TORRINGTON – The Goshen County Sheriff’s office is again involved in settling the latest complaint from Lingle resident Ron Stuckert alleging a controversial feed lot was in violation of permit requirements set by the state Department of Environmental Quality and Goshen County Planning Commission.
Stuckart asked for county action on his claim the number of cattle in the Lewis feedlot exceed the permit. The problem this time is too many cattle in a sick pen that is closer than one-quarter of a mile from Stuckart’s home, he said.
Mark LeGrand of the county planning commission said that, according to Lewis’ permit, cattle must be in the pen up to 90 consecutive days to violate the conditions of the permit.
Under Sheriff Jeremy Wardell had visited the site, and presented his findings. Sheriff Don Murphy said his office is ready to issue a citation if the question of numbers of cattle and days in the pen can be resolved. He said the penalty could be $750 a day.
The commissioners will ask Deputy County Attorney Dana Lent to investigate the situation, before proceeding with any legal action.
County Road and Bridge Department Supervisor Jerry Hort reported that, in addition to routine maintenance and repairs, he is waiting to hear from Union Pacific Railroad regarding damage allegedly done by their trucks that are delivering ties to repair sites.
During the Road and Bridge session, Gary Olsen, representing the Sportsman’s Club, requested and received approval of county assistance in applying dust control material to the county road leading to the club southwest of Torrington, for a special club event next summer.
Commission Chairman Carl Rupp reported his efforts to get a UP representative to a commission meeting and to visit the damaged roads. At this time, a meeting might be held in November.

The commission is going to rely on Lent to send a strongly worded letter to Union Pacific requesting their presence at a meeting.
Personnel issues were also included in three of the county department reports at the meeting. Stephanie Lofink, Goshen County Fair Manager, and Assessor Debbie Surratt met in executive sessions with the Commissioners regarding
personnel.
No action was taken on Surratt’s session. The commissioners authorized the Goshen County Extension Office to meet with Lofink to fill a position in the Extension office.
Sheriff Murphy, Under Sheriff Wardell, and Deputy Sheriff Wes Dean updated staffing in their department. They had reported during earlier meetings on progress in hiring for four positions, and announced that three will be filled this month. Work is underway to fill a fourth position.
“We have three ready to go this month,” Murphy announced, “ and we’re advertising for
a fourth.”
Murphy cited competition from other agencies, as well as the salary levels as problems in hiring.
In other action, Debbie Surratt reported Reduction payments of $5,097 for the past month. These are refunds on tax assessments.
Treasurer Maxine Fisher reported $546,195 on hand for general expenditures.
“We’re just entering the heavy tax season,” Mitchell said. “That always improves the picture.”
The Commissioners also passed a resolution citing the service of retired county commissioner Sam Carroll, who passed away over the weekend. He served on the county board from 1995-2002.
Following the meeting, Rupp said he was pleased with Mitchell’s report.
“The Treasurer’s report was good news,” he said. “We’re in the black, and even though vehicle sales taxes are down, we’re in good shape. We’ll know more when she brings us an update
in January.”