Laramie County Commissioner Meeting Summaries: January - March 2025

Laramie County Commissioners 2025

Several years ago, the Laramie County Commissioners started live-streaming the Commissioners' meetings and allowing the public to view previous meetings. Everyone should take advantage of this valuable service and stay informed on decisions affecting the growth and direction of the county. Laramie County - Calendar (legistar.com) I will post a brief synopsis of the bi-monthly Commissioner meetings on my Facebook page, including my comments and welcome input and dialogue from the community. For complete details, visit the County Commissioner's website.

March 18th Laramie County Commissioners meeting:

* The consent agenda items were approved. These are regular county business items that do not warrant discussion. They are all listed in detail on the meeting agenda notes.

* A legal services agreement was approved between Laramie County, WY, and the Law Office of Shelly Kay Flot, PC. This agreement, which was postponed from the March 4, 2025 meeting, is designed to provide representation to indigent parents in accordance with WS 14-3-422(b) and to ensure the county's compliance with its obligation under WS 14-3-434(b) at a rate of $100/hour.

* Master software service agreement approved between Laramie County, WY, and Zasio Enterprises, Inc., in the amount of $31,945 to establish the terms for Zasio's provision of Zasio Services to customer and customer's access and use of Zasio Services pursuant to order forms entered into under this agreement from time-to-time

* Agreement approved between Laramie County, WY, and Codex Corp, dba Guardian RFID, for $41,142 to provide a system comprised of hardware, support services, and web-based software as a service platform to deliver inmate management, monitoring, and tracking solutions. The annual renewal fee is $32,056. The additional amount requested covers replacement equipment and upgrades.

* Public hearing held regarding a yearly fireworks permit submitted by Phantom Fireworks, LLC, located at 227 I-25 Service Rd East. There was no public comment on this item, and it was approved.

* Public hearing held regarding a yearly fireworks permit submitted by Phantom Fireworks Showrooms, LLC, located at 239 I-25 Service Rd East. There was no public comment on this item, and it was approved.

* Public hearing held regarding a yearly fireworks permit submitted by Breanna Elliott, dba Artillery World Fireworks, located at 237 I-25 Service Rd, Bldg A. The county and the owners of this business are currently in litigation stemming from the commission's vote last year to deny the application. Commissioner Thompson played an audio recording into the record of Mr. Elliot calling into Thompson's veterinary clinic, which sounded threatening, advising clinic staff that he was planning a protest of the business due to Thompson's previous vote to deny the application. The vote was unanimous in the decision to deny the current application.

March 4th Laramie County Commissioners meeting:

I was not present for this week's agenda meeting as I was sick with a bad head cold.

* The consent agenda items were approved. These are regular county business items that do not warrant discussion. They are all listed in detail on the meeting agenda notes.

*  Resolution approved designating the Cheyenne America 250 Commission as the official Laramie County America 250 Commission. The resolution reads as follows:

WHEREAS, the year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a historic milestone in the founding of the United States of America, and an opportunity to reflect on the ideals of liberty, equality, and self-governance that continue to inspire our nation; and

WHEREAS, the America 250 initiative is a nationwide commemoration of this historic anniversary, designed to inspire learning about the Founding, encourage gratitude for our shared American heritage, and celebrate the enduring principles of freedom and democracy; and

WHEREAS, the Cheyenne America 250 Commission has been established to plan and execute programming and events in Cheyenne to honor this historic occasion, including educational initiatives, performing and visual arts, stakeholder engagement, and community-wide celebrations that will benefit all residents of Laramie County; and

WHEREAS, the Cheyenne America 250 Commission has developed a robust slate of activities for 2026, including essay contests, concerts, patriotic plays, exhibitions at libraries and museums, a monumental bronze sculpture, a time capsule, and a three-day celebration over the Fourth of July weekend featuring a parade, fireworks, and an American heritage festival; and

WHEREAS, these events and programs are designed to embrace all stakeholder groups in Laramie County, including schools, veterans' organizations, Native American communities, charitable organizations, and residents of rural and urban areas alike, ensuring that the commemoration reflects the diversity and unity of the county; and

