Public Meetings - Kearney, Nebraska

The Kearney City Council met on July 8, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting included a presentation of a USTA grant for Harmon Park tennis courts, four public hearings on land development and a conditional use permit, approval of a consent agenda with 12 items including a Keno operator interlocal agreement with Omaha, and passage of five consent ordinances. All votes were unanimous. Recognition and Presentation - USTA Grant for Harmon Park Tennis Courts: Mary Buschmann, CEO and Executive Director of the United States Tennis Association – Missouri Valley, presented a check for $31,900 to assist with the resurfacing of the Harmon Park tennis courts (total project cost approximately $50,000). Scott Hayden, Recreation Services Director, noted the tennis program includes over 150 youth in junior team tennis, over 50 adults in leagues, and hundreds more in lessons and drop-in play. The project is scheduled between July 21 and August 10, weather permitting. Public Hearings & Testimony - Public Hearing 1 – BHT Subdivision Final Plat: Trenton Snow (applicant) and Jeffrey Benson (owner) proposed a one-lot subdivision at the southeast corner of 11th Street and Cherry Avenue for a storage building. Planning commission recommended approval. No public testimony. Council approved Resolution 2025-71 unanimously. - Public Hearings 2-4 – Western Nebraska Property Development Fourth Addition: Craig Bennett of Miller & Associates presented for KPT&G, LLC (c/o Bryan Health). The 5.12-acre parcel at the northwest corner of 22nd Avenue and 6th Street will be rezoned from AG to C-O, platted as a two-lot subdivision with street extension, and annexed into the city. Planned use is medical office buildings, with construction starting this year. Planning commission recommended approval. No public testimony. Council approved Ordinance 8752 (rezoning), Resolution 2025-72 (final plat), and Resolution 2025-73 (annexation) unanimously. - Public Hearing 5 – Conditional Use Permit for Sand and Gravel Extraction: Roger Harders (applicant) for West Limited LLC proposed a resource extraction operation on property east of Cherry Avenue and south of East 11th Street (Agricultural District). Conditions include a 15-year timeframe, stockpiling no higher than 35 feet and set back 50 feet from property lines, and planting trees along the east side. Planning commission recommended approval with an amendment to condition 8. No public testimony. Council approved Ordinance 8753 unanimously. Consent Agenda - Items 1-12 (Consent Agenda): Approved unanimously. Key items included approval of minutes, claims, the Buffalo County Local Emergency Operations Plan, liquor license no-recommendation letters for Legacy On The Bricks, Sip & Swirl Wine Room, Kinkaider Brewing Co., and Smoker Friendly 016; an interlocal cooperation agreement with Omaha for Keno operations; RYDE Transit funding support; and change orders for 30th Avenue Overpass, Highway 30 & University Drive, and 29th Avenue & West La Platte Road projects. - Discussion on Keno Interlocal Agreement: Before the vote, council members asked City Manager Brenda Jensen about the structure. She explained that the interlocal with Omaha allows Kearney to participate in a larger gaming pool and provides administrative savings (1% of gross, estimated $75,000 annually, paid from Big Red’s share). The agreement can be terminated with 60 days’ notice, offering flexibility. Council members noted this arrangement benefits Kearney by reducing administrative burden and enabling access to larger prizes. Consent Agenda Ordinances - Ordinances 8754-8758: Approved unanimously. 8754 amends speed limits in city code; 8755 authorizes deed of sale of property in Marlatt Fourth Addition to Kearney Area Habitat for Humanity; 8756-8758 create paving, water, and sanitary sewer improvement districts for Marlatt Fourth Addition. Key Outcomes - All public hearing items and consent agenda items passed unanimously with no dissenting votes. - The council expressed strong support for the recently awarded 30-year Good Life District designation, which will provide a funding mechanism for infrastructure and development. Council members praised staff for their work and emphasized the need to address housing shortages as part of the growth. - Next meeting noted for July 10, 2025 (presumably a special meeting related to the Good Life District).

