Public Meetings - Scottsbluff, Nebraska

The Scottsbluff City Council held its regular meeting on November 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The council unanimously approved a consent calendar, a liquor license recommendation, several community festival permits, a baler purchase, and the first reading of an ordinance adjusting meeting schedules. The council also accepted the resignation of Council Member Jerry Stricker and received reports on community events. Consent Calendar - Council approved the minutes of the October 19, 2026 regular meeting and excused the absence of Council Member Salomon. - Bid specifications were approved for the 27th Street & 21st Avenue Intersection Improvement Project and the Avenue I Railroad Approach Improvement Project. Bids for both projects are due by December 1, 2026. - A liability claim from the Panhandle Public Health District was acknowledged and forwarded to the city's insurance carrier. Public Hearings - Class C Liquor License – El Charrito Restaurant & Lounge: A public hearing was held for the liquor license at 802 21st Ave. Applicant Joseph Gollas, a third-generation owner who has managed the restaurant for eight years and worked there for over 30 years, detailed the establishment's security measures, including an electronic ID scanner, 16 security cameras, and a locked storage room with motion-activated alerts. City staff reported no disqualifying criminal history and no citizen protests. The council voted unanimously to recommend approval of the license to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission, naming Joseph Gollas as the Liquor License Manager. Festival Permits & Community Events - Downtown Scottsbluff Christmas Parade (Nov 22): Council approved a Community Festival Permit for the parade from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., including a street closure on Broadway from 27th Street to 15th Street (3:00 to 8:00 p.m.). - Flyover Brewing Food Truck – Eggs & Kegs (Nov 27): A permit was approved for BDS3C, LLC d/b/a Flyover Brewing Company to park a food truck at 1824 Broadway from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m. Alcohol service remains inside the establishment. - Very Merry Christmas Market (Dec 5): Council approved a permit for the market from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., closing Broadway from 16th Street to 19th Street (7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). A representative requested city staff pay extra attention to ice and snow hazards on the curbs and plaza area. - Special Liquor License – Very Merry Christmas Market: A Special Designated Liquor License was approved for Flyover Brewing Co. to serve beer, wine, and distilled spirits at the market (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) using an ID and bracelet system. Ordinances & Resolutions - First Reading – Meeting Schedule & Publication Ordinance: The council held the first reading of an ordinance to amend the municipal code. The ordinance aims to eliminate the fifth Monday regular meeting of each month (moving to only the first and third Mondays) and to update publishing methods to allow quarterly publication of agendas, ensuring compliance with recent changes to the Nebraska Open Meetings Act. The first reading was unanimously approved. Bids & Awards - Baler and Conveyor Purchase: Council approved the purchase of a new baler and conveyor from Apex Equipment, LLC for $160,680. The city had budgeted $175,000 for the replacement. The current baler, which processes cardboard for recycling, is old and difficult to maintain. Staff Reports & Council Vacancy - Resignation of Council Member Stricker: The council accepted the resignation of Council Member Jerry Stricker, effective October 20, 2026. In his letter, Stricker cited a family move back to Colorado. The council declared a vacancy. The vacancy will be published, and letters of interest are due by December 12, 2026, with candidate interviews scheduled before the statutory deadline of December 19, 2026. - Zoo Updates: The "Spectacular" Halloween event drew over 3,000 attendees. The "Slender Ends" exhibit is receiving animals, with talks ongoing with two other zoos. The Winter Lights event in December will feature professional lighting designer Dan Deeds from the Denver Zoo, utilizing tree wraps and animal sculptures. Sponsors are being sought. - Monument Marathon: The 2026 event had 624 registered runners from 40 states and 231 cities. 71% of participants were from outside the area, and 75% of those brought family or friends. The 2026 profit was $80,181, bringing the total raised by the event to $797,771. Key Outcomes - Votes: All votes during the meeting (Consent Calendar, Liquor License Recommendation, Festival Permits, Ordinance First Reading, Baler Purchase, Resignation Acceptance) were passed unanimously (5-0). - Next Steps: Bid advertisements for two infrastructure projects will be published. The ordinance will return for a second and third reading. Letters of interest for the vacant council seat are due by December 12, with interviews to follow before December 19.

