City increases Wastewater Treatment Plant loan, approves agreements

The Green River City Council addressed a range of important community issues during their regular meeting on August 6, including a critical increase in funding for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement Facility Project, appointments to key boards, and several resolutions and agreements impacting the city's infrastructure and services.

A public hearing was held to discuss the request for a $6.5 million increase in the principal amount of the Clean Water SRF Loan #182. Ron Williams explained that this increase is essential to cover project contingencies and additional tasks not previously anticipated. Construction of the new facility, which began in 2023, is about halfway complete, and securing these additional funds is crucial for its timely completion by the end of 2025.

Following the public hearing, the Council moved to approve the resolution authorizing the submission of this loan increase request to the State Loan and Investment Board. This decision ensures that the Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement Facility Project will have the necessary funds to address any unforeseen challenges and complete the project successfully.

In addition to discussing the wastewater treatment plant funding, the Council confirmed several appointments. Eric Carman-Murray and Richard Breininger were appointed to the Green River Airport Advisory Board for four-year terms. The council discussed how Carman-Murray brings experience in organizational policies and governmental regulations, while Breininger, an emergency management volunteer and private pilot, adds valuable expertise to the board. Tina Porter was reappointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission for another three-year term, and delegates were appointed for the 2025 WAM Winter Workshop Business Meeting.

The Council also passed a budget resolution for the Fiscal Year 2025 carryover, amounting to $32.8 million. This resolution ensures that the city's financial resources are effectively managed and allocated to various ongoing projects and initiatives. Additionally, an agreement with ArborPro was approved for a tree inventory and management plan. Funded by the Wyoming State Forestry IRA Grant, this project aims to assess the health of trees on the north side of Green River and develop a comprehensive management plan.

A service agreement with the Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health was also approved to provide asbestos contractor/supervisor training for field personnel. This training is essential for safely handling asbestos cement pipes in the city's water system.

The consent agenda included several items such as horse corral lease agreements, the purchase of a sculpture named "Bear" by Jeff Rudolph for $12,000, and community service agreements totaling $141,883 for local organizations like the Green River Food Bank and YWCA Center for Families & Children. An agreement with VRK Auctions, LLC for internet auction services and the waiving of daily admission fees at the Green River Recreation Center for the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge participants were also approved.

During the public input session, residents raised concerns about rising utility bills and their impact on fixed-income households. In response, Council members discussed the need to provide information on financial assistance programs and work towards addressing these challenges. The Council emphasized the importance of supporting low-income individuals and ensuring that all residents have access to necessary resources.

The meeting concluded with updates on local projects, including the ongoing construction of the wastewater treatment plant and road maintenance efforts.