Public Meetings - Kearney, Nebraska

The Kearney Planning Commission met on May 19, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. in City Council Chambers. The commission unanimously approved two agenda items: a final plat and annexation for the Arbor View Second subdivision, and also introduced the new Development Services Director. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the April 21, 2023, meeting were approved unanimously on a motion by Commissioner Parkerson, seconded by another member. Roll call: Baker, Cochrane, Guinness, Dart, Malone, Dakan all voted aye. Discussion Items - Final Plat No. 2023-06 – Arbor View Second: Craig Bennett of Miller & Associates, representing Fox Creek Development LLC, presented a revised final plat for 13 lots on 4.5 acres located east of Avenue N and south of 65th Street. The property was previously rezoned to R1 (single-family residential) by the city council, while a parallel R2 rezoning request had failed. The plat is a portion of an approved preliminary plat from February 2023. Infrastructure (water and sewer) is already in place; the developer will pave the street and install a temporary cul-de-sac to meet emergency access requirements. Staff found the plat consistent with the 2016 comprehensive plan, R1 site development regulations, and the city annexation policy. No public testimony was offered. - Annexation No. 2023-02 – Arbor View Second: This item covered the same property as the final plat. Staff recommended approval based on the city’s annexation policy. - Reports: The commission welcomed Amber Miller as the new Director of Development Services. Miller, retiring from the U.S. Air Force after 20 years, has a background in operations/project management and strategic planning. Commissioners introduced themselves, noting several connections to military service. Key Outcomes - Final Plat No. 2023-06: Approved unanimously (7-0) by roll call: Baker aye, Cochrane aye, Guinness aye, Dart aye, Malone aye, Dakan aye (one member absent, one seat vacant? Roll call showed 6 votes but quorum present). The motion was made by Commissioner Malone and seconded. - Annexation No. 2023-02: Approved unanimously (7-0) after a motion by Commissioner Malone (with a correction to the item number) and a second. Roll call: Baker aye, Cochrane aye, Guinness aye, Dart aye, Malone aye, Dakan aye. - The meeting adjourned shortly after 9:30 a.m. following a motion to adjourn.

The Kearney City Council met on May 9, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation, seven public hearings on rezoning and plat approvals, approval of a consent agenda with 11 items, and presentations from new staff and the Buffalo County Economic Development Council. All actions were approved unanimously. Proclamation - Mayor Jonathan Nikkila presented a proclamation designating May 14–20, 2023, as National Police Week 2023 and May 15, 2023, as Peace Officers Memorial Day. Police Chief accepted, thanking the council and community. Public Hearings - Public Hearing 1 (Ordinance 8628): Rezone property east of Cherry Avenue and south of East 11th Street from AG to C-3 (General Commercial). Applicant Roger Harders (West Limited LLC) stated the rezoning would help attract commercial businesses like a convenience store. No public comments. Council approved unanimously. - Public Hearing 2 (Ordinance 8629): Rezone property at 715 and 805 22nd Avenue from R-3/PD to C-O (Office). Applicant Craig Bennett (Miller & Associates) for KPT&G LLC noted consistency with surrounding zoning and that residential buffer remains. No public comments. Council approved. - Public Hearing 3 (Ordinance 8630): Rezone 36.85 acres east of 30th Avenue and north of 56th Street from AG to C-2 (Community Commercial). Applicant Craig Bennett for DT Development Inc. stated it fits master plan. No public comments. Council approved. - Public Hearings 4 & 5 (Ordinance 8631 & Resolution 2023-67): Development of Spruce Hollow West Second. Rezone 84.94 acres from AG to RR-2 (Rural Residential) and approve final plat. Applicant Craig Bennett described 3-4 acre lots with paved roads, water/sewer extensions. No public comments. Approved. - Public Hearings 6 & 7 (Ordinances 8632, 8633 & Resolution 2023-68): Taylor Villas development. Rezone properties from R-1 to R-2, vacate 11 lots and replat into 10 lots. Applicant Craig Bennett explained infrastructure constraints and slab-on-grade construction. No public comments. Approved. Consent Agenda - Approved minutes of April 25, 2023. - Approved claims. - Approved Change Order No. 10 for Harmon Park Sonotorium Restoration ($6,351 increase). - Approved Change Order No. 2 for Airport Terminal Building Expansion ($6,181 increase). - Authorized letter of no recommendation for Hermanos, LLC dba San Pedro Mexican Restaurant liquor license. - Approved Peterson Senior Activity Center nutrition service contract. - Approved appointment of Jake Misener as Deputy City Clerk. - Approved lease