The Scottsbluff City Council met in regular session on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 2525 Circle Drive, Scottsbluff, Nebraska. The council approved consent items, handled the removed Intralinks claim, received the September 2026 financial report, held two public hearings, adopted the 2026 Comprehensive Plan, approved the Garage Condos redevelopment plan, amended curb-cut and driveway approach rules, awarded a compact wheel loader bid, approved participation in the WNED Regional Housing Study, and heard Council Member Jerry Vidlak announce his resignation. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the October 5, 2026 regular meeting. - Excused Council Member Vidlak's absence from the September 21, 2026 regular meeting. - Approved the appointment of Kira Perez to the Library Board for a five-year term. - Set a public hearing for November 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., to receive information about making a recommendation to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission on a Class C Liquor License for El Charrito Restaurant & Lounge, Inc., 802 21st Ave., Scottsbluff. - Approved the city claims on the consent calendar, with the Intralinks claim pulled for separate action. Removed Claim - Council approved the removed claim to Intralinks in the amount of $11,525.99 after discussion clarifying that it covered data backup services for the library and a combined City Hall/Police Department backup. Financial Report - Finance Director Lane Kazire presented the September 2026 Financial Report. Sales tax was above projections: the city budgeted $8.1 million and received about $8.2 million, roughly $137,000 above projection; September sales tax was about $15,000 above September 2025. - Property tax collections were approximately 99% of anticipated levels. Revenues were at or above projections in the general fund (102%), streets (104%), cemetery (106%), and stormwater (106%); cemetery perpetual was at 99%. All operating expenditures remained under budgeted amounts. - Special projects revenues were about 9% below projections; ARPA was budgeted at $1.2 million with about $487,000 spent this year. - Kazire noted some figures will be adjusted during the audit. The audit preliminaries are scheduled for November 9-10 and field work for December 7-18. Public Hearings 2026 Comprehensive Plan - Mason Herman, a community planner with Marvin Planning Consultants, presented remotely from New York City. He described a two-year planning process and public engagement including July 2024 kickoff meetings, a project website, online and paper surveys, focus groups, and October 2024 town hall meetings. - The plan includes demographic, housing, economic, and land-use data; a future land use map; a neighborhood framework; and goals and action items for the next 5-10 years. - City staff noted the plan is more generalized than the previous plan and includes a new residential-commercial flex district, especially along Highway 26. Council Member Jerry commented that the document's sections are interconnected and should be referenced over time; Herman agreed it is a living document. - Testimony came from the consultant and city staff; no public commenters were identified in the transcript. The council closed the hearing. Garage Condos Redevelopment Project - The agenda identifies the developer as Premier Garages, LLC; one transcript passage uses Premier Drivers, LLC. City staff introduced the redevelopment plan, and developer Brandon Rywish presented details. - The project is on about four acres on West 27th Street, north of Ashley Furniture and adjacent to Wind Supply. It would be developed in two phases, with street improvements including paving part of M Street in the first phase and K Street in the second phase with help from the new landowner, Frank Storage. - The plan calls for seven buildings of 9,000 square feet each, subdivided into six approximately 1,500-square-foot condo units per building. Units are intended for purchase or lease as small business incubators, startup space, high-end storage, and similar uses. - Planned features include insulated, heated and cooled units, 14-by-16-foot overhead doors, bathrooms, and lease-to-own/rent-to-own options. Uses such as mechanics or car shops and outside parking/storage would be restricted, and two-hour fire separation walls are required. - The city attorney reviewed the statutory standards for approving a TIF redevelopment plan, including conformity with the comprehensive plan and zoning, blighted/substandard findings, the but-for test, and the CRA's cost-benefit analysis. The site was recently rezoned C3 heavy commercial, and the Planning Commission and CRA made positive recommendations. - The developer said the first phase would get two buildings up and running as proof of concept. The council closed the public hearing. Resolutions & Ordinances - Council approved and adopted the 2026 Comprehensive Plan by resolution; the motion was seconded and all recorded votes were yes. - Council approved the Premier Garages, LLC redevelopment plan for the Garage Condos Redevelopment Project by resolution; all recorded votes were yes. - Council approved the first reading of the ordinance amending Chapter 20, Article 5, regarding curb cuts and driveway approaches, and waived the remaining readings. Staff said the current code lacked enforcement, citing a property with two driveways on an arterial street; the updated ordinance is modeled in part on Omaha's code and divides approaches into residential, commercial, and industrial categories. All recorded votes were yes. Bids & Awards - Council awarded the bid for a new compact wheel loader for the Parks Department to Sandberg Implement, Inc. for $101,603.38. The Bobcat loader was a budgeted purchase, tested by parks staff, and selected over a Titan bid that was about $1,300 lower because it was more user-friendly and versatile. All bids included Sourcewell discounts and the award stayed under budget. Reports from Staff, Boards & Commissions - Council approved participation in the WNED Regional Housing Study and the City of Scottsbluff's share of $9,729.89. - WNED is a regional economic development group. The study is intended to align communities in the Nebraska Panhandle, support the six regions, one Nebraska initiative, and make the region more attractive to developers. - PAD contributed $80,000 to the study; the remaining cost is split among five first-class cities, with Scottsbluff's share largest because of its population. Two firms submitted RFPs - Hanna Keelan Associates and JEO - and the figures presented were based on JEO, though the group had not yet officially selected a firm. An optional online dashboard could tie into a regional infrastructure portal. Council Reports & Resignation - Council Member Jerry Vidlak announced he will submit his resignation effective the next day, October 20, 2026, for personal and family reasons and to relocate. He thanked supporters, voiced appreciation for city staff, and apologized to Reg Preston, whom he had urged to run for council. - The mayor thanked Vidlak and said the resignation will be an agenda item on November 2, 2026. Accepting it will start a 45-day vacancy process, with a goal of appointing a replacement by December 7, 2026. - The council welcomed Kira Perez, the newly approved Library Board member, who was in the audience. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar, the Intralinks claim, the 2026 Comprehensive Plan, the Garage Condos redevelopment plan, the curb-cut ordinance with waiver, the wheel loader bid, and the WNED housing study share. Recorded votes on these items were all yes. - Held and closed the two scheduled public hearings. - Set a November 2, 2026 public hearing for the El Charrito liquor license and scheduled Vidlak's resignation item for that same date. The council adjourned after completing the agenda.

