Town, commission nominees speak

During the Meet the Candidates forum Thursday evening, Thermopolis residents got to hear from those running for state races, as well as local seats.

Phillip Scheel is running unopposed for County Commissioner. He expressed his appreciation for the votes in the primary, joking that a Mickey Mouse write-in campaign might still knock him out. Though he’s not involved in a contested race, Scheel still took the opportunity to visit with people at the forum, stating he was in favor of the hospital district, as well as the special purpose tax for the hospital remodel and renovation, both of which will be voted on in November. Scheel further added it’s important for people to pay attention to who they’re voting for when it comes to the hospital district board of directors.

Bill Malloy, who is on the ticket for Thermopolis Town Council, said he student taught here in early 1963, then came back the next school year as a teacher, and remained with the district for 43 years; he still substitutes an average 80-90 days per year.

Following his retirement, he knew he wanted to keep busy, and ran for mayor, a psition he held from 2007-14, during which there were some tough economic times, much like there are now.

Malloy’s running for council again now because he believes his past experience will be beneficial. He’s in favor of both ballot issues concerning the hospital.

Also on the ballot of town council is Dusty Lewis, who was not at Thursday’s forum.