Public Meetings - Kearney, Nebraska

The Kearney City Council met on September 10, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. Mayor Jonathan Nikkila presided with Vice-President Randy Buschkoetter, Council Member Kurt Schmidt, and Council Member Pete Kotsiopulos present. Council Member Tami James Moore was absent due to travel to the Czech Republic with sister cities. The meeting included an oral communication from ALLO Communications, three public hearings, a consent agenda with 20 items, a consent agenda ordinance, and two regular agenda items. All votes were unanimous except for an abstention on the open account claim. Oral Communications: ALLO Communications Presentation - Dave Miller, General Manager of ALLO Communications, along with team members Brandon White, Don Larson, and Lauren Bliss, presented a certificate of completion celebrating Kearney becoming a 100% fiber-connected community. - ALLO’s investment in Kearney totals $32 million, with 500+ miles of fiber deployed (78% underground, 22% aerial) and 42 full-time employees. - The company announced a new Smart Town initiative providing community Wi-Fi via ALLO routers, and highlighted its Community Connect program providing free internet to 10 nonprofits for three years. - Council members expressed appreciation for the construction quality and the company’s partnership. Public Hearings 1. Final Plat and Subdivision Agreement for Northwestern Energy First Addition - The public hearing was conducted for a one-lot subdivision for a gas regulator station located one-half mile south of West 78th Street and 17th Avenue. - City staff explained the plat includes a 50-foot setback from the section line for future right-of-way. - No public comments were made. Council approved Resolution No. 2024-114 unanimously. 2. One- & Six-Year Street Improvement Plan - City Engineer Luke Dutcher presented the plan, previously reviewed at the August 27 meeting, noting no public comments were received. - The plan includes long-term projects such as 30th Avenue and Talmage Street. - Council approved Resolution No. 2024-115 unanimously. 3. Acquisition of Permanent Water Main Easement - Sarah Son, Director of Utilities, explained the need for a 20-foot permanent water main easement from Essam Arram (Arram Equities, Inc.) for fire suppression improvements at the former Marshall Engines site (404 West 8th Street). - The easement will serve a future water line for fire safety. - Council approved Resolution No. 2024-116 unanimously. Consent Agenda - Items 1 through 20 were approved unanimously, including: - Approval of August 27, 2024 minutes - Claims - Keno Committee fund allocations - Resolution 2024-117 increasing budget authority by $176,171.04 (1% carryover) - Resolution 2024-118 adopting the 2024-2025 Comprehensive Fee Schedule - Resolution 2024-119 (NDOT compliance certification) - Resolution 2024-120 setting the property tax levy - Offstreet Parking District No. 1 Budget and Resolution 2024-121 - Kearney Area Solid Waste Agency Budget and Resolution 2024-122 - Award of Preferred Food Service Vendor for SportsPlex to Nightlife Concepts (Cunningham’s Journal) and Pizza Ranch - Letter of no recommendation for Las Americas Kearney liquor license - Manufactured home court license renewal (East Lawn Mobile Homes Estates) - Resolution 2024-123 approving assignment of Real Estate Purchase Agreement - Resolution 2024-124 approving Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement (DCIA) for Marshall Addition - Resolution 2024-125 approving NorthWestern Energy funds for Development Council of Buffalo County - Plans and specifications for 2024 Part 5 Improvements (bid opening October 1, 2024) - Resolution 2024-126 approving Change Order No. 4 ($97,906.93 increase) for WWTP Phase II - Resolution 2024-127 approving Payment No. 2 ($223,109.10) and Change Order No. 1 ($24,811 increase) for 2024 Part 3 Improvements - Resolution 2024-128 approving DCIA for Arbor View Third and Arbor View Fourth, Phase I - Resolution 2024-129 approving Title VI Compliance Plan for Kearney Regional Airport Consent Agenda Ordinances - Ordinance No. 8695 (Annual Personnel Ordinance) was approved on final passage after suspension of three readings, repealing Ordinance No. 8689 and establishing salary ranges, benefits, and allowances. Regular Agenda - Ordinance No. 8696 adopting the City of Kearney 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget and approving the budget statement as the Annual Appropriation Bill was approved unanimously after suspension of three readings. - Open Account Claim to Grant Buschkoetter for $101.60 was approved, with Vice-President Buschkoetter abstaining from the vote. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions (2024-114, 2024-115, 2024-116) from public hearings were passed unanimously. - All consent agenda items and the consent agenda ordinance passed unanimously. - The 2024-2025 budget ordinance (No. 8696) was adopted. - The open account claim was approved with one abstention. - The meeting adjourned without further reports.