agreement with Vertical Lift Maintenance Solutions at airport. - Approved Change Order No. 9 for Community Tennis Facility ($18,876.77 increase). - Approved waiver of 50% of remaining building permit fees for MONA expansion. - Approved real estate purchase agreement with Airport Road Rentals, LLC (Delux MFG. Co.) for 1.3 acres. Regular Agenda - Introduction of Amber Miller as Development Services Director and Jake Misener as Deputy City Clerk. Both spoke briefly. - Presentation by Trevor Lee, President of the Buffalo County Economic Development Council, highlighting business retention, recruitment, housing grants, and community engagement. No council questions. Key Outcomes - All ordinances (8628, 8629, 8630, 8631, 8632, 8633) were passed on first reading and published. - Resolutions 2023-67, 2023-68, and all consent agenda items were adopted. - All votes were unanimous (5-0).

The Kearney City Council met on April 25, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting included the swearing-in of two new police officers, withdrawal of two public hearing items, approval of consent agenda items and ordinances, an informational presentation from Two Rivers Health Department, approval of an open account claim to NPPD, a retirement proclamation for John Grimes, and a closed session to discuss real estate matters. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the April 11, 2023 regular meeting. - Approved claims. - Received Planning Commission recommendations and set May 9, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. for hearings. - Authorized the Mayor to send letters of no recommendation to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission for liquor license and manager applications for Cellar Sports Bar and Grill and World Theatre. - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-57 approving FAA grant agreement for Box Hangar project at Kearney Regional Airport. - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-58 approving keno-type lottery operation at The Cellar Sports Bar and Grill. - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-59 approving payment of $2,366,066.67 for WWTP Phase II Improvements. - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-60 approving final payment of $164,253.40 for Cemetery Paving Phase 2. - Approved plans and specifications for 2023 Part 1 Improvements (Younes Drive Water/Sewer/Paving) and set bid opening for May 16, 2023. - Accepted bid for 2023 Part 2 Improvements Mill and Asphalt Overlay awarded to Gary Smith Construction Company, Inc. for $457,235.00 via Resolution No. 2023-61. - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-62 accepting public improvements for Millennial Estates Fifth Addition. - Approved lease agreement with Nebraska Department of Transportation for Hangar T-190 at Airport Road via Resolution No. 2023-63. - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-64 finalizing obligations for 2021 Part 5 Improvements (Talmadge Street Extension) with $0.00 payment. - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-65 approving final payment of $60,800.00 for Kearney Public Library Roof Replacement. - Appointed Chelsie Bebensee to the Downtown Improvement Board via Resolution No. 2023-66. Consent Agenda Ordinances - Adopted Ordinance No. 8589A correcting the legal description for rezoning from M-1 Limited Industrial to BP Business Park District for property in Patriot Industrial Park. - Approved Ordinance No. 8627 repealing Ordinance No. 8625 and amending the Salary Ordinance for pay plan adjustments. Discussion Items - Oath of Office for Police Officers: Chief Waugh introduced lateral hires Officer Derrick Hosick (from Beatrice PD) and Officer Micah Schroeder (from Gering PD). Both were sworn in by the City Clerk. - Two Rivers Health Department Presentation: Jeremy Morgan and Dr. Arvin Menon presented on the health district's mission, including a partnership with NYU for localized health data, a learning cohort on legal epidemiology, environmental health services (mold, bed bugs, lead paint, tick/mosquito surveillance), and a new home visitation program (perinatal to age 3) focusing on Dawson and Gosper counties. They also updated on the dental program serving 27 schools. - Open Account Claim to NPPD: The council approved a claim of $105,975.09 to the Nebraska Public Power District. Mayor Klaus abstained; the rest voted yes. - Retirement Proclamation for John Grimes: The council read and presented a proclamation honoring John Grimes for 52 years of service in the Water and Sewer Department, highlighting his achievements and dedication. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items (1-16) and consent agenda ordinances (8589A and 8627) were approved unanimously. - The open account claim to NPPD was approved with one abstention (Mayor Klaus). - The council entered closed session at 6:02 p.m. to discuss real estate matters, with the option to reconvene in open session.

