Letter: City, County Governments Have Huge Reserves

When considering how Prop 1 will help our neighbors not be taxed out of their homes, and how rich the city, county, and state really are, versus the tax recipients’ having to find efficiencies to run their departments, or the governing bodies moving money from another revenue stream for schools or fire departments, it is easy to VOTE YES on PROP 1.

LETTER

Editor,

All of Wyoming politicians, educational institutions, and association lobbying groups are coming out against Prop 1, the citizen-led ballot initiative to give tax relief to everyone, including young families and seniors. Governor Mark Gordon and Senator Eric Barlow claim Wyoming hasn’t enough money if Prop 1 passes. They may have to then realize their dream of imposing a State Income Tax, while blaming the citizens for wanting tax relief.

Let’s see: According the Wyoming Department of Audit, at end of Fiscal Year 2025 (10 months ago), the city of Sheridan has over $55,000,000 (million) in cash reserves. Sheridan County has over $39,000,000 (million) in cash reserves. Together, the city and county total over $94,000,000 (million) in cash reserves. And the State of Wyoming has over $39,000,000,000 (billion) in cash reserves. All of these cash reserves are a function of over-taxation collection, along with some grants, etc. Gotta keep those property taxes high, don’t ya know? Running out of money? Can’t afford new police cars or fire trucks? Doesn’t look that way- once you learn just how much money they do have. Any so-called “restricted funds” can be un-restricted with only a vote by City Councilors, County Commissioners, or State Legislators, so the bills can be paid. Why must these entities take over-collected money from our savings and put it into theirs?

I understand Sheriff Levi Dominguez presides over Sheridan County-directed tax lien sales. You know, when someone can’t afford to pay their property taxes and the liens then go on the public sales block for anyone to purchase. According to nolo.com, there are over 400 homeowners with property tax liens on their homes in Wyoming. That is a crying shame and an offense to folks who call Wyoming home. So, when considering how Prop 1 will help our neighbors not be taxed out of their homes, and how rich the city, county, and state really are, versus the tax recipients’ having to find efficiencies to run their departments, or the governing bodies moving money from another revenue stream for schools or fire departments, it is easy to VOTE YES on PROP 1.

Ronnie LeBlanc - Sheridan County

Originally published by The Open Range Record, Independent Wyoming News. Cite as: “Letter: City, County Governments Have Huge Reserves,” The Open Range Record, November 3, 2026.