Bennet public meetings in 2023
205 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee
The committee will review previous minutes and receive updates from the Executive Committee. Subcommittees for Public Engagement, Partnership Development, and Internal Finance will also provide reports.
- Approval of December 14, 2023 minutes
- Executive Committee update
- Public Engagement Subcommittee update
- Partnership Development Subcommittee update
- Internal Finance Subcommittee update
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a presentation on facility needs assessments by UNO and HDR/ECC. The board will also review unclassified salaries and consider two grant applications to the Nebraska Crime Commission for juvenile services.
- Grant application: $359,422 for Community-Based Juvenile Services Aid Enhancement
- Grant application: $1,094,870 for Community-Based Juvenile Services Aid Funding
- Facility/needs assessment presentation by University of Nebraska-Omaha and HDR/ECC
- Review of unclassified salaries
- Press release seeking letters of interest for Clerk of the District Court vacancy
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to consider additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, hear public protests, and act on motor vehicle tax exemption applications. The agenda includes a protest filed by the State of Nebraska regarding taxable status of five parcels, and exemption requests from several local churches and schools.
- Protest of Notice of Taxable Status filed by the State of Nebraska (5 parcels)
- Motor vehicle tax exemption applications: Great Plains Community Church, Union College, College View Academy, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, Nebraska Wesleyan University
- Approval of minutes from December 5, 2023 meeting
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on a text amendment to require all new local streets in the county to be private roadways. The board will also consider several contracts, including a $879,622 channel stabilization project, and accept donations totaling $75,000 for the Convention Center.
- Public hearing and resolution on County Text Amendment 23012 to require new local streets to be private roadways
- Contract with Yost Excavating Inc for Ash Hollow Waverly Channel Stabilization, not to exceed $879,622
- Donations totaling $75,000 from four organizations for Convention Center financing and development
- Agreements with Alfred Benesch & Company for engineering and environmental services on South 68th Street, Hickman – Roca Road ($15,433.14 and $10,067.85)
- Claims to El Centro de las Americas ($8,870.40) and The Mediation Center ($13,000)
Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee
The committee will decide on monetary donations for the Convention Center and discuss updates from various subcommittees.
- Greater Lincoln Chamber Foundation donates $12,500
- Lincoln Chamber of Commerce donates $12,500
- Downtown Lincoln Association donates $25,000
- Lincoln Community Foundation donates $25,000
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission is meeting to approve several maintenance contracts and facility updates. The body will review a fire alarm system replacement bid and a remodel presentation for LLCHD. They are also considering multiple contracts for snow and ice removal.
- Fire alarm system replacement bid for 633 South 9th Street (IES Electric Inc.)
- Snow and ice removal contracts for Jakes Odd Jobs Inc, K2 Construction, Mr Yards and More LLC, and Vasa Construction
- LLCHD Remodel presentation
- Contract for ATM services with Cash Money 24 7 LLC
- MOU for security camera equipment and services with Inteconnect, Inc.
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)- Lancaster County
The Lancaster County Local Emergency Planning Committee is meeting to review its current membership, discuss the status of the Southeast Nebraska Healthcare Coalition and the State Emergency Response Commission Coordinator, and plan its 2024 meeting schedule, frequency, and locations. The agenda is largely administrative and planning-focused, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- Review and discussion of current LEPC members
- Status update on Southeast Nebraska Healthcare Coalition resurgence
- Status of Nebraska's State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) Coordinator
- Input from NEMA (Nebraska Emergency Management Agency)
- Discussion of 2024 meeting schedule, frequency, and locations (Health Department space unavailable)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on supplementing the Assemble Lincoln Convention Center Fund by $500,000, plus a Class C liquor license for Seven Willows at 7600 Panama Road. They will also consider a zoning text amendment to require new local streets to be private roadways, along with routine contracts, grants, and policy updates.
- $500,000 appropriation for Assemble Lincoln Convention Center Fund
- Class C liquor license for Seven Willows LLC, 7600 Panama Road, Hickman
- Public hearing Dec. 19 on requiring new local streets to be private roadways
- Grant contract with Mentoring Plus for $31,836 for Mobile Home Sports program
- Contract renewal with Vigilant Solutions LLC for license plate readers, up to $46,493
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes updates on the midyear budget memorandum and quarterly planning. The agenda also features a proposal to amend the purchasing manual to encourage supporting local businesses.
- Grant contract with Domesti-PUPS for 'I Love My Dog Expo' not to exceed $5,000.00
- Midyear budget memorandum presentation by Dennis Meyer
- Amendment to the Lancaster County Purchasing Manual regarding local business support
- Policy regarding expenditure of public funds for awards and recognition meals
- Electronic device surplus policy review
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine claims, consent items, and several contracts, including a $1.56 million bridge replacement and a culvert repair. They will also hold a public hearing on reissuing bonds for Tabitha Inc., set salaries for specific positions, and consider a tort claim against the Sheriff's Department. The agenda is largely administrative with multiple approvals and resolutions.
- Contract with Midwest Infrastructure Inc for Bridge X-129 replacement, not to exceed $1,562,346.88
- Contract with Subsurface Inc for Culvert R-295 repairs, not to exceed $38,360
- Bid award to Yost Excavating Inc for Ash Hollow Waverly Channel Stabilization, estimated $879,622
- Claims to El Centro de las Americas ($19,969.58) and Indian Center ($12,942)
- Public hearing on reissuance of Revenue Refunding Bonds (Tabitha Projects) Series 2020
Board of Commissioners - Lancaster County 101
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a 101 session to discuss 2024 legislative priorities, including standing priorities and existing legislation. The agenda also includes an update on county finance from the Budget and Fiscal Officer. No binding decisions are being made at this informational meeting.
- Update on county finance by Budget and Fiscal Officer Dennis Meyer
- Discussion of 2024 legislative priorities
- Rent restricted housing item presented by Commissioner Flowerday
- County veterans aid item presented by Commissioner Amundson
- Rural fire department radios item presented by Commissioner Schulte
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will hold a public hearing and then vote on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from 13 nonprofit organizations, including churches, a seminary, and social service groups. The meeting also includes approval of the prior meeting's minutes and a public comment period.
- Public hearing and action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Grace Lutheran Church, Sheridan Lutheran Church, Christ Place, Allon Chapel SDA Church, Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary Inc, Christian Heritage Children's Home, Christian Retirement Homes Inc. dba Eastmont, CenterPointe Inc, Outlinc Inc dba OutNebraska, Cristo Rey Catholic Church of Lincoln, Catholic Social Services, F Street Neighborhood Church, and St. Mark's United Methodist Church
- Approval of minutes from November 21, 2023 meeting
- Public comment period limited to one hour, speakers limited to five minutes
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The committee will meet to receive training updates and progress reports regarding Georgetown and the Center for Juvenile Justice Reform. The agenda also includes an update on the Community Resource Spreadsheet.
- Training Update from Karen Bell-Dancy
- Georgetown/Center for Juvenile Justice Reform update from Jason Stille and Laura Suhr
- Community Resource Spreadsheet Update
Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee
The Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee will review subcommittee updates and an update regarding RFLI. The committee will also consider a letter agreement with Conventions, Sports, and Leisure International, LLC for professional consulting services.
- Letter agreement with Conventions, Sports, and Leisure International, LLC for convention center consulting
Board of Corrections
The Board of Corrections is reviewing population statistics, programming, and training reports. Data for the third quarter of 2023 shows a 14.9% increase in average daily population compared to the previous year.
- Average daily population of 730.8 detainees (109.9% of 665 operational capacity)
- 20 individuals housed in Washington County jail at $69 per day
- 825 felony arrests and 1,419 misdemeanor arrests in Q3 2023
- 13 inmates admitted to community hospitals during Q3 2023
- Review of 487 religious meetings and 133 substance abuse education meetings
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a discussion on the reissuance of revenue refunding bonds for Tabitha, Inc. projects. The agenda also features departmental updates regarding jail video systems, veterans services, and information services.
- Discussion of resolution for reissuance of revenue refunding bonds (Tabitha Projects), Series 2020
- Briefing on TX23012 private roads
- Appointments to the Lancaster County Extension Board for three-year terms beginning January 2024
- Quarterly Veterans Service Office update
- Quarterly Information Services update
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine consent items and new business, including a $565,638.81 ARPA-funded culvert maintenance contract and several contract amendments. The board will also set a public hearing for a liquor license application.
- ARPA Culvert Maintenance Phase III contract with Van Dorn Valley Construction LLC, not to exceed $565,638.81
- Amendment to Wellpath LLC medical services contract for Youth Services Center, increasing pricing by 3%, annual cap $439,484.04
- Right-of-way contracts: Landwirtshaft LLC ($310), Mark R and Carol A Anderson ($910), Francke Farms Inc ($842.50)
- Utility permits for two new solar-powered warning sirens and a fiber optic line by Windstream Nebraska
- Public hearing set for Dec 12 on Class C liquor license for Seven Willows LLC (7600 Panama Road, Hickman)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine claims, right-of-way purchases, utility permits, and several construction contracts, including paving on South 98th Street and a bridge replacement in Denton. They will also consider a $1.25 million grant to expand the Lancaster Events Center and a special liquor license for a Christmas event at Roca Berry Farms.