The Kearney Planning Commission met on April 21, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. in City Council Chambers. The commission considered six rezoning requests, one subdivision vacation, two preliminary plats, and two final plats, all of which were approved unanimously. A staff presentation on traffic impacts and planning principles generated discussion about future growth and infrastructure needs. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the March 17, 2023, meeting were approved (7-0-1 abstention, Scott-Pandorf abstained; motion carried). Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was offered by citizens not associated with the agenda items. Discussion Items - Rezoning No. 2023-05 (East of Cherry Avenue & South of E 11th Street): Applicant Roger Harders (West Limited, LLC) requested rezoning from AG (Agricultural) to C-3 (General Commercial) for a 10-acre parcel. Harders stated he is recruiting a convenience store (e.g., Casey's or Pump & Pantry) and noted the property is currently farmed. Staff confirmed the rezoning is compatible with the future land use designation (MU3) and recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously. - Rezoning No. 2023-06 (715 and 805 22nd Avenue): Applicant Craig Bennett (Miller & Associates) for KPT&G, LLC requested rezoning from R-3/PD (Urban Residential Multi-Family/Planned Development) to C-O (Office District) for two undeveloped lots. The lots are adjacent to a park, and landscaping requirements will apply. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously. - Rezoning No. 2023-07 (East of 30th Avenue & North of 56th Street): Craig Bennett for DT Development, Inc. requested rezoning of 36.85 acres from AG to C-2 (Community Commercial) to align with a previously approved preliminary plat. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously. - Rezoning No. 2023-08 (Spruce Hollow West Second): Craig Bennett for DT Development requested rezoning of 84.94 acres from AG to RR-2 (Rural Residential Intermediate Standards) as the first phase of a larger subdivision. Lots will be served by private wells and septic. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously. - Final Plat No. 2023-04 (Spruce Hollow West Second): The final plat for the same 84.94-acre parcel, creating 20 large lots (3–4 acres each) with paved roads, was approved unanimously. - Rezoning No. 2023-09 (Taylor Villas): Craig Bennett for Gene and Deb McElhinny requested rezoning of 11 lots (plus two lots west of Avenue O) from R-1 to R-2 (Urban Residential Mixed-Density) to allow duplexes with slab-on-grade construction. The lots have been undeveloped for over a decade. A temporary cul-de-sac easement will provide emergency access. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously. - Partial Subdivision Vacation No. 2013-10 (Taylor Addition): The vacation of the existing plat for Lots 1–11, Block 1 of Taylor Addition was approved unanimously. - Preliminary Plat No. 2023-05 (Taylor Villas): The preliminary plat for 10 lots (replat of the vacated lots) was approved unanimously. - Final Plat No. 2023-05 (Taylor Villas): The final plat for the same 10 lots was approved unanimously. - Reports – Traffic Impacts and Planning Presentation: Staff (Melissa Scott-Pandorf and City Engineer Luke Decher) presented on how land use, zoning, street function, access management, and traffic volumes are considered in development decisions. Key points included: - Density and intensity metrics guide residential and commercial zoning. - Street functional classification (arterial, collector, local) and access management (driveway spacing, intersection placement) affect traffic flow. - Examples of average daily traffic counts: 30th Avenue south of viaduct 8,000 vehicles/day; 39th Street near Country Club 5,600; 11th Avenue in Fountain Hills 1,150. - Traffic signal warrants are federally mandated (MUTCD); signals cannot be installed without meeting volume or safety criteria. - Level of Service (LOS) A–F describes intersection performance; most Kearney roads operate at LOS B–D during peak hours. - Discussion followed about balancing development with infrastructure costs, proactive vs. reactive planning, and the need for public education. Commissioner Yaw asked about developer responsibility for future turn lanes; staff noted that such obligations are generally limited to the time of development. The presentation was well received, and commissioners requested copies. Key Outcomes - All nine agenda items (rezonings, vacation, plats) were approved unanimously by voice vote. - The traffic presentation was informational; no formal action was taken. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 10:45 a.m. (no specific time given, but after the presentation and discussion).

