JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — It was a busy few days for Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, who addressed citizens in Jackson before flying back to the state capital to sign a few proclamations.
Gordon talked on several topics in Jackson where about 50 people spread out on the Center for the Arts lawn Tuesday to listen.
The governor took the time to address over-tourism in the Jackson Hole area.
“There are ways to look at how we can manage the number of visitors that come through Jackson and our parks without some sort of permit system or hampering the freedoms of people who want to come and visit,” Gordon said Tuesday, adding that diversify the areas people want to visit in Wyoming might be one way to ease the stress of Jackson as a gateway community to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks.
Gordon also spoke about the need for the state to continue to be involved in fossil fuels even as coal, in particular, is being phased out of use worldwide. He mentioned carbon capture technology as a blue-sky industry where Wyoming could take the lead.
Finally, with many in the audience wearing masks and socially distancing, Gordon reiterated his stance on face coverings, saying he remains opposed to a statewide mask mandate, preferring it be a decision made at the local level.
“I will not shut the state down again,” Gordon said.
Back in Cheyenne, the governor signed proclamations recognizing Telehealth Awareness Week, National Hunting and Fishing Day, Archery Month, Archaeology Awareness Month and Partners of Students with Disability Day.
“These ceremonial events are a great opportunity to engage with truly dedicated and involved Wyomingites,” Gordon commented.
