Parks Rules & Regulations Review Process

Background

Natrona County has undertaken an effort to review and update the existing rules and regulations governing the Natrona County Park System.  This update and eventual promulgation of changes is governed by the Wyoming Rules of Administrative Procedure as delineated within Wyoming Statute §16-3-101 et seq.

Natrona County has elected to employ a multi-step process, starting with a review by County park staff.  Thereafter staff, in conjunction with the Natrona County Parks Board, has engaged in two additional work sessions to review and make proposed changes to the rules.  These work sessions were held on December 18, 2019 and January 2, 2020.  In addition to these sessions, two town hall style listening sessions were held on March 26, 2020 and January 28, 2020.  The public was invited to submit written comments at any time during the rules and regulations review process. 

Natrona County Parks Board Role

The Natrona County Parks Board is an advisory board created through county resolution and as such has no final rule-making authority.  However it plays a crucial role in advising and guiding the final decision made by the Natrona County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC). 

The Natrona County Parks Board, pursuant to Wyoming Statute §16-3-103, recommended the BOCC engage in formal rulemaking.  The BOCC  must give a minimum of 45 days’ notice of its intention to adopt rules.  During that time the BOCC shall receive additional written public comment and may elect to hold public comment sessions.

At a minimum, prior to adoption the BOCC must hold a formal public hearing, after which it may adopt the rules as recommended, as amended, reject them in total or table the matter. Once adopted they will become effective upon filing with the Natrona County Clerk.