Public Meetings - Hastings, Nebraska

This worksession of the Hastings City Council was held on July 20, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:04 PM at the Hastings Municipal Airport. Council President Steve Huntley presided. The primary topics were an update from the Midland Area Agency on Aging (MAAA) and a detailed review of the proposed 2026-2027 City and Utility Department budgets. The council unanimously voted to change the meeting order to allow the Utility Department presentation to occur first. Consent Calendar - The council voted unanimously (7-0, with Maggie Esch absent) to adopt the current agenda, incorporating a change in order so that the Utility Department budget presentation preceded the Senior Center update. Public Comments & Testimony - Jody Stutsman (709 N. Briggs Ave.) addressed the council, criticizing what she characterized as a lack of a consistent financial strategy, specifically citing the reversal on a restaurant tax vote as an example. Mr. Stutsman urged the council to present a detailed spending reduction plan if they oppose new revenue, posing three specific questions: what programs would be cut, how much would be saved, and how services to constituents would be affected. Discussion Items Update from Midland Area Agency on Aging (MAAA) and Hastings Senior Center - Casey Muzic, Executive Director of MAAA, presented an overview of the nonprofit agency, established in 1973 to serve eight Nebraska counties. She highlighted key statistics for Adams County, including serving 1,188 clients and 28,488 meals in 2025. Ms. Muzic noted that 41% of clients cannot afford the cost of living on a $1,300 monthly income and that 54% of home-delivered meal clients live alone. - Regarding the Hastings Senior Center, Ms. Muzic explained that MAAA has operated it since 2019. The facility has seen a 25% increase in congregate meals (from 6,391 in 2019 to 7,900). She stated the kitchen is too small to handle the current volume, forcing the program to cater meals at a higher cost per meal. Ms. Muzic expressed a position favoring a transition to an intergenerational community center, using Randolph, Massachusetts as an example, which she described as an eventual necessity for efficiency and service improvement. Proposed 2026-2027 Utility Department Budget - John Krajewski (JK Energy Consulting) presented the results of a cost-of-service study for the water and wastewater utilities. He recommended implementing a 1.5% annual water rate increase for FY2027 through FY2029 to avoid a larger spike in 2029, and a 10% annual increase for the CMS service area for the same period to reflect its higher cost of service. A new inclining block rate structure was proposed to encourage conservation, with a lower rate for usage under 5 ccf. He stated that Hastings water rates are on the higher end among peers while wastewater rates are on the lower end, and he recommended no system-wide wastewater increase. - Derek Zeisler, Utilities Manager, confirmed the rate study recommendations were fully incorporated into the proposed budget. A key discussion item was the proposed Solar Phase 3 project ($25 million, 10 MW). Mr. Zeisler framed this as a prime opportunity to capture a 40% Federal Investment Tax Credit (approx. $10 million), emphasizing the value of generation diversification. He acknowledged a 20-30 year payback period but stated the project has no immediate impact on utility rates. He requested keeping the project in the budget to allow for further evaluation and a formal RFP before a final commitment. - Councilmember Hoffman commended the utility for diversifying generation. Councilmember Anderson stressed the need to attract large industrial power users. Councilmember Rowan asked about wind power, to which Mr. Zeisler responded that it does not currently make economic sense for the city. The average combined residential utility bill across all utilities is projected to increase by approximately 4%. Proposed 2026-2027 City General Fund Budget - Roger Nash, Finance Director, focused his presentation on the structural deficit in the General Fund. He explained that since FY2023, the city has relied on cash reserves and one-time fixes to balance the budget (a statutory balance), which he described as unsustainable. The four main revenue sources, comprising 74% of total General Fund revenue, were identified as Property Tax ($8.6M for General Fund), Sales Tax ($6.4M, capped at 1.5% without a new vote), Municipal Equalization ($1.26M, at risk of state cuts), and the Utility Dividend Fee ($3.6-3.8M). - Mr. Nash projected a $3.6 million operating and capital deficit for FY2027, which would reduce cash reserves from $10.5 million to $6.8 million. He stated that if current spending trends and tax asking continue, the city will be significantly challenged to provide a legally balanced budget within two years. He further explained that state-imposed caps on property tax asking limits the council's ability to close this gap quickly, requiring it to be addressed over multiple years. - Mark Funkey, City Administrator, provided a breakdown of where property tax dollars go (city receives 19-20% of total bill) and outlined the services funded by the General Fund. He presented the budget timeline: second draft presentation scheduled for August 17th, new valuation numbers due from the county by August 20th, and final budget readings and approval in September (September 14th, 21st, and 28th). He informed the council that hard copies of the budget are available for $92. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the proposed budget or utility rate packages; this session was strictly for information and discussion. - The council and staff agreed that councilmembers should submit questions and desired changes as soon as possible to allow staff to analyze implications before the August 17th second draft worksession, avoiding last-minute September adjustments. - Staff was directed to keep the Solar Phase 3 capital project in the budget for continued evaluation, allowing time to secure a fixed price for equipment and assess the federal tax credit before a final council vote on proceeding. - The structural General Fund deficit and state-imposed levy limitations were clearly established as the central policy challenge requiring explicit council decision-making in the near term.