The Scottsbluff City Council met on October 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM for its regular meeting. The council approved the One- and Six-Year Street Improvement Plan, authorized bonds for street work, and approved several contracts and permits. The mayor issued a proclamation designating October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent calendar, which included the approval of previous meeting minutes, setting public hearings for October 19, 2026 (regarding the Premier Garages, LLC Garage Condos Redevelopment Plan and the 2026 Scottsbluff Comprehensive Plan), acknowledging a liability claim from Ruth Kief (forwarded to the city's insurance carrier for processing), and approving boards and commissions reappointments. No items were pulled for separate discussion. Public Hearing: One- and Six-Year Street Improvement Plan City staff presented the annual One- and Six-Year Street Improvement Plan. One-Year Projects (anticipated to start spring 2027): East Overland (in front of Sugar Factory, concrete), West Overland (Broadway to Avenue V, concrete and sidewalk), the intersection of 21st and 27th Streets (east of the college), and the Avenue I BNSF railroad approach (both sides of the tracks). Six-Year Projects (planning tool, flexible): The remainder of East Overland, South Beltline (east to the highway, awaiting future annexation), Delta Drive and 36th Street (developer-paid areas near Menards and Shaw's), Avenue M, and 18th Avenue. Council members asked questions about funding sources, clarifying which projects are paid by paving districts versus developers. A council member confirmed the six-year plan can be amended, but a revision would require a new public hearing. No public testimony from citizens was offered, and the hearing was closed. Key Outcomes One- and Six-Year Plan & Compliance: The council voted unanimously to adopt the One- and Six-Year Street Improvement Plan and approved a resolution for the Annual Certification of Program Compliance with the Nebraska Board of Public Roads Classifications and Standards. The Mayor was authorized to sign the resolutions. Highway Allocation Fund Bonds: The council held the third reading and voted unanimously to adopt an ordinance authorizing the issuance of General Obligation Highway Allocation Fund Pledge Bonds in a principal amount not to exceed $2,350,000 to pay for improvements to certain city streets not covered by pavement districts. ESU 13 Subdivision Plat: The council voted unanimously to approve the Preliminary and Final Plats of Block 1, ESU 13 Subdivision. Staff noted this was a simple platting of existing property into a single block, with no expansion of the property lines, and all utility easements were properly addressed. KENO Grant for Trick-or-Treat Street: The council approved a $3,000 KENO funding request from the Downtown Scottsbluff Association to reimburse businesses (up to $100 each) for the cost of candy for the "Trick or Treat Street on Broadway" event. Chris Bear, Director of the Midwest Theater, stated the event has grown significantly and some smaller businesses were struggling with candy costs of $250 to $500, making the event difficult to sustain without this support. Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation: Mayor Betsy Goodluck read a proclamation declaring October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Lisa Peaton of the Dubs Program accepted the proclamation and reported that the program serves 600–700 individuals annually across nine counties with a staff of 11. She expressed deep gratitude for the city's support, including a dedicated advocate at the Scottsbluff Police Department. Continuum EAP Contract: The council approved a three-year, $5,000 per year contract with Continuum for the city's Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Staff reported 3 unique cases serving 4 individuals in the previous annual period, noting that EAP cards are widely distributed and the service remains an important resource. Tyler Technologies Cloud Agreement: The council approved a Software as a Service (SaaS) agreement with Tyler Technologies to migrate the city's core systems (personnel, payroll, utilities) to the cloud. Staff cited the rising costs of server hardware and the benefits of automatic updates, reduced IT burden, and enhanced security as key drivers for the transition. The agreement length was noted as either three or five years, with costs remaining flat for the duration. Community Festival Permit: The council unanimously approved a Community Festival Permit for the Downtown Scottsbluff Association for the "Trick or Treat Street on Broadway" event on October 31, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This included a noise permit and the closure of Broadway between 19th and 14th Streets from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM. The council discussed parking clearance procedures, noting the police department assisted with calling vehicle owners last year. Council Reports Council members reported attending a municipal conference. A town hall meeting was scheduled for the following day (October 6), and another was planned for October 28. A regional governance meeting was scheduled for October 7. Council members encouraged public participation, noting the previous online town hall was highly informative.

