LINGLE – Residents should not underestimate the number of visitors and potential issues associated with the upcoming solar eclipse, Aug. 21.
This was the message Clerk-Treasurer Michele Sussex conveyed as she updated members of the Lingle Town Council about the upcoming astral event at its meeting Wednesday.
Sussex attended an eclipse meeting June 8 and said the committee has been in contact with eclipse chasers – individuals who follow the events around the globe.
“Fort Laramie has reservations for 5,000 sites, Glendo has sold 30,000 RV spots … the last numbers, (the committee) is expecting 135,000 to 355,000 people … in our county,” Sussex said.
She added that residents should expect Internet and cell phone service failures.
“It will have a huge impact on our infrastructure,” Sussex said.
It’s important to stock up on batteries, groceries and fuel prior to the event, she continued.
“Banner Health is bringing in extra doctors,” Sussex said, citing heatstroke, altitude sickness and snake bites as potential health risks.
In other business:
• Police Chief Endra Moen reported she has responded to 100 calls for service since June 11.
• Lingle Volunteer Fire Department Secretary Mike Hofer advised the council a partial fire ban will begin July 5, during which enclosed barbecues and pit fires are allowed. Starting Aug. 1, however, there will be a full fire ban in effect in advance of the solar eclipse.
• Pool Manager Brandi Hill stated approximately 60 people attended the first Movie in the Park Friday. The next Movie in the Park is June 30 and will feature “Dirty Dancing”.
• Sussex said town hall will be closed July 4 and 5 in observance of the Fourth of July.
• Maintenance Supervisor Larry Haeffelin reported his crew has kept busy patching potholes, replacing sprinklers, mowing, spraying weeds, cleaning up after the recent storm, and more.
• The council agreed to enter into a contract with Torrington Police Department’s Teri Shinost for animal control services. Shinost will act as a backup if Moen is absent or needs assistance.
• The council approved liquor licenses for Corner Bar and Lira’s Restaurant.
• The next council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 6 – changed to reflect town hall’s closing on July 5 –
at 5 p.m.
