Hastings Planning Commission Meeting - June 16, 2026

The Hastings Planning Commission met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 4:05 PM at the Hastings Municipal Airport. The meeting included a public hearing on a zoning change, a final plat approval, and staff presentations on sign code and zoning code revisions. The meeting adjourned at 5:15 PM.

Consent Calendar

• Motion to adopt the current agenda passed 7-0.
• Motion to approve the minutes of April 21, 2026 passed 7-0.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Vivienne Johnson (722 S Colorado Ave) spoke in opposition to rezoning (Item 2026-275), citing concerns about disturbing neighborhood peace, potential rental use, and the risk of more vacant lots being rezoned to R-2. She noted the area is primarily single-family homes within a three-block radius.
• Kenneth Flanagan (818 S Colorado Ave) opposed the rezone, stating he purchased his property for retirement and does not want to live next to multi-unit developments. He noted no formal plans existed and requested the area remain R-1. He also expressed concern that not all neighbors received notification.
• Alan Anderson (701 N. Shore Drive) spoke in support of his final plat (Item 2026-276) for the Lakeview 11th Subdivision. He highlighted his track record of 41 subdivisions and over 450 houses built, adding over $160 million in valuation to Hastings. He raised issues about rising costs, the difficulty of competing as a developer, and the need for better communication with city staff. He praised Development Services Director Kevin Kubo as the best planning director he has worked with.

Discussion Items

• Public Hearing 2026-275 – Rezone from R-1 to R-2: City Planner Ember Batelaan presented the staff report, recommending approval. The applicant was not present. The commission discussed the lack of public support—two letters and two speakers in opposition, no letters of support. Commissioner Hubbard noted he had not heard any public support at recent zoning hearings and emphasized the need to listen to residents. Commissioner Adler reported receiving five phone calls in opposition. Concerns were raised about potential precedent and notification of neighbors. The motion to recommend approval failed 1-6, with only Commissioner Kindig voting in favor.
• Subdivision 2026-276 – Final Plat for Lakeview 11th Subdivision: Director Kevin Kubo presented the staff report, recommending approval. Alan Anderson, the applicant, provided testimony. The commission praised his work and expressed gratitude for his investments. The motion to recommend approval passed 7-0.
• Sign Code Revision Work Session: Batelaan presented proposed revisions to the sign code, including alignment with new zoning districts, clarification of display types, and subdivision signs. Discussion covered non-conforming signs, historical signs (e.g., Rivoli), abandoned signs, LED brightness, and state jurisdiction. No formal action was taken; the work session was informational.
• Zoning Code Revisions Comparison: Kubo and Batelaan presented a comparison of Hastings’ proposed densities with those of comparable communities (Grand Island, Kearney, Fremont, Norfolk, Missoula, Salina). They highlighted the creation of a new R-4 district for mobile home courts, cottage courts, and tiny homes. Commissioner Hubbard emphasized protecting residential neighborhoods and noted that public feedback has been predominantly opposed. Staff acknowledged the challenge of obtaining public input, noting only 33 responses to a survey and low turnout at public meetings.
• Chairman’s Comments and City Updates: Chairman Rosenberg noted the move to the new City Hall is expected in August. Mayor Beckby updated on the stalled car wash project, stating the developer is experiencing financial challenges and that the city is addressing weed and mesh concerns. Mayor Beckby thanked the commission for spirited debate and listening to citizens. The mayor also acknowledged that the blighted area study for East 12th (referenced by Anderson) has been delayed partly due to his own outreach efforts and will be pursued.

Key Outcomes

• Zoning Rezone (2026-275): Motion to recommend approval to City Council failed 1-6. This item will proceed to City Council with the recommendation of denial.
• Final Plat (2026-276): Motion to recommend approval to City Council passed 7-0.
• Sign Code and Zoning Code Revisions: No votes were taken; further work sessions are anticipated. Staff encouraged commissioners to provide feedback on proposed changes.
• Next Steps: The next regular Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for July 2026.