Residents press council on blocked driveways during school drop‑off; police area meetings offered

Steven Smathers told the City of Casper council his neighborhood has endured years of drivers blocking private driveways at school drop-off and pick-up on Buckboard, sometimes resulting in verbal and physical threats to residents. Smathers said attempts to resolve the problem by cones, calls to the city, the school, and the Casper Police Department produced little enforcement and that his family may seek legal action if the issue continues.

Councilors acknowledged the complaint, asked clarifying questions about frequency and evidence (videos and license plates), and urged Smathers to remain in contact so staff could follow up. Councilor Bond and others noted the situation can vary by school and suggested the school district may have responsibilities for managing traffic flow during pickups. Councilors encouraged attendance at upcoming Casper Police Department area initiative meetings (dates announced for April mid-month) as the appropriate forum to discuss neighborhood-specific enforcement priorities and to meet the officers assigned to the beats.

Council also discussed the limits of using city resources daily for routine enforcement and suggested staff present options in a future information packet or work session about enforcement recourse, school responsibilities, and how residents should report repeat violations to be most effective.

No immediate enforcement action was taken at the meeting; staff and councilors signaled follow-up through area initiative meetings and possible future agenda items.