Glode plans improvements for boards and commissions

Saratoga Mayor Ed Glode thinks that with the significant change of guard that occurred when he took office, it may be time for the boards and commissions to take a class in open meeting laws.

Open meeting laws, determined by the state of Wyoming, consist of specific rules about adequate public notice and availability of information as well as outline penalties for those that violate the rules. The issue was brought to Glode’s attention two weeks ago as there was confusion about the method for rescheduling the Saratoga Airport Board meeting because of Veterans Day.

In order to potentially improve communication and public awareness of these open meetings, Glode has considered the possibility of weekly calendars.

Classes typically come from the Wyoming Association of Municipalities (WAM) in this case, though information is available through various online sources as well.

This issue comes up in conjunction with certain boards and commissions in a process of rebuilding, committees in which Glode says he has faith. One board that has exhibited turmoil in times past is South Central Wyoming Emergency Medical Services (SCWEMS).

“None of us have backed down on what we already acted on,” Glode said in the face of the town of Medicine Bow not signing the new amendment. Despite the problems that SCWEMS is experiencing, Glode said that Saratoga still has the service they need to have and have experienced for the past 10 years.

Though he has faith that the boards and commissions experiencing problems for a number of reasons will work it out, Glode noted the importance of organized meetings with proper etiquette and public notice, operating legally. “I think I’m going to give it a little more time, working with everybody … I’ve been talking to a few other people that are interested in helping us rebuild that (the meetings) so I think we’re on the right track. It doesn’t happen in a day.”