• Arch restoration and downtown among discussion topics
The Afton Town Council met on Tuesday, May 13, to discuss a range of community updates, events, and recognitions that reflect the town’s ongoing development.
Nurses Month Proclamation
Mayor Jeff Jensen celebrated Nurses Month by honoring local nurses with an official proclamation recognizing them as the largest healthcare profession in Wyoming. The audience and council members stood in applause for the attending nurses. Present at the event were:
Lisa Gillespie, RN – Premier Home Health/Lincoln County School District
Heather Finch, RN – Star Valley Care Center
Deanna Starcer, RN – Star Valley Health
Tori Probst, RN – Star Valley Health
Scott Griffith, RN – Star Valley Medical Center
Elk Horn Arch Restoration
The council also discussed plans to renovate the iconic elk horn arch. The structure, which is showing signs of wear and antler decay, will be reinforced with potentially redoing the steel frame and including year-round lighting. With the town’s recent acquisition of the former Los Cabos building, power for the new lights will be sourced directly from there.
Golf Course Up and Running
Course Manager Bryce Burton reported that the Afton Golf Course officially opened for the season on April 25. He noted the turf is in excellent condition and praised the improvements, saying, “I’m happy with where it’s at.” A newly installed irrigation system is now fully operational, and all the lakes are filled, ensuring optimal playing conditions for the summer.
Police Department Update
Although no officers were present at the meeting, the department sent an update via email. A highlight included Officer Cassidy Cooper’s return from the police academy. She is currently completing her field training and will remain with the department through August before returning to continue her education.
Afton Main Street Alliance News
Micah Don stepped down from the Afton Main Street Alliance board, and the council unanimously approved Paige Alise to fill the position. Planning for the annual 4th of July parade is well underway. The route will remain the same, but a new registration form is being finalized to improve participant safety. Road closures are tentatively scheduled from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. for the event.
Oktoberfest planning is progressing, with four musical acts currently in the works, including one from Oklahoma. Local youth organizations FFA and 4-H have been approved to participate, using the event to promote their work and fundraise for the upcoming year. Star Valley Arts plans to host an arts and crafts fair, while the public library will organize educational activities for children.
The next town council meeting is scheduled for June 17 at 5:30, where further updates on these and other town projects will be shared.