The Kearney City Council held three public hearings on September 4, 2024, to discuss the proposed FY2024-2025 City budget, the 2024 property tax request, and the Offstreet Parking District No. 1 budget. The budget presentation by Finance Director Kayla James highlighted a $27.2 million (17.1%) decrease in total expenditures, a $5.35 million property tax request (up 7.6%), and significant concerns about rising health insurance costs. No members of the public provided testimony. The council closed all three hearings and encouraged revisiting health insurance funding before the state submission deadline. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the council during any of the three public hearings. Discussion Items - City Budget for FY2024-2025 (Agenda Item 3) - Finance Director Kayla James presented the proposed budget, noting total expenditures of approximately $132 million, down $27.2 million (17.1%) from FY2023-2024 due to the completion of major projects (Sportsplex, police take-home vehicles) in the prior year. - General fund expenditures increased by $1.46 million (4.1%), driven by a $1.49 million (7%) rise in personal services, including a 3% COLA ($732,000 total) and the addition of 8 full-time equivalent positions (total 363 positions budgeted). - Capital outlay decreased by $36 million (46%) across all funds, with the top nine capital projects (including Sportsplex, airport apron, wastewater treatment, and roundabout) comprising 67.5% of capital expenditures. - Property tax request of $5,345,101 is an increase of $377,516 (7.6%), reflecting a 7.6% increase in total valuation (new construction 1.7%, existing properties 5.87%). The property tax levy remains unchanged at $0.45 per $100 of valuation. - Sales tax revenue is budgeted at $18.3 million from the city’s 1.5% local option sales tax; the average increase through August 2024 was 5.4%. - Health insurance fund faces a projected claims shortfall: claims rose from $4.6 million (March) to $5.2 million (late August). Consultants recommended a 36% premium increase, but the budget only includes 10%. Council members (including Moore and Schmidt) expressed concern that the 10% increase may be insufficient and urged a more aggressive approach, possibly requiring a tax rate increase. The council noted that the budget must be submitted to the state within two weeks and that a special meeting could be called to adjust the health insurance allocation. - Discussion of the new property tax cap (LB34, replacing the lid on restricted funds) and its potential impact on future budgets. The cap will allow growth plus inflation (or zero) and exemptions for bond payments. - Setting the 2024 Property Tax Request (Agenda Item 4) - Council held a public hearing as required by state law because the 2024 tax request ($5.3 million) exceeds the 2023 request ($4.9 million). No action was taken on this item; it was a procedural hearing only. - Offstreet Parking District No. 1 Budget for FY2024-2025 (Agenda Item 5) - Kayla James presented the budget for the Offstreet Parking District, a blended component unit. The district expects to end FY2023-2024 with a cash balance of $170,303. Proposed revenues: $67,064 (including $60,164 property tax, a 2.5% increase from $58,697 in 2023, plus event admissions, interest, and donations). Expenditures: up to $227,367, with most funds available for marketing and capital projects. The district maintains a $10,000 cash reserve. - The Downtown Improvement Board has been accumulating funds for larger capital projects (e.g., trash cans, benches) and is not spending all annual revenue. Council members noted the board’s good management and the city’s takeover of the downtown coordinator position has freed up marketing funds. Key Outcomes - All three public hearings were closed by unanimous voice votes (Mayor Nikkila present; Vice-President Buschkoetter and Council Member Kotsiopulos absent; Council Members Moore and Schmidt voting aye). No formal votes were taken on the budgets or tax request during this meeting. - The council directed staff to consider increasing the health insurance budget allocation before the state submission deadline (approximately September 18, 2024) and to evaluate whether a property tax levy increase would be necessary to cover higher premiums. A special council meeting may be called for this purpose. - The FY2024-2025 City budget and the Offstreet Parking District budget will be submitted to the state following potential adjustments. The property tax request hearing satisfied the statutory requirement but did not result in a council action.