The Kearney City Council met on April 11, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting included a youth week proclamation, postponement of two public hearings, approval of a zoning change, a consent agenda with six items, and approval of open account claims. Proclamation & Recognition - Mayor Jonathan Nikkila presented a proclamation declaring May 1–7, 2023, as Youth Week in Kearney, honoring America’s junior citizens. Representatives from Kearney Elks Lodge 984 (including JC Paul and Riley Harris) accepted the proclamation. An Elks representative noted the lodge’s 330 members, over $2.5 million in community contributions, and programs such as a free summer golf league for about 70 youth and snag events for all fifth graders in Kearney Public Schools on April 27–28. Public Hearings - Hearings 1 & 2 (Postponed): The council postponed hearings on the final plat, subdivision agreement, and annexation for Arbor View Second to the April 25, 2023 meeting, per a request from the applicant. Motion carried unanimously. - Hearing 3 – Rezoning (Ordinance No. 8626): The council conducted a public hearing on an application by Roger Harders for West Limited, LLC to rezone property east of Cherry Avenue and south of East 11th Street from AG (Agricultural) to BP (Business Park). Jeff Benson, representing the applicant, stated the rezoning is for future development with no specific plans. The Planning Commission recommended approval. No public comment. The council closed the hearing, suspended the three-reading rule, and approved Ordinance No. 8626 on final passage; the vote appeared unanimous. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent agenda (items 1–6) unanimously: 1. Minutes of March 28, 2023. 2. Claims. 3. Resolution No. 2023-55 for Change Order No. 8 ($611 increase) and No. 9 ($802 increase) for Yanney Heritage Park Pavilion and Parking Lot (RMV Construction). 4. Purchase of a Front Load Refuse Compactor Truck from Elliot Sanitation Equipment Co. for $306,226.52. 5. Purchase of a Kenworth T880 Chassis and TRUVAC Hydro-Excavation body from MacQueen Equipment for $597,430.56 via Sourcewell Cooperative. 6. Resolution No. 2023-56 approving an Agency Agreement with NDOT Aeronautics Division for Project No. 3-31-0045-038-2023. Regular Agenda – Open Account Claims The council approved open account claims totaling $7,271.74: $7,078.94 to NPPD and $192.80 to Stanley Clouse. Mayor Jonathan Nikkila abstained; other council members present voted aye. Key Outcomes - Public hearings on Arbor View Second postponed to April 25, 2023. - Ordinance No. 8626 (rezoning to BP) adopted and published as required. - Consent agenda items 1–6 approved. - Open account claims approved with one abstention. - No other reports or unfinished business.

