City-County Plan: Covers the one-mile buffer (joint planning area) around the city. Key features: urban service area (USA) where municipal services may be provided; areas outside the USA are designated for agricultural or low-density development. - Utility Planning: Dan Roberts explained that the city’s utility master planning uses the USA as the service boundary. The wastewater system master plan includes 30 years of growth projections. The USA is the same as the sewer service area boundary established in a 40-year-old intergovernmental agreement. - Councilor Panson’s questions: - Urban service boundary updates: last updated in the 2017 land use plan; not a hard limit but a planning tool. - Sewer capacity on Fifth Street: a bottleneck exists; the city is evaluating solutions, including upsizing the line between Skiles and Sheridan Avenue, and may fund a project in Fiscal Year 2028. The city has installed eight flow meters (smart covers) for real-time monitoring to calibrate models. - Prior moratorium: only one instance – a small phase of Osprey (west side) due to capacity concerns, resolved after flow data collection. - No formal action; the discussion aimed to inform council about the relationship between land use planning and infrastructure. Resolution 3125 – Final Plat of Bucking Iron Business Park - Presenter: Kelly Schroeder - Proposal: A county subdivision of 20 acres into six lots (2.5–3.5 acres each) at 170 East Ridge Road, zoned I2 industrial in the county. Located in the joint planning area, about 1,200 feet south of city limits, within the urban service area. The site is across from the city landfill property (owned by city but not annexed). - Staff comments/recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners: 1. Water infrastructure is available and shall be extended to the subdivision in accordance with city design standards. 2. Centralized sewer is not currently available; the subdivision may be served by a decentralized system. 3. Bucking Iron Circle (the internal road) shall be paved and built to an appropriate rural section. - Council questions: Councilor Panson asked why paving was required. Staff replied that the MOU requires paving if water is extended; otherwise, if no utilities, paving is not required. The water extension would likely use an easement through adjacent property or the existing right-of-way. The county is already planning to improve East Ridge Road (straightening the hairpin curve, paving) with federal grants. - No public comments received; staff sent notices to four surrounding property owners, published a legal ad, and posted a sign. No formal vote; council will provide comments to the county at a future meeting. General Discussion of Future Items - Presenter: Stuart McCray, City Administrator - Updates: - Elevator at city hall: out of service; circuit board on back order, expected to ship next week, but installation may take several weeks. The city is working with the court to accommodate ADA needs on the first floor. - MullinX truck traffic: seasonal slowdown expected from January through March; not a complete stop. - FY25 budget reconciliation: completed by the treasurer; staff will bring it to council on December 22 if publishing requirements can be met, otherwise a special meeting before the January 12 study session. - Thayer Schaefer (former employee/volunteer) is now at Legacy Living and Rehab Center in Gillette; council members were encouraged to contact him. - Councilor Warren: Reminded everyone about the Race Across America program on December 13 at 10 a.m. at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. - Councilor (unidentified): Expressed desire to introduce an ordinance to protect city buildings and property from inappropriate flags, stating that only flags reflective of Western culture and values should be flown. This will be brought forward formally later. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the study session. All items were discussed for informational purposes and to guide future actions. - The council will consider the employee handbook changes at a future meeting (likely for approval). - Comments on the Bucking Iron Business Park plat will be formally submitted to the Board of County Commissioners; the council will finalize the resolution at an upcoming meeting. - The city administrator will bring the budget reconciliation to council for approval, with a public hearing required. - A potential ordinance regarding flags on city property will be drafted and presented later.