The Hastings City Council met in regular session at the Hastings Municipal Airport on July 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Mayor Beckby presided over the meeting which adjourned at 6:34 PM. All council members were present except Maggie Esch. Council Communications & Mayor's Report - Councilmember Hoffman highlighted the Adams County Fair. - Councilmember Huntley inquired about the food truck ordinance; City Attorney Jesse Oswald stated it is still in process without a definitive timeline. - Councilmember Anderson obtained the required four signatures to schedule a special meeting regarding the Heartland Pet Connection. - Mayor Beckby stated that from his perspective, the Heartland Pet Connection matter is closed, citing that the city spent extensive time and resources developing a contract that was ultimately rejected by the organization's board, even against the advice of their own lawyer. - Service anniversaries were recognized: Nathan Cummins (15 years), John Adams (15), Doyle Bankson (15), Shaun Propp (25), and Jon Rojewski (25). Consent Calendar All items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously (7-0). This included approvals of meeting minutes from June 15 and June 22, 2026, claims and payroll, several special event permits (Stash Bash, Turkey Trot, Kool-Aid Classic Bicycle Tour), a work order for well and sidewalk improvements at Wells 36 and 4, a $245,000 Community Development Block Grant drawdown for the Pacha Soap Expansion Project, a First Amendment to the Electric Service Agreement with Heartwell Renewables, and an agreement with Emerson Process Management for the Don Henry Power Center Controls Replacement. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during Citizen Communications. - A public hearing was held for the application of Hastings Sports, LLC (dba "Hastings Sodbusters") for a Class "I" Liquor License at 601 East South Street. There was no public testimony for or against the application. Discussion Items - Community Health Update: Michele Bever, Director of the South Heartland District Health Department, reported on mosquito surveillance. Over 30,000 mosquitoes were collected in the first week of July across four local sites, which the state suggested might be a record, though no diseases have been detected. She also provided an update on the Community Health Improvement Plan, specifically the chronic disease conditions priority. She highlighted a new "Movement Campaign" launched July 1st aiming for 2.5 million minutes of physical activity over six months, noting 0.8% of the goal was achieved in the first week and a half. The health department is also assisting local restaurants with providing nutrition information. - 2026-2027 Budget Presentations: - Landfill: Director of Engineering Lee Vrooman presented the landfill budget. It includes no new headcount, acquisition of a dozer and skid steer, an asphalt overlay of the main road to address dust and air permit requirements, and a proposed 5% fee increase. Councilmember Huntley stressed the landfill is self-funded and does not use property tax revenue. Councilmember Fong requested the department study expanding operating hours to improve public access beyond current Saturday mornings. - Streets: Director Vrooman presented the streets budget, including no new headcount, a used motorgrader, a new loader, and an electronic message board to be shared with utilities. The second payment for the Hastings Southeast Project will be made from the street fund. Councilmember Huntley asked if this would stress the fund. Vrooman responded that funding all proposed projects would leave the fund with roughly three months of cash reserves, against a six-month ideal, but the fund can be rebuilt. - Lakeview 11th Subdivision: Development Services Director Kevin Kubo presented the final plat for the 16-lot, single-family subdivision, located northwest of Lakeridge Drive and Lakeview Avenue. The plat conforms to the 2025 Comprehensive Plan and applicable zoning. The Planning Commission recommended approval by a vote of 7-0. Ordinances, Resolutions & Key Outcomes - Hastings Sodbusters Liquor License (Resolution 2026-42): Approved 7-0 following a supporting report from Police Chief Adam Story. The manager application of Scott Galusha was also approved 7-0. - Lakeview 11th Final Plat: Approved 7-0. - Utility and Street Improvement Districts (Ordinances 4832, 4833, 4834, 4835): Creating Water, Sanitary Sewer, Gas, and Street Improvement Districts for the Lakeview 11th Subdivision. Approved on first reading 7-0. The rules were then suspended, and the ordinances were approved on second and final reading 7-0. - Public Meeting Notice (Resolution 2026-44): Approved 7-0. City Attorney Jesse Oswald explained the resolution is required due to a legislative change and designates the method of publicized notice for public meetings, continuing the existing practice of publication in the Hastings Tribune.

