Resident proposes Casper budget town hall; council vocalizes need for accurate information and civility

CASPER, Wyo. — A resident who identified himself as Mr. Shriffman urged the City Council on March 18 to host a town hall on the city budget this spring. He said the event would combine education about municipal budgeting and a listening session for residents. He suggested hosting the meeting Thursday evening, April 20, at 6:30 p.m. at the Agriculture Resource and Learning Center and said he would send a formal invitation.

Several councilors said they were willing to participate but voiced reservations. Councilor Pollock and Councilor Sweeney said they would attend only if the discussion were conducted in good faith and presented accurate information; both cited past encounters where meetings had become personal and uncivil. Councilors asked for assurances that presenters would provide verified material and that the event would allow respectful dialogue. Mayor Pacheco said he is open to participating if the forum is thoughtful and dignified.

Mr. Shriffman said the town hall would be for Casper residents and that he would prepare presentation materials (PowerPoint or similar) and would welcome council members and staff participation. City staff offered to provide relevant documents and the city manager’s priority list for use in any presentation. Councilors did not take a binding vote to sponsor or endorse the event; several asked Mr. Shriffman to share proposed materials ahead of any event and to coordinate with staff.

Ending — No formal council action was taken. Councilors requested accurate pre-meeting information and said they will consider participation if organizers commit to civil, fact-based discussion.