The Kearney City Council met on June 24, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting featured a proclamation honoring retiring tourism leader Roger Jasnoch, the introduction of new Finance Director Brian Schultz, three public hearings for the McCaslin Subdivision (rezoning and final plat), and a contested regular agenda item on the selection of a new Keno lottery operator. Council also approved a consent agenda containing ten routine items. The Keno operator award generated extensive public comment and debate before the council voted to accept the committee's recommendation. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the regular meeting held June 10, 2025. - Approved the claims as presented. - Received Planning Commission recommendations and set July 8, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. as the date for hearings on applicable applications. - Authorized the Mayor to send a letter of no recommendation to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission regarding the manager application for Christel Armstrong (Walmart Inc dba Walmart 598, 5411 2nd Avenue). - Accepted the RFQ for Kearney Volunteer Fire Department Station No. 3 and adopted Resolution 2025-67 awarding the contract to Wilkins + Parkhill. - Adopted Resolution 2025-68 approving a Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement for Elementary School Second Addition (water main to serve Lot 1). - Adopted Resolution 2025-69 approving a Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement for The Meadows Second Addition (water, sewer, paving, and storm sewer). - Approved plans and specifications for the Harmon Park Pool Tub Sandblasting and Painting Project and set the bid opening for July 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. - Authorized disposal of a 2008 American LaFrance Condor Sideload Refuse Truck by the method most advantageous to the city. - Approved annual renewal of manufactured home court licenses for East Lawn Mobile Homes Estates, Countryside Mobile Home Park, L & M Mobile Home Park, and Cornhusker Trailer Court, and granted an extension until July 16, 2025 for Valley View Mobile Home Court to correct deficiencies. Public Comments & Testimony - Keno Operator Award (Regular Agenda Item 1): Approximately ten members of the public spoke during the hearing. Speakers expressed strong preference for keeping Keno local, supporting either Kearney Gaming (the incumbent) or Community First Keno (a new consortium of local bar owners). Common concerns included: (1) loss of in-bar Keno writers, which could reduce service to patrons; (2) profits leaving the community if an out-of-town operator (Big Red Keno of Omaha) is chosen; (3) potential decline in Keno handle due to lower pay tables and removal of the live ball draw from the Chicken Coop; (4) the timing of the vote, with some requesting a delay to gather more public input. A petition with 232 signatures was presented. One speaker noted that Big Red Keno does not have contracts with existing satellite locations, unlike Kearney Gaming. The Chamber of Commerce president advocated for supporting local operators. No public speakers explicitly supported the committee's recommendation to award the contract to Big Red Keno. Discussion Items - Proclamation Honoring Roger Jasnoch: Mayor Nikkila read a proclamation recognizing Roger Jasnoch's nearly 40 years of service to Kearney's tourism and hospitality industry, including roles on the Nebraska Tourism Commission, work on the Kearney Welcome Center, and bringing numerous state and regional events to the city. The proclamation was dated June 24, 2025. Jasnoch accepted and encouraged the city to begin work on the next sports complex, Archway, and Yanney Park. - Introduction of Finance Director Brian Schultz: City Manager Brenda Jensen introduced Brian Schultz, formerly of Grand Island, as the new Finance Director. Schultz had 10 years of municipal finance experience. Outgoing Finance Director Kayla James will remain through the end of the fiscal year to assist with the transition. - Public Hearings 1-3 – McCaslin Subdivision: Craig Bennett of Miller & Associates presented the application for Keith L. McCaslin to rezone a vacant parcel north of 6740 North 2nd Avenue from AG (Agricultural) to C-O (Office District) and C-2 (Community Commercial District), and to approve the final plat and subdivision agreement. The property is located near 56th Street and 2nd Avenue, currently undeveloped. The subdivision will create four lots (three acres, three acres, 4.3 acres, and 4.17 acres). No immediate utility connections exist; development will rely on well/septic until water and sewer become available. The public hearings were opened and closed with no public testimony. All three items were approved unanimously. - Keno Operator RFP Discussion: City Manager Brenda Jensen outlined the RFP process that began in 2022. A committee of nine members (four city staff, two council members, three citizens) evaluated three proposals using eight weighted criteria. Scores: Big Red Keno – 36.4; Kearney Gaming – 31.5; Community First – 22.5. Key factors in the recommendation: Big Red Keno's experience (operating 279 locations statewide), a guaranteed 8.75% of sales revenue (compared to the current minimum 5%, with actuals averaging 7.4%), inclusion in a larger Omaha prize pool allowing top prizes up to $250,000 (current max $50,000), a planned Keno app rolling out July 16, 2025, and a $200,000 contribution to the community betterment fund. The city currently receives approximately $850,000–$900,000 annually from Keno. Revenue has declined from $964,000 (FY2022) to $720,000 (FY2024). Council members who served on the committee stated they followed the scoring process objectively and could not disregard it. Several council members noted the importance of adhering to a fair RFP process to maintain integrity for future bids. Concerns were raised about potential loss of handle due to removal of the live ball draw and a less favorable pay table, but the app was seen as a potential offset. The $200,000 gift was clarified as being directed to the Keno community betterment fund, governed by state statute and distributed by a citizen committee to local nonprofits—not a personal benefit to council. Council also addressed a claim that the process was flawed, but found no evidence of impropriety. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-70 (Keno Operator): Following public testimony and discussion, the Council voted 4-0 (Mayor Nikkila, Vice-President Buschkoetter, Council Member Moore, Council Member Schmidt, Council Member Kotsiopulos all voted aye; one member abstained?) to adopt the resolution awarding the contract to EHPV Lottery Services, LLC dba Big Red Keno. The contract begins August 2025, with a short transition period anticipated. - Ordinance 8748 (Rezone to C-O): Passed and approved for publication. (Vote: 5-0) - Ordinance 8749 (Rezone to C-2): Passed and approved for publication. (Vote: 5-0) - Resolution 2025-44 (McCaslin Final Plat): Approved. (Vote: 5-0) - Consent Agenda Items 1–10: Approved unanimously. - Open Account Claim (Regular Agenda Item 3): Approved (Mayor Nikkila abstained due to his employment with the University of Nebraska system). The claim is for $310.00 to the University of Nebraska Omaha.

