Wyoming Association of Municipalities

Powering Wyoming’s future, through water and energy. 💧⚡

At the WAM & WEDA Summer Conference, two dynamic panels explored the critical role of water and energy in driving economic development across our state.

The Water Impact on Economic Development Panel brought together industry experts to discuss how water policy, infrastructure and innovation are shaping sustainable growth for Wyoming communities.

Our Nuclear Panel highlighted how effective communication and strategic development can position energy communities for long-term success.

A big thank you to our panelists for sharing their expertise and helping spark meaningful conversations around the resources and opportunities that will power Wyoming forward.

Two powerful panels, one shared goal. Stronger Wyoming communities. 💬

At the WAM & WEDA Summer Conference, attendees heard directly from legislative leaders on the issues shaping our state’s future, followed by an essential conversation on Open Records, Record Retention, Conflicts of Interest and Open Meetings. These panels highlighted the importance of transparency, informed leadership and good governance across Wyoming.

A huge thank you to all our panelists and presenters for sharing their expertise and helping spark meaningful conversations. We hope attendees walked away with valuable insights to bring back to their communities.

Thank you to our gubernatorial candidates for taking time away from their campaigns to connect with Wyoming communities and discuss the issues that matter most.

In a state often described as one big town with one long main street, the conversations we have in one community echo across them all. From large hubs to small towns, we share the same challenges, the same opportunities and the same commitment to Wyoming’s future.

The Governor Candidates Panel at the WAM & WEDA Summer Conference, featuring Eric Barlow, Brent Bien and Megan Degenfelder, reflected that shared reality, offering valuable insight into the future of our state and the leaders who will help shape what’s next.

We’re grateful for the thoughtful conversation and meaningful engagement that made this panel a highlight of the conference and a reminder that no matter where we are in Wyoming, we’re all part of the same story.

Join us in celebrating extraordinary dedication to Wyoming’s communities 👏

At our recent WAM & WEDA Summer Conference, we were proud to honor two remarkable leaders with Outstanding Service Awards:

Earla Checchi – 25 Years of Service
The behind-the-scenes backbone of WAM, Earla’s steady leadership, financial stewardship and tireless commitment have supported all 99 Wyoming municipalities for over two decades. She's usually the one behind the camera, so we had to make sure she stepped into the spotlight for this award!

Dr. Mark Rinne – LLC Chairman (2024–2026)
With 28 years of public service, Dr. Rinne’s thoughtful leadership, mentorship and dedication to strengthening municipal law have left a lasting impact across Wyoming.

Please join us in congratulating Earla and Mark for their incredible contributions! 🎉

That’s a wrap on the WAM & WEDA Summer Conference! 🎉

Thank you, Laramie, for being such a beautiful and welcoming host. We’re incredibly proud to bring together a conference filled with impactful education and forward-thinking Wyoming leaders.

From the vendor fair and receptions to engaging breakout sessions and panels, this event was all about collaboration, connection and learning across the state.

A huge thank you to our sponsors and partners for helping make this conference such a success. We couldn’t do it without you! 👏

Looking to sharpen your grant skills and grow your network?

Join the 2026 Wyoming Funding Summit, June 22-25 in Gillette!

✔ Hands-on learning
✔ Expert-led sessions
✔ Interactive panels & fireside chats
✔ Topics from funding strategies to grant administration

Don’t miss this opportunity, register now!

🔗 Learn more here https://sbd.wyo.gov/grants/wyoming-funding-summit

📘 The Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Preparation Handbook is now live!

This updated resource provides practical tools and clear guidance to support municipalities throughout the budget development process. With key timelines, requirements and best practices, it’s designed to help ensure accurate, transparent and timely budget submissions.

🔗Explore the full handbook now: https://wyomuni.org/education/

Celebrating Small Cities Month 🤠

National League of Cities is kicking off Small Cities Month with Wyoming's own and WAM Executive Director, Ashley Harpstreith! Listen in as Ashley talks about what makes Wyoming's towns and cities so unique.

CitiesSpeak Podcast: Kicking Off Small Cities Month in Wyoming with Ashley Harpstreith June is Small Cities Month at NLC! With 40 percent of the national population coming from cities with a population of 50,000 or less, small cities play a significant role in strengthening local…

We’re looking forward to seeing you in Laramie!

The 2026 Summer Conference is your chance to connect with municipal and economic development leaders from across Wyoming. Don’t miss out on the conversations shaping our communities.

Spots are limited, register today!

🔗 https://wyomuni.org/upcoming-events/ -registration-form

Join us at the WAM & WEDA Summer Conference for an impactful Legislative Panel you won’t want to miss.

Hear directly from your region's elected officials as they share insights on issues shaping Wyoming’s communities and economy.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn and engage with your elected officials!

👉 Register today: https://wyomuni.org/upcoming-events/