KEMMERER — Kemmerer Police Chief Mike Kahre was recognized by the Kemmerer City Council and Kemmerer City Administrator Brian Muir for his 15 years of service. Mayor William Thek was absent but wrote a statement thanking Kahre for his service.

“It is an absolute honor and privilege to work with you, Mike,” said Thek.

Muir said Kahre is always professional and diligent in his work.

James Reeder was sworn in as the newest member of the Kemmerer police force. He was welcomed by the other Kemmerer Police Department employees.

Wyoming Department of Transportation’s Head of Construction for Division Three Peter Stinchcomb presented an American with Disabilities Act proposal for the downtown/triangle area. It was brought to Stinchcomb’s attention by a local citizen that the downtown area does not have accessible ramps, sidewalks or visual signage.

“I’m going to work to improve the ADA [compliance] throughout the town. I can only do a little bit at a time with my budget,” said Stinchomb.

The three intersections downtown will have ramped sidewalks and crossing systems for the physically- and visually-impaired. The sidewalk will also need work, as the fossil fish medallions in the cement are considered hazards for those in wheelchairs or using other ADA devices. The medallions will need to be placed elsewhere. He has plans to start the project at the end of 2024.

The Wyoming Wool Growers Association was present to ask for a fee waiver to use the South Lincoln Training and Events Center. The WWGA is set to host the Wyoming Wool Festival. This is a first-time event that will showcase statewide wool farmers and ranchers.

There will be an art show, crafters, vendors, workshops and other entertainment. The event is proposed for June 30 through July 2. Councilman Bill Price made a motion to approve a 100% fee waiver for the event. All were in favor and the motion passed.

In old business, there was a third reading for an amendment to City Ordinance 2023-874 Sec. 18-9, stating public usage of sewage drains to be connected can be no less than 400 feet off the private property. A motion was made by Councilmember Robert Bowen to pass this amendment. It was seconded by Councilmember Jamie Thornock. All were in favor and the amendment passed.

In final business, Muir said the Union Pacific Railroad has agreed to change the usage of the land the Kemmerer Senior Center sits on. The railroad will change the usage for the land from a park to a senior center. Muir said the city will write up an agreement for the property to be transferred to the local senior center.