The Kearney Planning Commission met on June 20, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in City Council Chambers. The commission considered four major agenda items: a preliminary and final plat for a one-lot subdivision (BHT Subdivision), a rezoning, final plat, and annexation for a medical office development (Western Nebraska Property Development Fourth Addition), and a conditional use permit for a sand and gravel extraction operation. The commission also reviewed its annual report. All actions were recommendations to the City Council, except the final plat and annexation which are final actions subject to council approval. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 16, 2025): The minutes of the previous meeting were approved by a vote of 5–0–1 (Baker, Rickard, Yaw, Darryt, Malone aye; McGinnis abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - Sharon Rose (4407 East 11th Street) spoke against the resource extraction conditional use permit (Item 9). She expressed concern that the proposed sand and gravel operation would raise the water table, causing water in her basement and rendering her property worthless. She also cited blowing sand as a hazard, referencing an existing sand pit that had drifted sand onto the interstate fence. - Connie Love (811 East 11th Street) also opposed the conditional use permit, noting that blowing sand from an existing pit reduces visibility on 11th Street and creates traffic hazards. She questioned whether the water table would rise and affect the county road. - Applicant Roger Harders responded that he intends to keep topsoil on-site to cover extracted sand, use a small-scale operation (approximately 2 acres per year), and plant vegetation buffers to mitigate blowing sand. He acknowledged the concerns but argued that the operation would not significantly affect the regional water table. Discussion Items - BHT Subdivision (Preliminary Plat No. 2025-07 & Final Plat No. 2025-07): Applicant Trenton Snow, representing owner Jeffrey Benson, requested approval to create a one-lot subdivision on 0.5 acres at the southeast corner of 11th Street and Cherry Avenue. The property was rezoned to BP (Business Park) in 2023. The plat includes a 17-foot right-of-way dedication along 11th Street and a 10-foot utility easement. No infrastructure is proposed; the building (a steel frame equipment storage facility) will require a separate building permit. Staff recommended approval, and no public comments were received. The commission voted unanimously to approve both the preliminary and final plats. - Western Nebraska Property Development Fourth Addition (Rezoning No. 2025-11, Final Plat No. 2025-08, Annexation No. 2025-02): Craig Bennett of Miller & Associates, representing KPT&G, LLC (Bryan Health), requested rezoning of 5.12 acres from AG (Agricultural) to C-O (Office) at the northwest corner of 22nd Avenue and 6th Street. The property is part of a larger 80-acre parcel with a 2010 preliminary plat. The proposal includes a two-lot subdivision, extension of 6th Street west with a temporary cul-de-sac, and infrastructure improvements (sanitary sewer, water main, stormwater detention). The annexation would bring the property into city limits. Staff recommended approval, noting consistency with the comprehensive plan and compatibility with surrounding medical uses. No public opposition was voiced. The commission approved all three items unanimously. - Conditional Use Permit No. 2025-02 (Resource Extraction – Sand and Gravel): Roger Harders (applicant) and owner West Limited LLC requested a conditional use permit to operate a sand and gravel extraction on a 30-acre parcel east of Cherry Avenue and south of 11th Street. The operation would extract approximately 2 acres of gravel per year over a 15-year period, with a 5-year initial term. The applicant plans to raise the site elevation by 2 feet to mitigate flood risk, retain topsoil for covering extracted areas, and install landscape buffers (10 feet wide on north, south, and west sides). Staff recommended approval with 18 conditions, including a 50-foot setback from property lines, maximum stockpile height of 35 feet, and opaque screening. After public testimony, the commission amended condition 8 to require a 10-foot landscape buffer yard on the east side at the time extraction reaches that area. The motion to approve as amended passed unanimously. - Annual Planning Commission Report: Sid O’Hara, City Planner, presented the annual report covering June 1, 2024, through May 31, 2025. Highlights included 63 actions taken by the commission (a 13.6% decline from the prior three-year average), code updates, and a July workshop. The report also noted three commissioners eligible for reappointment. Discussion followed on housing shortages (22 single-family homes for sale in the Kearney area) and the potential use of AI to improve public access to zoning information. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Item 4 (Preliminary Plat BHT Subdivision): Approved unanimously. - Item 5 (Final Plat BHT Subdivision): Approved unanimously. - Item 6 (Rezoning to C-O): Approved unanimously. - Item 7 (Final Plat Western Nebraska Fourth Addition): Approved unanimously. - Item 8 (Annexation): Approved unanimously. - Item 9 (Conditional Use Permit – Resource Extraction): Approved unanimously with an amendment to condition 8 to add a landscape buffer yard on the east side at the time extraction reaches that area. The permit will be forwarded to the City Council for final decision on July 8, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. - Item 10 (Annual Report): Received and filed; no vote required. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after the report discussion.

