Town council approves street closure

Catering permits and street closures were the main discussion for Tuesday evening’s town council meeting. Catering permits for the NRA Banquet and two weddings at the HSC Fairgrounds and one permit for an Arts in the Park event were all approved by the council.

Stefanie Gilbert with Main Street Thermopolis gave a presentation asking for downtown street closure for Oktobrewfest on September 26. Gilbert said the hope for this year’s event is to appeal to adults but maintain a family-friendly atmosphere while encouraging visitors to stay longer, explore the entire closed-off area, and shop at downtown stores.

The closed off area would run from Nature’s Corner to W.O.W. down past the public restrooms and run alley to alley on 5th Street. Open containers would be allowed throughout the closed off area. Gilbert asked for street closure from 7 a.m. until approximately 9 p.m. for set-up and clean-up.

Chief of Police Steve Shay approved of the ID wristband system and had no concerns regarding the event. Ernie Slagle asked if the event would conflict with the farmer’s market, but Gilbert did not think that it would. The motion to approve the street closure with open containers passed with the stipulation that the event not conflict with the farmer’s market.

Two right-of-way agreements, one for a chain-link fence and one for Round Top Motel’s new sign, were approved.

The WYDOT Resolution, which provides the city with approximately $60,000/year to plow the highways through city limits, was approved.

Council said they were still pricing the interactive water fountain that is planned to be constructed in Bicentennial Park.

The deer study that was conducted within town limits last year was approved to be conducted this year with the use of game cameras and scent attractants.