The Kearney City Council met on August 27, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting included a ceremonial oath of office for a new police officer, approval of consent items, a review of the One- and Six-Year Street Improvement Plan, and approval of open account claims. Oath of Office and Ceremony - Police Officer Caleb Hollis was sworn in by the City Clerk after remarks from Police Chief Waugh. Chief Waugh highlighted Hollis’s local roots, his prior service as a Community Service Officer, and his graduation from the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center. The Kearney Police Department Honor Guard presented the colors, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Consent Calendar - Items 1–8 were approved unanimously by roll call vote (Mayor Nikkila absent, Council Members present: Buschkoetter, James Moore, Schmidt, Kotsiopulos). Items included: - Approval of minutes from August 13, 2024. - Approval of claims. - Receipt of Planning Commission recommendations and setting September 10, 2024 hearing. - Resolution 2024-112 approving final levy allocations: $247,450.00 for the Community Redevelopment Authority and $60,164.00 for Offstreet Parking District No. 1 for FY 2024-2025. - Purchases for the Kearney SportsPlex: furniture ($179,769.18 from Eakes Office Solutions), a club car ($9,273.31 from Nebraska Golf and Turf), and basketball backboard lights ($20,660.00 from Crouch Recreation). - Resolution 2024-113 approving a Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement with Brandon Green (922 Enterprises – Kearney Storage, LLC) for water main infrastructure at 1112 E. 20th Street. - Authorization for the Mayor to send a letter of no recommendation to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission on the manager application for Matthew Cordes (Blazin Wings Inc. dba Buffalo Wild Wings 584). - Acceptance of a proposal from Industrial Process Technology ($59,041.00) for swimming pool recirculation pump replacement at Harmon Park Pool. Consent Agenda Ordinances - Ordinance No. 8694 — Amending Article 13 of Chapter 3 (Alcoholic Beverages) to add language pertaining to limousines and party buses. The ordinance was read by number only, suspended three readings, and passed unanimously on final adoption. Discussion Items 1. One- & Six-Year Street Improvement Plan City Engineer Luke Dutcher presented the annual plan, required as a condition of receiving state highway allocation funds. The one-year plan (calendar year 2025) includes 10 projects: three city-led (30th Avenue Bridge repair, roundabout at Highway 30/University Village, and Village Plaza Second residential roadways) and seven developer projects. The six-year plan lists longer-term projects, including widening 30th Avenue, storm sewer work on Avenue A or 1st Street, reconstruction of streets such as 39th Street and Avenue A, and a traffic signal at 45th Street and Avenue N. Council discussed balancing growth with maintenance, noting that projects are tentative and may shift based on grants and development. A public hearing was set for September 10, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. 2. Open Account Claims - Claim for NPPD: $112,004.97 — Approved unanimously (Mayor absent, all present voted aye). - Claim for University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK): $825.00 — Approved with Council Member Tami James Moore abstaining; other members voted aye. Reports City Manager Brenda Jensen reported on the transition to SkyWest/United for air service beginning November 1, 2024. Flights can be booked now; initially, there will be two daily flights to Denver five days a week and one daily flight on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The first inbound flight arrives November 1, with the first outbound flight later that evening. Key Outcomes - Oath of Office administered to Officer Caleb Hollis. - Consent Agenda (8 items) approved unanimously. - Ordinance 8694 passed unanimously. - Public hearing date set for September 10, 2024, for the One- and Six-Year Street Improvement Plan. - Open account claims approved: NPPD ($112,004.97) and UNK ($825.00) with one abstention on the UNK claim. - Adjournment after reports.