The Kearney City Council met on June 10, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting included the postponement of three public hearings related to the McCaslin subdivision, a public hearing and vote on a rezoning request for a property east of Cherry Avenue, approval of the consent agenda, and a vote on an open account claim. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from May 27, 2025. - Approved claims. - Appointed a member to the Civil Service Commission to fill the term vacated by Chris Loofe (Resolution 2025-62). - Authorized letters of no recommendation to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission for liquor license applications for Whiskey Creek Woodfire Grill and Elevated Catering. - Approved Change Order No. 5 ($13,944.60 increase), final payment ($23,846.00), and certificate of substantial completion for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Phase 2 Improvements (Resolution 2025-63). - Approved purchase of an Enforcer Pumper and Enforcer 100-foot Ascendant Tower from MacQueen Equipment, LLC for the Fire Department (Resolution 2025-64). - Approved an agreement with BerganKDV for auditing services (Resolution 2025-65). - Approved Change Order No. 1 ($4,052.00 increase) for the Harmon Pool Pump Replacement Project (Resolution 2025-66). Public Hearings & Testimony Postponed Hearings (Items III-1, III-2, III-3): Public hearings on the McCaslin subdivision rezoning and final plat were postponed from May 13, 2025, and further postponed to June 24, 2025, by unanimous council motion. Rezoning Hearing (Item III-4): A public hearing was held on the application by Roger Harders (applicant) for West Limited, LLC (owner) to rezone property from District C-3 (General Commercial) to District AG (Agricultural). The property is located east of Cherry Avenue and south of East 11th Street (Parcel 2). The Planning Commission recommended approval by majority vote. - Roger Harders (Applicant/Owner Representative): Explained the property is 30 acres. He was approached by Keith Becker to operate a sand and gravel extraction site. Harders stated he initially tried commercial development but lacked sewer access. He described plans to plant trees (Ponderosa pines, spruce) and build a berm to screen the operation. He noted the Development Review Team (DRT) confirmed a 35-foot height limit for gravel piles and said the operator keeps sites tidy. Harders mentioned a potential need for sand/gravel for county roads and I-80 expansion. He also discussed a sewer line crossing Highway 2 that could benefit northward development. Harders confirmed he has applied for a conditional use permit for the sand/gravel operation, which would require future council approval. - Council Discussion: Council members clarified that the current vote is solely on rezoning to AG, not on the specific use. The city attorney noted that rezoning to AG allows any use permitted in that district; a sand/gravel operation would require a separate conditional use permit. Council member observed that the area already has significant AG zoning. - Public Comment: One audience member commented that the proposal is similar to the development of Cunningham's on the Lake, where a lake created value; suggested that as context. - No other public testimony was offered. Discussion Items No separate discussion items beyond the public hearing and consent agenda were scheduled. The regular agenda included only the open account claim. Key Outcomes 1. Postponement of McCaslin Subdivision Hearings: The council unanimously voted to postpone public hearings III-1, III-2, and III-3 (rezoning and final plat for McCaslin subdivision) to June 24, 2025. 2. Rezoning Approved (Ordinance 8751): The council voted to close the public hearing and adopt Ordinance 8751, rezoning the property east of Cherry Avenue and south of East 11th Street to AG Agricultural District. The motion to suspend reading on three successive days and pass the ordinance was seconded and passed unanimously (roll call: Council Members Schmidt, Stratman, Buschkoetter, Moore all voted aye; Mayor Nikkila also voted aye). The ordinance was then passed on final passage unanimously. 3. Consent Agenda Approved: Items 1-9 were approved unanimously. 4. Open Account Claim Approved: The claim of $697.50 to the University of Nebraska Board of Regents was approved by a vote of 2 ayes (Mayor Nikkila, Council Member Buschkoetter) with 2 abstentions (Council Members Moore, Stratman). "Barely passed" as noted by a council member. 5. Meeting Adjourned: The council adjourned shortly after reports.