The Hastings City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, June 22, 2026, at the Hastings Municipal Airport, called to order at 6:00 PM by Mayor George J. J. Beckby. Councilmembers Steve Huntley, Michael Anderson, Brad Consbruck, Larry Consbruck, Marc Rowan, Brian Hoffman, and Matt Fong were present. Councilmember Maggie Esch was absent. The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 PM. Discrepancy with Public Notice: The Agenda and Minutes state the official notice was published in the Hastings Tribune on Thursday, June 18, 2026, while the raw transcript states the notice was published on Friday, June 19, 2026. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved 7-0, including the June 8, 2026 meeting minutes, claims and payroll, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) pay estimates and drawdowns for Project 24-PWF-001 ($51,639.66) and Project 21-DTR-007 ($40,605.03), a telecommunications license agreement with Great Plains Communications, a professional services agreement for CDBG Project 25-ED-001 (Pacha Soap Co.), CDBG procurement procedures/code of conduct, and a permit for the Downtown Market (Thursdays, June 25 – Aug 6, 2026). Public Comments & Testimony - Nate Karl (415 North Shore Drive) and Howard Sheley (518 South Shore Drive) spoke in opposition to Resolution 2026-41 on Lake Hastings. Karl provided a 1957 contract he obtained via a public records request, asserting non-compliance with water level and sediment control stipulations. Sheley characterized the lake as a vital, irreplaceable community asset and urged the council against depleting it. - Lori Ferguson (South Central Economic Development District) spoke in support of the CDBG Mobile Home Park Improvement Project during the second public hearing. Discussion Items Lake Hastings Water Level Policy (Resolution 2026-41) This resolution established a policy to maintain the natural water level of Lake Hastings without artificially raising it through city intervention (including wells or pumps), explicitly excluding the normal operation of existing municipal utility infrastructure (e.g., power plant discharge from Unit 4). - City Administrator Mark Funkey framed the resolution as guidance for staff during drought conditions and NRD allocation planning. Utility Manager Derek Zeisler stressed the NRD strongly recommends against using water allocations for recreational needs. - Councilmembers Fong, Hoffman, and L. Consbruck argued the policy is necessary for responsible water conservation, shared sacrifice with agricultural users, and meeting NRD requirements for drought planning. - Councilmember Rowan opposed the resolution, stating it was an unnecessary hard rule and would foreclose future options such as a north-side well. - Outcome: Resolution 2026-41 passed 6-1 (Rowan dissenting). The policy does not restrict routine operations of existing water or power infrastructure. CDBG Mobile Home Park Improvement Project (Public Hearing) No public opposition was voiced. Lori Ferguson confirmed the project was expanded to serve both K & K Mobile Park and the Nebraskan within the original $3,350 grant budget through redesign and energy efficiencies. Councilmember Huntley noted the project includes larger water lines for fire suppression, stemming from a past tragedy. Purchase of Pierce Fire Apparatus Fire Chief Troy Vorderstrasse presented a replacement plan for an aging engine and heavy rescue unit. Two options for a Pierce Enforcer PUC pumper were considered. - Option 1: A spec stock apparatus available in September 2026 for $1.2 million (minus $22k trades). Preferred by staff. - Option 2: A custom build with a 2-year delivery timeline. - Chief Vorderstrasse recommended Option 1. Councilmember Rowan inquired about purchasing both, but the Chief advised against it, citing the need for a balanced replacement plan. Finance Director Roger Nash confirmed the sinking fund (annual allocation of $300,000) can manage the payments. - Outcome: The council voted 7-0 to approve an amendment selecting Option 1, then voted 7-0 to approve the full purchase agreement. Fire & Rescue Shift Schedule Change (MOU) Tom Treffer (Local 675) requested approval of an MOU to change the shift schedule from 24/48 to 48/96 for the remainder of the union contract. - Treffer reported 90% of union members voted in favor a year ago. The change is aimed at improving retention, recruitment, recovery time, and reducing commutes. - Concerns: Potential 72-hour shifts during staffing shortages and family adjustment. Treffer countered with the benefit of 72-hour recovery. - Chief Vorderstrasse confirmed the change will not affect service levels. Implementation is planned for the start of the next fiscal year (September 20, 2026). - Outcome: Approved unanimously 7-0. 2026-2027 Budget Presentations - Museum: Director Teresa Kreutzer-Hodson presented a flat budget with no new staff. Capital projects include the Kool-Aid exhibit conversion (funded by 1/2 cent sales tax) and a $150,000 planetarium replacement (grant-seeking). An HVAC control system replacement is needed. - Library: Director Kelly Reisig highlighted a $4,172,685 savings to taxpayers and 15,049 program attendees at a cost of $10 per attendee ($128,567 community value). The upcoming capital project is a new bookmobile (funded by a $175k sinking fund with the county). Options include an F350 model ($345k) or an ELF low-profile model ($325k). Councilmember Hoffman raised concerns about the ELF's ability to traverse rural railroad crossings. The library is seeking methods to expand its Hoopla digital lending service beyond its current $45,000 annual budget. Key Outcomes - Lake Hastings: Resolution 2026-41 adopted 6-1 (Policy against artificially raising the lake level, excluding normal utility ops). - Fire Apparatus: Pierce pumper (Option 1) purchase approved 7-0. - Fire Schedule: MOU for 48/96 shift schedule approved 7-0. - Utility Board: Pat Mertons appointed 7-0.