The City of Kearney Planning Commission met on August 16, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. in City Council Chambers, 18 East 22nd Street. Chairperson Dave Malone presided. The commission approved minutes, held hearings on a plat for Northwestern Energy, heard a presentation on the 2024-2025 Capital Expenditures budget, and elected officers. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the June 21, 2024 meeting (motion carried unanimously). - Approved minutes of the July 19, 2024 meeting (motion carried; Commissioner Rickard abstained). Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items - Preliminary and Final Plat for Northwestern Energy First Addition: Doug Stevenson of Olsson presented a proposal for a 60- by 40-foot regulator station for Northwestern Energy, located one-half mile south of the intersection of West 78th Street and 17th Avenue on the west side. The lot meets minimum footage requirements and is restricted to natural gas facilities. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved both the preliminary plat (Item 5) and final plat (Item 6). - 2024-2025 Capital Expenditures Budget: Finance Director Kayla James presented the city's capital improvement plan. Key projects include: $500,000 for miscellaneous paving; $200,000 for Rolling Hills subdivision resurfacing (pending homeowners association decision); $1.77 million for the 30th Avenue overpass structural reinforcement; $3.2 million for the Highway 30/University Drive roundabout project (city share $301,000); $252,000 for Cotton Mill Road asphalt improvements; $500,000 for miscellaneous sewer districts; final phase of wastewater treatment plant upgrade (additional $5 million bond closed); $400,000 for miscellaneous water districts; $4.066 million loan (with $3 million forgiveness) for lead service line replacement over five years, targeting approximately 1,000 homes; and $8.75 million for airport apron reconstruction (city share $875,000). The commission recommended approval of the capital improvements budget. - Election of Officers: The commission elected Stan Dart as Chairperson and Richard McGuinness as Vice Chairperson for the upcoming year. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from June 21 and July 19, 2024. - Approved Preliminary Plat No. 2024-08 (unanimous). - Approved Final Plat No. 2024-08 (unanimous). - Recommended approval of the 2024-2025 Capital Expenditures budget (unanimous). - Elected Stan Dart as Chairperson and Richard McGuinness as Vice Chairperson (both unanimous). The meeting was adjourned.

The Kearney City Council met on August 13, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine business, public hearings, consent agenda items, consent ordinances, and reports. The meeting was conducted efficiently, with no oral communications or unfinished business, and adjourned after approximately six minutes. Public Hearings - Public Hearing 1 & 2 (combined): Proposed acquisition of property from Turkey Creek Properties LLC and Talmadge Jam LLC for a 66-foot wide permanent right-of-way and utility easement (Resolution 2024-103) and a 10-foot utility easement (Resolution 2024-104). The easements will connect a portion of 3rd Street between Yanney Avenue and 16th Avenue (currently a field drive). Council member Sarah (likely staff) explained the project. No public comments were received. The council voted unanimously to close the hearings and adopt the resolutions. Consent Agenda Items 1-11 were approved unanimously by roll call vote (Mayor Nikkila, Council Members Moore, Buschkoetter, and others voting aye). Key items: - Approval of minutes from July 23, 2024. - Approval of claims. - Resolution 2024-105: Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement (DCIA) for Oak Park Center Fourth (water, paving, storm sewer). - Resolution 2024-106: DCIA for Younes Center; 3rd Street, 16th Avenue to Yanney Avenue (water, sanitary sewer, paving, storm sewer). - 30-day extension for manufactured home court license for East Lawn Mobile Homes Estates to correct deficiencies. - Resolution 2024-107: Authorization for City Manager to send non-renewal letter to current KENO operator and proceed with Request for Proposals. - Approval to sell two utilities department equipment by auction, sealed bid, or private sale. - Resolution 2024-108: Acceptance of public improvements for Butler Addition. - Resolution 2024-109: Amendment to agreement with Community Redevelopment Authority (fee increase and five-year extension). - Resolution 2024-110: Approval of Payment No. 24 and Change Order No. 3 (increase of $156,336) for WWTP Phase II Improvements/Water Resource Recovery Facility. - Resolution 2024-111: DCIA for Butler Addition Phase 2 (Chase Avenue Extension) for paving and storm sewer. Consent Ordinances Three ordinances were approved on final passage with a roll call vote (Council Member Moore abstained on all three; others aye): - Ordinance No. 8691: Authorizes deed of sale for Lot 2, Block 1, Village Plaza Second Addition to Kearney Community Sustainable Housing (a non-profit). - Ordinance No. 8692: Renames and redesignates a portion of 2nd Street (from west line of 11th Avenue west 300 feet) to Younes Drive. - Ordinance No. 8693: Renames and redesignates a portion of 15th Avenue (from south line of Talmadge Street south 479 feet) to 16th Avenue. Reports - Council Member Mike (likely Kotsiopulos or Schmidt) reported no items. - City Manager Brenda Jensen announced that the city received the final selection order from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the Sky West Essential Air Service (EAS) contract. The contract will begin November 1, 2024, for a three-year term. The flight schedule is expected to be similar to the previous one. Weekly onboarding calls will start at the end of August, and marketing information will be released soon. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and ordinances were adopted as presented. - The Sky West EAS contract was confirmed to start November 1, 2024. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 5:36 p.m.