The Kearney City Council met on May 27, 2025 at 5:30 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting featured a pinning ceremony for newly elected officers of the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department and a proclamation honoring retiring Police Chief Bryan Waugh. Several public hearings were withdrawn or postponed, and the consent agenda was approved with the exception of one withdrawn item. Presentations - Kearney Volunteer Fire Department Pinning Ceremony: Fire Chief Aaron Jameson conducted the badge pinning for newly elected officers including Battalion Chief John Ceto, Captains Kevin Royal and Mike Treadway, and Lieutenants Lucas Fry and Dylan Davis. - Proclamation for Police Chief Bryan Waugh: Mayor Nikkila read a proclamation honoring Chief Waugh for his 32 years of law enforcement service, including six years as Kearney Police Chief. The proclamation noted his achievements such as implementing a citywide automatic license plate reader system, a mental health co-responder program, and improving relationships with the Buffalo County Sheriff's Office. Chief Waugh expressed gratitude and was awarded a key to the city. Public Hearings - Items III-1 & III-2 (Good Samaritan Village): Withdrawn at the request of the developer and Miller & Associates. The council voted unanimously to withdraw these public hearings. - Items III-3, III-4, & III-5 (McCaslin Subdivision): Postponed to June 10, 2025 at the request of the applicant. The council voted unanimously to further postpone. - Items III-6, III-7, & III-8 (Utility Easements): Withdrawn at staff request. The council voted unanimously to withdraw. Consent Agenda - Item IV-4 (Amended Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement for Saadi First) was withdrawn. - The remaining items (IV-1,2,3,5,6,7,8,9) were approved unanimously, including approval of minutes, claims, setting hearing date, fire department membership, liquor license letter of no recommendation, School Resource Officer Agreement, manufactured home court license renewals, and WWTP Phase II payment. Regular Agenda - Open Account Claims (VI-1): Approved with two abstentions (Stratman and Bushcutter) for University of Nebraska event ($95) and UNK Emarket ($530). Reports - Council Member Moore thanked staff for accommodating school field days due to weather and recognized fire department member Tim Ullman for Memorial Day event. Key Outcomes - Public Hearings III-1,2,6,7,8 were withdrawn. - Public Hearings III-3,4,5 were postponed to June 10, 2025. - Consent Agenda Item IV-4 was withdrawn; the remainder approved unanimously. - Regular Agenda Item VI-1 approved with two abstentions. - Council presented a key to the city to retiring Police Chief Bryan Waugh.

The Kearney Planning Commission met on May 16, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in the City Council Chambers, 18 East 22nd Street. The meeting included a public hearing on a rezoning request and an informational presentation on city water and sewer infrastructure capacity. The commission approved the minutes from the April 18, 2025 meeting and the rezoning request. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the minutes of the April 18, 2025 meeting was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was provided beyond the applicant during the hearing. Discussion Items - Rezoning No. 2025-10 – Roger Harders (Applicant) for West Limited, LLC (Owner): The applicant requested to rezone approximately 30 acres from District C-3 (General Commercial) to District AG (Agricultural) for property described as part of the west half of the Northwest Quarter of Section 9, Township 8 North, Range 15 West, east of Cherry Avenue and south of East 11th Street. The property is located in a 500-year floodplain and is not connected to city sewer. The applicant stated he had tried marketing the site for commercial use but was told a truck stop was a "dead issue" in Kearney, and that a sand/gravel operation (requiring a future conditional use permit) was a potential use. Staff (Melissa Scott-Pandorf) noted the property was rezoned from AG to C3 in 2023 and has remained vacant; the future land use (FLU) designation is MU3 (commercial mixed use), making the proposed AG rezoning inconsistent with the FLU, but the applicant did not request a FLU amendment. Staff provided no recommendation. The commission voted to approve the rezoning motion. - Infrastructure Master Planning Presentation: Craig Bennett (Miller & Associates) presented an overview of the city's water and sewer systems, including historical growth, current capacity, and future projects. Key points: - Sanitary sewer: The city has 199 miles of sewer main, a treatment plant capacity of 5.9 MGD (currently using 3.8 MGD, 64% capacity), and hydraulic capability up to 18 MGD. The 1992 North Sanitary Sewer Study and 1999 Southwest Sanitary Sewer Study enabled development of areas like Lighthouse Point, Yanni Park, and the hospital. - Water system: Two well fields (northwest and Platte River/island) provide 29 MGD capacity; average peak demand is 14.6 MGD, average daily is 6.1 MGD. Three water towers serve two pressure zones. Over 244 miles of water main. Future water projects include redundant feeder lines for the new water tower on Avenue N and a cross-connection under I-80. - SRF (State Revolving Fund) project priorities include a $10 million trunk sewer relief project (Cherry Avenue corridor) and a $7 million gravity sewer project, plus water projects totaling $1.2 million. A $2 million EDA grant will fund a 30-inch trunk sewer construction this summer. - Discussion included the longevity of clay versus plastic pipe, the city's lead pipe replacement program (currently in Phase 2 from 5th Avenue to 2nd Avenue, 29th Street to 11th Street), and the observation that the city has sufficient capacity for all currently undeveloped land inside the city limits. Key Outcomes - Rezoning No. 2025-10: Approved (7-0, with all present members voting in favor). The property will be rezoned from C-3 to AG. A future conditional use permit will be required for any resource extraction use. - Reports: The commission received the infrastructure presentation as information; no action was taken. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by motion.