The Hastings Planning Commission met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 4:05 PM at the Hastings Municipal Airport. The meeting included a public hearing on a zoning change, a final plat approval, and staff presentations on sign code and zoning code revisions. The meeting adjourned at 5:15 PM. Consent Calendar - Motion to adopt the current agenda passed 7-0. - Motion to approve the minutes of April 21, 2026 passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Vivienne Johnson (722 S Colorado Ave) spoke in opposition to rezoning (Item 2026-275), citing concerns about disturbing neighborhood peace, potential rental use, and the risk of more vacant lots being rezoned to R-2. She noted the area is primarily single-family homes within a three-block radius. - Kenneth Flanagan (818 S Colorado Ave) opposed the rezone, stating he purchased his property for retirement and does not want to live next to multi-unit developments. He noted no formal plans existed and requested the area remain R-1. He also expressed concern that not all neighbors received notification. - Alan Anderson (701 N. Shore Drive) spoke in support of his final plat (Item 2026-276) for the Lakeview 11th Subdivision. He highlighted his track record of 41 subdivisions and over 450 houses built, adding over $160 million in valuation to Hastings. He raised issues about rising costs, the difficulty of competing as a developer, and the need for better communication with city staff. He praised Development Services Director Kevin Kubo as the best planning director he has worked with. Discussion Items - Public Hearing 2026-275 – Rezone from R-1 to R-2: City Planner Ember Batelaan presented the staff report, recommending approval. The applicant was not present. The commission discussed the lack of public support—two letters and two speakers in opposition, no letters of support. Commissioner Hubbard noted he had not heard any public support at recent zoning hearings and emphasized the need to listen to residents. Commissioner Adler reported receiving five phone calls in opposition. Concerns were raised about potential precedent and notification of neighbors. The motion to recommend approval failed 1-6, with only Commissioner Kindig voting in favor. - Subdivision 2026-276 – Final Plat for Lakeview 11th Subdivision: Director Kevin Kubo presented the staff report, recommending approval. Alan Anderson, the applicant, provided testimony. The commission praised his work and expressed gratitude for his investments. The motion to recommend approval passed 7-0. - Sign Code Revision Work Session: Batelaan presented proposed revisions to the sign code, including alignment with new zoning districts, clarification of display types, and subdivision signs. Discussion covered non-conforming signs, historical signs (e.g., Rivoli), abandoned signs, LED brightness, and state jurisdiction. No formal action was taken; the work session was informational. - Zoning Code Revisions Comparison: Kubo and Batelaan presented a comparison of Hastings’ proposed densities with those of comparable communities (Grand Island, Kearney, Fremont, Norfolk, Missoula, Salina). They highlighted the creation of a new R-4 district for mobile home courts, cottage courts, and tiny homes. Commissioner Hubbard emphasized protecting residential neighborhoods and noted that public feedback has been predominantly opposed. Staff acknowledged the challenge of obtaining public input, noting only 33 responses to a survey and low turnout at public meetings. - Chairman’s Comments and City Updates: Chairman Rosenberg noted the move to the new City Hall is expected in August. Mayor Beckby updated on the stalled car wash project, stating the developer is experiencing financial challenges and that the city is addressing weed and mesh concerns. Mayor Beckby thanked the commission for spirited debate and listening to citizens. The mayor also acknowledged that the blighted area study for East 12th (referenced by Anderson) has been delayed partly due to his own outreach efforts and will be pursued. Key Outcomes - Zoning Rezone (2026-275): Motion to recommend approval to City Council failed 1-6. This item will proceed to City Council with the recommendation of denial. - Final Plat (2026-276): Motion to recommend approval to City Council passed 7-0. - Sign Code and Zoning Code Revisions: No votes were taken; further work sessions are anticipated. Staff encouraged commissioners to provide feedback on proposed changes. - Next Steps: The next regular Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for July 2026.

