University of Wyoming’s Lawsuit Against Laramie Raises Questions About Local Authority

TLDR

The University of Wyoming (UW) has filed a lawsuit against the City of Laramie over its new stormwater fee, a case that could influence how communities across Wyoming fund infrastructure like drainage, flood control, and stormwater systems. At stake is whether local governments can continue charging utility-style fees for such services — or if those fees could be reclassified as taxes requiring voter approval.

---

What You Need to Know

• ⚖️ The case: The University of Wyoming is challenging the City of Laramie’s stormwater fee, arguing it should be considered a tax rather than a utility charge.
• 💧 Local impact: Stormwater fees fund infrastructure that keeps basements dry, roads open, and waterways clean. Laramie estimates more than $130 million in stormwater improvements are needed, including $30 million in urgent projects.
• 📜 Legal background: Under Wyoming Title 15, cities have authority to establish utilities and charge proportional fees for specific services — including stormwater management.
• 💰 UW’s share: The university owns roughly 10.2 million square feet of impervious surface (about one-third of Laramie’s total), making it a major contributor to runoff and associated fees.
• 🏛️ Broader risk: If courts strike down Laramie’s fee system, other Wyoming cities could lose their ability to fund water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure locally.
• 🤝 Potential compromise: City officials say discussions could have reduced UW’s bill significantly through credits and regional projects, but the case moved to court instead.

SOURCE: https://wyofile.com/university-of-wyomings-lawsuit-against-laramie-puts-local-control-across-the-state-at-risk/