Green River Star -

Longtime Green River resident Richard Baxter has filed to run for city council in Ward I.

Baxter has lived in Green River for 29 years, works at Little America and is a Green River High School graduate.

Baxter currently serves on the Western Wyoming Community College Board of Trustees as secretary. Before his current position, he was treasurer for two years. He said as treasurer and secretary, he and the other board members would have to make tough decisions when it came to the budget.

"I've been part of the process for four years," he said. "It's the same, only with a different entity."

With his term soon coming to an end, he is eager to find another avenue to be of service to the community. Baxter believes his years of experience on the board will be of great use to the city and residents, should he be elected into the city council. He has years of experience with budgetary issues.

"I would fight to keep people employed and not lose services," he said.

He also said he'd try to increase grants to the city to make further improvements possible, as well as improving the police department. He would also see the solid waste transfer station project through.

"My focus would be to revitalize downtown and add to the current parks."

His passion for parks comes from his participation on the Green River Parks and Recreation advisory board. He has a passion for quality of life and loves the city's parks.

"I have seen citizens concerns," he said. "I feel I could help. With all this experience, I feel I could be a benefit."

He also loves the city's numerous events throughout the year and would advocate for them.

"I want to keep people happy and involved in the community," he said. "I'm open to suggestions."

Flaming Gorge Days is his favorite event of the year.

"It's a great time to get everyone together," he said.

As a volunteer, Baxter also serves on the Star Transit board.

"It is really a help to a lot of people," he said.

He enjoys volunteering and being and advocate for all residents of the city, including funding to the senior center.

"It's a good way to give back," he said. "I enjoy it."