The Kearney City Council met on July 23, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting included a badge-pinning ceremony for newly elected officers of the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, a public hearing and adoption of a conditional use permit for telecommunications co-location, approval of a consent agenda with 13 items, a presentation of NPPD's 2023 Energy Report, and approval of an open account claim to NPPD. Mayor Jonathan Nikkila was absent. Oral Communications – Pinning Ceremony - Fire Chief Aaron Jameson and Deputy Chief Jason Whalen conducted a badge-pinning ceremony for newly elected officers of the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department. The following officers were recognized: Battalion Chief Seth Lumberry (15-year member), Captains Clint Smith (8-year member) and Nate Tooth, and Lieutenants Mike Treadway (9-year member) and Adam Grazier (3-year member). Several other elected and appointed officers unable to attend were also noted. The council thanked the department for their volunteer service and leadership. Public Hearing – Conditional Use Permit for Telecommunications Co-location - The council held a public hearing on application SMJ International o/b/o American Tower and T-Mobile for a conditional use permit to co-locate telecommunications equipment at 6204 2nd Avenue on property zoned M-1/PD. Andy Barbritsky (710 Matthews Avenue, Armor, SD) presented, stating T-Mobile would add one array of antennas and an equipment platform inside the existing fenced compound, avoiding construction of a new tower. No public testimony was offered. The council closed the hearing and unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 8688A on final passage (roll call: Bushcutter, Lear, Nicola, Moore all aye; Mayor absent). Consent Calendar - The consent agenda contained 13 items. Items 1 through 12 were approved unanimously. Item 13 (Purchase Agreement with Kearney Community Sustainable Housing for Lot 2, Block 1, Village Plaza Second Addition) was approved with Council Member Tami James Moore abstaining. Notable items included: - Approval of minutes from meetings on July 8, 9, and 11, 2024. - Approval of claims. - Adoption of Resolution 2024-91 approving a Developer Constructed Infrastructure Agreement for 10th Street Place Improvements (water, paving, storm sewer) with Goldenrod Services, LLC. - Approval of Resolutions 2024-95 and 2024-96 regarding direct negotiations with NorthWestern Energy natural gas rates and an interlocal agreement with Grand Island, North Platte, and Alda. - Purchase of a K’Archer Kira B 50 autonomous floor cleaner, installation, service package, and docking stations ($87,838.30) and janitorial equipment ($20,576.65) for the Kearney SportsPlex. - Adoption of Resolution 2024-97 approving purchase of Lot 1, Block 2, Younes Center Eleventh Addition from Talmadge JAM, LLC. - Adoption of Resolution 2024-98 appointing citizens to various boards. - Resolutions 2024-99, 2024-100, 2024-101 accepting final payments and change orders for infrastructure projects (Talmadge Street improvements, booster pump stations, WWTP Phase II). Consent Agenda Ordinance - Ordinance No. 8690 authorizing the deed of sale for Lot 1, Block 2, Younes Center Eleventh Addition to Talmadge JAM, LLC was adopted on final passage (unanimous vote). Regular Agenda – NPPD Energy Report - Grant Flamig (5909 U Avenue, Kearney) was introduced as the new NPPD account manager, replacing Stan Klaus who retired. Flamig presented the 2023 Energy Report for Kearney. Key statistics included: NPPD collected and remitted $10 million in lease payments to the City of Kearney, $500,000 in city sales tax, and $2.1 million in gross revenue tax to Buffalo County. Energy efficiency incentives paid to Kearney customers totaled $320,000. NPPD's generation mix is 56% carbon-free (42% nuclear, plus wind, hydro, solar). NPPD has 93,000 customers across 81 retail communities, with the lowest electric rates in the United States and zero rate increases for 11 years. Flamig noted a planned average 2% rate increase starting in 2025 to fund new generation capacity. Council discussed the status of a new power line across the north side of town; Flamig reported it is on track with material bids accepted, expected completion by spring 2025. Regular Agenda – Open Account Claim - The council approved an open account claim to NPPD in the amount of $124,204.22 (unanimous vote). Reports and Adjournment - Council members and City Manager Brenda Jensen reported no items. Council Member Kurt Schmidt noted the successful Cruise Night event. The meeting adjourned.

