Cheyenne Wells Council Approves Key Ordinances and Budgets

The Town of Cheyenne Wells held a regular council meeting on January 14, 2026, during which important ordinances and budget matters were addressed. Mayor Pro Tem Carleton Pelton initiated the meeting at 18:00, leading attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a prayer from Councilwoman Sherry Jones. All council members were present, including Rex Hyle, Karen Gregg, Zach Anderson, and Mark Galli.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a public hearing regarding a new ordinance aimed at addressing concerns related to registered sex offenders in the community. Property owner Lynda Pelton expressed her support for the ordinance, which aims to regulate residency requirements for registered sex offenders, particularly in relation to local schools. The town has been consulting with legal advisors to ensure the ordinance aligns with state guidelines, which currently allow local jurisdictions to set their own regulations. The council noted that three individuals are currently on the Registered Sex Offender (RSO) list within the town, and those already registered will be grandfathered into any new regulations.

Additionally, correspondence from local residents highlighted various concerns. Property owner Heather Kemp requested that licensed in-home daycare facilities be included in the ordinance, while rental property owner Jeremiah Bogenhagen raised questions regarding the implications for short-term rental properties like Airbnb. The council agreed to forward these comments to their attorney for further review.

Agenda Approved, Financial Matters Reviewed

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda, followed by a review of the sheriff’s monthly reports for November and December. Undersheriff Murdock joined the meeting at 18:30 to discuss public safety updates.

Minutes from the previous meetings on November 10 and December 1 were approved without objection. The council also reviewed and approved bills for all funds, with all members voting in favor except for Councilman Hyle, who abstained.

Building permits were discussed, specifically for On Point/Bill Lowe’s Driveway & Sidewalk, which received approval from the council. Furthermore, two resolutions were passed: Resolution #1-2026, regarding D&E SRF, and Resolution #2-2026, which established the 2026 General Fee Schedule.

The council also addressed the upcoming 2026 election, noting that petition packets for the mayor and two trustee positions are available and due by 16:00 on January 26.

Library Budget and Administrative Updates

The Eastern Cheyenne County Library District’s budget for 2026 was reviewed, along with contact information for the board and staff. The council decided to continue publishing legal notices in both the Kiowa County Press and the Kiowa County Independent, as both papers will publish the minutes at no cost.

Administrative updates indicated that three customers who failed to pay their bills in 2025 have had their amounts submitted to the treasurer’s office for inclusion on the tax roll. A recent inspection of the town’s dog pound showed no deficiencies. The council is also working on a petition for TAP improvements and has received reports on water assessments and improvements.

In concluding reports, Councilman Hyle indicated that the Cheyenne Wells Housing Authority is progressing well, with four units awaiting contractor work. Councilwoman Jones mentioned a need for a coordinator and assistant cook for the Senior Center, as well as the hiring of a new director for the Eastern Cheyenne County Library District.

The council acknowledged a recent water leak on West 5th that staff had repaired on New Year’s Eve, recognizing their dedication to resolving the issue promptly.

The meeting was adjourned at 18:47 following a motion by Councilman Anderson, seconded by Councilman Galli, with all members voting in support. The next regular meeting is scheduled for February 10 at 18:00.