Cody City Administrator Barry Cook Announces Retirement After 45 Years of Service
CODY — Barry Cook, the city administrator of Cody, will retire at the end of June after an esteemed 45-year career, with the last 11 years dedicated to the city. Reflecting on his tenure, Cook expressed pride in developing effective teams and his community-focused approach, despite some regrets regarding the permitting process of the local LDS temple.
Cook, a Wheatland native with a degree from the University of Wyoming, shared his desire to engage directly with community projects rather than pursue work in higher government. While noting that his overall experience in Cody has been positive, he spoke candidly about the permitting issues surrounding the LDS temple, which he feels could have been handled differently due to perceived biases from the city planner involved.
Additionally, Cook emphasized the significance of home rule, cautioning against state legislature trends that might undermine local governance. He stated, “Every town is not the same and does not want to be the same,” stressing the value of local decision-making.
Having navigated Cody’s growth, especially during the pandemic, Cook believes he leaves the city in better shape, with more controlled growth strategies. Looking ahead, he plans to remain in Cody, enjoying family visits and travel following his retirement. As Cook steps down, he’s optimistic about the city’s future leadership and the enduring commitment of its public servants.
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