The Scottsbluff City Council held its regular meeting on September 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Four council members answered roll call. No agenda changes or emergency matters were announced, and the council did not enter closed session. The council acted on the consent calendar, public hearings, ordinances, a flu clinic permit, an economic development loan, and a roll-off container services agreement. One member of the public opposed the roll-off agreement during public comment. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 8, 2026 regular meeting. - Set a public hearing for October 5, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. on the One- and Six-Year Street Improvement Plan. - Approved the city claims included on the consent calendar. - The consent calendar was adopted by one roll-call action; no item was pulled except the Intralinks claim noted below. Public Hearings - Sanch's Liquor Class D liquor license: Applicant Matt Sanchez asked the council to recommend approval of a Class D liquor license for Sanch's Liquor, LLC at 1311 East Overland. He said he purchased the business from Montez Liquor and had operated it on a temporary permit since August. The transcript contains conflicting dates: he first said August 6, then agreed that he opened August 3. He said the temporary permit runs until November 9. He described new hours of 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. weekdays and until 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, a written policy book, ID-checking procedures, nine security cameras, a panic button, and TIPS training for himself and one employee, with plans to train more. He said he had three to four employees and no compliance problems during the temporary period. He acknowledged his past criminal history and said he had no conviction since 2018. City staff noted that he had disclosed the history, that nothing was automatically disqualifying, and that the investigatory board gave a positive recommendation. The council received exhibits including the application, the council checklist, and written statements from the police chief, city clerk, and development services, then voted to make a positive recommendation to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission and to name Matthew Sanchez as liquor license manager. - FY 2026-2027 final tax request: Staff presented the final tax request. The primary budget amount in the ordinance was $2,230,934.10, unchanged for four years, and the mill levy would drop to 0.164356, described as the lowest among first-class cities in Nebraska. Assessed value increased about 8.8%. The overall budget is up 61%, mainly because of the proposed aquatic center; if that project does not pass, the funds will not be spent. The off-street parking district request was $54,100, also unchanged, with its mill levy dropping to 2.130215 and assessed value up about 5%. No exhibits were provided, and the hearing was closed. Public Comments & Testimony - Wayne Brozick, representing Paradise Pumpers and Potties, opposed the exclusive roll-off container agreement with Waste Connections. He said the agreement would prevent his local company from providing dumpsters to private businesses inside Scottsbluff, reduce competition, and unfairly favor an out-of-state business. He said the city should support local businesses. City staff responded that the exclusive arrangement was designed to keep customer sanitation rates low because Waste Connections would reduce tipping fees in exchange for exclusivity. Discussion Items - Claim removed from consent calendar: The council considered the Intralinks claim for $10,145.43. A council member declared a conflict, and the council voted on that conflict. Staff explained that the amount consisted of a monthly managed service fee of $7,560, a monthly backup fee of $2,536, and an Ethernet connection fee of $49. The claim was then approved unanimously. - August 2026 Financial Report: The finance director reviewed the report. Chip seal spending was just over $1 million, there was a cemetery mower purchase, and hail-storm insurance proceeds were received into a special project. The city was about 92% through the budget year, while general fund expenditures were at 78% of budget. Most expenditure lines were below 92%, with Keno funds as the exception, described as money already out in the community. Revenues in the general fund, environmental services, wastewater, water, and storm water funds were at or above 92%. Sales tax revenue was expected to be above projections by about $105,000 to $150,000, or about $244,000 above last year. Streets was about $244,000 below budget because of chip seal, and capital projects were expected to improve with September property tax receipts. ARPA funds are expected to be fully spent by December. The report was approved. - Alarm systems ordinance: On second reading, the council considered an ordinance amending the fire and police alarm system code, removing monitoring and permitting fees because the communication center will no longer monitor alarms. The council waived the third reading and approved the ordinance unanimously. - General obligation highway allocation fund pledge bonds: The council discussed the second reading of an ordinance authorizing up to $2,350,000 in bonds for street improvements. Staff said the projects are identified in the One- and Six-Year Street Improvement Plan, including the 21st Avenue/27th Street intersection, railroad track approaches, West Overland from Broadway to Avenue B, and East Overland from 21st Avenue to Highway 26. Staff said moving quickly would lock in interest rates and possibly allow one project to begin this spring. A council member recalled bond counsel stating that current highway allocation funds are about double what is needed to cover the bonds and that property tax would become necessary only if highway allocation funds were reduced by 50%. The transcript does not show a formal motion or roll-call vote on this item before the council moved to the next agenda item. - Annual appropriation ordinance: On third reading, the council adopted the ordinance adopting the FY 2026-2027 budget statement as the annual appropriation bill, with an effective date of October 1, 2026 and publication in pamphlet form. The vote was unanimous. - Drive Thru Flu Clinic permit: The council approved a Business Promotional Event Permit for Panhandle Public Health District for the Drive Thru Flu Clinic on October 3, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The permit closes the southwest portion of 16th Street and blocks eastbound traffic from Avenue A from 7:45 a.m. to noon. PPHD representative Ali Dos Santos said the district served 166 people last year, the event is free, and this year it will also offer COVID vaccines to a broader age range. - Langer Industrial Services economic development agreement: The council approved an LB840 loan agreement with Langer Industrial Services, LLC for $600,000 to purchase a large shredding machine. The loan has a seven-year payback and job credits of $2,000 per full-time employee annually above a base of 20 employees, not to exceed $30,000 per year. The LB840 application review committee gave a positive recommendation. Pete Langer said the machine would increase capacity, help eliminate the tire pile, work with a state grant, and support expansion from 20 employees by an expected 5-7 jobs, possibly more. He said the deal needed to close within about 10 days. - Waste Connections roll-off container services agreement: The council approved a five-year exclusive agreement with Waste Connections of Nebraska, Inc. for roll-off container services. Gering had provided the service since about 2007, but its landfill is nearly full, so service transfers around October 1. The agreement includes an accounting of roll-off revenues and a renegotiation clause tied to the city's planned transfer station. A Waste Connections representative said about a third of the containers had already been received and two trucks and two drivers would operate the service. Rates will be similar to Gering's, though higher. The agreement passed after the public comment noted above. - Council reports: Council members gave informational reports. One report mentioned an upcoming item to be presented by Keith Marvin at the October 5 meeting. Another described a September 11 visit to the Maine Society, noting improvements, animal adoptions, and remaining animals from hoarding cases. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar, including minutes, the October 5 public hearing setting, and city claims, was approved unanimously. - The Intralinks claim for $10,145.43 was approved unanimously after a council member's conflict was noted. - The August 2026 financial report was approved unanimously. - The council made a positive recommendation for the Sanch's Liquor Class D license and named Matthew Sanchez as liquor license manager. - The final tax request resolution for FY 2026-2027 was approved unanimously. - The alarm systems ordinance was approved unanimously, and the third reading was waived. - The FY 2026-2027 annual appropriation ordinance was approved unanimously on third reading. - The Panhandle Public Health District flu clinic event permit was approved unanimously. - The Langer Industrial Services LB840 loan agreement was approved unanimously. - The Waste Connections roll-off container services agreement was approved unanimously. - The general obligation highway allocation fund pledge bond ordinance was discussed, but no explicit vote appears in the transcript.