WHEREAS, the designation of the Cheyenne America 250 Commission as the official Laramie County America 250 Commission will enable the Commission to access critical funding from a state appropriation specifically allocated for America 250 initiatives; and

WHEREAS, the Cheyenne America 250 Commission is not requesting any financial support from Laramie County for its activities, as the funding will come entirely from state appropriations and ongoing private fundraising efforts, which are already underway to support the planned events; and

WHEREAS, the designation of the Cheyenne America 250 Commission as the Laramie County America 250 Commission carries no financial or administrative burden for Laramie County and will only serve to enhance the scope and impact of the celebrations for all residents of the county.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, LARAMIE COUNTY, WYOMING:

I. The Cheyenne America 250 Commission is hereby designated and appointed as the official Laramie County America 250 Commission.

2. The Commission is empowered to plan, organize, and execute programming and celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States of America on behalf of all residents of Laramie County.

3. The Commission is authorized to apply for and secure funding from the state appropriation for America 250 initiatives, as well as to continue its private fundraising efforts to support its activities.

4: The Laramie County Commissioners recognize the importance of the America 250 commemoration in fostering unity, patriotism, and a deeper understanding of the ideals upon which our nation was founded.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Laramie County Commissioners commend the Cheyenne America 250 Commission for its leadership and dedication to ensuring that this historic milestone is celebrated in a manner that honors the past, inspires the present, and leaves a lasting legacy for future generations.

* Presentation of the FY24 audit of Laramie County. (No action required) Each year, an outside company conducts an audit of Laramie County's finances, including grants received by the county. The audit came back clean with no discrepancies.

*  Resolution approved proclaiming March 2025 as Red Cross Month. The proclamation reads as follows:

WHEREAS, During American Red Cross Month in March, we recognize the compassionate acts of people in Laramie County, Wyoming, and by renewing our commitment to lend a helping hand to our neighbors in need; and

WHEREAS, Since Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross more than 140 years ago, generation after generation has stepped up to deliver relief and care across our country and around the world, bringing out the best of humanity in times of crisis. Advancing this noble mission, the volunteers and supporters who now give back through the Wyoming Chapter remain unwavering in their commitment to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of today's emergencies; and

WHEREAS, Their voluntary and generous contributions shine a beacon of hope in people's darkest hours-whether it's delivering shelter, food and comfort during disasters; supporting service members, veterans and their families; saving lives with first aid, CPR, AED and other skills; or delivering international aid and reconnecting loved ones separated by global crises; and

WHEREAS, This work to uplift our community is truly made possible by those who selflessly answer the call to help, whenever and wherever it's needed. We hereby recognize this month of March in honor of their remarkable service, and we ask everyone to join in their commitment to care for one another.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Laramie County Commissioners do hereby proclaim March 2025 as Red Cross Month.

* A Public hearing was held regarding a request for the vacation of Rd 103 described as commencing at the intersection of Rd 239 and running thence north approximately 165 ft through Sect 3, T18N, R70W of the 6th PM and Sects 34, 33, and 28, T19N, R70W of the 6th PM, Laramie County, WY, and terminating at the north line of Sect 28, contiguous to Sect 21, T19N, R70W of the 6th PM, Laramie County, WY. There was no public comment on this item, and it was approved.

* Agreement approved between Laramie County, WY, and Great Western Installation for $201,221.53 to provide and install playground equipment at North Clear Creek Park. A member of the Recreation Board spoke on this item and thanked the voters of Laramie County, as this was a 6th Penny Project. He also thanked County Grants Director Sandra Bay for her assistance in procuring grant funding for the project.

* Liquor license fees for July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026 were approved. County Clerk Debra Lee indicated that the fees remained the same from last year, and no new categories were added. 

* Resolution approved appointing Robert Peete as representative of  Laramie County on the Laramie County Community Juvenile Services Joint Powers Board to complete a three-year term open position, expiring June 30, 2027.

February 18th Laramie County Commissioners meeting:

* The consent agenda items were approved. These are regular county business items that do not warrant discussion. They are all listed in detail on the meeting agenda notes.

