Maren Kallas (Not Applicable)

1915 Pebrican Ave
Cheyenne, Wyoming 82001-3820
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I am a Cheyenne native and grew up working alongside my family at our restaurant, The Albany, serving locals and tourists alike. I came back to Cheyenne after spending time away in Colorado becoming an artist and an art educator. I missed the clean air, open spaces, and friendly attitude of my hometown. I became the General Manager of the The Albany and enjoyed working "from home" as my family had spent nearly eight decades tending the corner of 15th and Capitol Ave. In 2021 the business changed hands, and I had the opportunity to start my own art business. In addition, I enjoy working part-time at Texas Roadhouse. It keeps me connected with my community and it's the kind of work I have known all my life.

My continued efforts to save the historic Pumphouse have helped me learn the processes of city government. As an artist and former art educator, I can effectively communicate both broad and detailed ideas and think outside of the box. As a former restaurant General Manager, I can easily integrate new information, shift strategies, and make tough decisions. As a small business owner, I understand the importance of making every dollar count and conducting myself with honesty and integrity.

I have a bachelor's degree in Fine Art with a painting concentration from Colorado State University and a post-bachelor's degree in art education from Metropolitan State University of Denver. I have studied abroad in Castiglion Fiorentino, Italy and Oaxaca, Mexico. Leadership Cheyenne class of 2020.

Vice President, Historic Cheyenne Inc: Non-profit dedicated to preserving historic spaces and places–most recently the historic Pumphouse.
Steering Committee, Cheyenne Arts and Aviation: Partnership with Arts Cheyenne and the Wyoming Aviation Heritage League to save the historic mid-century modern airport terminal for future generations by promoting Wyoming's aviation history as well as providing a hub for local arts and culture.
Member archivist, Greek Orthodox Hellenic Heritage House.

I am running for City Council because I believe I can offer an underrepresented perspective to the governing body of Cheyenne. As a landscape painter, I care deeply about the stewardship and care of our prairie ecosystems. I am passionate about preserving our history for future generations and will continue to advocate for the rehabilitation of Cheyenne landmarks like the Pumphouse and the old airport terminal. I am part of the working class of Cheyenne and I understand our frustrations and our needs that go unacknowledged by elected officials. I proudly represent creatives, service workers, and women small business owners. We are hardworking tax payers and deserve representation. I would be honored to represent the people of this great city. Cheyenne has given me so much, and I would like to give some back.

Data Center Regulation: I am concerned about the environmental impacts of data centers. I also understand that state lawmakers and have welcomed this new industry with open arms. This means that Laramie County is an undisputed host region for data centers, regardless of a moratorium. We should remember that our land, approvals, water, and electricity give us more leverage than it did in the past decade, when data centers required much less of our resources. We have an opportunity to create lasting prosperity for Cheyenne in the form of high-value investment partnership agreements from Big Tech–not just tax revenue and jobs. I support enacting laws that protect our prairie ecosystem from careless industry practice.
Housing Relief: I will continue the problem-solving efforts already initiated by City Council to expand affordable housing options. Recent donations from data centers are appreciated, but City Council could be negotiating for Cheyenne housing in the form of community benefit agreements with Big Tech.
Mental Health: Suicide in Laramie County rose 63% in 2025. Resources are sparse in Cheyenne, particularly for those experiencing a mental health crisis. The connection between mental health, addiction, and homelessness contribute to this being a cause for public concern in our community and should be given more attention. City Council could do more to support local organizations and promote awareness through a community-based model specific to Cheyenne needs.