The Kearney City Council met on March 28, 2023, at 5:30 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting covered postponed public hearings, approval of consent agenda items including a wheel loader purchase and infrastructure contracts, a tax increment financing redevelopment project, and an open account claim. The council also voted to adjourn to closed session. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of March 14, 2023. - Approved claims (specific list not in transcript). - Extended Conditional Use Permit 2018-02 for sand and gravel operation for two years. - Rescinded Resolutions 2023-40 and 2023-41 releasing easements from Fox Creek Development. - Approved purchase of Caterpillar 938M Series Wheel Loader for $284,080 for Public Works. - Approved Plans and Specifications for 2023 Part 2 Improvements (mill & asphalt overlay) with bid opening April 18, 2023. - Adopted Resolution 2023-50 approving payment of $1,373,903.03 for WWTP Phase II. - Adopted Resolution 2023-51 for Harmon Park Bathhouse Renovation (decrease of $501, payments, and substantial completion). - Adopted Resolution 2023-52 for 2.0 MG Elevated Water Tower payment of $319,167.36. - Adopted Resolution 2023-53 for Change Order No. 1 ($18,331.98 increase) for Airport Terminal Expansion. All consent items were approved unanimously (Mayor Klaus, Council members James Moore, Kotsiopulos, Buschkoetter; absent: Schmidt, Nikolla). Public Comments & Testimony - No oral communication from general public was recorded at the start of the meeting. - During Regular Agenda Item 1, Dustin Burmood (owner of Nebraska Generator Service) provided a brief description of the proposed facility for sales and service of generators. Discussion Items Public Hearings 1 & 2 (Arbor View Second Final Plat/Annexation) - The hearings were postponed from March 14. The council voted unanimously to remove them from the table, then immediately voted to postpone to the April 11, 2023, meeting per the applicant's request. Regular Agenda Item 1: TIF Redevelopment Project - Burmood Investments LLC - Finance Director Kayla James presented the proposal: construction of a 10,900 sq ft pre-engineered metal building for Nebraska Generator Service (relocating from Gibbon). Land purchased from city. Estimated total new valuation $1,107,190; current valuation $31,620; incremental $1,075,570. Annual increment in taxes estimated at $20,002. On March 13, 2023, the CRA recommended 90% of annual increment for up to 15 years, not to exceed $270,289 or certified eligible costs. Staff recommended approval. Dustin Burmood added details about the business (generator sales/service, Cummins distributor). Council had no questions. Regular Agenda Item 2: Open Account Claim to NPPD - Claim amount $105,967.09. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Postponement of Public Hearings 1 & 2: Voted to postpone to April 11, 2023 (unanimous). - Adoption of Resolution 2023-54: Approved TIF for Burmood Investments with 90% TIF for up to 15 years, max $270,289, beginning tax year 2023. Authorization for chairman and legal counsel to negotiate redevelopment contract. - Approval of Open Account Claim: Claim to NPPD for $105,967.09 approved. - Closed Session: Council voted to adjourn at 5:37 PM to closed session to discuss real estate and litigation matters.

The Kearney Planning Commission met on March 17, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting included the introduction of a new member, approval of minutes from two prior meetings, hearings on two rezoning requests (one postponed, one approved), approval of a revised preliminary plat for the Spruce Hollow West subdivision, and staff reports on upcoming presentations, conference highlights, and a new neighborhood group program. Consent Calendar - Minutes of January 20, 2023: Approved with one abstention (Commissioner Baker abstained). Motion passed. - Minutes of February 17, 2023: Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Introduction of New Member: Commissioner Jeffery Baker was welcomed. He introduced himself as the lead pastor at New Life Church, having lived in Kearney for 24 years. - Rezoning No. 2023‑04 (East of Cherry Avenue & South of E 11th Street): A request by Roger Harders for West Limited, LLC to rezone approximately 10 acres from AG (Agricultural) to BP (Business Park) for relocation of C&I equipment business. Staff found the rezoning compatible with the comprehensive plan and recommended approval. No public testimony. The commission approved the rezoning unanimously. - Rezoning No. 2023‑05 (Same Area, C‑3 Request): The applicant requested postponement to the April meeting. The commission approved the postponement unanimously. - Preliminary Plat No. 2023‑03 Spruce Hollow West (Revised): Craig Bennett of Miller & Associates presented the revised preliminary plat for a 256.19‑acre subdivision east of 30th Avenue and north of 56th Street. The plat includes a mix of large rural lots (3–4 acres), single‑family residential, and commercial lots. The developer met with adjacent landowners to coordinate future road circulation. The preliminary infrastructure feasibility plan shows gravity sanitary sewer and water main extensions. All roads will be paved (24‑foot concrete on rural sections, 36‑foot curb and gutter on annexed sections). Staff found the plat compatible with zoning and the comprehensive plan, and recommended approval. The commission approved the revised preliminary plat unanimously. - Staff Reports: - Next month, the Public Works Director or City Engineer will present on traffic impacts and development concerns raised at the prior meeting. - Three commissioners attended the Nebraska Planning Conference (March 8–10). Highlights included sessions on placemaking, public engagement techniques (including the FBI hostage negotiation method for handling difficult interactions), solar energy and climate planning, and housing. Commissioner Dart noted opportunities for Nebraska to lead in renewable energy. - Malia announced a public meeting on April 6th (6–7 p.m. at the library) to launch the neighborhood group program for residents without active HOAs or groups. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Rezoning 2023‑04 (AG to BP). - Postponed (unanimous): Rezoning 2023‑05 to the April meeting. - Approved (unanimous): Preliminary Plat 2023‑03 Spruce Hollow West (Revised), with final plats to come in phases. - Directive: Staff to coordinate a presentation on traffic impacts for the next meeting. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for April (date not specified in transcript).