* Outside user sanitary sewer agreement approved between Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities and Laramie County, WY, creating terms and conditions for the Archer Complex to connect to the Cheyenne wastewater treatment infrastructure and provide sanitary sewer service.

* Resolution approved, giving public notice of Laramie County's intent to adopt the 2024 International Fire Code.

* Resolution approved to place regulatory parking signs along the eastern boundary of First St north of Monroe Ave, extending to the end of the existing right-of-way in Carpenter, WY.

* Announcement of a public notice for releasing a grant application for Laramie County organizations to apply for opioid settlement funds. (No action required by Commissioners)

* The agreement was approved between Laramie County, WY, and Civilworx, LLC, not exceeding $300,000, to provide services to Public Works to assist with developing a capital improvement plan. The plan will cover roads, road lighting, sidewalks, handicap access, and storm drainage assessment.

* Corrected motion approved to attach PUD documents as exhibit B to the resolution (240319-26) adopted on March 19, 2024, authorizing a zone change from LU - Land Use to PUD - Planned Unit Development for Tracts 1 to 4, Terry Ranch Business Park and Lot 1, Block 1, Terry Park, Laramie County, WY.

* A Public Hearing was held regarding a site plan for the Eberle RV Stalls located at 3552 RD 212, Triple Crown Estates, 2nd Filing, Laramie County, WY. Numerous area property owners spoke against this issue, and one spoke for it. 

If approved, the site plan would allow the property owners to open a four-site RV park in the middle of a subdivision, which would typically not be permitted. However, the area the property is located on is zoned Land Use (LU), which allows for any use other than those outlined in the Laramie County Land Use Regulations, which are as follows. 

1. Concentrated animal feeding operation

2. Shooting Range

3. Large-scale wind and solar and;

4. Adult Entertainment business

The site plan, as written, met the requirements for the septic, water, and electrical being tied into the utilities of the home on the property.  The commissioners had an in-depth discussion on this issue due to the property's LU designation, which is used by right, meaning the commissioners could not deny the site plan, only add exceptions to its use such as fencing, shrubbery, or other visual mitigation of the RV sites, or requiring the plan to be reviewed again if the deed ever changed hands.

My concern centered around a different issue. Yes, the property is in an LU zone. Still, the land use regulations also state that no one can live in an RV ANYWHERE in Laramie County. Unless the property owner is in the process of building a home on the property the RV is parked on, has the proper permit from County Planning, and the RV is hooked up to a certified septic system. During my Law Enforcement career, I have issued people citations for violating this specific land use regulation. 

Both views, for and against this issue, are addressed in the land use regulations and have merit. However, given my experience of RV use in this manner violating the land use regulations, I went with the more restrictive application and voted against it. However, the site plan was eventually approved. 

My concern centered around a different issue. Yes, the property is in an LU zone. Still, the land use regulations also state that no one can live in an RV ANYWHERE in Laramie County unless the property owner is in the process of building a home on the property the RV is parked on and has the proper permit from County Planning. The RV is hooked up to a certified septic system. During my Law Enforcement career, I have accused people of violating this specific land use regulation. 

Both views on this issue have merit, but given my experience, I could not vote for either. However, the site plan was eventually approved. 

* Public Hearing held regarding a subdivision permit & plat for Pee-Wee Ponderosa Subdivision, located in the 1600 block of County Rd 143, Laramie County, WY. There was one property owner who commented in person and two who sent e-mails.  All comments centered around drainage concerns.  It was approved with the property representative during the meeting to add culverts large enough to mitigate possible future water drainage issues.

February 4th Laramie County Commissioners meeting:

* The consent agenda items were approved. These are regular county business items that do not warrant discussion. They are all listed in detail on the meeting agenda notes.

* An addendum was approved between Laramie County, WY, and Precision Kiosk Technologies, Inc., for the contractor to provide hardware and software to implement fully automated pretrial, probation, and alcohol monitoring for low-risk individuals. The county shall pay the contractor $1,750 per kiosk per month and other charges detailed in Exhibit A of Attachment A. As an alternate option to incarceration, this service will allow for daily alcohol monitoring of individuals for compliance so they can continue to work and be productive members of society.

