Three vie for Hot Springs County Commissioner seat

In the general election, three Hot Springs County residents are vying to serve as County Commissioner.

Incumbent Phil Scheel (R) says he is passionate about Hot Springs County, passionate about Wyoming and he definitely sees us facing some economic, medical and other tragedies.

Scheel said, “It is our job to implement the rules. We are an extension of the state and we have the best opportunity to take the ideas to the state legislature.”

When asked what his goals are for HSC over the next four years, Scheel stated, “They are extremely broad. I think we deal with more issues than any other entity. We cover county roads, we take care of indigent burials, manage the airport, which is one of the best small airports in the state, and have a relationship with the town, solid waste programs, the DEQ and a pile of other things to take care of.”

Sharena Fruciano (I) she says she has a very unique perspective on things, especially on COVID-19. As a realtor she says she talks with a diverse group of people and this community is very special to her.

She would like to advocate for the county on a local and state level and be a voice for everyone, saying, “I don’t have all the answers, but I promise to listen to what you have to say and work together to get the community to survive.”

Regarding her goals for HSC over the next four years, Fruciano responded, “Its extremely broad. I think we deal with more issues than any other entity. We cover county roads, we take care of indigent burials, manage the airport, which is one of the best small airports in the state, and have a relationship with the town, solid waste programs, the DEQ and a pile of other things to take care of.”

Michael Byrd (I) said he knows our state is currently seeing revenue shortfalls and Hot Springs County is facing this, too. He believes the people deserve a transparent government that works for the people.

He added, “If I personally benefit, or any of my businesses, I shouldn’t be standing here running. We need to bring businesses back to our community.”

When asked about his goals for HSC for the next four years, Byrd said “One of the biggest things is the budget shortfalls. We need to take a couple of steps ahead, check costs, like what is it costing us down the road and stay away from wasteful spending.