Casper, WY — In a Tuesday night meeting, the Casper City Council voted to update the city’s liquor ordinance, permitting retail package liquor sales via drive‑through windows. The amendment removes a long‑standing local restriction and brings Casper into alignment with Wyoming state law.
Safety safeguards built into the new rule
City Chief of Staff Fleur Tremel outlined the safety standards that must accompany any drive‑through liquor operation. The areas must be well‑lit, open to visual inspection, and owned or leased by the licensee. Sales are expressly prohibited to minors or visibly intoxicated individuals, and drive‑through windows may not be placed on publicly owned sidewalks, streets or alleys.
Council debate and dissent
While the measure passed, it was not unanimous. Councilors Kyle Gamroth and Brandy Haskins each cast a vote against the amendment. Gamroth warned that Casper has already faced “enough alcohol‑related crime and issues” and urged the council to adopt a more data‑driven framework for alcohol density. Amber Pollock abstained, and Gena Jensen was absent.
Scaled‑back from a broader proposal
The approved ordinance is a trimmed version of an earlier, more expansive proposal that would have allowed resort liquor licenses to obtain catering permits. Local retailers pushed back, and councilors chose to retain Casper’s existing restriction on resort catering. Tremel noted that other Wyoming cities—Cheyenne, Sheridan, Laramie, Gillette, and Rock Springs—already permit resort licenses to secure catering permits, but community opposition kept Casper’s rules tighter.
Additional council actions
In the same meeting, the council approved a resolution and final‑reading ordinance to annex 4.2 acres of land owned by Till Enterprises. The parcels at 2585 and 2595 Bryan‑Evansville Road will be zoned M‑2 (general industrial) to provide municipal water and sewer connections. Community Development Director Liz Becher said the annexation had unanimous support from the Planning and Zoning Commission in June and will be coordinated with ongoing improvements to Bryan‑Evansville Road.
What this means for Casper residents
With the new drive‑through provision, local liquor retailers can offer a convenient, contact‑less option for customers while adhering to strict safety protocols. The council’s decision reflects a balance between modernizing commerce and protecting public safety, a stance that aligns with the community’s desire for responsible growth.
Residents who have concerns about the implementation or wish to provide feedback can contact the City of Casper’s Office of Community Development.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
