GILLETTE, Wyo.— As the Aug. 20 primary election nears, County 17 has sent lists of questions to each primary candidate.
These questions are designed to give readers a better understanding of the people behind the names on the ballot. Except for minor grammar editing and clarifications, all candidate responses submitted to County 17 are republished as they are received.
Read responses sent by Troy McKeown, candidate for Wyoming State Senate District 24, below.
What issues, if any, impacted your decision to run for this position or why were you interested in the position?
I was frustrated with wasteful spending, and the push for more government control stripping freedoms and liberties from people. It appeared to me that we started creating an environment that grew more government at the cost of the people.
What unique life or career experience would you bring to the role?
I spent 27 years in military service, learning about leadership and government finance. Commanded twice and understand how to get things done, even under the most challenging situations. I have successfully owned two businesses that survived the ups and downs. I have completed an MBA.
Do you have previous experience in governmental office?
Served 4 years as a Wyoming State Senator. Worked in Washington DC, while serving in the Army.
What are the top issues facing community in Campbell County right now, and what would you do about them if elected?
The biggest issue facing Wyoming is Property Tax and Personal Property Tax. The system needs to be restructured and applied more fairly. I will continue to work with the revenue committee to not only to reduce taxes, but to also insure they’re fairly applied. I will support the fight against federal government policies that are hurting coal, oil and gas.
What is your stance on recently-enacted BLM rules regarding coal and oil leasing in the county and broader Powder River Basin area?
This is huge government overreach! It is giving in to other states and federal governments stances on our legacy industries. Wyoming citizens pay some of the highest utility bills in the nation and yet we only use 27%, or so, of what we produce. That just doesn’t make sense.
Have you ever held or do you currently hold any title, affiliation or investments that would be a conflict of interest with your duties as a government official?
No.