On July 19, 2024, at 9:00 AM, the Kearney Planning Commission held a workshop meeting in City Council Chambers at 18 East 22nd Street. The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. No official business or public hearings were conducted. The agenda focused on three informational items: updates to the Planning Commission Handbook and New Commissioner Quick Reference, an in-depth explanation of the Development Review Team (DRT) process, and an overview of planning staff activities and future educational outreach. The meeting adjourned by motion around 9:45 AM. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Planning Commission Handbook & New Commissioner Quick Reference Update: Staff reported that the Planning Commission Handbook, last updated in 2019, is being revised. The update is pending completion of the Nebraska Planning Handbook by the Nebraska Planning and Zoning Administration (NPZA), which is being updated after many years. A new one-page "New Commissioner Quick Reference" sheet was created and presented; it covers meeting procedures, motion-making, preparation tips, and points of contact. Recent updates include adding notification mailings for neighboring properties and correcting typos. The target completion for the Handbook is end of 2024. - Development Review Team (DRT) Process: Staff provided a comprehensive overview of the DRT process. DRT is a confidential meeting between applicants and city staff held every Thursday at 9:00 AM, typically lasting 30 minutes. Attending departments include fire inspection, public utilities, public works, development services, the city manager, and occasionally a KPD officer certified in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. The process allows applicants to discuss ideas, receive feedback, and identify potential issues before submitting a formal planning commission application. Staff emphasized that DRT reduces the need for multiple continuances and enables building permits to be processed in as few as 10 business days—faster than in Lincoln or Omaha (2-3 months). Discussion also covered public notification methods: newspaper publication (statutory requirement), mailers, signs on property, and city website/social media. Staff noted that state statutes are being evaluated to allow additional notification methods due to declining newspaper readership. Commissioners asked about the percentage of households subscribing to the Kearney Hub (unknown) and the frequency of off-topic questions at public outreach events (about 5% for housing, often adjacent issues like tiny homes or code compliance). - Planning Staff Updates: Staff outlined daily responsibilities: answering phones and in-person inquiries (especially on Mondays), processing open records requests (e.g., zoning verification letters), and conducting research for code updates. Specific projects include: monitoring state statutes (e.g., ADU legislation), researching ADU implementation in other communities (noting that tracking ADU construction is difficult due to software classification issues), preparing for a comprehensive plan update (RFP expected end of 2024/early 2025, with a 1-1.5 year process), and producing a semi-annual newsletter sent to about 800 recipients. Staff also described planned educational outreach: creating informational videos, flyers, social media posts, school presentations (elementary through college), and potentially a city planning activity table at the Children's Museum. Commissioners suggested speaking at local service clubs, which staff expressed openness to. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made. - The meeting adjourned by motion and second, with all in favor. - Staff will continue work on the Planning Commission Handbook (target completion end of 2024), ADU research and outreach, and development of public education materials.