The Kearney City Council met on March 14, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting focused on the proposed Arbor View Second subdivision, including rezoning, plat approval, and annexation, as well as a presentation on a feasibility study for a potential west I-80 interchange via 30th Avenue. Several community members voiced concerns about traffic density and drainage. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of February 28, 2023. - Approved claims. - Accepted bids for Snow Removal Equipment at Kearney Regional Airport: a carrier vehicle and snow broom attachment for $733,705.00, and a carrier vehicle/liquid spreader with snowplow for $645,036.00 (both awarded to M-B Companies, Inc.). - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-46 to enter the Nebraska CLASS Trust. - Approved Change Order No. 7 for Yanney Heritage Park Pavilion and Parking Lot ($1,348.00 increase) and Change Order No. 1 for 2022 Part 4 Improvements on 31st Street ($60,280.00 increase). - Authorized letters of no recommendation for Casey’s General Store manager applications (six locations) and for Nebraska Ale Works liquor license and manager application. - Awarded contract for Kearney Cemetery Road Replacement to S & J Construction ($49,299.25). - Approved purchase of a Bobcat Skid Steer Loader and grapple for the Sanitation Department ($54,201.02). - Adopted Resolution No. 2023-49 for an agency agreement with NDOT Aeronautics Division. - Approved Ordinance No. 8625 amending the salary ordinance, repealing Ordinance No. 8619. Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Lindstrom (attorney for neighboring landowners) expressed concerns about the density of the proposed R2 zoning, citing traffic safety with only one exit. He compared units-per-exit ratios from other subdivisions (e.g., Eastbrook: 83 units/exit; Stone Ridge: 25; Remington: 44; Arbor View: 93 units/exit with phase one and two, potentially 173 with future phases). He argued the development would overload the single exit at 65th Street and Avenue N. - Marsha Wilkerson (resident at 1621 East 67th Street) supported the permanent gate at Avenue R from the 2019 agreement but opposed the R2 rezoning due to potential traffic increases. She cited Institute of Traffic Engineers standards (local streets should have ≤1,000 vehicles per day) and estimated 560 trips/day from duplexes and 500 from single-family homes, exceeding the threshold. She also raised concerns about the NRD drainage canal as a safety hazard. - Dale Madsen (1421 East 67th Street) raised a drainage issue: water no longer flows south from his property due to a berm created during utility installation. He asked if he could tap into the development's drainage system. The City Manager noted this is a civil matter to discuss with the developer. - Dale King (1540 East 67th Street) opposed R2 due to traffic, noting high speeds on Avenue N and that residents have paid out-of-pocket to repair their county road. - Dan Engels (4800 Avenue L Place) stated his family owns land east of the development and has no plans to sell, meaning no future road connection to the east. He also warned that the drainage culvert already nears capacity with heavy rain and that additional impervious surface would worsen flooding. Discussion Items Arbor View Second Development (Public Hearings 1-6) - Presentation by Craig (Miller & Associates, representing Fox Creek Development LLC) detailed the proposal: 20.54 acres with 43 lots east of Avenue N, south of 65th