Wyoming Supreme Court Sides With Gordon in Capitol Renovation

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The Wyoming Supreme Court has reversed a lower court ruling in a lawsuit filed by state Treasurer Mark Gordon over the state Capitol renovation project.Gordon's lawsuit contends that the state constitution requires him to sign off on Capitol contracts but the state law that established the legislative oversight panel for the renovation project left him out of the process.A District Court judge rejected Gordon's argument, but the Supreme Court reversed that ruling in a 4-1 decision Thursday and sent the case back to the lower court for further review.

A statement from Gov. Matt Mead's office indicated Capitol renovation work will be unaffected by the ruling.

Treasurer Mark Gordon issued a statement today in response to the ruling.

"I am pleased the Supreme Court has ruled on this fundamental constitutional matter and I want to thank the Court for its careful consideration of the issues involved. Every elected official takes an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution, a responsibility I take very seriously. I brought this suit to clarify the role of the Treasurer in the process of contracting on behalf of the state. With today' s ruling, we have clear direction on the role and authority of the Treasurer now and into the future."

"I appreciate Governor Mead's leadership on this important project and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Capitol Oversight Committee to bring this important project to an appropriate and fiscally responsible close."

Filed Under: Capitol Renovation, wyoming supreme court

Categories: Associated Press