Note: The meeting was opened by the Mayor as "our first meeting in March," but the assigned meeting date is December 1, 2025. This discrepancy likely reflects an error in the recorded transcript; the summary below uses the provided date of December 1, 2025, for all references. The meeting began with an invocation by Reverend Aaron Tyler, roll call (all council members present), and unanimous approval of the agenda as presented. A community update on the Kinder Cart Pool renovation dominated the early portion, followed by a public comment, three public hearings, consent agenda approval, and council reports. Consent Calendar - Agenda approval: Motion carried unanimously. - Consent Agenda (later in meeting): Included approval of a professional services agreement with Primary Municipal Court Judge Jeremy Kisling, minutes of the regular council meeting of November 17, 2025, and claims. Councilmembers Whitesold and Wood recused themselves from specific claims (items 400 and 90/91 respectively). The consent agenda was approved unanimously with those recusals noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Margaret McGee spoke on two topics: (1) thanked the city road crew for fixing a bump on Brundage Lane; (2) asked the city to consider an alternative location for snow storage currently placed at South Park, citing winter tourism use, potential environmental concerns (oil, grease, wetland runoff), and suggesting a cooperative agreement with the county. The Mayor acknowledged the complexity and requested she leave contact information for follow-up. Discussion Items - Pool Project Update (Staff Update): Project Engineer David Ford presented a detailed overview of the Kinder Cart Pool renovation, built in 1937. Key points included: - 2019 community survey rated the pool as a top investment priority (71% support for renovation/rebuild). - Only one bid received (Dick Anderson Construction) at $10.7 million. Value engineering reduced award to $5.4 million. - Funded by cap tax, GPET public benefit, and a Land and Water Conservation Grant. - Project completed on schedule with final completion expected April 2025, grand opening planned for Saturday, June 6, 2025 (89 years to the day after original dedication). - Features: three water slides, activity pool, zero-depth entry, stainless steel gutter system, new mechanical building, expanded deck area, drop-off/pick-up zone, PVC liner, UV sanitation, and astro turf with misters. - Funding spent: 98% of budget; remaining 2% for spring startup and final cleaning. - Recognition given to citizens, Dick Anderson Construction, Interstate Engineering, the Rec District (Alex Mock), and city divisions. - In response to a council question, Ford affirmed that previous reported leaks were due to settling and valve adjustments, not an actual leak. - Councilmember Wood asked about fee increases; Mayor Bridger (also Rec District board president) confirmed fees will rise slightly due to a 10% property tax revenue reduction, but the goal remains affordable access. - Public Hearing: Transfer of Hydraulic Extrication Equipment to Claremont Fire District: Fire Chief Gary Harnish explained the city is selling surplus 2008 Hurst rescue tools (Jaws of Life) replaced in 2025. Valued at $5,000 based on auction sites. Claremont Fire District expressed interest. State statute required a public hearing before sale to another political subdivision. Council approved the sale unanimously. - Public Hearing: Final Plat of Elmwood Estates (Resolution 30-25): City Planner Kelly Schroeder presented a four-lot subdivision on East Fifth Street (31.85 acres, zoned B1). Three lots are immediately developable for multifamily; one large remainder lot for future development. Three variances requested: right-of-way width for Hisham Drive due to a YDOT triangle, hammerhead dead ends instead of cul-de-sacs, and a reduced horizontal curve radius (150 ft vs. 300 ft required). Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval. No public comments in opposition. Councilmember Patsy questioned the applicant (Mark Christensen, AVIPC) confirming the developer (Stencil Group) will retain ownership and manage as rentals. Councilmember Whitesold asked about a crosswalk across East Fifth Street; the city engineer recommended against it due to high speed/volume and suggested using signalized intersections to the west. The plat was approved unanimously. - Public Hearing: Renewal of Liquor Licenses for 2026: City Clerk Ashley Foster reported 55 licenses up for renewal. All applications were received and approved by the state. One license (New Dragon Wall) renewing as non-operational, expected to open January 2026. No citations in 2025; three in 2024 were successfully ameliorated. No public comments. Council unanimously approved the renewals. - Council Reports: Councilmembers provided updates from various boards: CETA (Economic Development Authority) – working on next business park phase; CCERT (Critical Care Emergency Response Team) – flight services strong; SAWS (Sheridan Area Water Supply) – project to increase looping for water freshness; SPAC (Sheridan Public Arts Council) – letter campaign for sculpture acquisition; Justice Direct Power Board – administrator Dan Lindley retiring, search underway. - Staff Updates: City Administrator Stu provided upcoming events: Chamber of Commerce government affairs event (next Wednesday), public call wrap-up (Thursday), and note that the scheduled community update from Shafts was postponed (slides received). Key Outcomes - Unanimous votes: Agenda approval, consent agenda (with recusals), transfer of extrication equipment, final plat of Elmwood Estates, renewal of all 55 liquor licenses. - Directives: Mayor asked Margaret McGee to leave contact information for follow-up on snow storage at South Park; staff will coordinate. - Next steps: Pool grand opening June 6, 2025; Elmwood Estates will proceed with plat recording and future development; liquor license renewal cards to be processed; search for new Justice Direct administrator to begin.

