New commissioner sets sights on growth, infrastructure

By Rana Jones, Gazette Reporter
Posted 1/22/25

KEMMERER — Lincoln County welcomed its newest commissioner, Mel Shumway, during a formal oath of office ceremony held at the Kemmerer courthouse on Monday, Jan. 6. Shumway’s swearing-in …

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New commissioner sets sights on growth, infrastructure

Posted

KEMMERER — Lincoln County welcomed its newest commissioner, Mel Shumway, during a formal oath of office ceremony held at the Kemmerer courthouse on Monday, Jan. 6. Shumway’s swearing-in marked the beginning of his tenure following a successful election campaign in which he defeated former commissioner Jerry Hansen.

The ceremony was officiated by Judge Joseph Bluemel and attended by members of Shumway’s family, including his mother, Judy, and wife, Christie. His daughter, Mia, and son, Tom, were unable to attend.

Shumway brings a diverse professional background and a strong focus on natural resources to his new role. As the owner of a vegetation management business called Valley Vegetation Solutions, he has significant expertise in addressing issues such as invasive species. This knowledge positions him to contribute meaningfully to Lincoln County’s land management and conservation efforts.

“I have always been a huge advocate for natural resources and fighting invasive species,” he said.

He said cheatgrass and different weeds pose a problem, and he is an advocate for combating them. He is also an avid fisherman and focused on the area’s water resources.

Additionally, he has highlighted the importance of tackling the county’s pressing housing challenges, acknowledging the need for affordable housing amidst rising home prices.

He plans to work closely with the planning and zoning board to address these issues.

“At our last meeting, we were talking about the possibility of around 1,500 workers showing up in about six months and where they are going to stay. The RV parks are already at capacity,” he said, adding that he has already spoken with Kemmerer Mayor Robert Bowen about the issue.

“It’s a challenge,” he said.   

Being from Afton, he is familiar with the north part of Lincoln County. He said the region in the north faces different problems, where they need to slow down development and the south part of the county needs to speed up development.

Shumway also brought up the sixth-penny tax proposal and how the southern part of the county was really hoping to get that passed; however, it was not favored in the northern part of the county.

“It’s an ever-evolving issue. The spirit of cooperation is a truism,” he said. “You must focus on the big picture and not get caught up on the petty issues. We have to look at both sides and move things forward for the betterment of Lincoln County.”

The commissioner is also keenly aware of the strain that rapid development and population growth have placed on Kemmerer’s infrastructure. He emphasized the need to prioritize infrastructure and road improvements.

Acknowledging that Kemmerer is busy, he said he is eager to get started as commissioner, his first elected position. As he prepares to head to Cheyenne for the legislative session, he said, “I am humbled and excited to serve Lincoln County.”

Shumway said he enjoyed meeting people in various departments in the county.

“I have been impressed with the various departments with dedicated people,” he said. “Things are coming fast and furious. Thank goodness we have leadership to stay out ahead of some issues.”