The Scottsbluff City Council met in regular session at 6:00 PM on September 8, 2026, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 2525 Circle Drive, Scottsbluff, Nebraska. The council approved the East Overland Park playground bid, utility fee updates, the police retirement plan amendment, the 2026-2027 pay resolution, union wage contracts, and a wireless lease renewal. Several ordinances were presented on first or second reading without a recorded vote in the available transcript. No minutes were available in the source material; this summary is based on the agenda and transcript. Consent Calendar - The agenda listed routine consent items, but the transcript does not record discussion or action on them. These items included: approving the August 31, 2026 Special and Regular Meeting minutes; setting a September 21, 2026 public hearing for a Class D Liquor License for Sanch’s Liquor, LLC, 1311 East Overland; setting a September 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM public hearing for the final FY 2026-2027 tax request; acknowledging and withdrawing a liability claim from Valley Catholic Men’s Association at 1719 1st Ave.; and considering city claims. Public Comments & Testimony - No citizen comments were made under Item 5, Citizens with Business Not Scheduled on the Agenda. Discussion Items - East Overland Park Playground Bid: Staff described the proposed Miracle Playsystems III, Inc. playground structure for East Overland Park, which included the structure, swings, and a saucer swing. Staff said the existing sand surfacing meets fall-safety requirements, the equipment is powder-coated, color schemes are selectable, and city crews can install it as a winter project. The bid came in well below comparable quotes and included pre-shipping, saving about $6,000. - Alarm Systems Ordinance – First Reading: Fire department personnel presented an ordinance amending city alarm code for both fire and police systems. The main change removes references to the county communication center because the county stopped monitoring alarm systems on July 1, 2026. The county’s monitoring software was described as outdated and not meeting current UL standards, and upgrading was costly. Monitoring will shift to third-party private companies that businesses will pay directly. Staff said fire alarm malfunction calls are fewer than 10 per year and saw no need for a false-alarm fee structure for fire alarms. No motion or vote is recorded in the transcript. - Highway Allocation Fund Pledge Bonds – First Reading: Scott King of Piper Sandler presented an ordinance authorizing up to $2.35 million in General Obligation Highway Allocation Fund Pledge Bonds with a planned five-year amortization, similar to the 2018 bonds. Expected true interest cost is around 3.9%, with a planned deposit of $2,213,520 and final maturity in December 2031. The bonds would be bank-qualified, and the city would remain under the $10 million annual tax-exempt bond limit. Projected street improvements include East Overland from 21st to Highway 26, West Overland from Broadway to Avenue B, concrete work at Avenue and the railroad tracks, and 2027 Street and 21st Avenue. Estimated new bond payments are about $500,000 per year, compared with $455,000 per year on existing bonds and about $2.1 million per year in average gas tax receipts. No vote is recorded in the transcript. - FY 2026-2027 Budget Ordinance – Second Reading: Staff presented the annual appropriation ordinance. Most budget items increased about 3%, an inverted number in the wastewater section had been corrected, and the budget was described as balanced. The budget anticipates possible grant or ballot funding, including $4 million for Safe Streets for All and LB 357 projects such as the Aquatic Center and Senior Center. No vote is recorded in the transcript. - Utility User Fees Ordinance – Third Reading: The ordinance updates water, sewer, stormwater, and solid waste collection fees. The council approved it on a recorded roll-call vote. - Police Officers’ Retirement Plan – Third Amendment: The amendment aligns the plan with state legislation signed in April and effective October 1. It gives police officers additional withdrawal options, including partial payments in an amount and frequency selected by the participant. The council approved the resolution. - 2026-2027 Pay Resolution: Human resources staff presented a wage study in which all 136 employees receive a 3% raise. Pay grades were extended, a handful of employees were adjusted laterally, and no employee lost money or was redlined. State statute requires a 70% job match with comparison cities and a salary scale between 98% and 102% of the comparative midpoint. The council approved the resolution. - Firefighters Local 1454 Contract: The full contract negotiation resulted in a 3% wage increase and housekeeping changes, including clarifying the $50,000 life insurance benefit. The council approved the three-year contract. - Firefighters Local 1454 Article VIII Wages: The FY 2026-2027 wage attachment was approved with a 3% increase. - Police Officers’ Association Article XXI Wages: The amended wage article for the police officers’ contract, which is in its second year of a three-year term, was approved with a 3% increase. - IBEW Local 1597 Schedule A Wages: The amendment covering maintenance, public works, and parks employees was approved with a 3% wage and insurance adjustment. - Telecom West Lease Renewal: The council approved renewal of the lease agreement