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The Wyoming City Council meeting last week included some needed staff hirings on the agenda. The police department will fill vacancies of two officers— Joseph Vang was slated to begin on the payroll January 13, and Officer Rebekah Peterson was to start Jan. 12.  Council was advised that Vang is a newcomer to being a licensed peace officer, most recently serving as Community Service Officer for Blaine and Peterson has worked for Wyoming law enforcement in other capacities.  They are offered contracts that start at $37.72 hourly.

Chief of Police and Public Safety Director Neil Bauer also mentioned a new county case manager position recently implemented, that he is excited to seeing be made available. He says the idea is to serve as a link to programs and services and get people connected to resources before crisis hits. The county Health & Human Services Department is behind the position, which Bauer described as  “bridging the gap” coordinating county resident needs and what’s available.

The city council also approved the hire of a building inspector, Vincent Schilling. He’ll start January 27.

In adopting the 2025 fee schedule, the council increased the residential water base rate to $44.69 and rates for additional water usage over 20,000 gallons was increased to support expenses. An emergency water situation resulting in a callout is $185.88.

The impoundment tow fee for seized vehicles went to $225 from $150.  Special event officer time went to $86 per hour and $25 for the squad car. 

There are other fees established for food trucks and for cannabis businesses.  The council will continue to discuss the cannabis industry and local regulations at a workshop scheduled for January 21 at 5:30 p.m.

Council member Claire Luger was named acting mayor for 2025 who serves as mayor in the event Lisa Iverson is not available.

Meetings remain the first and third Tuesday nights at city hall at 7 p.m.

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