November 18, 2025
I want to tell you a story about an amazing organization in Rock Springs. It’s an organization that has a dual purpose: it cares for kids so parents can get an education that will lead to higher wages for their family.
The organization is Western Children’s Center at Western Wyoming Community College.
Western Children’s Center has supported thousands of individuals – mostly moms – who know the impact education can have on taking care of her family.
For 50 years this childcare facility has made economic progress for moms possible by making sure their childcare fees encouraged enrollment in school.
But then the Wyoming Legislature’s additional property tax cuts went into effect. You see, property taxes directly impact our community colleges (along with a whole lotta other things). And so when the college’s funding was cut, so was funding for this amazing program.
For most community college students, paying competitive childcare rates is next to impossible. And while the center’s rates are still low for these students, they’re more than double what they used to be. The Wyoming Women’s Foundation proudly made a grant to support the group, but our funds can’t fill the gap.
The increase to fees means some moms haven’t returned. They’re not getting the education that you, those moms, and I know can lead to a livable wage.
It’s devastating to hear. But cuts like these will get far worse if the 2026 ballot measure to cut property taxes by 50% (doubling last year’s 25% cut) passes.
That’s where you come in. YOU have the power to use your voice! Let your legislator know that property tax cuts have gone too far. Use your voice and your vote to support the services you love.
Other Important Info.
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- Governor Gordon has put out his budget, which is now ready for review.
- Joint Appropriations will review the budget and make changes to it over a two week period: December 1st – 12th.
- The Governor will present his full budget on December 1st.
- Dept of Health’s budget (pg 49) will be presented December 8th.
- The Community College Commission’s budget (pg 57) will be presented on December 10th.
- Dept. of Ed’s budget (pg 90) will be presented on December 11th
- Dept of Family Services budget (pg 50) will be presented on December 12th
It’s a great chance for you to advocate for state services that are important to you!