The Hastings City Council held a worksession on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Hastings Municipal Airport. The meeting focused on budget presentations for the 2026-2027 fiscal year from the Information Technology, Parks and Recreation/Airport, and Development Services departments. The meeting was adjourned at 6:25 PM. Consent Calendar - The agenda for the June 15, 2026 worksession was adopted by a roll call vote of 5-0 (Ayes: Steve Huntley, Michael Anderson, Brad Consbruck, Brian Hoffman, Matt Fong; Absent: Larry Consbruck, Maggie Esch, Marc Rowan). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. However, Council President Huntley received an envelope from Hartland Peck Connection containing a proposed agreement. Since the item was not on the agenda, it could not be discussed, but copies were distributed to the council for potential placement on a future agenda. Discussion Items - Information Technology (IT) Department Budget – Director Erik Nielsen presented budget goals focused on reducing or maintaining the budget from 2025-2026, with no new personnel positions. The department is reducing three software packages: ABL software (saving $56,000 annually citywide), the Engage Hastings website (saving $18,000), and OMS utility software (saving $25,000). Staff are being reorganized to improve efficiency. Major projects for the upcoming budget include finishing the network redesign, completing the physical server refresh (previously approved by council, but hardware delayed until late August/September), updating virtual servers (approximately 70 virtual servers to be updated from Windows 2012/2018 to Windows 2025), and updating police and fire vehicle technology for increased network requirements. Councilmember Hoffman asked about the reduction of Engage Hastings software; Nielsen explained that the city website redesign will include similar project site functionality. Councilmember Fong asked about physical vs. virtual server projects; Nielsen clarified the physical servers host the virtual environment and both are being updated. Councilmember Anderson asked about AI; Nielsen reported that the new city website will feature an AI assistant capable of answering public questions in multiple languages. Internal AI policies and ongoing staff training are being developed to protect private data and address security risks. - Parks and Recreation/Airport Budget – Director Jeff Hassenstab reported no new staff positions; the department is fully staffed except for one position left unfilled from the 2024-2025 budget. Minimum wage increases have significantly impacted part-time personnel costs, as the department employs approximately 200 seasonal workers, with wages rising from $10.50 to $15.00 per hour. Capital requests include: a 6-foot mower and a 15-foot mower replacement (the 2016 mower has 6,200 hours and is frequently in the shop); cemetery Phase 6 rotary surfacing (front entrance, $605,000, to be bid soon, with one smaller Phase 7 remaining); a columbarium (granite structure at the cemetery, currently 65% full, expected to reach 85% capacity by the time a new unit arrives; costs are recouped from customer fees); Aquacourt replacements (lounge chairs, playground netting, boiler for the main pool [22 years old, original], lazy river VFD controller, security cameras, and main pool sandblasting and repainting – funded from the Aquatic Center Fund); airport projects (apron project under contract, scheduled to start September; runway lighting project with $4 million FAA grant, 90% FAA-funded, city share up to 10% but possibly reduced by state funds; engineering fees for runway lighting, city portion 3% or about $16,000; jet hangar approved for $775,000; and sponsorship request for the 2027 air show). Parks & Recreation Sales Tax requests (25% of the half-cent sales tax, approximately $700,000–$800,000) include: Duncan Field turf project under contract; skate park renovation starting October 1; fitness court at Libs Park with a $30,000 grant; design work for new pickleball courts at Libs Park ($75,000 budgeted for design); ball field fencing and dugout improvements at Crozier Park; Carter Park restroom renovation design; and Highland Park playground replacement. Councilmember Hoffman asked about adding pickleball lines to the Hastings Utilities tennis courts; Hassenstab noted that tennis competition (St. Cecilia) uses the courts, and he would need to discuss with them. Councilmember Anderson asked if city staff engineers could complete the pickleball court design; Director of Engineering Lee Vrooman stated that similar projects have not been done in-house previously. Councilmember Fong confirmed that the cemetery Phase 6 is the largest phase at $605,000. - Development Services Budget – Director Kevin Kubo reported three line-item changes: vehicle repair and maintenance doubled from $2,000 to $4,000 due to aging vehicles (a 2012 and a 2014 Chevy truck, one of which has cost nearly $2,000 in repairs this budget year); fuel costs increased from $5,000 to $6,000; and office equipment increased by $500. All other line items remain the same. Personnel costs will adjust based on future comparability decisions. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken on the budget presentations; the worksession served as a discussion forum for council members to ask questions and receive information. The items discussed will be considered in the upcoming budget adoption process. The Hartland Peck Connection document was received for placement on a future agenda. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 6:25 PM.