Street. The plan includes rezoning 8.26 acres to R1 (single-family) and 12.28 acres to R2 (mixed-density). The developer reduced lots from 49 to 43 and widened R2 lots to 102 feet to accommodate duplexes or larger single-family homes. An ingress-egress easement for secondary access was included. The developer affirmed no planned development (PD) overlay; existing subdivision agreement requires a traffic signal if warranted. A 75-foot detention cell and 100-foot drainage outfall provide buffers. - Council members questioned traffic impacts. Council member noted that R2 could allow up to fourplexes, increasing density beyond original R1-only preliminary plat. City staff (Andy) stated that a traffic signal is not currently warranted but may be triggered in future phases. City Manager noted the developer has agreed to pay 50% of a signal if warranted. - Council discussed the 2019 compromise that closed 67th Street (Avenue R) with a permanent gate for emergency access only. Council member noted that the gate was a necessary compromise but has led to the current traffic challenge. - Vote on R2 rezoning (Public Hearing 4 – Ordinance 8624): Failed 1-4 (Mayor Nikkila voted no, Council Member Schmidt voted no, Council Member Moore voted no, Council Member Buschkoetter voted no; only Council Member Kotsiopulos voted yes). Consequently, the final plat (Resolution 2023-42) and annexation (Resolution 2023-43) were tabled. - Votes on other items: All passed unanimously: - Release of permanent right-of-way and utility easement (Resolution 2023-40): passed. - Release of storm water detention cell easement (Resolution 2023-41): passed. - Rezoning to R1 (Ordinance 8623): passed on final reading. - Public hearings 5 and 6 were closed and resolutions tabled. 30th Avenue Feasibility Study (Regular Agenda Item 1) - Presentation by Dan Satorius and Mike Olson (Kirkham Michael) presented a feasibility study for a potential west I-80 interchange. Three alternatives were considered: 30th Avenue, 46th Avenue, and a “Cotton Mill Connector.” The 30th Avenue alternative was deemed most feasible due to better compatibility with land use plans, lower environmental impact, fewer property impacts, and lower cost. Key recommendations: extend 30th Avenue south to Talmage Street, extend Talmage Street to 30th Avenue (already in city plans), and widen the 30th Avenue overpass to four lanes. The goal is to reduce traffic on 2nd Avenue and open western Kearney for development. Council members expressed support for continuing the planning process but noted no immediate commitment to funding. Open Account Claim to NPPD (Regular Agenda Item 2) - Approved an open account claim to Nebraska Public Power District in the amount of $7,590.10. Key Outcomes - R2 Rezoning Failed (Ordinance 8624): defeated 1-4, leaving the property zoned AG for that portion. - R1 Rezoning Approved (Ordinance 8623): passed unanimously on final reading. - Easement Releases Approved (Resolutions 2023-40 and 2023-41): passed unanimously. - Final Plat and Annexation Tabled (Resolutions 2023-42 and 2023-43): tabled pending resolution of zoning issue. - Consent Agenda and Consent Ordinance Approved as listed. - 30th Avenue Feasibility Study: Council received the report and expressed intent to continue planning, with potential adoption of a resolution supporting future pursuit (discussed but not voted). - Next Steps: Staff to consider initiating a traffic study for the Arbor View area; developer and neighbors to address drainage concerns privately.