- $769,026.75 paving contract with Constructors Inc for South 98th Street from Old Cheney to A Street
- $607,209.99 bridge replacement contract with JMN Construction LLC for County Bridge N-114 on South 91st Street in Denton
- $1,250,000 grant to Lancaster County Agricultural Society for Lancaster Events Center infrastructure
- Special designated license for Farmside Weddings & Events LLC at Roca Berry Farms (16531 South 38th Street, Roca) on Dec 15-16, 2023
- Adoption of One- and Six-Year Road and Bridge Construction Program for FY 2024 and 2025-2029
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to approve minutes, consider additions and deductions to tax rolls, and hold a public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from three organizations. The board will then vote on those applications. The agenda is otherwise routine.
- Public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from Lincoln Katz Youth Group, Lincoln Lutheran School Association, and Vital Services Inc
- Action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications
- Approval of minutes from November 7, 2023 meeting
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
This staff meeting includes updates on federal infrastructure projects, risk management, and ARPA funding. Staff will also provide a broadband network update and review recent board member meeting attendance.
- Quarterly federal infrastructure projects update from County Engineer Pam Dingman
- ARPA Quarter 3 2023 update from Grant Coordinator Nikki Suesz
- Broadband and fiber network right-of-way update
- Risk Management Director report
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine consent items, including a 3-year renewal of a strategic budgeting contract with SHI International Corp for up to $364,809.98, and a new employee assistance program agreement with Continuum Employee Assistance costing $21,383 per year. The board will also consider a resolution to add a conflict of interest statement to the County Purchasing Manual and several right-of-way and change order contracts. Public comment is limited to one hour.
- Renew contract C-23-0908 with SHI International Corp for strategic budgeting, 3 years, not to exceed $364,809.98
- New EAP agreement with Continuum Employee Assistance, $21,383/year for 3 years
- Right-of-way contracts: Spangler $1,405, Myers $280, Brown Family Trust $280
- Change Order 2 to Vogtscapes Inc: $30,000 incentive for early bridge opening
- Change Order 2 to JMN Construction: $21,227.25 increase for bridge N-96 repairs
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Lincoln/Lancaster County Youth Crisis Response Coalition is meeting to review minutes, receive agency updates and data reports on youth contacts, and discuss grant updates including the Youth and Family Crisis Response Center RFQ. The agenda also includes a presentation by a 988 crisis counselor, a review of the mission statement for approval, and input on the bimonthly newsletter.
- Youth and Family Crisis Response Center RFQ update
- Agency updates and data reports from Cedars, LPD, Center Pointe, Lancaster Connected, Region V Zero Suicide
- Presentation by Chaplain Richard Featherstone on serving as a 988 crisis counselor
- Review of YCRC Mission Statement for approval
- Training opportunities from BHECN and Mobile Response and Stabilization Services
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
This staff meeting involves updates from the Department of Corrections, Community Corrections, and the Health and Wellness Coordinator. The agenda also includes a recommendation regarding a Visitors Improvement Fund matching grant and the reappointment of an advisory board member.
- Reappointment of Colleen Ogden to the Lincoln-Lancaster Keno Prevention Fund Advisory Board
- Recommendation from Visitors Promotion Committee regarding Visitors Improvement Fund matching grant
- Department of Corrections Director Report
- Community Corrections Director Report
- Health and Wellness Coordinator Update
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on several contracts and appointments, including a $1.56 million bridge replacement and $85,136 for fixed license plate readers for the Sheriff's Office. The board will also consider agreements for mental health services, a new emergency management hire, and routine consent items like right-of-way purchases and a UPS delivery contract.
- Award $1,562,346.88 bid to Midwest Infrastructure Inc for County Bridge X-129 replacement (Project 21-43)
- Sole Source Purchase Order to Vigilant Solutions LLC for fixed license plate readers, $85,136 (C-23-0885)
- Agreement with The Community Supports Network Inc for microfilm/scanning services, up to $78,000 (C-23-0888)
- Approve right-of-way contracts totaling over $32,000 for various road projects (e.g., North 98th Street, South 25th Street)
- Appoint Nicholas Oberle as Emergency Management Training Specialist at $66,023.36 annual salary
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will consider appeals on property tax assessments, including greenbelt valuation disqualifications, a penalty and interest appeal from CommuteAir LLC, and an assessment correction. The board will also hold public hearings and take action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for several organizations.
- Appeal on penalty and interest on personal property from CommuteAir LLC for 2022 and 2023
- Appeals on disqualification from special (greenbelt) valuation: Myron and Barbara Smith; Greg and Casey Goodwater
- Assessment correction pursuant to §77-1613.02 (Reed Devall)
- Motor vehicle tax exemption applications: Christian Record Services Inc, Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary, Saint Paul United Methodist Church, The American Legion, Villa Marie School, Nebraska Crop Improvement Association, School Sister of Christ the King, HopeSpoke (2)
- Notice of taxable status for State of Nebraska (5 parcels)
Juvenile Justice Collaborative
This is a routine working meeting of the Juvenile Justice Collaborative. The group will review program request forms and receive grant training; no decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Program Request Forms Review
- Grant Training led by Sara Hoyle
- Next meeting scheduled for Feb 9, 2024
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The committee will discuss updates on training and community resources aimed at reducing racial disparities.
- Training Update by Karen Bell-Dancy
- Georgetown Update on Advancing Racial Justice and Equity in Youth Legal Systems
Justice Council
The Lancaster County-City of Lincoln Justice Council will receive updates on corrections, community corrections, and problem-solving courts, followed by a presentation on a facility/needs assessment by CGL. The council will then consider a recommendation to the County Board regarding the assessment. The meeting also includes an overview of UNL data research and agency updates.
- Corrections update with population statistics and charts for Q3 2023
- Community corrections update by Director Jeff Kilpatrick
- Problem-solving courts update by Assistant Director Landon Parks and Chief Probation Officer Jeff Curry
- Overview of UNL data research by Dr. Richard Wiener
- Facility/needs assessment presentation by CGL and recommendation to County Board
Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee
The committee will approve October minutes, receive executive and subcommittee updates, and review the Regional Food Logistics Initiative (RFLI).
- Approval of October 19, 2023 meeting minutes
- Executive Committee update
- Subcommittee updates including Public Engagement, Partnership Development, and Internal Finance
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
This staff meeting includes reports from the Facilities and Property Director and the Weed Authority Superintendent. The board will also enter executive session to discuss potential litigation, real estate purchases, and legal advice.
- Approval of October 26, 2023, staff meeting minutes
- Facilities and Property Director report
- Weed Authority Director report
- Executive session regarding potential litigation and real estate purchases
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting on October 31, 2023, to consider a range of routine and significant items. Key actions include a public hearing and resolution for a new liquor license, a 25-year lease with ALLO for broadband conduit access, and multiple contracts for road and bridge projects, including a $762,087 bridge replacement and a $607,209 bridge bid award. The board will also approve routine claims, consent items, and various service contracts.
- 25-year lease with ALLO Infrastructure for broadband conduit access (C-23-0881)
- Public hearing and resolution for Class I liquor license for Starr's Raymono's Pizzeria & Bakery (R-23-0092)
- Contract with JJK Construction for bridge C-284 replacement, not to exceed $762,087.41 (C-23-0867)
- Award bid to JMN Construction for bridge N-114 replacement, $607,209.99 (B-23-247)
- Interlocal agreement with Washington County for inmate housing (C-23-0882)
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee is meeting to vote on several funding and policy items. The session includes decisions on childcare assistance and mental health amendments, as well as discussions on casino and gambling allocations.
- Early Childcare Assistance Grants
- Low Barrier Shelter Proposal
- Mental Health Association ARPA Amendment
- Keno Recommendations
- Local Casino and State Gambling Prevention allocations
Keno HS Prevention Fund Advisory Board
The Keno HS Prevention Fund Advisory Board is meeting to conduct a review of Keno grants. The session includes introductions and the scheduling of a future meeting.
- Keno Grant Review
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a review of the RFCC radio system analysis and an action item regarding EEO program reporting exemptions. The agenda also features reports from Emergency Management and Community Health Endowment.
- Review and analysis of RFCC radio system report
- Authorization for Deputy Chief Administrative Officer to sign EEO Program Utilization Report exemption declaration
- Emergency Management Director report
- Discussion of Tri-County Retreat alternate dates for December 4 or December 8, 2023
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals including minutes, claims, and contract amendments, plus several new business items. Notable actions include awarding a $565,638.81 bid for ARPA culvert maintenance, a $150,000 rock riprap contract, and a $113,964 engineering agreement for bridge replacement.