The Kearney City Council met on July 9, 2024 at 5:30 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included public hearings on rezoning and plat applications, consent agenda approvals, and a discussion on Essential Air Service carrier proposals. All items were approved as noted. Public Hearings - Items 1 & 2 – Rezoning at 715 Avenue D: Dan Bucher of A & D Rentals LLC requested an amendment to the Land Use Map from Medium Density Residential to Office/Commercial Retail Mixed Use (MU2) and a rezoning from R-3/PD (Planned Development) to C-3 General Commercial. Mr. Bucher stated the property has a storm drain that limits development and they plan to build a commercial building for their construction company. The Planning Commission recommended approval. The council voted to close both public hearings and approved Resolution 2024-88 and Ordinance 8684 unanimously (with all present voting in favor). - Items 3 & 4 – Village Plaza Second Addition: Craig Bennett from Miller & Associates presented a request to rezone from M-1 (Limited Industrial) to R-3 (Urban Residential Multi-Family Medium Density) for a 5.8-acre lot east of 30th Avenue and north of Railroad Street, and to vacate the existing plat (Lot 5, Block 2, Tony H. Addition) and approve a final plat creating multiple lots with infrastructure extensions. The Planning Commission recommended approval. Council approved Ordinance 8685 and 8686 and Resolution 2024-89 unanimously. - Item 5 – Younes Center Eleventh Addition: Also presented by Craig Bennett. This involved vacating a lot (Lot 3, Block 3, Younes Center Seventh Addition) and approving a final plat for a 29-acre area including the sportsplex and additional parking. No rezoning required. Council approved Ordinance 8687 and Resolution 2024-90 unanimously. - Item 6 – Conditional Use Permit for Telecommunications Equipment: Withdrawn due to incomplete application. Council voted to withdraw. Consent Calendar The consent agenda included items 1, 2, and 4-8 (item 3 postponed to July 23 meeting). Approved under one motion: - Approve minutes of June 25, 2024. - Approve claims. - (Item 3 postponed) Resolution 2024-91 for Western Nebraska Property Development Addition. - Resolution 2024-92 for Aspen Meadows Third Addition. - Resolution 2024-93 for Younes Center Tenth 24-plex. - Deed of Reconveyance for Talmadge JAM, LLC. - Release of Restrictive Covenant for Talmadge JAM, LLC. - Annual renewal of manufactured home court licenses (Valley View approved; East Lawn granted 30-day extension). Consent Agenda Ordinances Ordinance 8689, repealing Ordinance 8661 and amending the salary ordinance for pay plan adjustments, was approved on final passage (suspending three readings). Unanimous. Regular Agenda Essential Air Service Discussion: City staff reported that the current contract with Denver Air Connection expires October 31, 2024. The only bid received was from SkyWest Airlines to provide 12 weekly flights to Denver using 50-seat CRJ aircraft for a three-year term starting November 1, 2024. Council members expressed appreciation for Denver Air Connection's service and noted that SkyWest had previously served Kearney successfully. There was a hope for future Chicago service but no commitment. Council adopted Resolution 2024-94 authorizing the Mayor to send a letter of recommendation for SkyWest. Key Outcomes - All public hearing items approved as recommended (unanimously or with all present in favor). - Consent agenda approved except item 3 postponed. - Salary ordinance approved. - Letter of recommendation for SkyWest Airlines for Essential Air Service approved.

The Kearney City Council held a special meeting on July 8, 2024, at 7:00 a.m. in City Council Chambers. The agenda included a presentation of the proposed 2024-2025 city budget by Finance Director Kayla James and City Manager Brenda Jensen, and a staff update on the SportsPlex by Sports Manager Lauren. No public comments were heard, and no formal votes were taken. The meeting adjourned after discussion. Proposed 2024-2025 Budget Presentation - Overall Budget Trends: The general fund increased by 4.1% ($1.5 million), while total city expenditures decreased by 17% ($27 million) due to the completion of major capital projects. About 60% of expenditures are for operations (personal services, supplies, contractual) and 39% for capital and debt. - Personnel: A 3% cost-of-living adjustment is planned, costing $732,000 across all funds. The city added 8.67 positions in FY2023-24 and proposes new positions for FY2024-25, ending with 363 total positions. Employee and employer health/dental premiums will increase by 10%, adding $14-$35 per month depending on coverage. - Capital Outlay: Total capital outlay decreased by $35 million (46.3%). Top projects include the Kearney SportsPlex ($10 million budgeted for FY2024-25, $23 million spent to date), airport apron reconstruction ($8.7 million, with a 10% city match of $500,000), wastewater