The Hastings Utility Board met on June 11, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the Airport Conference Room. Key topics included a cost-of-service study for water and wastewater rates, a second-quarter financial update, and a budget schedule review. The board also recognized outgoing Chairman Bill Hitesman for his service and unanimously approved recommendations to adjust rates and shift a July meeting date. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the May 14, 2026, regular meeting (moved by Dewalt, seconded by Kvols; vote 3-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No citizen comments were received. Discussion Items - Cost-of-Service Study (Water & Wastewater): John Krajewski presented the rate study results. For water, operating deficits are projected to begin in FY2029; proposed annual rate increases of 1.5% for FY2027–2030 for most classes, and 10% annually for CMS (commercial/industrial customers in a low-density area). An inclining block rate for residential customers was recommended: first 5 CCF at $1.79/ccf (down $0.20), next 25 CCF at $2.09/ccf (up $0.10), excess at $2.42/ccf (up $0.43). Typical residential bill would increase $0.53/month in FY2027 and FY2028, and $0.61/month in FY2029. For wastewater, no system-wide increase is needed, except for Rate Class S-3 (CMS), which would receive 10% annual increases for FY2027–2029. CMS rates would need to increase more than 100% to cover true cost of service. - Q2 Financial Update (FY2026): JC reported that the electric department had a strong January market (WEC One unit average price $94/MWh vs. $32.29 in prior Januaries). Gas department experienced a very mild winter (10% lower usage) but received unusually high transportation credits ($1.2M for Oct–Mar), which are market-driven and not budgeted. Water revenues were low due to dry conditions (precipitation 2.7 inches vs. normal 6.5 inches for Oct–Mar). Sewer revenue was affected by unbilled usage, with 75% already recovered. - Budget Update: JC noted that internal budget meetings are progressing well, with a target to complete number crunching by early July. Larry Fox indicated that the capital improvement presentation format has been revised for greater transparency. - Meeting Date Change: The board agreed to move the regular July 9, 2026, meeting to July 23, 2026, to accommodate member schedules. Key Outcomes - Rate Recommendation Approved (3-0): Motion by Dewalt, seconded by Kvols, to forward the water and sewer rate proposals (1.5% annual water increase for most classes, 10% for CMS; 10% annual increase for wastewater S-3; inclining block residential water rates) to the Hastings City Council for adoption. - July Meeting Rescheduled: The July 9 meeting will be held on July 23, 2026, by unanimous consent of the attending board members. - Chairman Recognition: The board presented outgoing Chairman Bill Hitesman with a plaque and thanked him for his leadership. Hitesman urged the board to find a legal way to replenish the economic development fund to help the community remain competitive.

The Hastings City Council held a regular meeting on June 8, 2026, at the Hastings Municipal Airport. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM and adjourned at 6:56 PM. Councilmember Maggie Esch was absent. The primary focus was budget presentations from the Police, 911, and Fire departments for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved 7-0, with the exception of item (i), which was considered separately. - Item (i): Agreement with Atlas Technical Consultants, LLC for environmental services for an EPA Brownfield asbestos cleanup grant at the former middle school. The contract is for an estimated $42,000, fully grant-funded. Director of Engineering Lee Vrooman stated the contract covers planning and abatement oversight. Approved 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided testimony. Discussion Items 2026-2027 Budget Presentations Police Department (Chief Adam Story) - Chief Story stated the department is not requesting capital or operational increases. Personnel costs are projected to rise by approximately $400,000. - Chief Story compared Hastings' funding to peer cities, stating equivalent tax rates would provide an additional $2.5 million (Kearney) or $1.25 million (Grand Island). Councilmember Brian Hoffman complimented the department's efficiency. - Community outreach includes the department's Facebook page, Shop with a Cop, and National Night Out. Training is state-mandated and largely conducted in-house to manage costs. - The department budgets for worst-case scenarios but typically returns $250,000–$300,000 to the general fund. Homeland Security grants help fund digital forensic tools, and a new detective position focusing on cybercrime has been established. 911 Center (Police Captain Jason Haase) - The 911 budget is approximately $17,000 less than last year due to lower-than-anticipated health insurance elections. - Captain Haase explained the funding model: Hastings receives $0.75 per landline (wired funds) from Adams County, capped at $1.00. Wireless funds are collected by the state and distributed based on call volume but are more restricted. He noted Hastings is the sole funder of the center, which dispatches fire and medical calls county-wide. - Staffing is at 11 of 12 positions. Councilmember Matt Fong asked about a partnership with Adams County. Captain Haase reported the incoming sheriff has expressed openness to re-engaging this conversation in 2027. - Top priorities include an updated radio system and implementing Emergency Medical Dispatching (EMD). Fire Department (Chief Troy Vorderstrasse) - No operational budget increases were requested beyond mandatory personnel costs. The department is eliminating four part-time EMS positions (two EMTs, two paramedics) due to the program's ineffectiveness. - Capital requests funded by the department's sinking fund include securing the front entrance at Station 1, a phased window replacement at Station 2, and concrete repairs. - An ambulance ordered via an Assistance to Firefighters Grant is expected for delivery in the first quarter of 2027. - Chief Vorderstrasse announced he will present a purchase agreement for a new fire apparatus at the June 22 council meeting. A truck matching the department's specifications is available for September 2026 delivery, or the city could choose a two-year build. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda (minus item i) and item (i) were approved 7-0. - The council received budget presentations from the Police, 911, and Fire departments. No formal votes were taken on the budgets. - A fire apparatus purchase agreement is scheduled for the June 22 council meeting. - The meeting adjourned without a closed session at 6:56 PM.

