City adjusts budget to stay competitive

McCOOK Neb.- McCook City Council had its annual Budget Workshop during a special meeting on Tuesday. 

City Manager Nate Schneider said, “The big thing for us is the wage study. We got our wage study back and have a different set of rules we must follow.” The city’s pay scale needs to be comparable to that of other communities similar in size. “We were towards the bottom end in some areas, so we have to make those adjustments,” Schneider said. 

The McCook Humane Society presented to the council requesting an increase in what the city of McCook has allocated to them by 5%, explaining the challenges they’re facing.

In a letter to the city, Joyce Anderson, treasurer of the McCook Humane Society, wrote, “We couldn’t run without the funding from our city.” She said that the city currently provides $3 874.59 toward the City of McCook Animals cost. The McCook Humane Society is requesting a 5% increase that would bring the total amount from the city to $4068.32 in addition to the utility reimbursements. City Manager Nate Schneider shared that the town relies heavily on the Humane Society. So, the city needs to contribute, saying, “I think everybody realizes the importance of the Humane Society.” 

Sarah Schneider, director of the McCook Chamber, also requested $6,000 in ACE Funds from the McCook City Council. The money is allocated to Advertising Chamber Events, promoting local shopping, using social media, promoting businesses, and stimulating local community economic development. 

Department heads also presented at the Budget Workshop. The police department will need a new car, which will cost approximately $80,000. 

The City Council will meet again on Monday, August 19, 2024.