Casper considers community-based solution for property upkeep challenges
CASPER, Wyo. — At its Sept. 26 work session, the Casper City Council delved into the “Neighbors Helping Neighbors Fund,” an initiative put forth by local resident Ross Schriftman. The proposal seeks to aid Casper’s elderly, disabled and low-income residents struggling with property upkeep, according to a memo prepared for the City Council.
“I’m not sure if the city is the mechanism for us to do the full thing, but I do agree with councilmembers who are saying how we could figure out some type of partnership,” Mayor Ray Pacheco said.
The primary goal of the fund is to enhance the quality of life for residents and their surrounding community. Services offered would encompass lawn maintenance, tree and shrubbery care, junk removal and the elimination of safety hazards.
Councilor Steve Cathey was quick to point out financial implications:
“I don’t see us trying to spend city money on this. We don’t need to be starting a new program when we don’t have the money to carry out our existing programs.” Cathey pointed out that current sales tax numbers are below projected budgets.
Highlighting both the potential and logistical challenges, Councilor Michael Bond said, “I think it’s a great idea. I love the idea of neighbors helping neighbors. But … there’s going to be some organization and administration … to keep it going.”
“I’m personally leaning towards like a Facebook group or nonprofit outside the umbrella of the city, and the city can be a partner in that,” Councilor Kyle Gamroth suggested.
Considering the proposal’s complexities, Councilor Amber Pollock remarked, “I agree that the nonprofit sector is one place where this issue could be addressed, but we also can’t compel the founding of one … so I’m trying to think about how might the city get to ‘yes’ on this.”
Lastly, Councilor Gena Jensen provided a cautionary perspective, stating, “We can maybe have a partnership or help in some form, but having it be us, our city time, resources … I don’t think that it’s something that we have the resources to do right now.”
The City Council directed staff to research ways in which the city could partner and help the program if it finds community partners to work with. Including helping identify homes that may need help through the code enforcement department.
With these diverse viewpoints in mind, the council’s next steps will hinge on the possibility of community nonprofit partners stepping up to spearhead the endeavor.
The memo can be found below.