The Hastings City Council met in regular session at the Hastings Municipal Airport on May 26, 2026 at 6:00 PM. Mayor George J.J. Beckby presided with Councilmembers Michael Anderson, Brad Consbruck, Larry Consbruck, Matt Fong, Brian Hoffman, and Marc Rowan present. Steve Huntley and Maggie Esch were absent. The meeting covered consent approvals, a library impact report, contracts for a skate park renovation, a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) project extension, and Duncan Field turf replacement. A significant portion was dedicated to public comments and council debate on Ordinance No. 4831, which would have restricted alcohol sales hours and prohibited nudity in liquor‑licensed establishments; the ordinance failed on a 4‑2 vote. The council also entered executive session to discuss pending litigation and authorized settlement. Consent Calendar - All items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously (6‑0): - Minutes of the May 11, 2026 meeting - Claims and payroll - Manager application of Molly Johnsen for a Class CK liquor license at Adams County Agricultural Society - Requests to use city property for the Kool‑Aid Days Parade (Aug 15) and Kool‑Aid Fun Run (Aug 16, 2026) - Pay Requests 7‑11 totaling $146,810.56 from the Community Redevelopment Authority for Downtown Revitalization (CDBG project 21‑DTR‑007) - Drawdown 16 of $146,810.56 for the same project - Pay Estimate 2 of $160,160.40 from Diamond Engineering for Mobile Home Communities (CDBG project 24‑PWI‑008) - Drawdown 6 of $112,112.28 for that project - Request of St. Michael and St. Cecilia Catholic Church to use city property for a Religious Procession on June 10, 2026 Public Comments & Testimony - On Item 4c (CDBG extension): Don Willnerd spoke in support, explaining the need for an extension due to USDA funding delays and weather. - On Ordinance No. 4831: Fourteen individuals spoke: - Supporters (13): Mitch Houser, Anita Ruybalid, Chris Shade, Lee Johnson, Mark Millard, Tom Murray, Grant Nitzel, Elwyn Fitzke, Paul Knott, David Stuehrenberg, Edward Krontz, Robert Lemke, and Matt Sass. They argued that combining alcohol with nudity creates moral decay, safety risks, and harms the community’s family‑friendly character. Many cited religious beliefs and concerns about the exploitation of women. - Opponent (1): Jonathan Canterbury, owner of The Platform, stated the business has operated for eight years without any citations or violations, employs staff, pays taxes, and donates to the community. He said 75% of his income occurs between 1:00 AM and 4:00 AM, and if alcohol sales were prohibited during those hours his business would be forced to close. Discussion Items - Council Communications: Fong reported on the library summer reading kickoff; Hoffman noted the Hastings Community Foundation Give Day raised $1.2 million; Rowan promoted local events; Anderson thanked veterans, praised the Police Department for an obstacle course, and congratulated the museum on re‑accreditation. - Library Impact Report (Item 4a): Library Director Kelly Reisig presented the annual report. Statistics included 83,511 visitors, 258,918 items checked out, 34,418 computer uses, 521 programs with 15,049 attendees, and the bookmobile making 382 stops (serving 3,459 people, on track to triple). The Library Foundation funds all programming and raised $132,000 on Give Hastings Day. Plans for a new green space in the downtown were highlighted. - Skate Park Renovation (Item 4b): Director Jeff Hassenstab reported that the Kiwanis Club has raised nearly $200,000 in donations and grants. The council approved $79,500 for off‑site fabrication work by Spohn Ranch to start in August, aiming for October installation before winter. Project funded by donations, grants, and half‑cent sales tax. Vote: 6‑0. - CDBG Project Extension (Item 4c): The council approved a one‑year contract amendment for the WR Reserve/Noah’s Ark Economic Development project. The $1.01 million CDBG grant requires creation of 29 jobs (51% for low‑moderate income). Delays in USDA meat and poultry expansion funding pushed construction to early 2025, and weather caused further setbacks. Completion is now expected by July 2027. Vote: 6‑0. - Duncan Field Turf Replacement (Item 4d): The council approved a $402,000 contract with Mammoth Sports Construction to replace the infield turf (installed 2018) and netting backstop (installed 2010). The work will come from a sinking fund and half‑cent sales tax, starting September 2026. Vote: 6‑0. - Ordinance No. 4830 – Right‑of‑Way Conveyance (Item 5a): The council approved (second and final reading) the conveyance of 6th Street right‑of‑way and the adjacent alley to the Community Redevelopment Authority. Vote: 6‑0. Ordinance No. 4831 Debate This ordinance was requested by Councilmembers Larry Consbruck, Marc Rowan, Brad Consbruck, and Mike Anderson. It would have amended city code to restrict alcohol sales from 1:00 AM to 6:00 AM (previously 6:00 AM) and enacted a provision allowing revocation or suspension of liquor licenses for establishments that permit nudity. - Council proponents argued the ordinance would uphold community morals, protect women from exploitation, and eliminate what they called a “scourge on society.” Larry Consbruck stated, “I don’t believe the good Lord created women to be objectified.” Rowan said he would like to see all bars close at 1:00 AM. - Council opponents (Hoffman and Fong) cautioned against targeting a single business, infringing on personal choice, and creating a slippery slope of legislating morality. Fong noted the business follows all state and local regulations. Hoffman questioned the inconsistency of wanting to grow the city’s economy while simultaneously voting to restrict a tax‑paying, compliant business. - Police Chief Adam Story testified that in eight years the business has had no citations or violations; it has three calls for service (typical for alcohol establishments) and has passed all undercover checks by the Nebraska State Patrol Liquor Enforcement Division. - Mayor Beckby read the ordinance in full and, after extended debate, declined to cast a tie‑breaking vote, saying he would not vote in favor because the business has operated lawfully and without nuisance. - Vote: Ayes (4) – Anderson, Brad Consbruck, Larry Consbruck, Rowan; Nays (2) – Hoffman, Fong. The motion failed. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items approved 6‑0. - Skate park fabrication work approved 6‑0. - CDBG contract extension for WR Reserve approved 6‑0. - Duncan Field turf replacement contract approved 6‑0. - Ordinance 4830 (right‑of‑way conveyance) approved 6‑0 on second and final reading. - Ordinance 4831 (alcohol/nudity restrictions) failed 4‑2. The business continues to operate under existing rules. - An executive session on pending litigation was held (7:34 PM to 7:42 PM); motion to authorize settlement of claim by the Mayor and City Attorney passed 6‑0 (with Larry Consbruck abstaining from the entry vote).

