Council sets replacement rate for Boys School sewer line

WORLAND — The City of Worland approved an ordinance on first reading to develop a depreciation reserve rate for the Wyoming Boys School.

The rate is similar to what the city established in 2019 with outlying water and sewer districts to develop a replacement fund for the lines that the city maintains.

The Wyoming Boys School was not part of the original group approved in 2019. Mayor Jim Gill said they have had one meeting with Wyoming Boys School officials but have been unable to schedule any other meetings. He said they were notified that the ordinance would be heard on first reading at tonight’s city council meeting.

The ordinance establishes a depreciation reserve rate for future line repair and replacement of $1,616.25 per month. This rate is in addition to the normal maintenance and operation rate of $924.64.

Funds from the depreciation reserve rate would be placed in a separate interest-bearing account to be used only for the Wyoming Boys School sewer line repair and replacement above $12,000.

The amount for the rate was recommended by the city’s auditor, James Seckman.

Second reading is scheduled for March 2 and third and final reading is set for March 16 with the rate going into effect April 1.

Council member Wendy Fredricks asked what the new rate would do to the Wyoming Boys School budget?

Council member Kreg Lombard said the council needs to think of the city residents who should not have to cover the cost of replacing the line to the Boys School in the future.

Council member Kody DeMunbrun asked if there would be a cap set so when there was enough money for total line replacement the rate would decrease or end.

City Attorney Kent Richins said that should be left to a future council to make that decision if and when the funds get to that point.

The motion passed unanimously with Mike Neufer absent/excused.

In other business the council approved renewing 18 liquor licenses — 12 retail, 3 limited retail (clubs), two restaurant and one bar and grill.