A significant Kemmerer City Council meeting took place on Feb. 24, addressing key issues including the Gateway PUD project and a proposed change to the city’s open container policy.

A public hearing was held regarding the Gateway PUD project, a new subdivision planned for Canyon Road near the South Lincoln Cemetery. Kemmerer City Administrator Brian Muir said residents in the area were notified in advance about the hearing.

Councilmember Brantley Popp explained the importance of the hearing, stating, “The reason for this hearing was this was the last and final call for anybody that has a problem with this subdivision to come forward.”

With no opposition, the project proceeded to the final plat approval stage.

“We are pleased to announce the final plat approval was approved by city council unanimously and we can finally start developing that new neighborhood,” Popp said.

He emphasized the significance of this step for the city and shared the council’s optimism.

“We are hopeful to start seeing work on it this year,” he said.

Another major topic of discussion was a proposed ordinance change that would remove the city’s prohibition on open alcohol containers in public spaces. If passed, this ordinance would repeal section 4-5, which currently prohibits open containers in public areas

Popp clarified that this change would not impact laws regarding vehicles or minors, as those fall under state jurisdiction.

“Once an open container or alcohol enters a vehicle, it is a state statute and is something completely different,” he said.

Popp further explained that minor consumption laws would remain intact under state statutes, and other regulations would still cover issues such as public intoxication. Under the new ordinance, residents would be permitted to consume alcoholic beverages openly in public areas. The first reading of the ordinance passed with a five-to-two vote.

Councilmembers David McConkie and Marlin Batista voiced concerns over the proposed change. However, Popp defended his vote in favor, explaining that existing laws already address issues like drunk driving, disorderly conduct and underage drinking.

“This ordinance hinders law-abiding citizens that maybe just want to go to a park and enjoy a picnic and have a drink. They should be allowed to do that,” Popp said.

Popp also highlighted potential economic benefits, noting that the change could positively impact local businesses.

“This way our bars on the Triangle would be able to open their doors and serve in plastic cups for people to be able to take outside and enjoy festivities,” he said. He added that allowing open containers in designated areas could boost revenue for downtown businesses.

As the ordinance moves through two additional readings before final approval, residents and officials will have more opportunities to weigh in on the potential change.