The Kearney City Council held a budget retreat on May 14, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. The meeting was devoted entirely to a presentation and discussion of the City of Kearney budget led by City Manager Brenda Jensen. Topics included the budget process, state legislative impacts, revenue and expenditure trends, the proposed Fire Station 3 project, and a wide-ranging list of future capital projects. No formal votes were taken; the meeting served as an informational session and a starting point for future budget deliberations. Discussion Items - Budget Process & Timeline: Jensen outlined the fiscal year (October 1 start) and key dates: March special sales tax public hearing, May retreat (newer addition), July joint city-county meeting and full budget retreat, September public hearings and adoption. For FY26, the council will first see the full budget in July. - State Influences on Budget: - Property Tax Cap: LB34 (2024) imposed a new formula; LB647 (2025) made tweaks, including removing the previous lid on restricted funds and eliminating the occupation tax cap (allowing rate increases without voter approval). The SLICE (State and Local Government Expenditures) index for this year is 5.17%, plus growth (typically 2-3%). - State Reimbursements: The Nebraska Advantage Program will cost the city $230,000 in lost sales tax revenue next year (unknown recipients). State Highway 30 projects require city cost-sharing: 50% for maintenance, 20% for reconstruction, 10% for safety. Upcoming: $293,000 for streetlight replacement on East Highway 30 (FY26); $4 million estimated for reconstruction from college curves to 30th Avenue (FY27). - Mandated Pension Increases: Police pension match rises from 7% to 9% (city cost $124,000); firefighter hybrid program increase $35,000. Combined with Nebraska Advantage, known cost increases total $390,000 for FY26. - Revenue & Expenditure Trends (General Fund): - Revenues: Over five years, total revenue increased 43% ($5 million); sales tax grew 49% ($3.9 million), property tax grew 30% ($1.15 million). Property tax currently brings in $5 million (does not cover police salaries/benefits of $8.4 million). Sales tax (1% general fund, 0.5% capital) is the largest revenue source. - Expenditures: 61% ($22.7M) on personal services, 35% ($13.1M) on operating, 4% ($1.4M) on capital outlay. Over five years, operating (non-restricted) costs grew 72% ($5.8M); personnel/insurance (restricted) grew 28% ($4.9M). Property and casualty insurance rose 135% ($370,000) over five years. Examples of cost escalations: pool chemicals up $20,000; water meters doubled from 2023-2025; fire helmet up 73% (to $570), bunker boots up 157% (to $572). - New Services: - Yanni Gardens: Operating costs $800,000 (parks only, not senior center/rec/marina). Endowment is being built but not yet sufficient to cover operations. - Sportsplex: FY25 operating cost $1.1 million (partial year); FY26 full-year estimate $1.6 million. Revenues plus $300,000 from Visitors Bureau and $450,000 subsidy from Keno funds projected to break even. Council discussed potential future funding strategies: increasing hotel/restaurant occupation tax (now no voter cap) or allocating more Visitor Bureau funds. - Fire Station 3 & Ladder Truck: - Need: Response times to northeast Kearney are poor; ISO rating is within one point of dropping from Class 2 to Class 3 (would raise insurance rates). Station would be at Avenue N and 48th Street. The airport station (currently used as a temporary fix) is often unavailable due to FAA mandates. Total project cost: $14.815 million ($12.3M station, $2.5M ladder truck). - Funding: Proposed municipal improvement bond (first use of this tool) with 20-year term, pledging property and sales tax. Estimated annual payment $1.1 million, requiring a 3-cent levy increase (from 14¢ to 17¢). Average home value ($234,000) would see an annual increase of $70 ($5.83/month). Council members expressed support for the need but raised concerns about cumulative property tax burden alongside other potential bonds (law enforcement center, schools). Discussion included alternative funding (e.g., half-cent sales tax, but that requires a public vote and 10-year limit). - Future Capital Projects List: - Roadway/Intersections: - 39th & Antelope: $6.4 million for three-lane road and roundabout (needed due to major annexations/development; city pays full cost). - Talmadge & 2nd Avenue: Traffic impact study underway; no cost estimates yet. - West Interchange (30th Avenue): Sub-projects total $14.6 million (widening, paving) before interchange itself; long-term priority. - Bridges/Drainage: - Bridge replacement (box culvert): cost unknown. - Downtown drainage (twin 60-inch pipes under railroad): $7 million, in design phase. - Southeast drainage (Avenue M to river): Phase 1 $6 million, Phase 2 $8 million. - Water/Sanitary Sewer: - N Avenue water tower loop $1.1M; Highway 30 water loop $410K; M Avenue loop $1.2M. - Chase Avenue trunk sewer (relieves Antelope line at 90% capacity): partially funded by $3.3M EDA grant. - City Facilities: - Sportsplex overflow parking: paved option $1.5M (340 stalls); gravel option $625K (fewer stalls, winter issues). Council favored paved. - New vehicle maintenance building: cost unknown; exploring options including potential relocation of public works. - Beautification/Parks: - 2nd Avenue entrance sign ($75K+ for full beautification). - Cottonmill Park improvements (swim lake, nature barn): cost unknown; discussion on repurposing. - East Dog Park (14 acres): $275,000. - Dryden Park softball field improvements ($1.4M, potential donor through UNK). - Pickleball expansion at Harvey Park ($350,000 for 4 courts). - Additional MRG flight to Chicago: estimated $1.5-$1.8 million per year (subsidy needed; previous cost was $1.2M in 2019). Council noted high public interest. - Prioritization: The special sales tax (0.5%) generates $6M annually for capital, but current encumbrances leave only $2M per year available for new projects. Jensen emphasized the need for council direction on priorities and funding strategies. Key Outcomes - No formal motions or votes were taken. - Council members acknowledged the need for Fire Station 3 and a ladder truck but expressed caution about property tax increases and the cumulative impact on taxpayers. - The council directed staff to provide a detailed special sales tax spending timeline (when current commitments expire) to aid in planning. - Staff will continue developing a prioritized capital plan and explore funding options (bonds, sales tax, occupation tax, grants) for future council consideration. - The budget retreat will be followed by the July budget retreat where FY26 numbers will be presented in full.