with Telecom West, Inc. for the wireless antenna system on the Airport Water Tower. Staff reported that the owner is not renewing at the cemetery tower due to a lack of customer base and competition with Starlink, and that the airport tower equipment will continue serving rural Wi-Fi customers. The owner will remove the cemetery tower equipment. - Council Reports: Council members provided brief informational updates, including a mention of an upcoming Thursday event and progress on Waste Connections service. Key Outcomes - Approved the East Overland Park playground structure and equipment bid to Miracle Playsystems III, Inc. for $41,271. - Approved the third reading of the utility user fees ordinance updating water, sewer, stormwater, and solid waste fees. - Approved the Third Amendment to the Police Officers’ Retirement Plan and Trust and authorized the Mayor to sign the resolution. - Approved the 2026-2027 Pay Resolution, giving all employees a 3% raise. - Approved the Scottsbluff Firefighters Local 1454 contract and its Article VIII wages for FY 2026-2027. - Approved the amended Article XXI wages with the Police Officers’ Association for FY 2026-2027. - Approved the Schedule A wages amendment with IBEW Local 1597 for FY 2026-2027. - Approved the Telecom West, Inc. lease renewal for the Airport Water Tower wireless antenna system. - Adjourned without recorded opposition. Items Without a Recorded Vote - The transcript does not record a vote or motion on the alarm systems ordinance first reading, the highway allocation bond ordinance first reading, or the FY 2026-2027 budget ordinance second reading. The consent calendar also does not appear in the transcript.

The Scottsbluff City Council met at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026, in City Hall Council Chambers. The council approved the consent calendar, heard first and second readings of the FY 2026-2027 budget and utility fee ordinances, approved a micro food processing ordinance on third reading, and approved a KENO funding request for a local amateur boxing event. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the minutes of the August 17, 2026, regular meeting. Ordinances - First Reading: FY 2026-2027 Budget - The Finance Director presented the annual appropriation ordinance for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2026. The ordinance includes approximately $25 million in capital projects, attributed primarily to the aquatic center. The council heard the first reading; the transcript does not record a separate vote on this item. Ordinances - Second Reading: Utility User Fees - The council heard the second reading of the ordinance updating water, sewer, stormwater, and solid waste collection fees. Staff noted that Section 6-6-26 was added to address recyclable material collection: free for residential customers, but a paid service for commercial customers. Staff also noted a correction to Section 6-6-27 changing an item labeled 'Y2 ton pickup' to 'half ton pickup.' The transcript does not record a separate vote on this item. Ordinances - Third Reading: Micro Food Processing (Non-Meat) in C-1 District - The council approved the third reading of an ordinance adding a definition for 'food processing micro' and allowing micro food processing for non-meat products as a conditional use in the C-1 Central Business District. The use is limited to approximately 6,200 square feet to prevent large industrial plants in the district. The vote was unanimous among council members present. KENO Funding Request - RPM Boxing Club - Coach Renee of RPM Boxing Club requested KENO funding for 'Back to Our Roots: Amateur Boxing Event,' planned for October at the Walupa Center. Renee said the club began in 2023 and has trained more than 100 local youth. The event would feature about 17 amateur fights with participants approximately 8 to 30 years old, and teams from nearby states including South Dakota, Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, and Iowa. Renee described costs for the ring, trophies, officials, and gas, which he usually pays out of pocket; he also noted that fighters pay USA Boxing fees and must meet qualification standards. A supporter gave emotional testimony in favor of the request and praised the program's impact on youth. The council approved the KENO funding request unanimously; staff confirmed KENO funds were available. Council Reports (Informational) - Council members reported on recent and upcoming zoo events: the zoo fundraiser brought in $1,600; the first 'Pints and Paws' night was slowed by weather, and the most recent Friday event was affected by home football games, though attendees were happy and animals were more active at night. The last Pints and Paws is Friday, 6 to 9 p.m.; 'Spooktackle' in October will be larger with 18 nights and will need volunteers; and 'Winter Lights' will return in December with a professional light company from Denver, Colorado. - Council noted the next regular council meeting will be held on the following Tuesday due to the Labor Day holiday, and mentioned a league conference scheduled for September 23-25. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar (minutes of August 17, 2026). - Heard the first reading of the FY 2026-2027 annual appropriation ordinance. - Heard the second reading of the utility user fee update. - Approved the micro food processing ordinance on third reading (unanimous). - Approved KENO funding for RPM Boxing Club's amateur boxing event (unanimous). - Adjourned.

