Committee advances resolution to start annexation of county ‘pockets’ northeast of Del Range

The Cheyenne Public Services Committee voted May 5 to recommend a resolution that begins the annexation process for a group of county islands (or “pockets”) located northeast of Del Range Boulevard, generally north of Del Range, south of Story Boulevard and east and west of Ridge Road.

Planning staff explained the resolution triggers the statutory annexation process for properties substantially surrounded by city limits; if adopted by the City Council, the public hearing on the annexation ordinance is scheduled for May 27 with final consideration expected June 23.

Counterweight Planning and Development staff told the committee that property owners in the affected pockets received two mailings: an invitation to a Q&A meeting and a certified notice that the annexation would begin. Staff said the primary concern raised at outreach meetings was sanitation and trash service: many property owners prefer their private trash provider or a dumpster arrangement to city-provided collection.

“Most people want to keep their private trash company rather than being required to go to city,” staff said in response to committee questions. Other recurring concerns were resistance to forced annexation and questions about service expectations.

Committee members praised staff outreach. Doctor Remonds attended one of the neighborhood Q&A sessions and said staff helped assuage concerns. The committee approved the resolution by voice vote and recommended it to the full City Council. The staff timeline anticipates the council’s public hearing and final readings later this spring.