Weekend Poll: Should A Rec Center Proposal Go To Laramie County Voters?

Laramie County voters will once again in 2026 decide whether to fund various proposals though the optional 6th penny sales tax.

The tax is also sometimes known as the Specific Purpose Tax. It's an optional sales tax that can be used for capital projects. The county commission has the final word on what items go on the ballot, with input from municipal governments in the county. In most cases there are items proposed for the communities across the county as well as rural areas.

Supporters of a publicly-funded rec center have tried several times to get one approved, always falling short. But it appears that they may try again next year.

Cheyenne City Council member Michelle Aldrich, on the ''Weekend in Wyoming" program a few weeks ago, said ''I am sure it will come up again."

We are also hearing there is at least some support on the Laramie County Commission for a rec center proposal of some kind. How strong that support may be isn't yet clear.

At this stage, the specifics of any such proposal are unknown. But is the idea itself worth considering? Or is it time to let it go?

Arguments Against A Rec Center

Arguments against a rec center include: it's not the government's job to pay for recreation center. We already have private gyms, sports leagues for kids, and after-school programs. Why do we have to spend tax dollars for more?

It is too expensive, Cheyenne has other issues that we should focus on. Tax-funded facilities should not compete with private businesses.

There is also a sentiment among some opponents that the voters have already clearly spoken in the issue, and that "No means no."

Arguments in Favor Of A Rec Center

Other Wyoming towns, including Casper, Rock Springs, Gillette, and others have recreation centers. Why doesn't the largest city and state capitol of Wyoming? There isn't much for kids to do in Cheyenne, especially in the summer. 

Kids with too much time on their hands get into trouble. Besides, we should encourage people to live healthy lifestyles and exercise. And a rec center could fill a niche that isn't being offered by private gyms.

Some supporters also say a rec center would be a helpful tool in recruiting new businesses to come to Cheyenne.