Discussion continues about possible closing of two Carbon County schools
Talks continued this week about the future of the northern schools in the county. Strong leadership and the importance of classrooms in rural communities dominated the discussion at a Carbon County School District Two meeting. Trustees listened to citizen concerns as board determines what to do with the buildings in Elk Mountain and Medicine Bow. Emma Diercks reports.
Wind energy tax back on the table for discussion
Another attempt at raising the wind energy production tax is getting pushback from officials in Carbon County. House Bill 96 seeks a $4 per megawatt hour increase over the existing rate.
Proponents say it would raise more than $40 million in additional general fund revenue between fiscal year 2020 and 2022. The Carbon County Council of Governments, concerned the increase would impede wind energy development here, is lobbying against the measure. Cali O’Hare has more.
Speed and winter conditions suspected factors in fatal I-80 wreck
By Jim O’Reilly
Two Oklahoma men were killed on Interstate 80 west of Wamsutter Sunday morning in a head-on collision with a big rig. According to the Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 9:30 a.m. at milepost 172.
A 59-year-old passenger, Michael Bivens, and driver, 22-year-old Brandon Bivens, both of Tulsa, were killed when their eastbound 2004 Toyota Tundra crossed into the westbound lanes, where it collided with an oncoming truck.
The driver of the semi sustained minor injuries. Conditions were slick with blowing snow. Driving too fast for conditions is suspected as a factor in the crash. Nine fatalities have occurred on state highways in 2019 compared to three in 2018 and two in 2017.
In a separate incident, a WYDOT snowplow was damaged by a hit-and-run truck driver Monday. According to a release, a semi hit the back end of a snowplow at mile marker 182 west of between Wamsutter and Creston Junction. The truck driver did not stop. The sander of the plow will need to be repaired, WYDOT reports.
Saratoga Town Council tables MOU to formally provide input on zoning changes
The Saratoga Town Council tabled a memorandum of understanding that gives the municipality the ability to formally provide input on development and zone changes outside of town limits. They have questions about how the document works with the Old Baldy Club and listened to concerns from a county resident who doesn’t want their property involved. Emma Diercks reports.
Rawlins Chamber of Commerce banquet to have brewfest feel
This year’s Rawlins Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet will mix local business vendors with beer brewers from across the Cowboy State. Cali O’Hare sat down with Chamber Director, Josh Martinez, for a preview of what area residents can expect for the first annual Chamber Chug Along.
Sports: Lady Miner basketball ranked second
The H.E.M. girls basketball team is playing solid right now and are turning the heads of the voters as they’ve cracked the top 5. Joey Saverine has the story.
More Highlights:
- UW CBJC member donates 2000 tickets.
- Cowgirl basketball looks to get back to winning ways.
- Cowboy football loses Defensive Coordinator.
- Broncos send two more to Pro-Bowl.
