Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cheyenne public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in taxes budget with high priority
Stormwater reserve transfer policy
Aldrich's plan to divert General Fund balances beyond a 365-day reserve toward stormwater drainage — a need the city has tracked since the 1985 flood — failed 2-8. Most members opposed creating a dedicated fund, though a majority said they'd support a specific drainage project if one came forward.
Comprehensive plan update finally funded
A plan funded by a $1 million EPA grant that inventories emissions and suggests energy strategies. The council only agreed to "acknowledge receipt" and treat it as a planning document after critics flagged concerns about housing costs, electrification and excluded data-center energy use.
Tallgrass $2.9 Million Affordable Housing Donation
Related Digital is donating $3.5 million so the city can buy 8.37 acres and host an 184-unit affordable housing project, with a 50-year leaseback to replenish the fund.
Fiscal Year 2027 City and BOPU Budgets
The ~$82 million balanced budget advanced on second reading, with an amendment adding a community service officer funded from council contingency money. Final adoption expected after the June 8 public hearing.
2026 One-percent Sales Tax Ballot Project List
Council adopted the ballot language for the 1% specific purpose sales tax going to Laramie County voters August 18 — the funding source for fire trucks and other capital projects.
Firefighter pay and labor contract with Local No. 279
The firefighters' union is asking the city for wage increases after skipping a raise last year, arguing Cheyenne needs to stay competitive with the regional market. The mayor says Cheyenne's full package — retirement, wages, specialty and longevity pay — often compares favorably, and lower taxes here offset pay gaps with other states. No agreement yet; talks will continue.
Firefighter wages and union contract
Cheyenne's firefighter union says pay is up to 30% behind regional departments and calls it a career-long structural gap. The city argues the right comparison is other Wyoming cities, where the gap is only a few percent. Until the sides agree on what 'market' means, no wage deal can be reached — and the outcome will affect both city spending and the department's ability to recruit.