- Award bid to Van Dorn Valley Construction LLC for ARPA Culvert Maintenance Phase III, $565,638.81
- Contract with Buel Trucking Inc for rock riprap supply and hauling, up to $150,000
- Agreement with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig for County Bridge J-138 replacement engineering, up to $113,964
- Resolution to vacate right-of-way east of NW 40th Street and W Vine Street
- Claims including $10,199.22 to El Centro de las Americas and $3,592.50 to The Mediation Center
Justice Council
The Lancaster County-City of Lincoln Justice Council will meet to approve minutes from August 4, 2023, and consider revised bylaws. The main business includes facility/needs assessment presentations from UNO and HDR, with a third presentation scheduled for the next meeting.
- Approval of Justice Council minutes for August 4, 2023
- Approval of revised Justice Council bylaws (redline version)
- Facility/needs assessment presentation by UNO at 10:00 a.m.
- Facility/needs assessment presentation by HDR at 11:00 a.m.
- Next meeting scheduled for November 3, 2023, with CGL presentation
Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee
The Lincoln Standing Committee will meet to approve October 5th's minutes, receive updates from the Executive Committee and subcommittees, discuss consultant next steps, and adjourn.
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
This staff meeting includes reports from the Veterans Service Director, Budget and Fiscal Director, and Chief Information Officer. The Board will also enter executive session to discuss potential litigation, real estate purchases, and legal advice.
- Veterans Service Director report
- Budget and Fiscal Director report
- Criminal Justice Dashboard presentation
- Executive session regarding potential litigation and real estate purchases
- Review of NACO voter registration form
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to approve minutes, consider additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, certify 2023-2024 tax levies, and hold public hearings on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from CEDARS Youth Services and Community Action Partnership of Lancaster & Saunders Counties. Action on those applications will follow. The meeting is largely procedural, with public comment periods limited to one hour.
- Certification of 2023-2024 tax levies
- Public hearing and action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications: CEDARS Youth Services
- Public hearing and action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications: Community Action Partnership of Lancaster & Saunders Counties
- Approval of minutes from October 3, 2023 meeting
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review routine consent items, approve various vendor claims, and discuss new business. Key items include infrastructure engineering contracts, law enforcement equipment, and public hearing requests.
- Sheriff's Office interior remodel contract with Brown Brothers Construction Inc for $357,478
- Replacement of County Bridge W-104 on South 12th Street with Schemmer Associates Inc for up to $96,740
- Truancy Diversion program grant with Lincoln Public Schools for $142,807
- Annual service contract for law enforcement vehicle emergency equipment with Jones Automotive up to $200,000
- Salary settings for four Assistant Public Defenders ranging from $80,132.00 to $102,635.52
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
This staff meeting includes a discussion regarding assistant public defender salaries and a District Energy Corporation appointment. The agenda also covers reports from the Human Services Director and updates on various board member meetings.
- Discussion of Assistant Public Defender salaries
- District Energy Corporation appointment
- Lincoln-Lancaster County Human Services Director report
- Review of recent committee meetings including Region V Services and Board of Health
STOP Committee
The STOP Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, review class attendance, hear a driver's education update, discuss law enforcement fund reimbursement timing, and consider a fund request from the Lincoln Police Department (LPD). Public comment is also scheduled.
- Approval of April 13, 2023 meeting minutes
- Class attendance count summary
- Student Driver's Education update
- Discussion of law enforcement fund reimbursement timeframe
- Fund request from LPD
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine claims and consent items, plus several notable new business items including two federal grants, a bridge replacement contract, and an agreement with NDOT for automatic license plate readers. The board will also consider personnel classification changes and a salary schedule for supervising attorneys.
- Accept $550,000 DOJ grant for domestic violence response improvements
- Accept $1,000,000 OJJDP grant for juvenile behavioral health resource center
- Award $762,087.41 contract to JJK Construction for County Bridge C-284 replacement
- Authorize agreement with NDOT to install automatic license plate readers on state highway right-of-way
- Approve $25,990 claim to Indian Center and $9,437.68 to El Centro de las Americas
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will consider approving a bid for the Luxford Studio HVAC upgrade, an amendment to the natural gas contract with WoodRiver Energy, and a contract for ice melt supply. They will also review the garage remodel final payment and general vouchers for September 2023.
- Luxford Studio HVAC Upgrade Bid Approval (23-211)
- Amendment One to Contract for Natural Gas and Related Services #19-212 with WoodRiver Energy, LLC
- Contract for Annual Supply of Ice Melt #6621 with Nebraska Landscape Solutions, Inc.
- County City Building Garage Remodel - Update and Final Payment Application
- General Voucher Approval for September 2023
Board of Commissioners - One & Six-Year Road & Bridge Improvement Program Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the One and Six-Year Road and Bridge Improvement Program for fiscal years 2024 and 2025-2029. No other business is scheduled besides the hearing and adjournment.
- Public hearing on One and Six-Year Road and Bridge Improvement Program for fiscal years 2024 and 2025-2029
Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee
The committee will meet to approve minutes from the September 26, 2023, meeting and establish subcommittees. The agenda also includes discussing next steps regarding a consultant.
- Approval of September 26, 2023, meeting minutes
- Establishment of subcommittees per Article 6 of the Bylaws
- Appointment of subcommittee chairs and members by the Chair
- Discussion regarding consultant next steps
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to approve prior minutes, receive a report from the Mental Health Crisis Center director, and discuss youth services. The board will also enter executive session for potential litigation, real estate purchases, and legal advice.
- Mental Health Crisis Center director report at 8:30 a.m.
- Youth Services Center director discussion at 9:00 a.m.
- Executive session for potential litigation, real estate purchases, and legal advice at 9:30 a.m.
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to approve minutes, consider additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, and hold a public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from eight organizations. The board will then vote on those applications. The agenda is otherwise routine and procedural.
- Motor vehicle tax exemption applications from Immanuel Retirement Communities, Lincoln/Lancaster County Habitat for Humanity, Citylight North Lincoln Church, Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska, House of Prayer Christian Church, Nebraska Community Blood Bank, Faith Bible Church, and Clyde Malone Center
- Approval of minutes from September 19, 2023 meeting
- Public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemptions
- Public comment period limited to one hour
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine consent items and new business, including a $1.47 million contract to renovate a City of Lincoln garage into a Civil Protective Custody Center, a $950,000 bridge repair agreement, and several contract amendments and right-of-way purchases. The board will also set a public hearing for an amusement license and consider resolutions on unclaimed witness fees and vacating a road segment.
- Contract with Hampton Commercial Construction Inc for $1,465,026 to renovate 635 J Street garage for Civil Protective Custody Center (ARPA-funded)
- County Bridge Match Program agreement with NDOT for Bridge Q-110, total project cost $950,000, state pays up to $250,000
- Lease agreement with John Deere Financial for 324G Skid Steer at $57,803.21
- Right-of-way contracts totaling $12,245 with various landowners
- Public hearing set for Oct 17 on amusement license for No Shave Nebraska Annual Banquet at Champion Seed
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is meeting to conduct interviews for the position of Youth Services Center Director. The agenda contains only this interview item and adjournment, with no other business or decisions listed.
- Youth Services Center Director interviews
Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee
The committee will conduct appointments for two members and adjunct advisors. The meeting also includes the election of a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary.
- Appointment of two members for two-year terms
- Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
- Appointment of adjunct advisors
- Discussion regarding consultant next steps
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes briefings on the proposed one and six-year Lancaster County road and bridge construction program. Staff will also discuss the Stepping Up Initiative regarding criminal justice budget proposals and mental health in jails.
- Briefing on Proposed One and Six-Year Lancaster Co. Rd. and Bridge Construction Program
- Insurance update including 2023-2024 premium summary
- Discussion of Attorney 2023 payplan draft
- Stepping Up Initiative budget proposal for Criminal Justice BH Initiatives
- Approval of September 21, 2023 staff meeting minutes
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on setting the 2023-24 property tax request for the county and Rural Library at a different amount than the prior year. The board will also consider several contracts, including a $657,682 purchase of two motor graders and a $1,438,808 mental health services reimbursement agreement, plus routine items like right-of-way purchases and utility permits.
- Public hearing and resolution to set 2023-24 property tax request at a different amount than prior year (R-23-0075)
- Purchase order to NMC - Lincoln for two 2023 or newer motor graders, $657,682 (C-23-0775)
- Network Provider contract with Regional Behavioral Health Authority for mental health services, reimbursement up to $1,438,808 (C-23-0776)
- Right-of-way contracts with four property owners totaling $6,648 (C-23-0765 to C-23-0770)
- Utility permits for ARPA Broadband Phase II cable installation, Runs 6-9 (C-23-0771 to C-23-0774)
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities Committee will hold a meeting focused on training and youth programs. The agenda includes discussions regarding youth mentorships and the Center for Juvenile Justice Reform.
- Training session with Karen Bell-Dancy and Sara Hoyle
- Discussion of Mentorships for Youth
- Presentation on Advancing Racial Justice and Equity in Youth Legal Systems
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
This staff meeting includes departmental updates regarding information services, the Weed Authority, and community corrections. The agenda also covers administrative reports and upcoming board member meeting schedules.