* An intergovernmental agreement was approved between the US Dept. of Justice, US Marshals Service (USMS), and Laramie County, WY, to allow the county to maintain custody of selected federal inmates as determined by Laramie County. The adult daily incarceration fee will be $120 daily, and the juvenile incarceration fee will be $190 daily. USMS is responsible for federal inmate transportation and medical costs. You may be aware that I am not a fan whatsoever of housing federal inmates in our local jail facility; this is mainly due to the frivolous lawsuits they tend to file, their violent tendencies, and the extra burden on facilities housing them to conform to federal Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) guidelines, of which the jail is well over 95% compliant, only missing mandated unfunded positions within the jail supporting the guidelines.  However, the sheriff assured the commissioners that the federal government had changed its position and was no longer mandating strict adherence to PREA, only that the facility was working toward compliance.  Is it perfect? No, but it does allow federal inmates to be housed for a short period in our jail while they appear in Federal Court here in Cheyenne instead of being housed in Scottsbluff, NE, and transported back and forth.  If there are issues of any kind with a specific inmate housed in our county jail, the inmate will be removed.

* A new service agreement and addendum between Laramie County, WY, and High West Energy, Inc., to provide service to power the new billboard sign at the Archer Complex for $10,000.

* During the meeting, a public hearing was held regarding a subdivision permit and plat for Recco Ranch, located east of town off Railroad Rd. There was no public comment, and the item was approved.

* During the meeting, a public hearing was held regarding a zone change from LI - Light Industrial to MU - Mixed Use for Cheyenne Irrigated Gardens, 3rd Filing, of the south 440-ft of Tract 17, Cheyenne Irrigated Gardens, Laramie County, WY. This property is located at the corner of Person's Rd and Avenue D.  There was no public comment, and the item was approved.

January 21st Laramie County Commissioners meeting:

* The consent agenda items were approved. These are regular county business items that do not warrant discussion. They are all listed in detail on the meeting agenda notes.

* Public Hearing regarding a request for the vacation of a portion of the existing 80 ft of the public right-of-way of Rd 103, also known as BCH CR 10 and McLees Rd.  The original petition to establish this road dates back to 1885, and there have been many discussions to vacate it over the years.  It is an interesting read if you are a county history buff; the full viewer's report is contained in exhibit A in the attached menus to this item.  The owner of the McLees Ranch spoke in favor of vacating the section of the roadway.  She explained that it runs through her property and has no access to any public property.  The road's current designation as a public right-of-way allows people to travel through her property and, over the years, has led to extensive instances of vandalism.  The board voted in favor of the item, and the road section was vacated. 

* Public Hearing was held regarding a request for the vacation of a portion of the existing 80-ft of the public right-of-way of Knowlwood Rd.  This area is currently platted for the addition of a future roadway, but it has not been built yet.  Once developed, the road would intersect with Horse Creek Rd.  Property owners in the subdivision spoke for and against the item, which was eventually denied by the board—the reason for the decision related to public safety.  Several lots have not been developed yet; once developed, the portion of road under consideration would allow for a secondary access point for the subdivision, which would enhance public safety in the area.  If the board had allowed the request to vacate the right-of-way, the road could not be built in the future when properties connecting to it are developed. 

* A resolution was passed rescinding Stage 1 fire restrictions for Laramie County.  EMA Director Jeanine West spoke on this issue in her capacity as Assistant County Fire Warden.  Due to recent snowfall and projected moisture conditions, the Laramie County Fire Chief's opinion was that the restrictions should be lifted at this time. She added that they will continue monitoring conditions and make updated recommendations as necessary. 

* A Memorandum of understanding was approved concerning a road construction and cost-sharing agreement between Laramie County, WY, and TGE Wyoming 222, LLC, for the reconstruction of County Rd 203, also known as Chalk Bluff Rd, in relation to the Cowboy Solar Site Plan. The total cost of this project is estimated at 14.5 million, with TGE contributing $12 million and the county allocating 2.5 million. 

