The City Council of Torrington, Wyoming, convened on March 3, 2026, to discuss significant community matters and approve essential appointments. The meeting, held at the City Council Chambers, included Mayor Herb Doby and all council members present: Deahl, Kelly, Viktorin, and Warren.
Mayor Doby initiated the session by sharing critical announcements, including a weather update urging residents to refrain from placing large tree limbs in dumpsters due to the recent high winds. He also encouraged residents to contact Ed Hawley, the Streets & Sanitation Superintendent, for assistance with limb disposal. The mayor highlighted upcoming hiring efforts for summer positions, including lifeguards and seasonal workers for city parks and sanitation departments.
In an effort to promote community safety, the mayor reminded drivers to be cautious of pedestrians and school buses, and emphasized the importance of helmet use for children under 16 operating electric bikes and scooters.
The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the minutes from the previous council meeting on February 17, 2026. They also accepted the meeting agenda without amendments.
In a notable presentation, representatives from Black Hills Energy, including Kevin Jones and Laurie Farkas, addressed the council regarding a donation for the Dale Jones Municipal Pool. They revealed that the pool, a staple in the community for over five decades, is in urgent need of a new boiler system following extensive repairs. The representatives expressed their satisfaction in presenting a check to cover the replacement costs, ensuring that the pool continues to serve residents for swimming lessons, aquatic classes, and more.
Mayor Doby declared March 2026 as American Red Cross Month, honoring those who contribute to the organization’s humanitarian efforts in Torrington. The proclamation highlighted the Red Cross’s role in providing emergency assistance and life-saving blood supplies. The council unanimously approved this proclamation after receiving support from community member Jane Iddings.
The council also approved several appointments, including Scott Sides to the Industrial Park Committee, with a term expiring on December 31, 2028, and to the NMPP/MEAN Board with an indefinite term.
In a further move, the council adopted Resolution No. 2026-4, designating Scott Sides as director and Mayor Doby as the alternate director to the Municipal Energy Agency of Nebraska (MEAN) Board.
When discussing the 2026 swimming pool rates, Mayor Doby confirmed that most rates will remain unchanged, with the exception of eliminating the Adult Lap Swim/Aerobics Punch Card due to low demand. The council supported this decision, ensuring the focus remains on more economical options for pool access.
A critical ordinance amending the roofing permit fees was presented by Attorney Eddington. After discussions clarifying terminology and requirements for contractors, the council unanimously passed the amended ordinance on its second reading.
Water/Wastewater Supervisor Troxel presented bids for a new extended-cab pickup truck and a backhoe. The council approved the bid for the truck from Laramie Peak Motors for $74,630.00, while also accepting a bid from RDO of Cheyenne for the backhoe at $156,515.00. Despite some concerns regarding budget constraints, council members emphasized the importance of these purchases for maintaining operational efficiency.
The police department, represented by Chief of Police Johnson, sought approval for purchasing a used 2018 Dodge Charger from the Town of Fort Laramie for $6,000.00, which was also unanimously approved.
The council concluded by reviewing bills from February 18 to March 3, 2026, which were approved for payment.
In closing, Mayor Doby expressed gratitude for the community’s engagement and support, commending various departments and volunteers for their contributions. The meeting was adjourned at 19:04, with a reminder for residents to participate in local initiatives and stay informed about city developments.