- Quarterly Information Services update from Chief Information Officer Abby Eccher
- Weed Authority update regarding invasive species conference and abandoned cemeteries
- Review of technical assistance application from Advancing Pretrial Policy and Research
- Approval of September 14, 2023, staff meeting minutes
LB644 - Joint Public Hearing with affected Taxing Entities
This is a joint public hearing where affected taxing entities — the cities of Hickman, Lincoln, and Waverly, Lincoln Public Schools, and Southeast Community College — present their proposed property tax increases. Residents can give public comment, limited to three minutes per speaker. The meeting is procedural, focused on presentations and public input rather than decisions.
- City of Hickman budget/tax rate presentation
- City of Lincoln budget/tax rate presentation
- City of Waverly budget/tax rate presentation
- Lincoln Public Schools budget/tax rate presentation
- Southeast Community College budget/tax rate presentation
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider a resolution to adopt the Local Food System Plan as an amendment to the 2050 Comprehensive Plan. The board will also vote on numerous routine consent items, including contract renewals, right-of-way purchases, grants, and a public hearing on the final tax request. Several new business items include personnel classifications, appointments, and contracts for services and equipment.
- Public hearing and resolution on Comprehensive Plan Amendment No. 23009 to adopt the Local Food System Plan
- Setting a public hearing for Sept. 26 on the final tax request at a different amount than prior year
- Contract renewals: Envirotech Services ($120,000), ODP Business Solutions ($250,000), Atlas Technical Consultants
- Right-of-way contracts with 9 property owners, amounts from $9 to $4,510
- Contract with Federal Signal Corp for three outdoor warning sirens, not to exceed $91,589.40
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to approve minutes, consider late-filed homestead exemption applications, and hold a public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for several churches and nonprofits. The board will also take action on those motor vehicle tax exemptions.
- 27 late-filed homestead exemption applications, including David Boye, Terrence Buchholz, and others
- Public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Cornerstone Christian Church, Catholic Social Services, Linh Quang Buddhist Center, and others
- Action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
This staff meeting includes updates on the Youth Services Center Director search and human resources market reviews for security guards. The Board will also review a recommendation regarding the 457 deferred compensation plan and a proposed appointment to the Planning Commission.
- Update on Youth Services Center Director search
- Security Guard and Supervisor market review
- Appointment of Bailey Feit to the Planning Commission through August 24, 2029
- Pension Review Committee recommendation regarding the 457 deferred compensation plan rule
- Quarterly Juvenile Probation update
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)- Lancaster County
The Lancaster County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) will hold its annual meeting on September 12, 2023. The agenda includes voting on the previous meeting's minutes and appointing officers, followed by updates from local and state emergency agencies. A presentation from the American Red Cross on preparedness is also scheduled.
- Vote to approve agenda and June 13th meeting minutes
- Appointment of LEPC officers: Chair Kyle Poore, Vice-Chair Loretta Pierce, Secretary Gina Egenberger
- Recap of Guardians of Freedom Airshow (Aug 26-27) and Volleyball Day in Nebraska (Aug 30) with record attendance
- Updates on Emergency Operations Center (EOC) upgrades and recent 911 service outages
- Presentation by American Red Cross: Prepare, Respond & Recover
Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency
The Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency is holding a public hearing to discuss its proposed budget for fiscal year 2023-24. The meeting is scheduled for September 12, 2023, at 8:30 AM in Room 112 of the County-City Building. No other substantive items are on the agenda.
- Public hearing on proposed FY 2023-24 budget
The Joint Public Agency presented its FY 2023-24 budget proposal of $4,255,300 for principal and interest on bonds, noting a levy of $.01145 after recent property valuation increases. No public comments were recorded. The council then moved to adjourn, and the motion carried unanimously (4-0).
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency
The Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency is meeting to elect a chair and vice chair, approve minutes from August 2022, and adopt a resolution approving the budget for fiscal year July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. The meeting follows a budget public hearing. Public comment will be taken, and the next meeting is set for September 10, 2024.
- Election of chair and vice chair
- Approval of minutes from August 23, 2022
- Adoption of resolution approving FY2023-2024 budget (July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024)
- Public comment period
- Next meeting set for September 10, 2024
The agency elected Sean Flowerday as Chair and Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird as Vice Chair, each by a 4‑0 vote. Members approved the August 23, 2022 meeting minutes unanimously. The FY July 1 2023 – June 30 2024 budget resolution was adopted with a 4‑0 vote. The next meeting was scheduled for September 10 2024 and the session adjourned at 8:41 a.m.
- Elected Sean Flowerday as Chair (4-0)
- Elected Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird as Vice Chair (4-0)
- Approved August 23, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Adopted FY2023‑24 budget resolution (4-0)
- Set next meeting for September 10, 2024 (4-0)
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine consent items, including contract amendments and a right-of-way purchase, and take up new business such as setting a public hearing on vacating part of Branched Oak Road, terminating the COVID-19 workplace policy, and approving several service contracts. The board will also proclaim Constitution Week and adopt 2024 legislative priorities.
- Public hearing set for vacation of Branched Oak Road between N. 27th and N. 40th St.
- Contract amendment with Uretek USA Inc. for soil stabilization, increasing by $200,000 to $400,000 total
- New per diem rate of $334 per juvenile for detention services at Youth Services Center
- Contract with Cazares Counseling LLC for substance abuse evaluations, not to exceed $27,660
- Snow removal contracts with K2 Construction and Jake's Odd Jobs, total not to exceed $65,600
The Board of Commissioners terminated the Workplace Response to Covid-19 Policy, stating the virus will now be treated as other communicable diseases. The board also approved several personnel awards, new service contracts, and the 2024 legislative priorities.
- Terminated Human Resources Policy Bulletin No. 2022-2 (Workplace Response to Covid-19 Policy) (5-0)
- Approved $200,000 increase for Uretek USA Inc soil stabilization contract (5-0)
- Approved $50,000 grant contract with Asian Community & Cultural Center (5-0)
- Approved $21,700 housing rehabilitation contract for Crewline Exteriors (5-0)
- Approved snow removal contracts not to exceed $65,600 (5-0)
- Approved $500 award for Michael Becker and pay increase for Kristin Larson (5-0)
- Appointed Brad Johnson as Interim Director of the Youth Services Center (5-0)
- Approved legal services agreement with Baylor Evnen PC (4-1)
Public Building Commission
The Bennet Public Building Commission will consider approving amendments to contracts for fire alarm services, natural gas, office supplies, and boiler maintenance, as well as approve August 2023 vouchers and elect officers. They will also receive updates on the County City Building garage remodel and security.
- Amendment to Contract #6396 with Midwest Alarm Services for fire alarm panel inspection, testing, repair, and replacement
- Amendment to Contract #19-212 with WoodRiver Energy, LLC for natural gas and related services
- Amendment to MOU #143 with ODP Business Solutions, LLC for office supplies and products
- Amendment to MOU #136 with Kurita America Inc. for boiler, cooling tower, and mechanical water system treatment and testing
- General Voucher Approval for August 2023
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Lincoln/Lancaster County Youth Crisis Response Coalition is meeting to review minutes, receive agency updates and data reports on youth contacts, discuss grant updates, and gather feedback on the 988 crisis line. The agenda also includes a presentation on CenterPointe's co-responder model and input on the coalition's bimonthly newsletter.
- Agency updates and data reports on youth-focused contacts from Cedars, Education, LPD, Center Pointe, Lancaster Connected, and Region V Zero Suicide
- Grant updates presented by Sara
- Feedback on 2023 Nebraska Community Aid & Juvenile Justice Conference (June 14-15)
- Review of 988 experience and input to be provided to 988 committee
- CenterPointe update on co-responder model by Amber Dirks
The coalition received agency updates regarding youth suicide data, mental health trends, and grant statuses. Members discussed the co-responder model and the release of an RFQ for a Family Resource Center provider. No other formal votes were recorded.
- Approved minutes from the May YCRC meeting
Juvenile Justice Collaborative
This is a routine meeting of the Juvenile Justice Collaborative (JDAI) with no decisions or public hearings on the agenda. The group will hear program and committee updates, including from the RED, Youth Crisis Response Coalition, Family Engagement, and Prevention committees. The next meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2023.
- Program updates from all members
- Committee updates: RED, Youth Crisis Response Coalition, Family Engagement, Prevention
- Next meeting set for November 6, 2023, 1-4pm at 555 S 10th St, Room 303
The collaborative shared updates on youth services and diversion programs. No formal votes were taken, but the group discussed the upcoming RFQ for a 24/7 walk-in crisis center and scheduled future funding and training meetings.
- Scheduled Statewide JDAI Collaborative Meeting for Oct 26
- Scheduled Education Rights Counsel Training for Oct 10
- Scheduled Cultural Competency in the Workplace training for Oct 25
- Announced RFQ release for FRC crisis center on Monday at noon
- Confirmed $1.5M/year regional funding and $6M county infrastructure commitment for FRC
Keno HS Prevention Fund Advisory Board
The board will review its own advisory role and the amount of funds available for 2024. Members will also review guidelines, application processes, and receive an update on the endowment.
