Rawlins City Council Discusses Recent Business Closures

Officials say city still offers opportunities despite losing restaurants and laundromat

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Rawlins City Council discussed the recent closures of three local businesses, including two restaurants and a laundromat, during their February 3rd meeting. Councilman Derek Elliott expressed concern over the negative impact these closures will have on the city, while Councilwoman Tonya Lewman attributed the issue to the city's declining population. The Council acknowledged the challenges facing Rawlins but also highlighted new businesses that have opened recently, with Vice Mayor Darril Garner urging his colleagues to focus on the positive aspects of the community.

Why it matters

The closure of local businesses can have a significant impact on a community's economy and overall vitality. Rawlins, like many small towns, is grappling with population decline and the resulting challenges in attracting and retaining businesses. The City Council's discussion highlights the need to address these issues and find ways to support local entrepreneurs and revitalize the city.

The details

During the February 3rd Rawlins City Council meeting, Councilman Derek Elliott reported that three local businesses had recently closed, including two restaurants and a laundromat. Councilman Elliott expressed concern over the negative impact these closures will have on the city. Councilwoman Tonya Lewman attributed the business closures to the city's declining population, noting that Rawlins lost over 1,200 residents between 2015 and 2024. Without major attractions, the city must rely on its existing residents to support local businesses. Councilwoman Lewman said the city is taking steps to attract more businesses and housing opportunities, and she encouraged residents to get involved in local organizations and committees to make a positive impact. Vice Mayor Darril Garner, however, challenged his fellow Council members to focus on the positive, noting that Rawlins has seen four or five new businesses open this year. He urged the Council to educate the public about the city's issues rather than dwell on the negative.

  • The Rawlins City Council meeting took place on February 3, 2026.
  • Rawlins lost over 1,200 residents between 2015 and 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

The players

Derek Elliott

Rawlins City Councilman who expressed concern over the negative impact of recent business closures.

Tonya Lewman

Rawlins City Councilwoman who attributed the business closures to the city's declining population and said the city is taking steps to attract more businesses and housing opportunities.

Darril Garner

Rawlins City Vice Mayor who challenged his fellow Council members to focus on the positive aspects of the city, noting that several new businesses have opened recently.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Rawlins City Council's discussion highlights the challenges facing small towns like Rawlins, where population decline and business closures can have a significant impact on the local economy and community. While the Council acknowledged the issues, they also emphasized the need to focus on the positive developments and work together to attract new businesses and residents to revitalize the city.