March 19, 2024 |
Photo – Image of Council Seats – Courtesy Ballotpedia
The town of Hanna is seeking two candidates to become town council members later this year.
In November, the seats of Hanna town council members Bill Dys and Jayson Nordquist will be up for election. It is unknown at this time if either councilman intends to run again. All spots on the Hanna town council are four-year terms.
Last fall, many Hanna residents expressed their disapproval of Mayor Jon Ostling’s new, stricter nuisance ordinance, known as 401. People said paying higher fines for failing to address a violation was a way for the town council to take ownership of non-compliant properties, forcing low-income residents out of the town. Following a lengthy and contentious public meeting, Ordinance 401 died after failing to be brought up for a vote.
Since that time, some residents of the former coal town have questioned the intentions of the sitting council, accusing them of not having the towns-people’s best interest in mind.
For those in Hanna who have felt disenfranchised, now is your chance to get involved. Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales said being on the town council is a great way to have your voice heard. Clerk Gonzales said running for a town council seat is an opportunity to learn how the town works and guide the community in the direction you would like.
However, Gonzales said being on the town council is a serious commitment. Council members must make difficult decisions regarding the general operation of the town. They must also oversee the town’s finances. All newly elected council members are required by state law to attend a Wyoming Association of Municipalities financial boot camp within a year of being elected. The classes are typically held in Cheyenne.
The Hanna town council meets once a month to discuss town business. Council members are also required to attend special meetings and budget workshops. Members of the town council receive $25 for each meeting they attend.
Interested candidates can register at the Hanna town hall, starting on May 16th. The deadline to register is May 31st. A fee of roughly $25 must be paid at the time of filing.
Town Clerk Gonzales advised all Hanna residents to register to vote before the November elections. A valid ID is required to vote in all Wyoming elections, per the state’s newly revised Title 22 elections code.
