Neighbors Speak Out as Mills Debates Ridge West Rezoning

MILLS COUNCIL ADDRESSES REZONING, PARK RENAMING, AND ZIP CODE EFFORTS

By Casper Buzz Staff 

 

The Mills City Council met for its regular session on October 28, 2025, tackling a packed agenda that included a contentious rezoning hearing, a proposed park renaming, and continued efforts to secure a unique ZIP code for the growing community.

 

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Public Hearing Draws Debate Over Ridge West Rezoning

The meeting opened with a public hearing on a proposed rezoning of Mountain Meadows Subdivision No. 2, Lot 2A — located near Robertson Road — from Urban Agriculture (UA) to Residential One (R-1). The change would allow for the development of single-family homes on roughly 27 acres, aligning with nearby subdivisions such as Robertson Heights.

 

City staff recommended approval, noting that the proposal meets infrastructure requirements, supports local housing demand, and aligns with the 2016 Natrona County Land Use Plan.

 

However, several residents expressed strong concerns. Property owner Donald Oaks warned that additional development could worsen drainage and flooding problems, stating that storm runoff from 80 new homes could overwhelm his property to the west. “If the city approves this subdivision,” Oaks said, “who’s liable when my property floods?”

Francis Ackley, a resident of the nearby Plat View Estates, echoed opposition, citing erosion, dust, and long-term construction impacts. Ackley also questioned the accuracy of the city’s zoning citations and challenged staff references to selenium mitigation in county documents. “If these citations are incorrect, it makes one wonder if Title 17 was consulted at all,” she said.

 

Engineer Sean Gustafson, representing CE Engineers, addressed those concerns, assuring the council that drainage designs include detention basins and that the project will undergo full engineering review before development begins.

 

Council approved Ordinance #832 on first reading, emphasizing that the measure must still pass two additional readings. Mayor Leah Warren noted the extended process gives time to review public input and make adjustments if needed.

 

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Park Renaming Sparks Discussion

 

Council also held the first reading of Ordinance #833, which proposes renaming Mills Memorial Park to Service and Sacrifice Park — a title meant to honor both veterans and first responders.

 

While the name received general support, some councilmembers expressed interest in having more involvement in the selection process. The mayor explained that much of the park’s fundraising, branding, and 501(c)(3) documentation has already been established under the new name but said the city is open to continued discussion before final adoption.

 

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Push Continues for Mills ZIP Code

In a show of unity, the council passed three separate resolutions — #2025-35, #2025-36, and #2025-37 — supporting state and federal legislation to create a unique ZIP code for Mills. The effort, which has been championed by city leaders for years, aims to solidify Mills’ identity as an independent community rather than being lumped under Casper’s 82604 designation.

 

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Additional Business

 

Council also approved Resolution #2025-38, addressing regulations for day-to-day and itinerant salesmen, and Resolution #2025-39, confirming a city representative to the Natrona County Travel and Tourism Council.

 

A contract amendment with Civil Engineering Professionals, Inc. was approved, with Council President Newmiller abstaining from the vote. Council further authorized the mayor to approve a Life Flight Transfer Incentive Policy designed to streamline emergency medical coordination.

 

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What’s Next

 

The rezoning and park renaming ordinances will return for second readings in upcoming meetings, where residents will have another opportunity to comment.

 

Council meetings are open to the public and streamed live on the City of Mills YouTube channel. Comments can also be submitted by email to cityhall@millswy.gov.