McCook City Council 2024: A year of progress in review

In June of 2024, the McCook City Council approved the purchase of 127 acres of land, a portion of which will be used for a city sports complex at a cost of $3.186 million.

Miller and Associates

McCOOK, Neb. - In 2024, the McCook City Council engaged in significant discussions and decisions that shaped the community’s development, municipal services, and infrastructure improvements.

January kicked off with the council considering a $100,000 planning grant to enhance the downtown Creative District, setting the stage for revitalization efforts as organizers sought approval to submit a letter of intent to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. A detailed audit reaffirmed the city’s strong financial standing, carefully managing property taxes while ensuring quality services.

In February, the Parks Advisory Board secured unanimous backing for a new Disc Golf Course at Barnett Park. The council also considered an 8.5% increase in water rates and a 7.5% rise in wastewater fees necessitated by inflationary pressures. They unanimously approved a special exemption for a multifamily structure intended to support students at Community Hospital and welcomed Denver Air Connection’s proposal for twelve weekly nonstop flights to Denver.

As March unfolded, council members received updates on key projects, including swimming pool construction challenges driven by supply chain issues. They also addressed a resident’s request to forgive a lien on a property for a vacant lot sale and approved initial readings for proposed increases in ambulance service fees.

In April, local business owners voiced concerns regarding a proposed occupational tax, prompting further discussion. The city celebrated receiving the CCC Grant for the Creative District with a commitment of $20,000 and a public hearing focused on relocating a house and an “Incentive Plan” to promote workforce housing through tax increment financing. The council also followed through with earlier recommendations, adjusting water and sewer rates.

The May meetings highlighted nuisance abatement initiatives targeting home safety concerns. The council approved a liquor license for Taste of Texas, authorized property negotiations for public infrastructure, and discussed upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant, exploring funding options. Proclamations honored National Public Works and Emergency Medical Services workers for their community contributions.

June was marked by rapid advancements in constructing the new McCook Aquatic Park. Initial discussions regarding a wage study for city employees began, mainly focusing on competitive salaries for police department staff. The council authorized purchasing 127 acres for a future sports complex, which involved forming a planning committee with local organizations. They also issued bonds for utility improvements and designated nuisance properties while passing updates to related ordinances.

In July, the council approved an increase in lease payments to NPPD and finalized the land purchase contract for the sports complex. They reported significant progress in clearing nuisance properties while finalizing preparations for the McCook Aquatic Park grand opening on July 17.

The debate over the UTV ordinance continued in August, alongside economic development updates from the advisory committee about residential building projects. The annual budget workshop discussed funding requests from the Humane Society and the Chamber. The council approved the final reading of the UTV ordinance, effective Jan. 1, 2025, and offered increased support for federal legislation related to local marina land. They also reviewed the status of nuisance properties and approved a notable exception for a bed-and-breakfast.

September brought fiscal discussions centered on the FY 2024-2025 budget, highlighting a proposed increase in the property tax rate and employee wage adjustments. The council tried aligning employee pay through a wage study, overcoming challenges posed by Legislative Bill 34, which capped city spending. They initiated utility rate increases and supported community activities, including a 5K organized by Anytime Fitness.

October culminated in the final approval of the FY 2024-25 budget and further discussions on utility rate hikes. The council closed on the sports complex property, appointed committee members for its oversight, and celebrated community service recognitions. They also discussed potential grant funding opportunities for municipal infrastructure improvements.

In November, the council addressed a dangerous dogs ordinance, approved allocations for drainage issues from the LB 840 Motor Vehicle Fund, and celebrated a substantial recreational enhancement grant to develop an inclusive playground at local parks. Snow and ice control procedures were reviewed, and emergency purchases were made for necessary street department equipment.

Finally, in December, the council addressed ongoing issues surrounding airport operations, particularly Red Willow Aviation’s bankruptcy. They selected a design firm for the sports complex project and administered oaths of office to reelected council members. Ordinance amendments concerning dangerous dogs and water backflow guidelines were approved, alongside resolutions to address nuisance properties.