The Scottsbluff City Council held a special meeting on August 31, 2026, at 12:00 PM to conduct a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget. (Note: The official agenda schedules the meeting for 12:00 PM, although the transcript contains references to 'tonight,' indicating a potential discrepancy between the formal schedule and the recorded discussion.) Staff presented a budget reflecting a significant increase in total government-wide revenues and expenditures compared to the prior year, heavily influenced by pending grants and the LB 357 bond issue. Public Comments & Testimony - The public hearing was opened and staff member Lane was sworn in to present the budget and answer questions. No members of the general public provided testimony, criticism, or comments. Discussion Items - Budget Overview: Staff member Lane presented the FY 2026-2027 budget. Total government-wide revenues were budgeted at $75,266,460 (up from $39,087,540 in FY 2025-2026). Total expenditures were budgeted at $94,919,539. Authorized full-time equivalents (FTEs) increased from 138 to 140. - Contingent Spending Strategy: The budget includes revenue and expenditures for grants not yet awarded (including a safe streets grant and a $1 million Hunts Acres water main project) and pending LB 357 approval for the aquatic center. Staff explained this was done to avoid the need for a budget amendment later if the funding is secured. - Transfer Station and Sanitation Capital Projects: Council discussed the $6.2 million transfer station project budgeted in the sanitation fund. Proceeds from equipment appraisals (excavator and shredder) related to the dissolution of the Gearing co-op were reviewed, with staff estimating over $800,000 will be returned to the city. - City Hall Improvements: A $300,000 allocation for upgrades to city hall, including potential audio/visual equipment improvements, was noted. - Property Tax and Mill Levy: Staff highlighted that the city is maintaining a flat property tax ask of $2.85 million for the fourth consecutive year. The mill levy was reduced from 178 to 164 to achieve this. Staff characterized the resulting rate as the lowest in the state for a municipality. - Board and Commission Vacancies: Council reviewed the process for filling expiring board terms, noting that vacancies are advertised on Facebook, which has been an effective recruitment tool. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was formally closed with no public opposition or input recorded. - The city council voted unanimously to adjourn the special meeting. - Staff communicated the administration's strategy of holding the property tax ask flat for four years. Council members expressed that the budget increase was palatable due to its heavy reliance on sales tax revenue rather than property tax.

The Scottsbluff City Council met on August 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered financial reports, a public hearing on the LB840 loan portfolio, liquor license manager approval, utility fee updates, zoning amendments, and new regulations for electric bicycles and scooters. All voting actions were passed unanimously unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the August 3 regular meeting. - Excused absences of Council Members Vidlak and Phillips from the August 3 meeting. - Set a public hearing for August 31, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. on the FY 2026-2027 budget. - Acknowledged liability claims from Anastacia Kern and Robert Nichols, forwarding them to the city’s insurance carrier without action. - Approved the claims of the City as part of consent. Claims Removed from Consent - Intralinks Claim ($15,083.83): The council unanimously approved the monthly managed service fee ($7,560), data backup fee ($2,536), annual subscriptions for SonicWall security, and miscellaneous supplies ($976.51) related to the city’s computer upgrade. (Motion passed: Stricker yes, Vidlak yes, Solomon yes, McCarrigan yes.) Financial Report - The Finance Director presented the July 2026 Financial Report. The city is 83% through the fiscal year; expenditures are within benchmarks. General fund revenues are at 83%, and proprietary funds (environmental services, wastewater, water, stormwater) are at 89% or above. Sales tax revenue is at 91% with one month remaining. TIF funds are pending bond completions for three projects. The report was accepted unanimously on a motion. Public Hearings - LB840 Citizen Review Committee Report: The city’s LB840 portfolio stands at $6,773,278, with outstanding loans of $4.7 million and outstanding grants of $2.4 million. $316,000 in job credits were received year-to-date. Expected loan payouts range from 2027 to 2034. Several businesses have completed obligations (BLOS Physical Therapy, Dave’s Welding). New applications for $25,000 loans may be forthcoming. No public testimony was offered. Petitions, Communications, Public Input - Liquor License Manager Change – Chili’s Grill & Bar: Codie Kent presented as the proposed manager, detailing alcohol service policies (ID every customer, refusal without ID, four-hour staff training). The council received a positive recommendation from the license investigatory board and voted unanimously to recommend approval to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. Resolutions & Ordinances - First Reading – Utility User Fee Update: Ordinance amending water, sewer, stormwater, and solid waste fees. All fees will increase 3% except stormwater (unchanged). Compost facility fees were added. Sewer charges are based on February water usage. Wholesale customers (Minatare and Terrytown) will pay 95% of charges. No vote was recorded in the transcript; the ordinance was introduced and discussed. - Second Reading – Micro Food Processing (Non-Meat) Conditional Use: Ordinance allowing micro food processing as a conditional use in the C-1 Central Business District. Applicant Roger Crossman described plans for a USDA-inspected facility to process and pack locally grown produce, with a minimum of 6,400 sq. ft. and approximately 10 employees. The ordinance was presented and discussed; no vote appeared in the transcript. - Third Reading – Electric Bicycles, Scooters, Minibikes, Golf Carts: Final reading of regulations defining and permitting e-bikes on downtown sidewalks and the Monument Valley Pathway, and defining one-wheel scooters (mono boards). Amendments addressed earlier concerns. Following discussion about enforcement and seizure authority, the ordinance passed unanimously on roll call (Phillips, Solomon, McCarrigan, Stricker all yes). Reports from Staff, Boards & Commissions - Flag Football League Agreement: The council approved a non-exclusive license and management agreement with Jeremiah Stovall for an adult flag football league at Lacy Park on Thursday nights for three months. The city will collect a fee and provide lighting. The motion passed unanimously. Council Reports (Informational) - Members reported on the Zoo Fest event held the previous weekend. Attendance was 1,604, with vendors, bounce houses, face painting, and other activities. Feedback was positive. The council noted the next meeting on August 31 will include a public hearing on the budget at noon and a meeting in the evening. Meetings with the Mexican consulate and the Heartland Express annual meeting were also mentioned. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned with a motion and unanimous approval.

