Cheyenne farm owners list property for sale after council votes to annex

David Kniseley is selling his Cheyenne farm.

The Kniseley family bought the property in 2007 and called it their forever place. They operated WY Fresh Farm and the Food Stand on the land. Up to 50 local farmers sold produce, meat, and dairy at the stand. The Cheyenne City Council voted 8-2 on Monday to annex the farm and nearby properties. The couple fought the move for nearly a year. They recently decided to stop opposing the city and put the land on the market.

The family first learned of the proposed annexation in December 2025. A certified letter notifying them of a meeting did not arrive. They found out through an email from the city planning office. The Kniseleys requested a two-week postponement. City officials said state law required sending the letter, not receiving it. The meeting proceeded as scheduled. The family submitted 147 questions about city codes. David Kniseley said the city never answered most of them. They narrowed the list to eight essential questions later. The city provided two answers. About 50 residents testified in support of the farm during a hearing scheduled for March 9. The city postponed that session until November 9.

Kniseley said he has received offers for the property ranging from one-third to one-fourth of its value. He wants to be paid a fair price. He is concerned the city will block buyers unless the new development fits specific city plans. He also worries the city will regulate the land in ways that make farming difficult. He cited noise codes regarding livestock dogs and a cat leash law that could affect barnyard cats. He noted the city has a history of contradictory replies on issues like livestock smell.

Kniseley accused the city of practicing crony capitalism. He said the city is open for business only for those with connections. Councilman Mark Rinne disagreed. He said the council has never shown corruption or graft. Rinne argued that the criticism reflects unhappiness rather than fact. He stated the council is focused on growth and economic development. He said Cheyenne needs to grow to avoid stagnation. He predicted a healthier city budget and more quality-of-life improvements in the coming years.

Kathy Scigliano, a Cheyenne realtor, testified at the annexation hearing. She said the city council often talks about supporting small businesses. She believes this situation tells a different story. Scigliano noted that residents are frustrated by a focus on large corporations and data centers. She said growth should not come at the expense of local families and small businesses. She was not able to attend the final day of the Food Stand last Saturday. Kniseley said many customers stayed to talk and hug.

Kniseley said the family will move. He offered the property to developers who can provide the cash. He joked that Cheyenne could build a six-story hotel with a drive-thru first floor. He said the proposal was only partially tongue-in-cheek. He said the offer is real. The Food Stand closed its doors last Saturday. The property is now available for purchase under the city's new jurisdiction.