- Review of amount available for 2024
- Review of Keno Guideline, Application and Review Process
- Endowment Update
The board updated the Keno guidelines and application process for the 2024 cycle. It was noted that $275,000 is available for allocation and the endowment currently stands at $1.9M.
- Updated guidelines to allow new programs to be 100% funded in their first year
- Removed question regarding covid funding from the application
- Added requirement for names and contact info on Board of Directors list
- Changed budget section 'Telephone' to 'Communications'
- Set application window from September 11 to October 6
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting with updates from planning, HR, and wellness, plus a review of county retirement investments. They will also receive a briefing on Comprehensive Plan Amendment 23009, the Lincoln Food System Plan. The board will enter executive session for potential litigation, union negotiations, and legal advice.
- Briefing on Comprehensive Plan Amendment 23009 (Lincoln Food System Plan)
- Second quarter 2023 investment review for 401(a) and 457(b) plans
- Quarterly planning and HR updates
- Health and wellness coordinator update
- Executive session on potential litigation, union negotiations, and legal advice
The Board of Commissioners approved the minutes from the August 31, 2023, staff meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of departmental updates regarding planning, human resources, investments, and wellness, as well as a briefing on a local food system plan.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for August 31, 2023 (4-0)
- Entered executive session for potential litigation, union negotiations, and legal advice (5-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
Pension Review Committee
The Pension Review Committee will review the second quarter 2023 investment performance for the 401(a) and 457(b) plans. Representatives from Empower and Segal Marco Advisors will present the review. The committee will also discuss the first day of the month rule for the 457(b) plan.
- Second quarter 2023 investment review for 401(a) and 457(b) plans
- Discussion of SECURE 2.0 implementation provisions
- Review of the first day of the month rule for the 457(b) plan
- Approval of March 8, 2023, meeting minutes
The Pension Review Committee approved previous meeting minutes and recommended a change to the 457 Deferred Compensation Plan to streamline administration. The committee also reviewed second-quarter 2023 investment performance and plan demographics.
- Approved March 8, 2023 meeting minutes (6-2)
- Recommended County Board remove First Day of the Month Rule from 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (9-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on the 2023-24 fiscal year budget and a resolution to exceed the restricted funds limit by one percent. They will also consider an agreement with NDOT for Interstate 80 improvements from Pleasant Dale Interchange to Northwest 56th Street, with all construction costs paid by the state. Other items include street name changes, liquor licenses, and various contracts.
- Approve 2023-24 budget (R-23-0066) and resolution to exceed restricted funds limit by 1% (R-23-0065)
- Agreement with NDOT for I-80 improvements, construction starting 2025, state-funded (C-23-0721)
- Street name change: portion of South 96th Street to South 96th Circle (R-23-0064)
- Liquor licenses for James Arthur Vineyards (2001 West Raymond Road) and manager James Ballard (R-23-0068)
- Contract with HUB International for benefits consulting, 5-year, $163,148.40 (C-23-0715)
The Board approved the 2023-24 fiscal year budget and a resolution to increase the budgeted restricted funds limit by one percent. Other key actions included approving a liquor license for James Arthur Vineyards and an I-80 improvement agreement with NDOT.
- Approved 2023-24 fiscal year budget (5-0)
- Approved increasing budgeted restricted funds limit by 1% (4-1)
- Approved renaming portion of South 96th Street to South 96th Circle (5-0)
- Approved Class I and corporate manager liquor licenses for James Arthur Vineyards LLC (5-0)
- Approved NDOT agreement for I-80 improvements from Pleasant Dale Interchange to Northwest 56th Street (5-0)
- Approved $82,600 office space agreement for Adult Probation (5-0)
- Approved $163,148.40 employee benefits consulting agreement with HUB International Great Plains LLC (5-0)
- Approved 2023-2025 bargaining agreement with IBEW Local 1536 (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will consider property tax matters, including protests of assessed valuation changes for three properties and applications for motor vehicle tax exemptions from several organizations. The board will also review additions and deductions to the tax rolls and an appeal of penalty and interest from Celerion, Inc. Public hearings will be held for the protests and exemption applications.
- Protest of assessed valuation change: Jack Estates LP
- Protest of assessed valuation change: Bridgeport Apartments
- Protest of assessed valuation change: Waterbrook Apartments
- Motor vehicle tax exemption applications from Bryan Medical Center, churches, and schools
- Appeal of penalty and interest on personal property from Celerion, Inc.
The Board denied protests regarding assessed valuation changes for Jack Estates LP, Bridgeport Apartments, and Waterbrook Apartments. The Board also approved several motor vehicle tax exemptions and updated tax assessment rolls.
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved assessed valuation decreases for Joseph G and Deloris A Huffman and King Brothers Real Estate LLC (5-0)
- Denied appeal of penalty and interest on personal property from Celerion, Inc (5-0)
- Denied valuation change protests for Jack Estates LP, Bridgeport Apartments, and Waterbrook Apartments (4-1)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for 11 entities including Bryan Medical Center and several churches/schools (5-0)
- Approved August 15, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0 with one abstention)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
This staff meeting includes an insurance update and a quarterly report from the Veteran’s Service Office. The board will also review minutes from the August 24, 2023, meeting and discuss recent and upcoming committee meetings attended by board members.
- Insurance update from Risk Manager Sue Eckley and UNICO President Tom Champoux
- Quarterly Veteran’s Service Office update from Mark Lakamp
- Approval of staff meeting minutes from August 24, 2023
The Board approved the minutes from the August 24, 2023, meeting. Other agenda items consisted of updates on insurance renewals, veteran services, and reports from various board member meetings.
- Approved minutes for August 24, 2023 (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing to discuss the county's proposed budget for fiscal year 2023-24. The meeting is a budget meeting, and the only substantive item is the public hearing on the budget. No other decisions or discussions are listed on the agenda.
- Public hearing on Lancaster County's Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24
The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2023-24 budget. No formal action was taken on the budget, as the resolution to adopt it will be on a future agenda.
- Held public hearing on proposed FY 2023-24 budget
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on a zoning text amendment to allow farm winery social halls and spirits sales at farm wineries. The board will also consider a $1.46 million bid for civil protective custody renovations, a $950,000 bridge project agreement, and several contract renewals and grant awards.
- Public hearing and resolution on County Text Amendment No. 23010 to allow farm winery social halls and spirits sales
- Bid award to Hampton Commercial Construction Inc for civil protective custody renovations up to $1,465,026
- County Bridge Match Program agreement with NDOT for Denton at Stream (N 114) project, total cost estimated at $950,000
- Bid award to Federal Siren Corporation for three outdoor warning sirens at $91,589.40
- Grant contract with UNL Law Psychology Program for juvenile and adult criminal justice data analysis at $100,000
The Board approved a zoning resolution to allow farm winery social halls and the sale of spirits at farm wineries. Other actions included awarding a $91,589.40 contract for outdoor warning sirens and approving various grant contracts for juvenile justice services.
- Approved zoning amendment to allow farm winery social halls and spirits sales (5-0)
- Approved $91,589.40 bid to Federal Siren Corporation for three warning sirens (5-0)
- Approved $100,000 grant to UNL Law Psychology Program for justice data analysis (5-0)
- Approved $200,000 expenditure increase for Uretek USA soil stabilization (5-0)
- Approved final allocation of levy authority for political subdivisions (5-0)
- Approved $29,075.94 claim for City of Lincoln Information Services (5-0)
- Denied/Failed to second bridge replacement agreement with NDOT for Bridge N-119
- Reappointed Elizabeth Vanwormer to Air Pollution Control Advisory Board (5-0)
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee will consider a consent agenda including minutes and a Human Services Activity Report, followed by a discussion on the State Gambling Prevention Allocation. Reports from United Way, Region V, and the Mayor's Office/One Lincoln are also scheduled.
- Consent agenda: Minutes from May 31
- Consent agenda: Human Services Activity Report
- Discussion: State Gambling Prevention Allocation
- Report: United Way
- Report: Mayor's Office/One Lincoln
The committee approved the May 31st minutes. No formal action items were decided, though members discussed potential allocations for state gambling prevention funds and the administration of a $100,000 non-profit childcare assistance grant.
- Approved consent agenda and May 31st minutes (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The staff meeting includes a briefing on proposed zoning amendments regarding distilleries and microdistilleries. Commissioners will also receive updates on health benefit plans, the airport ARPA contract, and budget allocations.
- Proposed zoning amendment TX23010 to add definitions for distillery, microdistillery, and spirits
- Review of Airport ARPA contract between the County Clerk, City of Lincoln, and Lincoln Airport
- Update on health benefit plans and renewals
- $480 promotion fund grant application from Lincoln Rose Society
- Budget update and fifteen cent allocation discussion
The Board approved a 10% health benefit plan increase and the adoption of the Symetra proposal and Prudent Rx program. Commissioners voted to accept a state grant for Bridge N-114 and initiated a financial review of the airport ARPA contract.
