Cornwell sworn in as Thermopolis Chief of Police

At the December 21 Thermopolis Town Council meeting, Mayor Mike Chimenti had Town Attorney Marshall Keller swear in Pat Cornwell as the Chief of Police.

Cornwell was previously acting as the Interim Chief of Police when Julie Mathews retired in September.

Representatives of both the Thermopolis Police Department and the Hot Springs County Sheriff’s office were present to offer their support. The council also voted and passed approval for Pat Cornwell’s appointment as Thermopolis Police Chief. 

Town Engineer Anthony Barnett reported that they submitted the permits for the radar speed signs. The signs may change their locations and be moved closer to the school zones. The matter is still in the works.

Barnett also said that he and Director of Public Works Ernie Slagle are still working on the water and sewer project. They are addressing issues in certain manholes. 

Assistant to Mayor Fred Crosby brought to council an application for a joint appointment with Hot Springs County for the Big Horn Basin Nature and Discover Center (BHBNDC) for Brad Becerra and a three-year term. Becerra has already served on the BHBNDC board. The council voted and approved Becerra’s appointment. 

Crosby also reported that the town’s insurance agent with HUB has changed their coverage from Travelers to Continental Western Insurance. This change will save them about $15,000. The council voted to approve of this change in their previous meeting on December 7. 

The council also voted and approved to accept the Thermopolis Golf Board minutes.