A proposed minor subdivision in northeast Crook County has sparked concern among neighboring landowners, highlighting ongoing tensions between private property rights and rural land use preferences, Gillette News Record reports.
During a recent public hearing, Crook County commissioners approved a request by property owner Cheryl Adamson to divide her 40-acre parcel along Kimball Road into two smaller lots — one approximately 24 acres, the other just under 14.
The subdivision approval follows a series of objections from nearby residents who argued that breaking up larger parcels threatens the rural character of their community. Pam Yunk, one of several neighbors who spoke during the meeting, criticized the proposal, expressing disappointment over what she viewed as a contradiction between Adamson’s earlier appreciation for the area’s low-density lifestyle and her current decision to divide the land.
“Thirteen acres is just way too small,” Yunk said. “It just ruins our way of life out here.”
Other residents, including Terry Tirzalee, raised concerns about practical issues related to the subdivision, such as responsibility for fencing costs and potential safety hazards associated with construction near overhead electrical lines. She also questioned whether additional wells would be permitted on the new lots. Planning Director Tim Lyons clarified that well permitting falls under the jurisdiction of the state, and construction safety would need to be addressed by future landowners.
While some, like Tim Hauck, acknowledged that property rights allow individuals to make such decisions, they expressed personal reservations about rural subdivisions, suggesting smaller parcels should be located closer to town services.
“It’s changing the flavor of it,” Hauck remarked.
Adamson, present at the hearing, expressed regret that her actions had upset neighbors, stating it was never her intention to cause disruption. She indicated openness to alternatives, including the possibility of selling the parcel to an adjacent landowner rather than subdividing.
Despite their personal reservations, the county commissioners emphasized that state law limits their authority in such matters. Commissioner Fred Devish noted that attempts to block legally compliant subdivisions would likely lead to litigation, reinforcing that private property rights carry significant legal weight in Wyoming.
“Unfortunately, the rules are not there for us to stop it,” said Commissioner Bob Latham, who also confirmed that the county’s current subdivision regulations allow for such land divisions.
He added that he supports revisiting these rules as part of the ongoing update to Crook County’s land use plan.
The land use plan, unlike zoning ordinances, is not enforceable. However, it serves as a guiding document for future decisions and coordination with state and federal agencies. The county has not updated the plan since 2014 and is currently in the process of doing so. Commissioners encouraged residents to participate in the planning process to ensure their perspectives are reflected.
While zoning could offer greater regulatory oversight, recent public input has shown mixed support for such measures, and the commissioners have paused further discussion on zoning until the land use plan is finalized.
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