The Hastings Utility Board convened on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the Airport Conference Room at the Hastings Municipal Airport, with Chairman Bill Hitesman presiding. The meeting featured updates on utility billing corrections from a new software implementation, the annual Consumer Confidence Report highlighting water quality exceedances, a major Google grant for water projects, progress on the water conservation plan, and discussions on the use of utility resources for Lake Hastings. Consent Calendar - The board approved the consent agenda, including the minutes of the April 9, 2026 meeting, via a unanimous roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Charles Humblebirg, a local landlord, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the utility. He described a situation where he requested a disconnect for an apartment, but power was unexpectedly restored mid-work, resulting in a $75 charge for a few hours of service. He argued that Hastings Utilities is no longer the cheapest in the state and criticized a significant loss of experienced personnel. - Board Member Susan Meeske reported receiving three phone calls from ratepayers with questions about the billed accrued sewer charges. Discussion Items - Utility Billing Update (Tyler Munis): Staff reported that a post-implementation review of the new billing software is ongoing with Tyler Munis support. Corrections to sewer consumption billing have been completed. All affected customers were notified, payment arrangements are being made, and over 50% of the back charges have been collected. Staff is implementing additional auditing procedures. Derek (staff) explained the delay in catching the errors was due to the high volume of issues during the initial software rollout and significant staff turnover. The board is also reviewing an RFP for an external audit. - Share the Warmth Program: Tony reported that the program raised $8,505 through Give Hastings Day (May 7), exceeding the average annual total of $7,000. The funds assist Hastings Utilities customers struggling to pay their bills. - Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) / Lead and Copper Rule: Brandon presented the 2025 CCR, highlighting three areas of public interest: - Coliform: Three positive system samples from Well 15 were isolated and resolved. The state did not deem this a violation. - Copper: An exceedance of 1.44 ppm (MCL: 1.3 ppm) was detected. This mandates increased sampling (60 sites every 6 months) and a corrosion control study. Brandon noted copper is an essential nutrient and expressed frustration at it being held to the same standard as lead. - Nitrate: One sample from Well 26 showed 11 ppm, exceeding the 10 ppm MCL, though internal and confirmation tests were lower. The state required the 11 ppm figure be included in the report. A real-time nitrate analyzer has been installed. - Google Grant for Well 17: Brandon announced the utility won a $1,261,500 grant from Google. The funds cover the capital costs of a dual-pump ASR system at Well 17 and 10 years of estimated operation and maintenance costs, supporting efforts to treat high-nitrate groundwater. - Water Conservation Plan Update: 28 of 30 smart sprinkler controllers have been deployed (17 residential, 11 parks). Early data from NDS grounds showed significant runtime savings. A proposal for tiered residential water rates is under development. - Lake Hastings Consideration: A significant discussion arose regarding the conflict between the utility's conservation plan and the potential use of utility water to fill Lake Hastings. Staff articulated a position that filling the lake would conflict with water conservation mandates from the Little Blue NRD and impact drinking water and power generation priorities. The City Council is expected to discuss the issue further in June. The board noted it was important to be briefed on this due to its direct impact on utility operations. - Natural Gas Public Awareness Survey: A triennial survey is being distributed in May bills in English and Spanish to educate the public on natural gas safety. Early response rates (15 responses) are outpacing the previous cycle. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved. - Billing System Corrections Acknowledged: The board acknowledged the progress on the Tyler Munis billing corrections and the proactive customer outreach. - Google Grant Acknowledged: The board recognized the $1,261,500 Google Grant for the Well 17 ASR project. - Tiered Rates in Development: Staff will continue developing a tiered water rate proposal for residential customers. - Lake Hastings Decision Pending: The board will await the City Council's direction on Lake Hastings in June before bringing formal utility impacts to a vote. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:57 AM.