* A Public Hearing was held regarding board approval for a dog boarding kennel located at 6912 Christensen Rd. No one from the public spoke on this item, which was approved by the board. 

January 7th Laramie County Commissioners meeting:

* The consent agenda items were approved. These are regular county business items that do not warrant discussion. They are all listed in detail on the meeting agenda notes.

* a public hearing was held to consider three separate resolutions to allow Cowboy Racing, LLC, to conduct parimutuel wagering on live horse racing, historic horse racing, and simulcast events at 1720 Cleveland Ave, 1734 Meadowland Dr, and 714 W 20th St, in Cheyenne. Three members of the public from one family spoke against the proposed location at 1720 Cleveland Ave. They had no issue with these venues in other parts of town; they didn't want one so close to a residential neighborhood. The commissioners received numerous emails against and for this specific item leading up to this meeting. One thing I did note while I was reviewing each of these emails was that there were quite a few Laramie County residents who had initially sent emails against this item, but after attending public meetings put on by Cowboy Racing representatives, they sent follow-up emails expressing their support for the business, even if they did not personally support gambling businesses in general. The resolution was passed unanimously after a lot of consideration.   

Although I am not a proponent of organized gambling, I have to consider the overall impact on Laramie County when voting on any particular item, not any personally held beliefs.

For those unaware, Cowboy Racing is a locally owned business that was approved to build the horse track east of town near Hillsdale. This group has already invested millions to build out this site, which will have a long-term positive effect on the greater Laramie County economy. For any business to conduct parimutuel wagering on live horse racing, historic horse racing, and simulcast events in the state of Wyoming, they are required by Wyoming State Statute to operate a licensed horse racing track somewhere in the state and conduct at least 16 days of live races during any calendar year to maintain their permitting through the Wyoming Gaming Commission. Because racetracks on their own are not easily sustainable without outside support, the state legislature in 2014, in an effort to bring back horse racing to Wyoming, authorized parimutuel and historic horse racing wagering. Cowboy Racing could not complete the track and continue economic investments in the community without these three sites. This includes erecting a hotel, various sporting venues beyond the racetrack, and family-friendly amenities, including a splash park at the racetrack location. The revenues generated by cowboy racing will have a long-term positive effect on the local Laramie County economy.

Side note: During the 2025 legislative session, several bills relating to gaming facilities will be considered. One of the bills will allow local municipalities to decide whether to allow gaming facilities within their jurisdictions and how many will be allowed, giving counties and municipalities local oversight. Currently, the Wyoming Gaming Association is in charge of overseeing gaming facilities throughout the state.

* An agreement was approved between the city of Cheyenne and Laramie County to create a Human Services Advisory Council. The council will coordinate and refine human services funding and delivery systems now in effect and those initiated as outlined in the Powers and Duties section of the agreement. The city and county each agree to provide $10,500 per year for four years to United Way to facilitate the implementation of the council duties. This agreement is for FYs 24, 25, 26, and 27, beginning July 1, 2023, and ending on June 30, 2027.

* Burt Macy, Darrel Repshire, and Ron Rabou were appointed to the Laramie County Weed and Pest Control District Board of Directors for areas 3, 5, and 7, respectively

* A public hearing was held regarding the Adoption of the 2024 International Building Codes. No members of the public commented on the item, which was approved.

* A public hearing was held regarding a zone change from MU—Mixed Use to LI—Light Industrial for a property at 2106 Stundon Ave. No members of the public spoke on the item, which was approved.

* A public hearing was held regarding a subdivision permit and plat for Allison Tracts, 12th Filing, a vacation and replat of Lot 2, Block 1, Allison Tracts, 8th Filing, Laramie County, WY. No members of the public spoke on the item, which was approved. 

* A public hearing was held regarding a proposed extension of a Board of Public Utilities water main within the Chalk Bluff Rd right-of-way.  No public members spoke in person about this item; however, an online comment was against it.  (No action required)

For complete details, visit the County Commissioner's website.