The Scottsbluff City Council held its regular meeting on August 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. Key actions included approving a zoning text amendment for micro food processing, adopting an ordinance regulating electric bicycles and scooters, extending the LARM insurance agreement for a 5% discount, awarding a sewer extension bid, approving a chip seal change order, and terminating the 2007 landfill agreement. Public Hearings - Zoning Text Amendment (Micro Food Processing): The council conducted a public hearing and discussed the first reading of an ordinance to define micro food processing and allow it as a conditional use in the C-1 Central Business District (non-meat only). Staff clarified that it applies only to the downtown C-1 zone. The definition limits facilities to 6,400 square feet, requires indoor operations, and state licensing. No public testimony was offered; the council had a brief discussion and proceeded to first reading passage. Discussion Items - Ordinance on Electric Bicycles, Scooters, etc. (Second Reading): Councilmember Kevin Damplett presented revisions based on previous feedback, including allowing these devices on pathways and treating them like bicycles downtown (allowed on streets but not sidewalks). A correction was noted to change “unlawful” language. Public comment was received from Terry Jesson, a resident and new e-bike user (over 100 miles in 30 days), who expressed support but raised concerns: (1) The boundary for the downtown no-ride zone should be Avenue A and First Avenue instead of Avenue B and Second Avenue to reduce restrictions. (2) The definition of “street” vs. “sidewalk” needed clarification—he noted that the west side of Avenue B sidewalk is excluded from the prohibition. (3) He questioned the violation penalty (Class II: up to $500) and strongly objected to the provision allowing impoundment of a device for up to six months, calling it excessive. Councilmember explained the impoundment is per state statute (60-678) and intended for repeat offenders; the six-month maximum allows discretion. Council also discussed that sidewalk riding is prohibited for adults but walking the device is allowed. The ordinance was approved on second reading with a planned minor fix to change “unlawful” language. - Resolution Extending LARM Notice Date: Staff presented the annual extension to lock in a 5% discount for a three-year commitment (four percent for two years). The insurance pool had no increase on property/liability and 5% on workers’ comp, though premiums rose due to increased insurable values. Total contributions will be $1,291,730 after discount, saving about $68,000. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Bid Award – Lincoln Court Sanitary Sewer Extension: Staff reported extending the sewer main to serve residences that previously lacked city connection. Four bids were received; the lowest from Hennings Construction for $94,470.97 (corrected by $300). It is within budget ($94,000). No homes are connected yet; the main will allow future connections. The bid was awarded. - Change Order – 2026 Chip Seal Project: Staff recommended approving an increase of $9,509.33 to finalize the job. The actual quantity was 140 tons less, but the city opted to purchase surplus rock (200 tons at $48.25/ton, a discount from the typical $65-$85/ton) for alleys and roads. The change order was approved. - Termination of Landfill Agreement: Staff explained that attempts since 2007 to site a new landfill have been unsuccessful. The current agreement with HDR (from January 2025) will be terminated. The city will receive its portion of reserve funds back with interest, estimated at $772,000 (plus future interest and proceeds from appraised equipment – an excavator and shredder). The funds will be used for a transfer station. The city is negotiating with Waste Connections for roll-off services. HDR will complete a report identifying five potential landfill sites for future reference. The termination agreement was approved. Council Reports - National Night Out event scheduled at 6 PM (temperature 70 degrees). - Capwood’s 60th celebration on Thursday. - Regional Governance meeting Wednesday at noon. - Comp Plan review ongoing; typos being sent back. - Zoo evening event this Saturday, open until 10 PM, $8 admission. Key Outcomes - Zoning Text Amendment (First Reading): Approved (micro food processing definition and conditional use). - Electric Vehicle Ordinance (Second Reading): Approved with a minor correction to be made. - LARM Resolution: Approved unanimously (motion by Solomon, second by Stricker; all ayes). - Lincoln Court Sewer Bid: Awarded to Hennings Construction for $94,470.97. - Chip Seal Change Order: Approved ($9,509.33 increase). - Landfill Agreement Termination: Approved (motion by Solomon, second by Stricker; all ayes).