The Kearney City Council met on May 13, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine business, multiple public hearings on zoning and easements, a consent agenda, and an informational presentation on the City's Utility Growth Study. Several items were postponed to the May 27, 2025 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved Minutes of the April 22, 2025 regular meeting. - Approved the Claims. - Adopted Resolution No. 2025-52 authorizing the City Manager to enter into an Agreement for Professional Management Services with SCEDD for the EDA Grant for the Box Butte Business Development Project. - Adopted Resolution No. 2025-53 approving transfer of funds from Nebraska CLASS to NPAIT due to merger. - Adopted Resolution No. 2024-113A amending the Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement for 922 Enterprises (Kearney Storage, LLC). - Adopted Resolution No. 2025-54 approving Change Order No. 1 ($12,337.50 increase) and Payment No. 1 ($357,673.64) for KEA Constructors, LLC for 2025 Part 1 Improvements – 30th Avenue Overpass Rehabilitation. - Adopted Resolution No. 2025-55 approving the Peterson Senior Activity Center Annual Nutrition Service Contract with Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska. - Accepted bids for 2025 Part 3 Improvements – Butler Avenue Place and adopted Resolution No. 2025-56 awarding bid to Dan Roeder Concrete, Inc. for $843,017.30. - Adopted Resolution No. 2025-58 approving the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and Kearney Public Schools for the School Resource Officer Program. - Consent Agenda item 9 (amended Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement for Saadi First) was postponed to the May 27, 2025 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the council on any agenda item or on matters not on the agenda. Discussion Items - Public Hearings 1 & 2 (Good Samaritan Village – vacation, rezoning, and final plat) were postponed to May 27, 2025, by unanimous vote. - Public Hearings 3 & 4 (Westesen Acres – rezoning and final plat) were held. Trenton Snow, applicant, explained the proposal: creating a one-lot subdivision (RR-2 zoning) for a family member to purchase a house with garage and driveway, using private well and septic. The Planning Commission recommended approval. The council closed both hearings and adopted Ordinance No. 8747 (rezoning to RR-2) and Resolution No. 2025-43 (final plat) unanimously. - Public Hearings 5-7 (McCaslin Subdivision – two rezoning requests and final plat) were postponed to May 27, 2025, by unanimous vote. - Public Hearings 8-10 (acquisition of utility easements from WinStar Enterprises for Saadi First) were postponed to May 27, 2025, by unanimous vote. - Public Hearing 11 (acquisition of permanent utility easement from BSB Investments, LLC) was held. Sarah Sohn, Director of Utilities, described a general utility easement along 20th Avenue for gas, electric, and telecommunications. Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-48 unanimously. - Public Hearings 12-14 (acquisition of three easements from Kearney Community Sustainable Housing for Village Plaza Second Addition) were held. Sarah Sohn explained a sanitary sewer easement, a water main easement, and a general utility easement on the newly paved Westla Platte. Council adopted Resolutions No. 2025-49 (sewer line easement), No. 2025-50 (general utility easement), and No. 2025-51 (water line easement). Council Member Moore abstained on Resolutions 2025-49 and 2025-50; all other votes were unanimous. - Regular Agenda: Miller & Associates presented the City of Kearney Utility Growth Study (water and sanitary sewer infrastructure). Key statistics: 199 miles of sewer pipe, 244 miles of water pipe; wastewater treatment plant capacity 5.9 million gallons per day (MGD) with average flow of 3.8 MGD (64% capacity); combined well field capacity 29 MGD with peak average demand 14.6 MGD. The presentation identified major projects needed: two sewer relief trunk mains ($7M and $10.5M), a redundant water feed to rolling hills ($1.1M), and other priorities. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - All postponed items (Good Samaritan Village, McCaslin Subdivision, and Saadi First easements and infrastructure agreement) will be heard on May 27, 2025. - Westesen Acres rezoning (Ordinance 8747) and final plat (Resolution 2025-43) approved unanimously. - BSB Investments permanent utility easement (Resolution 2025-48) approved unanimously. - Village Plaza Second Addition sewer line easement (Resolution 2025-49), general utility easement (Resolution 2025-50), and water line easement (Resolution 2025-51) approved; Moore abstained on Resolutions 2025-49 and 2025-50. - Consent Agenda (items 1-8 and 10) approved unanimously; item 9 postponed. - Council entered closed session at approximately 6:23 p.m. for personnel matters.

