Commission approves formation of Western County EMS district; board size and terms left flexible

The Weston County Board of County Commissioners approved Resolution 25-21 to create the Western County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) District under Wyoming statutes and authorized advertisement and appointment of an initial governing board.

The resolution cites Wyoming statutes governing formation of emergency districts and directs county staff to advertise for applicants to serve on an initial board. Commissioners debated whether the enabling language should specify a fixed board size or retain the statutory range. The proposed resolution follows discussion in multiple community meetings; speakers and commissioners said public feedback included both support and questions about taxation and representation.

During the discussion, commissioners considered a statutory range of three to nine members and several commissioners suggested seven to ensure broader representation from Newcastle, Upton, Osage and other communities; others argued that starting with a minimum number and allowing the appointed board to adopt bylaws and adjust membership later would be practical. Commissioners also discussed staggered three-year terms and holding the initial appointment cycle so terms do not all expire at once.

A motion to approve Resolution 25-21 passed by voice vote. Commissioners instructed staff to prepare advertising materials for applications and to make informational materials available to residents who ask questions about the district and potential mill levy.

The resolution establishes a pathway for a locally governed EMS district to study needs, propose funding (including a potential mill levy to voters), and, if necessary, oversee service purchases or operations. Commissioners noted that the appointed board would later be responsible for proving the need to voters if a levy is proposed.