On March 3, 2026, the City Council of Torrington, Wyoming, convened for its regular session at the City Council Chambers. The meeting, presided over by Mayor Herb Doby, included key discussions and decisions affecting the local community. Council members present included Deahl, Kelly, Viktorin, and Warren, alongside various city officials.
Mayor Doby opened the session with essential updates, including a request to residents regarding the disposal of large tree limbs. He urged that such debris not be placed directly into dumpsters, as it can damage city garbage trucks. Instead, he advised residents to leave larger limbs nearby for collection. For assistance, residents can contact the Streets & Sanitation Superintendent, Ed Hawley, at (307) 532-6370.
Another focal point of the meeting was the upcoming hiring process for summer positions. The city plans to recruit lifeguards and seasonal workers for various departments, including parks and sanitation. Mayor Doby noted that city employees are currently preparing facilities for the busy spring and summer seasons.
In a significant community initiative, representatives from Black Hills Energy addressed the council, highlighting their support for the Dale Jones Municipal Pool. They announced a donation to replace the pool’s aging boiler, essential for heating water. This pool has served the Torrington and Goshen County residents for over five decades, hosting swimming lessons, aquatic classes, and emergency training sessions.
Proclamations and Appointments
During the meeting, Mayor Doby read a proclamation designating March 2026 as American Red Cross Month. This recognition emphasizes the humanitarian efforts of the organization within the community, as they provide essential services during emergencies. The proclamation received unanimous approval from the council.
Additionally, appointments were approved for the Industrial Park Committee and the NMPP/MEAN Board Members, both naming Scott Sides to the positions. The council also passed Resolution No. 2026-4, designating Sides as director of the Municipal Energy Agency of Nebraska, with Mayor Doby serving as the alternate.
Swimming Pool Rates and Ordinance Amendments
The council discussed the 2026 swimming pool rates, which will largely remain unchanged from the previous year. An exception is the elimination of the Adult Lap Swim/Aerobics Punch Card due to low sales. The council concluded this change would encourage more use of the Individual Season Pass, which offers unlimited access.
An important amendment to the Torrington Municipal Code regarding roofing permit fees was also addressed. The amendment clarified licensing requirements for contractors. The council approved the ordinance on its second reading, ensuring that the latest building codes are employed in permitting processes.
Further discussions included the approval of bids for crucial equipment. The Water/Wastewater Supervisor, Troxel, recommended awarding the bid for a new one-ton pickup chassis to Laramie Peak Motors for $74,630. Despite some concerns raised about the necessity of the purchase, the council ultimately approved the bid, emphasizing the financial benefits to the General Fund.
The council also approved a bid for a new backhoe from RDO of Cheyenne for $156,515, which was below the budgeted amount. This decision reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining operational efficiency across its departments.
Lastly, Chief of Police Johnson sought approval for the purchase of a used 2018 Dodge Charger from the Town of Fort Laramie for $6,000. This vehicle is intended to replace a damaged Ford Explorer, and the council authorized the purchase, recognizing the department’s budgetary constraints.
The meeting concluded with a review of bills from February 18 to March 3, 2026, which were unanimously approved for payment. Mayor Doby then adjourned the meeting at 19:04.
This session reflects the Torrington City Council’s ongoing efforts to address community needs and maintain city operations effectively.
