Eric Bingham appointed to Rock Springs City Council Ward 4, sworn in after 7-1 vote

Eric Bingham was appointed to the Rock Springs City Council to represent Ward 4 after a 7-1 roll-call vote at the council’s Jan. 21 meeting.

Mayor Max Mickelson opened the appointment process by inviting candidates to speak to the council. "We are going to be appointing a new city council member to replace Brent Botillo," he said, then invited each applicant to address the council.

Bingham, who identified himself for the record as "Eric Bingham, 9 Wardell Court, Rock Springs, Wyoming, Ward 4," outlined experience in land-use and economic development and said he would bring attention to permitting and infrastructure. "I am a doer, not just a sayer," Bingham told the council. He said one likely conflict would be if the city were asked to sign on to a subdivision within a mile of the city boundary; in such a case he said he would "recuse myself." He told the council he would likely seek reelection: "That's a definitely strong possibility. Yes."

Two other residents also sought the seat. Ken McNally, who said he retired from a management role with FedEx the day of the meeting, described organizational and infrastructure priorities and said retirement gave him time to serve. "Today's my first day," McNally said of his retirement, adding it left him available to "go all in." Cassandra Vinsallet, a small-business owner and former school counselor, emphasized mental-health supports, community connection and support for educators and families. "I love this town," Vinsallet said.

Councilor Zadeh nominated Bingham during the nomination phase; additional nominations were called and a roll-call vote followed. City staff conducted the roll call. The council voted 7 in favor and 1 opposed; Mayor Mickelson announced the tally and invited Bingham to the podium to be sworn in. Bingham took the oath during the meeting and immediately assumed the duties of Ward 4 council member.

Why it matters: the appointment fills the vacancy created by Brent Botillo's departure and ensures Ward 4 has representation on votes and committees. Candidates' remarks touched on infrastructure, public safety, housing, economic development and community mental-health supports — issues the council has been addressing in recent meetings.

The council will hold future regular and workshop meetings on other agenda items; Bingham’s first comments as a councilor thanked members for the appointment and said he looked forward to working with the group.

Votes at a glance: Appointment of Eric Bingham to Rock Springs City Council (Ward 4) — roll-call vote: 7 yes, 1 no; outcome: approved and sworn in at the meeting.