Freshman representative heads to the State Capitol

THERMOPOLIS – Freshman state Representative John Winter (R-Thermopolis), representing District 28 and elected in November after Nathan Winters vacated the seat to run for state auditor, headed to the state capitol in Cheyenne on Thursday, to participate in three days of orientation.

A former outfitter from Cody and board member of the Park County Conservation District, Winter will be walking through his first legislation in an effort to delist the Grizzly bear from protected status, a measure which has failed in the past.

“Predator issues are a concern of mine so I look forward to working with the delegation to institute some control there,” said Winter.

Winter also expressed interest in examining problems with the state retirement center in Basin and the PIONEER Home in Thermopolis, which have been considered to transition to private operation.

Last year, the legislature killed Senate File 112, sponsored by the Wyoming Joint Appropriations Committee which would have effectively put the two facilities on the auction block, for privatization, with proceeds going to state general fund.

“The retirement home in Basin and the Pioneer Home [in Thermopolis] have been working, so I look forward to resolving those issues,” said Winter.

Winter will be sworn-in on Jan. 8