Dear editor:
I write to you with deep concern regarding the continued closure of Star Plunge in Thermopolis, Wyoming, and the actions of Wyoming State Parks that have led to this ongoing crisis. The circumstances surrounding this closure raise serious legal, ethical, and public-interest issues that demand your immediate attention.
The Star Plunge lawsuit has clear and substantial merit. If Star Plunge prevails in court, it will be because Wyoming State Parks violated the law and disregarded its own governing policies—policies specifically designed to protect public assets, ensure fairness, and prevent abuse of authority.
This closure is not accidental. It is the direct result of deliberate decisions made by Wyoming State Parks officials during and following the 2023 Request for Proposals (RFP) process. Public statements and actions by state employees — including Chris Delay of Hot Springs State Park, Brooks Jordan (Michigan), Stephane Deilman (?), Nick Neyland (Wisconsin), and Dave Glen (California) — contributed to an outcome that appears unlawful and predetermined. These individuals should be held accountable for their actions, and any resulting damages should be borne by those responsible — not by the citizens of the great State of Wyoming.
The State has openly stated that Star Plunge will not be allowed to reopen unless a single individual, Mr. Mark Begich, is approved as the third-party operator. No other qualified managers or organizations have been permitted to participate. This restriction alone effectively blocks any legitimate or competitive path forward.
Mr. Begich was formally offered the opportunity to manage Star Plunge more than three months ago. To date, he has provided no response—no acceptance, no rejection, no negotiation, and no explanation. His silence has completely stalled the process. Nevertheless, the State continues to rely on this non-response as justification for continued inaction.
While the State delays, the people of Thermopolis suffer real and measurable harm:
• Workers remain unemployed and without benefits
• Local businesses lose millions in annual revenue
• Tourism continues to decline
• Sacred mineral waters remain inaccessible to the public
• A historic, family-run institution is left to deteriorate
This situation is not about safety.
It is not about compliance.
It is about control without accountability.
A vital community asset is being quietly dismantled while responsibility is avoided. The people of Thermopolis, local businesses, Native Nations with ancestral and cultural ties to these waters, and citizens across Wyoming are paying the price.
Gov. Gordon, I respectfully urge you to intervene. Wyoming deserves transparency, lawful governance, and accountability from its agencies.
The continued closure of Star Plunge undermines public trust and harms an entire community. Leadership at the highest level is now required to correct this course.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response and to a resolution that serves the people of Wyoming.
Respectfully,
Steve Voytilla
Grand Junction, Colorado