- Approved 10% health plan increase, Prudent Rx program, and Symetra proposal (5-0)
- Approved accepting state grant for Bridge N-114 (5-0)
- Approved financial review of airport ARPA contract (5-0)
- Approved $480 Lincoln Rose Society grant application (5-0)
- Approved directing CAO to work with Visit Lincoln to roll out grant program (5-0)
- Approved minutes for August 10 and August 17 meetings (5-0)
- Scheduled Road and Bridge Program public hearing for October 10, 2023
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider a recommendation to award up to $2.3 million in federal ARPA funds to Integrated Behavioral Health Services for capital improvements. The board will also vote on several contracts, including a $677,747.80 culvert maintenance project and multiple agreements for crushed rock supply and snow removal services.
- Up to $2.3M ARPA award to Integrated Behavioral Health Services for capital improvements
- Contract with Tim Sisco Construction LLC for culvert maintenance, not to exceed $677,747.80
- Purchase orders for crushed rock: Buel Trucking ($469,850), RL Tiemann ($451,685), Westover Rock & Sand ($540,625)
- Six half-ton crew cab 4x4 trucks from Anderson Auto Group for $318,804
- Public hearing on Class YK liquor license for Capitol View Winery & Vineyards (2361 Wittstruck Road, Roca)
The Board of Commissioners approved several infrastructure contracts, including culvert maintenance and crushed rock supply. They also granted a liquor license for Capitol View Winery & Vineyards and denied a bid award appeal from Dynamic Dirtworks & Demolition LLC.
- Approved $677,747.80 culvert maintenance contract with Tim Sisco Construction LLC (4-0)
- Approved $540,625 crushed rock purchase order to Westover Rock & Sand Inc (4-0)
- Approved $469,850 crushed rock purchase order to Buel Trucking Inc (4-0)
- Approved $451,685 crushed rock purchase order to RL Tiemann Construction (4-0)
- Approved Class YK liquor license for Ball Vineyard & Estates LLC (4-0)
- Denied bid award appeal from Dynamic Dirtworks & Demolition LLC (4-0)
- Approved right-of-way vacation near W Prucha St and SW 112th St in Crete (4-0)
- Approved $116,800 and $65,600 snow removal service contracts (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Legislative Retreats
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a legislative retreat to review the 2023 legislative session and discuss new proposals for the 2024 session. The agenda includes opening comments, a review of priority bills and interim studies, and consideration of new and prior legislative proposals.
- Review of 2023 legislative session final report
- Discussion of 2023 interim studies
- Review of 2023 priority bills
- Consideration of 2024 legislative proposals
- Review of standing priorities
The Board reviewed the 2023 legislative session and discussed several new proposals, including veteran aid eligibility and rural fire department radio funding. No final votes were taken on the proposals; the Board will decide on standing priorities at a future meeting.
- Supported LB190 and LB449
- Voiced support for LB316
- Requested Clerk’s Office provide annual amusement license totals
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine consent items, including contract amendments, grant awards, right-of-way purchases, and a change order. They will also hold a public hearing on vacating right-of-way near West Prucha Street and Southwest 112th Street, and vote on new business items such as a property sale agreement with the City of Lincoln and gravel supply contracts.
- Purchase agreement to convey County's 1/2 interest in 1005 O St to City of Lincoln; City to sell for at least $500,000 and pay County half of proceeds minus closing costs
- Award gravel supply contracts: $491,550 to R L Tiemann Construction and $225,080 to Westover Rock & Sand Inc
- Right-of-way purchases: $21,705 for South 120th Street (Old Cheney to Pioneers Blvd), plus smaller amounts for other projects
- Public hearing on vacation of right-of-way near West Prucha Street and Southwest 112th Street, Crete
- Set public hearings for Aug 22 liquor license (Capitol View Winery) and Aug 29 zoning text amendment for farm winery social halls and spirits sales
The Board approved two purchase orders for gravel supply and hauling and several right-of-way contracts. They also scheduled public hearings for a liquor license, zoning amendments for farm wineries, and the Fiscal Year 2023-24 budget.
- Approved $491,550 gravel contract with R L Tiemann Construction (5-0)
- Approved $225,080 gravel contract with Westover Rock & Sand Inc (5-0)
- Approved agreement to convey 1/2 interest in 1005 “O” Street to City of Lincoln (5-0)
- Approved special designated liquor license for Kramer Bar & Grill Inc (5-0)
- Approved $250 licensure renewal for Mental Health Crisis Center (5-0)
- Approved right-of-way contracts totaling $26,642 (5-0)
- Approved $39,851 grant contract with Lighthouse Inc (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Proclaimed August 15, 2023, as Barney Day (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will consider additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, hear public testimony on property tax exemption applications, and act on motor vehicle tax exemptions. The agenda includes routine approvals of prior meeting minutes and a notice of taxable status for the Malcolm Rural Fire Protection District.
- 2023 451 Exemption Applications
- Notices of Proposed Change in Exemption Status for American Legion, Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Region V Foundation, United Pentecostal Church, St Monica's Home
- Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption Applications from Bryan Medical Center and Christ Lutheran Church
- Notice of Taxable Status for Malcolm Rural Fire Protection District
The Board approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls and confirmed the taxable status of land purchased by the Malcolm Rural Fire Protection District. The Board also approved several 451 and motor vehicle tax exemption applications and notices of proposed changes in exemption status.
- Approved minutes from August 1, 2023 (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved minutes from August 8, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved taxable status for Malcolm Rural Fire Protection District land (5-0)
- Approved 2023 451 exemption applications, contingent on penalties for two late filings (5-0)
- Approved notices of proposed change in exemption status for six entities (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Bryan Medical Center and Christ Lutheran Church (5-0)
Board of Corrections
The Board of Corrections will review population statistics showing the jail's average daily population at 101.8% of operational capacity. The board discussed authorizing a needs assessment study to address capacity issues and the impact of severe mental illness among detainees.
- Average daily population at 101.8% of operational capacity of 665
- Discussion of authorizing a needs assessment study for the jail
- Average waiting period for Lincoln Regional Center beds at 31.25 days
- Custodial sanctions: 43 individuals served 59 sanctions totaling 1,066 days in the quarter
- Approval of May 18, 2023 meeting minutes
The Board approved the minutes from the February 16, 2023 meeting. The County Corrections Director reported that jail attendance is at 101.8% of operational capacity, with 20 individuals housed in the Washington County jail.
- Approved February 16, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes discussions on a grant contract for Bridge N-114 and requests for road vacations on Branched Oak Road and Rokeby Road. The agenda also covers a budget update regarding a fifteen cent allocation and reports from the Board of Corrections.
- Bridge N-114 grant contract and letter from Lincoln Parks and Recreation and Lower Platte South NRD
- Road vacation requests for Branched Oak Road and Rokeby Road
- Budget update regarding fifteen cent allocation
- Board of Corrections 2nd Quarter 2023 report
- Coalition Against Bigger Trucks (H.R. 3372) joint letter signup
The Board reached a consensus to sign a letter opposing a congressional movement to increase load amounts for large trucks. A discussion regarding a bridge grant near the Village of Denton was tabled pending responses from partner organizations.
- Approved August 3, 2023 staff meeting minutes (3-0)
- Entered Executive Session for union negotiations and legal advice (5-0)
- Consensus reached to sign letter opposing increased truck load limits
- Tabled Bridge N-114 grant discussion pending NRD and Lincoln Parks and Recreation response (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will consider a notice of assessed valuation change for Trophy Properties LLC, a protest for destroyed real property by Jeff Schumacher, and dismissals of 17 property valuation protests. The board will also take final action on real property valuation protests for 2023.
- Notice of assessed valuation change for Trophy Properties LLC
- Protest of assessed value for destroyed real property by Jeff Schumacher
- Dismissals of 17 property valuation protests, including Fellows Family Trust, Jesse Dennis, and Pelican Finance LLP
- Final action on real property valuation protests for 2023
The Board accepted the referee coordinator's recommendations for 2023 real property valuations and closed the action period for individual valuations. The Board also dismissed 17 incomplete protests and denied one specific protest regarding destroyed real property.
- Approved assessed valuation change for Trophy Properties LLC (5-0)
- Denied protest of assessed value for Jeff Schumacher (4-1)
- Dismissed 17 incomplete property valuation protests (5-0)
- Accepted referee coordinator recommendations for 2023 real property valuations (5-0)
- Closed the Board of Equalization action on individual 2023 real property valuations (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals including minutes, claims, and consent items, plus new business such as personnel classification changes, cost-of-living wage adjustments for unrepresented employees, and several contracts. The meeting includes public comment and announcements of future hearings.
