Commissioners receive project updates

The Hot Springs County Commissioners held their second meeting of the new year on January 20.

Carson Rowley from Ardurra provided an update on the Overlook at Roundtop project. After reviewing the needs of the project for water, sewer and electrical lines, Rowley recommended that the county pursue any necessary updating to the water service at this stage of development. Focusing on that part of the project provides the biggest asset for the project at this point, and will additionally provide additional service for other property owners in the area. After some discussion, the commissioners agreed to follow that recommendation.

Cody Beers, from WYDOT, provided the commissioners with a report on the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for the years 2027-32. Beers noted that pullouts have been constructed along the north side of the Wind River Canyon, which will be paved in the 2028-29 project year. Work on passing lane changes is scheduled in the Canyon in the summer of 2027.

Road & bridge director Shane Rankin advised the commissioners that his department has completed all of the fire number checks for the year, and with weather cooperating, they have been doing some road grading in the county. Additionally, he has been working on punch list items for the contractor for the Black Mountain Road project.

The commissioners entered into a discussion regarding the status of the Learning Center building and the county’s on-going liability in connection with the structure. Barb Rice, from Youth Alternatives, suggested that the commissioners schedule a work session with the Learning Center and Central Wyoming College to discuss possible ideas for the future of the building, to which the commissioners agreed.

The commissioners discussed the appointment of a representative to the Joint Powers Water Board (JPWB). Commissioner Tom Ryan has served in that capacity since the JPWB was created and stated that he continues to be willing to serve. Commissioner Paul Galovich stated that he felt that chairman Aguiar should take on that role. A representative from the JPWB advised that the JPWB preferred to have commissioner Ryan continue to serve as the county’s representative, Chairman Bob Aguiar stated that he desired to fill the position and will take over that role beginning in February.

The commissioners will meet again on Tuesday, February 17, 3 p.m. at the County Annex building.