treatment plant upgrade ($39 million project near completion, final $5 million via revenue bonds), Highway 30/University roundabout ($3.2 million, city share $300,000), 30th Avenue overpass repairs ($1.7 million), Cotton Mill Road replacement ($552,000, shared 50% with county), lead service line replacement ($4 million, 28% loan, 72% grant), Centennial Park playground ($400,000, mostly donated), and Memorial Field turf replacement ($307,000). These nine projects constitute 67.5% of all capital expenditures. - Debt Service: The city begins FY2024-25 with $117 million in outstanding debt, plans $5 million in principal payments, and expects no new debt issuance, ending at $112 million. Annual bond payments total about $10 million including interest. - Revenues: Total revenues are projected to decrease by 8% ($9 million). Tax revenues (sales, property, occupation, motor vehicle) are up 6% ($1.7 million). Property tax is estimated at a 4% increase (3% base + 1% growth), though final valuation comes August 20. Sales tax is conservatively estimated at 3% growth (actual year-to-date is 5%). The city’s property tax levy remains at 0.14887 per $100 of valuation, the lowest among Nebraska first-class cities. Revenue breakdown: charges for services 37%, taxes 27%, internal services 9%, others 25%. - Property Tax Distribution: Of every property tax dollar, Kearney Public Schools receives 66 cents, Buffalo County 18 cents, the city 8 cents, and other entities 8 cents. - Fund Balance Policy: The city maintains a policy of at least 25% of operating expenditures in most funds, which supports bond ratings and financial stability. All funds meet this policy for FY2024-25. - Fee Schedule: Landfill rates unchanged ($42/ton uncompacted, $35/ton compacted for all haulers). Sanitation collection up 6% ($1/month). Sanitary sewer up 7.5% (year 3 of 5 annual increases). Water up 7.5% (after no increase last year). Stormwater no increase. SportsPlex fees included in new schedule. - Challenges: Sales tax growth remains marginal, cost escalation persists, health/dental costs rise, workforce recruitment is difficult, and future property tax policy is uncertain. The city receives no municipal equalization funding (a neighboring community received over $2 million last year), which is deducted from the state’s sales tax pool. SportsPlex Staff Update - Revenue and Expenses: Projected FY2024-25 revenues of $590,000 (concessions, hourly rentals, sponsorships, and a $25,000/month visitors bureau endowment starting March 2025). Expenses estimated at $1.18 million, with staffing and utilities comprising 88%. The $592,000 shortfall will be offset by Keno Funds, not property or sales tax. City staff noted that Keno Funds have been used for similar purposes (e.g., golf course, overpass). - Opening Timeline: March 2025 soft opening, with first events anticipated in April. Weather delays (wind and rain in May) have set back construction slightly, but contractor MCL is optimistic. - Event Bookings: For April–September 2025, 6–8 special events confirmed. For October 2025–September 2026, 17 confirmed events and 7 pending, plus a month-long league. The first major non-local event is a three-year contract with Nebraska Supreme Basketball (three tournaments annually). Local partnerships include Rick Squires volleyball (moving from UNK), Dalton Jensen/Loper Legacy Fund, Kearney High and Middle School wrestling, Kearney Matcats, and Nebraska Sports Council (Netfest volleyball and pickleball). - Staffing: Five full-time positions (sports manager, senior facilities maintenance worker, sportsplex coordinator, admin assistant at 35 hours, and an additional facility maintenance worker later). Three part-time facility monitors (67 hours/week total) and 16 seasonal employees (ambassadors/concessions, 227 hours/week). At least three staff on-site at all times for safety. - Hourly Rates: Court rental $18/hour, pickleball $16/hour, turf (1/3, 2/3, full) $25/$50/$100/hour, batting cage $12.50/30 minutes. Drop-in play $6 for two hours; punch cards available ($40 for 10 punches). - Operations: Reduced summer hours (close 8 p.m. instead of 10 p.m., Sundays open at noon). The facility will be closed on major holidays. A robot floor cleaner is being considered to reduce labor costs. Key Outcomes - The budget presentation was informational; no formal action was taken. The council will discuss the budget further at a joint meeting with Buffalo County on July 11, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. (law enforcement needs assessment) and 4:00 p.m. (budget and interlocal agreements). A joint public hearing (pink postcard meeting) is tentatively scheduled for September 17, 2024. - The SportsPlex update was received favorably. The council noted the use of Keno Funds to cover the operating shortfall, consistent with past practices. No formal motions were made. - The meeting adjourned at the conclusion of the presentations.