February 28, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | City Council Chambers Overview The Kearney City Council met on February 28, 2023, to conduct routine business, hold public hearings, approve a consent agenda, and receive the city's annual financial report. The meeting began with a proclamation declaring 2023 as Kearney's sesquincentennial anniversary, followed by public hearings on the half-cent sales tax capital improvement plan (CIP) and special assessments for paving and utility districts. The council unanimously approved the consent agenda and later adjourned into closed session to discuss real estate matters. Proclamation: Kearney's 150th Anniversary - The council adopted a proclamation recognizing 2023 as Kearney's sesquincentennial anniversary, with events planned throughout the year including a June 24th birthday party, a time capsule opening, a historical baseball game, and cemetery tours. - The proclamation was presented by the Buffalo County Historical Society (BCHS), represented by board members and community outreach director. Councilmember Randy Buschkoetter read the proclamation aloud. - BCHS representatives thanked the council and noted that executive director Jennifer Morris was unable to attend due to family health issues. Public Hearing: Half-Cent Sales Tax Capital Improvement Plan - Michael (city staff) presented the annual public hearing on the ½¢ Sales Tax Capital Improvement Plan, a requirement from voter approval. The plan includes approximately $34 million in projects over five years, funded by the special sales tax. - Council members asked clarifying questions about unallocated budget amounts, the addition of historical context for general obligation bonds, and the inclusion of curb and ADA ramp projects (noting difficulty in securing contractors for curbs). A new debt item for West Highway 30 improvements (state project starting in 2026) was discussed. - No public comments were offered. The hearing was closed, and the council voted to approve the plan. Public Hearing: Board of Equalization – Special Assessments - The council met as the Board of Equalization to consider Resolution No. 2023-31, levying special assessments for Paving Improvement Districts 2020-002 and 2020-003, Water Districts 2020-592 and 2020-593, and Sewer District 2020-528. The districts cover portions of 6th Street and 22nd Avenue. - No public comments were offered. The hearing was closed, and the resolution was adopted unanimously. Consent Agenda (Items 1–14) All items were approved unanimously without separate discussion. Key items included: - Approval of the February 14, 2023, meeting minutes. - Approval of claims. - Setting a March 14 hearing date for Planning Commission recommendations. - Letters of no recommendation for liquor license and manager applications (Joe's Honky Tonk LLC, Smoker Friendly 017, Axe Holes). - Resolution No. 2023-32: Amendment to real estate purchase agreement with Prataria Ventures – Kearney LLC. - Resolution No. 2023-33: Funding for a new HVAC unit at the Nebraska Firefighters Museum. - Resolution No. 2023-34: Change Order No. 2 and final payment for 2020 Part 3 Improvements (2nd Avenue Overpass Extension Joint Repair). - Resolution No. 2023-35: Appointments to Facilities Corporation (Jonathan Brandt and Wendell Wessels). - Resolution No. 2023-36: Submission of two QCT Grant applications to Nebraska Department of Economic Development. - Resolution No. 2023-37: Amendment to the development agreement for the indoor sports complex. - Resolution No. 2023-38: Payment No. 6 ($1,208,219.37) for WWTP Phase II Improvements. - Resolution No. 2023-39: Payment No. 3 ($159,443.93) for Booster Pump Station renovations. Regular Agenda Items 1. Annual Financial Report (FY2022) - Mindy Oman, CPA and shareholder with KSO CPAs + Advisors, presented the audited financial statements for the year ending September 30, 2022. The city received a clean opinion. - Key highlights: - Total net position: $320,871,000, with $49,850 unrestricted. - Net position increased by $23 million over the prior year. - Governmental funds ending balance: $67 million (increase of $31.9 million). - Of the $67 million, $4.8 million is available for use within city policies, including $32.6 million in recreational facilities bonds for the indoor sports complex, $895,000 in highway allocation bonds, $800,000 from the water tower bond issue, $5.2 million for paving projects, and $1.45 million for airport improvements. - Business-type activities (utilities, golf, airport) grew by $12.5 million. - New notes in the report relate to leases (both payable and receivable). - Council asked no questions and voted unanimously to accept the report. 2. Open Account Claim to NPPD – $100,478.82 - The council approved payment of an open account claim to Nebraska Public Power District in the amount of $100,478.82. Councilmember Klaus abstained; the remainder voted aye. Key Outcomes - Proclamation adopted for Kearney's sesquincentennial. - Half-cent sales tax CIP approved (unanimous). - Special assessments and Resolution 2023-31 approved (unanimous). - Consent agenda items 1–14 approved (unanimous). - Annual financial report accepted (unanimous). - Open account claim to NPPD approved (Klaus abstained, others aye). - Closed session initiated at 5:47 p.m. to discuss possible real estate matters, per Nebraska law, with the possibility of reconvening into open session for formal action. Upcoming Actions - Next hearing on Planning Commission recommendations scheduled for March 14, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. - Staff to add historical descriptions to general obligation bond line items in future CIP reports.