The Sheridan City Planning Commission met on November 24, 2025, to consider approvals, minutes, and a major final plat application. The primary agenda item was Appeal 25-30 (Resolution 30-25) for the final plat of Elmwood Estates, a proposed subdivision along East Fifth Street. The commission entertained public comment, discussed technical variances, and voted to recommend approval to the governing body. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Moved, seconded, and passed unanimously (all in favor, none opposed). - Approval of October 13, 2025, Meeting Minutes: A correction was noted (name spelling error in section one). The minutes were approved as corrected by unanimous consent. Public Comments & Testimony - John Smith (adjacent property owner, speaking with his wife Robbie Smith): - Expressed concern that the property line between their 77-acre parcel and the Elmwood Estates site was surveyed 10–20 feet off from the recorded line. He requested that the issue be addressed before development proceeds on the southern end of the applicant’s property. - Also raised traffic and parking concerns: impact of up to 200 multifamily units (the front portion includes an estimated 100-unit apartment complex, with potential for another) on already busy East Fifth Street, especially during peak commuting hours. He questioned whether parking requirements (0.75 spaces per unit) would be sufficient to avoid overflow street parking, as observed in other nearby developments. - City Planner Schroeder responded: - A traffic analysis submitted with the plat estimated average daily traffic and peak-hour impacts; internal roads are designed to a minor collector standard. - The B1 zoning district requires 0.75 off-street parking spaces per multifamily unit (e.g., 75 spaces for 100 units). The developer is considering both covered and uncovered parking, which would be verified at the building permit stage. Discussion Items - Final Plat for Elmwood Estates (PL25-30 / Resolution 30-25): Staff presented the subdivision details: - Location: East Fifth Street, recently rezoned from R1 to B1 (business district) to allow multifamily and potential commercial development. The site is 31.85 acres, part of the entryway corridor. - Layout: Three developable lots (Lots 1 and 2 in Block 2, and Lot 1 in Block 1) plus a 24+ acre remainder lot for future development. Lot 2, Block 2 is planned for an approximately 100-unit apartment complex. - Roadways: Two internal roads (Zaid Road and Hisham Drive) will be built to city standard (60-ft right-of-way, 39-ft road width, boulevards and sidewalks both sides), terminating in hammerhead turnarounds (IFC compliant for fire trucks). - Variance Requests (three total): 1. Right-of-way width on Hisham Drive: narrower at a triangular portion under YDOT jurisdiction (currently being transferred to city) to accommodate alignment with Sibley Circle. 2. Hammerhead dead ends on both Zaid Road and Hisham Drive instead of required cul-de-sacs, due to steep slopes and grading constraints. 3. Hisham Drive centerline curve radius of 150 feet (vs. required 300 feet) to maintain an acceptable grade (7.5% or less) for the road connecting to East Fifth Street. - Drainage: An existing pond easement (Hutton Reservoir) will remain; no construction is permitted in the easement. A drainage report ensures historic flows are maintained. - Utility Capacity: A will-serve letter was issued in March; preliminary analysis shows sufficient sewer capacity, though future build-out may require pipe enlargement or lift station adjustments. Public Works Director confirmed no current concerns. - Staff Recommendation: Approve the final plat for Elmwood Estates, or recommend approval with conditions, or recommend denial. - Commission Questions: - Commissioner asked about water and sewer capacity relative to concurrent Story House development. Director March explained that water is not an issue (new Northeast Transmission main), and sewer capacity is being monitored; Story House agreed to a density cap and can use lift stations to vary pump times. No capacity concerns for this project. - The city’s acquisition of East Fifth Street from YDOT is independent of the development. - The sharp turn and narrower right-of-way on Hisham Drive were clarified to avoid excessive grades (targeting <8% slope). Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner moved to recommend approval of the final plat (PL25-30 / Resolution 30-25) including the three variances: (1) Hisham Drive right-of-way width, (2) hammerhead turnarounds on both Zaid Road and Hisham Drive, and (3) Hisham Drive centerline curve radius of 150 feet. The motion was seconded. - Vote: All commissioners in favor (ayes), none opposed. Motion passed. - Additional Directive: Chairman Krabs directed staff to ask the applicant’s surveyor to double‑check the property line issue raised by Mr. and Mrs. Smith before the final plat is signed. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn, seconded, and passed unanimously.