- Resolution for 2023-2024 cost-of-living wage adjustments for unrepresented classified employees, effective August 24, 2023
- Contract with Navia Benefit Solutions for flexible spending account administration, not to exceed $20,499
- Grant contracts totaling $167,921 for food programs and youth services
- Right-of-way contracts for South 120th Street and Pioneers Blvd totaling $8,131.38
- Change Order No. 1 to crack sealing contract increasing price by $23,658.30
The provided source document consists of numeric codes and symbols that do not form legible English text. No substantive decisions, votes, or proposals can be identified from the record.
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will hold a budget hearing for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, then consider several old and new business items. These include updates and payment applications for the County City Building Garage Remodel and Hall of Justice Front Service Counter Remodel, a contract approval for a building controls overlay, and a security resolution related to the RAISE Grant for a multimodal transit center and parking lot. The commission will also approve July 2023 vouchers, authorize UNL Law's use of courtrooms, and approve National Adoption Day 2023, along with several contract amendments and memoranda of understanding.
- 2023-2024 Budget Hearing
- County City Building Garage Remodel – update and payment application
- Hall of Justice Front Service Counter Remodel – update and payment application
- Contract approval for City County Building Controls Overlay #23-164 Integrated Controls iControls
- LB77 Security Resolution Approval for RAISE Grant, Multimodal Transit Center and Parking Lot
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities Committee will meet to conduct training and discuss programs for youth mentorship. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the Center for Juvenile Justice Reform.
- Training session
- Youth mentorship discussions
- Center for Juvenile Justice Reform discussion
The committee discussed the development of a 3-hour cultural competency training session scheduled for October. Members also reviewed youth mentorship models and discussed expanding the Restore program using juvenile justice data.
- Planned 3-hour cultural competency training for October
- Proposed expansion of the Restore program to include trespass, criminal mischief, and fights off school property
Justice Council
The Lancaster County-City of Lincoln Justice Council will meet to approve prior minutes, ratify a vote on a local problem-solving court steering committee, and receive updates from corrections, community corrections, and problem-solving courts. A presentation on the Gov2Go pilot project is also scheduled. The meeting includes agency and organizational updates from courts, city attorney, county attorney, public defender, law enforcement, probation, service providers, and other community partners.
- Ratification of vote on Local Problem-Solving Court Steering Committee
- Corrections update from Brad Johnson, Director, Lancaster County Corrections
- Community Corrections update from Taryn Tolliver, Program Manager
- Problem-Solving Courts update from Mindy Millan-Groves, State of Nebraska Coordinator
- Gov2Go Pilot Project presentation by Amy Prenda and Jared Callahan
The Justice Council approved the May 5, 2023 minutes and ratified its role as the steering committee for local problem-solving courts. The council also noted the suspension of the Gov2Go pilot project due to low enrollment.
- Approved May 5, 2023 minutes (7-0 with 1 abstention)
- Ratified Justice Council as steering committee for local problem-solving courts (8-0)
- Suspended Gov2Go pilot project
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a briefing on cost of living adjustments and an update from WarHorse Casino. The agenda also covers reports on recent committee meetings and upcoming board member schedules.
- WarHorse Casino update from Lynne McNally
- Briefing on Board of Elections (BOE) final action
- Discussion regarding cost of living adjustment
- Approval of July 27, 2023 staff meeting minutes
The Board approved the previous staff meeting minutes. Members discussed a proposed 4.5% cost of living adjustment for certain employees and received updates on WarHorse Casino expansion and property valuation protests.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for July 27, 2023 (4-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to approve minutes, consider additions and deductions to tax rolls, hear a protest of assessed value for destroyed property, review the 2023 cemetery report, and hold public hearings on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from several churches and schools. The board will then take action on those exemption applications.
- Protest of assessed value for destroyed real property (Form 425) by Jeff Schumacher
- Motor vehicle tax exemption applications from 10 organizations including Capitol City Christian Church, Lincoln Christian School, and The Bridge Behavioral Health Inc
- 2023 cemetery report review
- Approval of July 18, 2023 meeting minutes
The Board approved several motor vehicle tax exemption applications and the 2023 Cemetery Report. A protest regarding the assessed value of fire-damaged property was tabled for two weeks.
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications (4-0)
- Approved 2023 Cemetery Report (4-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (4-0)
- Approved July 18, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Tabled assessed value protest for Jeff Schumacher (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals including minutes, claims, and a utility permit, plus several new business items. The most significant is a $810,138.34 professional services agreement for preliminary engineering on a Federal-aid project to improve South 98th Street from A Street to O Street, with 80% federal and 20% county funding. Other items include appointments, an interlocal agreement with Lincoln for paving, and a contract for gambling addiction counseling in the jail.
- Professional services agreement with Alfred Benesch & Company for South 98th Street improvements, not to exceed $810,138.34 (C-23-0602)
- Interlocal agreement with City of Lincoln for paving South 98th Street from Old Cheney Road to A Street (C-23-0600)
- Agreement with Matodol LLC for turn lanes at South 98th Street and Rattlesnake Drive/Falls Branch Road (C-23-0601)
- Agreement with Rural Water District No. 1 for water line relocation near Saltillo Road, county cost up to $77,500 (C-23-0623)
- Appointment of Vanessa Emlich to Community Mental Health Center Advisory Committee
The Board approved several agreements for engineering and paving on South 98th Street, including a federal-aid project not to exceed $810,138.34. Other actions included appointing a mental health committee member and approving a branding contract for the Family Resource Center.
- Approved preliminary engineering for South 98th Street (A to O Street) not to exceed $810,138.34 (4-0)
- Approved interlocal agreement with City of Lincoln for paving South 98th Street (Old Cheney Road to A Street) (4-0)
- Approved agreement with Matodol LLC for turn lanes on South 98th Street at Rattlesnake Drive and Falls Branch Road (4-0)
- Approved $77,500 agreement with Rural Water District No. 1 for water line relocation near Saltillo Road (4-0)
- Approved $15,000 contract with Eleanor Creative for Family Resource Center branding (4-0)
- Approved appointment of Vanessa Emlich to Community Mental Health Center Advisory Committee (4-0)
- Approved reappointment of Richard Campbell and Gloria Eddins to Planning Commission (4-0)
- Approved Utility Permit No. 2400 for ARPA Broadband Phase II duct work along Firth Road (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a review of the proposed 2023-24 Lancaster County budget and an update on ARPA funds. Staff will also discuss cost of living adjustments and bridge N-114.
- Review of 2023-24 Lancaster County Proposed Budget
- Cost of Living Adjustment presentation
- Bridge N-114 discussion
- ARPA Budget Update
- Appointment of Vanessa Emlich to the Community Mental Health Center Advisory Committee
The Board approved the minutes from the July 20 meeting. Other items, including cost of living adjustments and committee appointments, were deferred to future Tuesday meetings. The Board discussed funding and maintenance for Bridge N-114 in the Village of Denton.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for July 20, 2023 (4-0 with one abstention)
- Set October 10, 2023, regular board meeting start time to 9:30 a.m. by consensus
- Adjourned meeting at 9:59 a.m. (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a budget meeting to review the draft general fund budget and discuss a microfilm project. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and a budget overview by the Budget and Fiscal Officer.
- Approval of budget meeting minutes for July 18, 2023
- Budget overview of draft general fund by Dennis Meyer
- Discussion of microfilm project by Troy Hawk, Clerk of the District Court
The Board approved the minutes from the July 18, 2023, budget meeting. Commissioners discussed a $275,000 proposal to digitize deteriorating microfilm for the Clerk of the District Court's Office. The Budget and Fiscal Officer presented a budget overview including a proposed 4.89 percent increase to the General Fund.
- Approved budget meeting minutes for July 18, 2023 (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals including claims, contract amendments, and right-of-way agreements, plus new business items such as resolutions for right-of-way vacations, grant contracts, and a federal advocacy services agreement. The meeting also includes a special presentation for the Leadership Academy graduation and a public comment period. A budget hearing will follow the meeting.
- Approval of claims including $10,121.91 to El Centro de las Americas and $6,141.07 to Rabble Mill
- Contract amendment with Rose Equipment, Inc. for polypatch applicator service, not to exceed $120,000
- Resolution to study vacating right-of-way east of Northwest 40th Street and West Vine Street
- Agreement with Brumidi Group LLC for federal advocacy services at $70,000
- Mini-grant of $6,825 for Sheriff's Office Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement
The Board of Commissioners approved several service contracts, including federal advocacy and air quality testing. They authorized multiple tourism grants via the Visitors Promotion Fund and a law enforcement grant for the Sheriff's Office. The Board also approved right-of-way contracts and utility permits.
- Approved $70,000 agreement with Brumidi Group LLC for federal advocacy services (5-0)
- Approved $18,018 contract with Atlas Technical Consultants LLC for air quality testing (5-0)
- Approved $6,825 NDOT grant for Sheriff's Office 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' program (5-0)
- Approved six Visitors Promotion Fund grants totaling up to $24,957 (5-0)
- Approved $21,000 contract with Sapp Bros, Inc. for vehicle fluids (5-0)
- Approved $4,600 agreement with Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC contingent on Risk Management approval (5-0)
- Approved resolution to study vacating right-of-way east of NW 40th St and W Vine St (5-0)
- Approved $80,792.56 change order for Pavers, Inc. asphalt resurfacing (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a review of Visitors Promotion Committee grant recommendations. The agenda also features an update from the Nebraska Association of County Officials and reports on various committee meetings attended by board members.
