KEMMERER — The Kemmerer City Council met on Monday, April 14, to discuss a variety of city matters, including updates on the Fossil Island Golf Course, recognition of community members, and proposed ordinance revisions aimed at improving the city’s appearance.

Council members were informed that the Fossil Island Golf Course is set to open, despite ongoing water issues. Although at the time of the meeting it was reported there was currently no water running on parts of the course, trenches have been filled and work on the greens is underway.

April was officially recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month during the meeting. Mayor Robert Bowen read a proclamation highlighting the city’s commitment to protecting children.

“Child abuse prevention is possible and, with the right policies and investments, families and children can thrive,” Bowen said.

The council also honored Kemmerer High School Principal Shawn Rogers with the Citizen of the Year award for his contributions to the community.

In efforts to refine city regulations, the council reviewed proposed changes to Chapter 14 of the city code, which deals with nuisances. Councilmember Brantley Popp emphasized the need for the ordinances to be “more clear and concise.” The discussion included clarifying language around what qualifies as a front lawn, particularly for corner lots.

Popp, a former code enforcement officer, noted that such lots “can have more potential to violate front-yard nuisances.” It was also noted that backyards must have privacy fencing to shield any nuisances from view.

As spring arrives, Popp encouraged residents to take pride in their surroundings and “clean up the town.” He added that if community members work together, “neighborhoods and private properties can look more esthetic.”

“This is something the council is going to be focusing heavily on,” he said. “We all want to live in a comfortable and nice community.”

Plans to improve and maintain city properties — including street cleaning and pothole repair — are also underway.

Referring to the second reading of the ordinance updates, Popp addressed citizens directly, saying, “If there is anything in particular you feel you might need to clean up, this would be a great time to do that. Remember, be a good neighbor. Pitch in and help keep our town looking good.”

The council also discussed concerns about inoperable vehicles being stored on properties, referencing existing ordinance language that addresses the “accumulation of junk and waste in such a manner as to cause a nuisance.”

A recurring theme throughout the meeting was the importance of enforcement. Councilmembers agreed that having ordinances in place is not enough if violations go unaddressed. Popp pointed out the importance of taking consistent action, especially when warnings do not yield results.

Other business included updates to billing procedures. Trash and water services are to be billed separately, as the city moves away from combining the two.

The third reading of the ordinance changes is scheduled for the next city council meeting, which will be held on Monday, April 28.