Council approves first reading to rezone Popo Agie River Park; nearby residents warn annexation sequencing could affect property rights

The Lander City Council on first reading approved Ordinance 2025‑11 to rezone the Popo Agie River Park addition from R‑3 single- and multifamily residential to PL (Public Lands), a change the city says aligns with deed restrictions attached to the grant funding used to buy the park.

Regine, participating online, told the council the zoning update follows a previously approved subdivision and land acquisition and that rezoning is a three‑reading ordinance process. After the council opened the public hearing for comment, resident Monica Leininger told the body she was grateful for recent traffic signage but cautioned about the order of operations if annexation follows rezoning.

"By annexing the park, you would be creating a sit an area that's, you know, entirely surrounded an island that's not annexed," Leininger said, quoting language she read from the Wyoming annexation statute and warning that annexing the park first could limit nearby landowners' ability to petition. She said the change could have substantial implications for property owners served by septic systems if sewer extension becomes required.

City counsel clarified that state law does not require annexation to occur before rezoning. "What's before you tonight is strictly on rezoning," counsel said, adding annexation is a separate process that would require additional steps and landowner involvement.

After discussion and no further public comment the council voted 6–0 to approve the ordinance on first reading. The council indicated any annexation process would proceed separately and require additional public steps if pursued.