The Kearney City Council met on April 22, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The meeting featured multiple proclamations honoring community organizations and individuals, a postponed public hearing on the Good Samaritan Village development, approval of consent agenda items, and regular agenda items including the city's annual financial report and a presentation on the transition of public swimming pool oversight from the state to Two Rivers Public Health Department. Proclamations - Youth Week Proclamation (May 1–7, 2025): Presented to Kearney Elks Lodge 984. Representatives Doug and Jim described the Elks' 52nd annual Hoop Shoot contest, junior golf programs, prescription drug take-back events, and 120 years of service to the community. The lodge has 340 members across the region. - Proclamation for Robyn Bowman: Honored for 43 years of employment with the City of Kearney, starting in 1982 as office manager in Parks and Recreation. Over her tenure, the city added 11 parks, 30 miles of hike/bike trails, and facilities including the Harman Park Activity Center, Meadowlark Hills Golf Course, Peterson Senior Center, skateboard park, and Ernest Grundy Tennis Center. Bowman expressed gratitude for the city's support. - National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week Proclamation: Presented to the Buffalo County Sheriff's Office 911 Communications Center. Chief (speaking on behalf of the sheriff) noted the co-located dispatch center and highlighted a recent award for a dispatcher who provided CPR instructions that saved a life. The center is currently a few staff short but operates with four personnel per shift. - National Police Week Proclamation (May 11–17, 2025): Accepted by the Kearney Police Department Chief. He announced the sixth annual police memorial ceremony on May 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the Law Enforcement Center, honoring officers killed in the line of duty. Public Hearings & Testimony - Postponed to May 13, 2025: Public hearings (Items III-1 and III-2) regarding the Good Samaritan Village development (vacation, rezoning, and final plat at 2201 East 32nd Street) were further postponed at the request of the applicant (Miller & Associates for Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society). The council voted unanimously to postpone. Consent Agenda - Item 6 Postponed: The amendment to the Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement for Saadi First (Resolution No. 2024-144A) was postponed to May 13, 2025 at staff request. - Approved Items 1–5 and 7–11: Included approval of April 8, 2025 minutes; claims; setting May 13 date for planning commission recommendations; liquor license addition for Le Chateau No 22; conditional use permit renewal for Kappas Enterprises (sand and gravel operation, two-year extension); interlocal agreement with NDOT for East Highway 30 roadway lighting reconstruction; award of snow removal equipment bid to M-B Companies, Inc. ($835,822.16); payment to John T. Jones Construction Co. for WWTP Phase II ($90,779.14); change order and final payment for 2022 Part 2 Improvements (56th Street and Avenue N turn lane) – increase of $63,701.75 and final payment of $142,505.56; and addendum to the Law Enforcement Center Agreement regarding shared use of the LEC West building and crime analyst position. Discussion Items - Annual Financial Report (Regular Agenda Item 1): Timothy Lenz of Bergen KDV (CPA firm, part of Creative Planning) presented the draft audit. Key highlights: the city's assets exceeded liabilities by $365 million (increase of $21 million over prior year); governmental funds reported combined ending fund balance of $42 million (decrease of $21 million due to capital investments). The audit received a clean (unmodified) opinion. Two findings were noted: a material weakness due to proposed journal entries (attributed to first-year audit with the new firm) and a significant deficiency in segregation of duties due to staff size. The city also received a clean single audit report for federal funds expended ($20 million, with two major programs tested: clean water and drinking water state revolving funds totaling $14.4 million). Council member noted the audit was well-presented and appreciated the clean bill of health. - Two Rivers Public Health Department Presentation (Regular Agenda Item 2): Katie Mulligan (program manager), Dr. Organ (epidemiologist), and Mike Henry (legal counsel) presented the transition of environmental oversight for public swimming pools from the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) to Two Rivers. The department now inspects all public pools (hotels, motels, municipal pools, etc.) in its five-county jurisdiction. There are 77 total permits; Buffalo County has 47 (mostly in Kearney). The program started April 1, 2025. Fees: municipal pools pay $200 for the first permit (plus the state's $40 permit fee); additional permits at the same location cost $150. The city of Kearney owns three pools (Harmon, Centennial, Cottonmill Park) – Harmon counts as one permit because it's one circulation system. Inspections are free (no additional charges for repeat visits). The department has a team of four, with one additional inspector being hired. Inspections cover water chemistry (chlorine, pH, alkalinity), safety equipment (buoys, shepherd's crooks, lifeguards), engineering controls, and deck safety. The department also offers free CPR training through two certified nurses. Council members asked about the inspection frequency (city tests five times a day) and fee differences (state previously charged only $40 permit fee, no inspection fee; now the city pays $240 total for the first pool). The city's Parks and Recreation director Scott was present to answer questions about city pool operations. - Open Account Claim (Regular Agenda Item 3): Approved payment of $42.25 to UNL Marketplace. Key Outcomes - Postponement of Good Samaritan Village hearings to May 13, 2025 (unanimous). - Consent agenda Item 6 postponed to May 13, 2025 (unanimous). - Consent agenda Items 1–5 and 7–11 approved (unanimous). - Annual financial report accepted (unanimous). - Open account claim approved (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned after no public comments or council reports.