Friday, AUGUST 22, 2025 |
Photo – Chief of Police and Acting City Manager Mike Ward – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Acting City Manager of Rawlins updated the City Council on his priorities.
Rawlins City Manager Tom Sarvey is taking an extended leave of absence. Unconfirmed reports indicate that Sarvey is suffering from a serious medical issue, but no official details have been released. However, his absence is expected to be long enough for the governing body to appoint a temporary replacement.
On August 5th, the City Council selected Downtown Development Authority Executive Director and District 15 representative Pam Thayer to serve as Acting City Manager. One week later, the Council held a special meeting to choose Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward as Thayer’s replacement.
Speaking to Bigfoot99 after his appointment, Acting City Manager Ward said he doesn’t plan to make any major changes while Tom Sarvey is on medical leave.
Chief Ward provided his first report to the governing body as Acting City Manager during the August 19th City Council meeting. Ward said he has spent his time getting acquainted with the role and thanked the Council for providing him with the resources needed to succeed in his new position.
Acting City Manager Ward said he has consulted with the city’s various department heads to develop a list of critical focus areas. Chief Ward said he plans to prioritize the State’s legally required annual audit, staffing needs, water issues, and grant applications during his time as Acting City Manager.
Chief Ward reported that Pam Thayer and Assistant Finance Director Beverly Hannum have already begun preparing the state audit.
Before being named City Manager, Tom Sarvey served as both Interim City Manager and Interim Finance Director. Upon his official appointment, Rawlins was left without a Finance Director.
At the August 19th meeting, Acting City Manager Ward said he is placing a high priority on filling the Finance Director position. Chief Ward said Riverton Finance Director Mia Harris is reviewing five applicants to determine who is qualified for the role. Those who meet the criteria will be called in for an interview.
In the 2025 through 2026 fiscal year budget, the City Council approved pay raises for all city employees. Chief Ward said he is working to implement those salary increases.
The Acting City Manager also announced the upcoming annual city cleanup day. Next month, city employees will collect trash along the Interstate 80 corridor.
Speaking to Bigfoot99 after his appointment, Chief Ward described himself as a police officer and a leader of officers first, adding that he fully intends to resume his position as Chief of Police once City Manager Tom Sarvey returns from medical leave. In the meantime, the Acting City Manager said his new role is an opportunity for him to serve the community in a new way.