- Visitors Promotion Committee grant recommendations
- Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) update
- Approval of July 13, 2023, staff meeting minutes
The Board of Commissioners approved grant recommendations from the Visitors Promotion Committee to support local marketing. The Board also held an executive session to discuss legal advice and potential litigation.
- Approved Visitors Promotion Committee marketing grant recommendations (3-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes for July 13, 2023 (3-0)
- Approved motion to enter executive session for legal advice and potential litigation (3-0)
- Approved motion to exit executive session (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a budget meeting to review the county budget. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and a budget overview presentation by Budget and Fiscal Officer Dennis Meyer. No specific budget figures or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Approval of budget meeting minutes for July 11, 2023
- Budget overview presentation by Dennis Meyer, Budget and Fiscal Officer
The Board discussed the General Fund balance and a proposed 4% property tax increase to balance the budget. The Board also discussed funding for roads, bridges, and Community Corrections.
- Approved budget meeting minutes for July 11, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved moving $10,000 from the General Fund to the Veterans Aid Fund
- Approved adjournment (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will consider changes to property tax assessments, including valuation changes for specific properties and greenbelt classifications, and will hold public hearings on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for several nonprofit organizations. The board will also review the assessor's three-year assessment plan for 2024-2026. Public comment is limited to one hour.
- Assessment roll additions/deductions and valuation changes for properties including Jack Estates LP (15 parcels), Bridgeport Apt LP, and Waterbrook Apt
- Greenbelt valuation changes for numerous property owners, including Lincoln Turf Farms LLC and Anderson Homes Inc
- Public hearings on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Capital Humane Society, University of Nebraska Foundation, and 12 other organizations
- Action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications, including Youth for Christ – Lincoln Area
- Review of Lancaster County Assessor/Register of Deeds three-year assessment plan for 2024-2026
The Board approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls and valuation changes for several properties, including greenbelt applications. It also granted motor vehicle tax exemptions to various organizations and approved the 2024-2026 three-year assessment plan.
- Approved June 20, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved assessed valuation changes for Jeffrey L and Terri Horst, James R Gosnell, Jack Estates LP, Bridgeport Apt LP, and Waterbrook Apt (5-0)
- Approved assessed valuation changes for greenbelt properties (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemptions for 14 organizations including Capital Humane Society and University of Nebraska Foundation (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption for Youth for Christ – Lincoln Area (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved 2024-2026 three-year assessment plan (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals including claims, contracts, and reports, plus public hearings on liquor licenses and special event permits. Notable items include a $327,425 culvert lining contract, several grant awards for juvenile services, and agreements for engineering work on North 14th Street.
- Contract with Subsurface, Inc. for culvert lining up to $327,425
- Grant to El Centro de las Americas for Youth program: $105,581
- Liquor license hearing for Blue Catfish at 5700 West Raymond Road
- Engineering agreements for North 14th Street (Alvo to Ashland Road): $16,200 and $9,700
- Claims to Indian Center ($14,217.14) and Mediation Center ($7,900)
The Board approved preliminary engineering and environmental services for a $12 million federal aid project on North 14th Street. They also authorized several juvenile service grants and approved a liquor license for Blue Catfish in Raymond.
- Approved $12M federal aid project to add shoulders and expand North 14th Street (5-0)
- Approved $16,200 and $9,700 engineering and environmental contracts for North 14th Street (5-0)
- Approved $327,425 contract with Subsurface, Inc. for culvert lining (5-0)
- Approved Class C liquor license for TCN Services, LLC dba Blue Catfish (5-0)
- Approved special events permits for Gravel Worlds and Great Plains Gravel Triathlon (5-0)
- Approved juvenile service grants to Clyde Malone, Family Service Lincoln, HopeSpoke, OMNI Inventive Care, The HUB, and YWCA Lincoln (5-0)
- Approved $14,217.14 claim to the Indian Center (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved $7,900 claim to The Mediation Center (4-0, 1 abstention)
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting for a presentation by Wayne Bena, Deputy Secretary of State for Elections, and Todd Wiltgen, Lancaster County Election Commissioner. No other business or decisions are on the agenda.
- Special presentation by Wayne Bena, Deputy Secretary of State for Elections
- Special presentation by Todd Wiltgen, Lancaster County Election Commissioner
The Board of Commissioners held a special presentation with the Deputy Secretary of State for Elections and the Lancaster County Election Commissioner. The session focused on voting machine security, audit processes, and responses to election integrity allegations. No legislative actions were taken other than adjournment.
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
STOP Committee
The STOP Committee's regular meeting scheduled for July 13, 2023, has been cancelled. The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for October 12, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. in the 605 Building, Room A-137. This notice contains no agenda items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled for July 13, 2023
- Next meeting tentatively set for October 12, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., 605 Building, Room A-137
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes several budget updates for the Sheriff’s Office, Building Fund, and new position requests. The agenda also features an annual report from Region V Services and notices regarding assessed valuation changes.
- Budget update: Sheriff’s Office
- Budget update: Building Fund and County Wide Sinking Fund
- Annual Report from Region V Services
- Notices of Assessed Valuation Change
- Budget update regarding new position requests and county future upgrades
The Board approved a list of recommended full-time equivalent (FTE) positions across multiple departments. Other actions included approving previous meeting minutes and entering an executive session for legal and union matters.
- Approved 16 new FTE positions including 7 correctional officers, a jail administrator, 2 juvenile detention officers, and a programmer for the Sheriff's Office (4-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes for June 27 and July 6, 2023 (5-0)
- Entered Executive Session for pending/potential litigation, union negotiations, and legal advice (5-0)
- Exited Executive Session (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a budget meeting to approve minutes from a previous meeting and review budget documents related to gaming tax and keno funds, as presented by the County Engineer. The agenda is procedural, with no major policy decisions listed.
- Approval of budget meeting minutes from June 27, 2022
- Review of gaming tax budget document
- Review of keno fund budget document
The Board of Commissioners reviewed the County Engineer's budget, which includes a $2.9 million increase due to inflation and construction costs. Members agreed with the proposed budget and the purchase of new snow removal equipment. The board also discussed fund transfers, including a proposed $1 million transfer from the General Fund.
- Approved budget meeting minutes for June 27, 2023 (5-0)
- Agreed with proposed County Engineer budget
- Agreed to purchase four trucks for $860,000
- Agreed to purchase two motor graders for $736,582
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on several contracts, including a $1.23 million paving project on North 98th Street and a $2.32 million bridge replacement project. They will also consider a $967,620 agreement for educational services at the Youth Services Center, a liquor license for a wedding venue, and multiple grant contracts for community programs.
- Contract with Pavers, Inc. for North 98th Street grading and paving (Adams to Holdrege) not to exceed $1,234,917.73
- Contract with Vogtscapes, Inc. for replacement of County Bridges R-184 and S-180 not to exceed $2,321,728.50
- Agreement with ESU 18 for educational services at Youth Services Center, $967,620 for one year
- Public hearing for Class C liquor license for The Shed Wedding Venue LLC (22500 S. 176th Street, Adams)
- Grant contracts totaling over $1 million for programs like CenterPointe ($264,488) and People's City Mission ($172,082)
The Board approved a Class I liquor license for The Shed Wedding Venue LLC, contingent upon the venue obtaining an occupancy permit and passing a Health Department inspection. The Board rejected the request for a Class C license due to zoning restrictions on off-premise sales. Additionally, the Board approved several grant contracts and county contract amendments.
- Approved Class I liquor license for The Shed Wedding Venue LLC contingent on occupancy permit and Health Department inspection (5-0)
- Approved $500 one-time cash award to Jacob Hawney (5-0)
- Approved 12 grant contracts for various social services and education programs (5-0)
- Approved 4 county contract amendments, including $15,000 increase for Thiele Geotech, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved $7,672.40 claim to El Centro de las Americas (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved $1,014.20 claim to Asian Community & Cultural Center (5-0)
- Scheduled public hearing for July 18, 2023, regarding liquor license applications for TCN Services, LLC (5-0)
- Approved June 27, 2023, meeting minutes (5-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will consider approval of several contracts and service agreements, including janitorial services, waste collection, and an x-ray scanner service agreement for the Hall of Justice. They will also receive updates on the County City Building garage remodel and Hall of Justice front service counter remodel, and approve June 2023 vouchers.
- County City Building Garage Remodel – update and final payment application
- Hall of Justice Front Service Counter Remodel – update and final payment application
- Contract for Annual Service of Janitorial Services for three PBC and Lancaster County Facilities (#23-148) with Rise n' Shine
- Contract for Annual Service of Various Collection Service for Waste and Recyclables (#23-142) with Uribe Refuse Services, Inc.
- Service Agreement for Hall of Justice Front Entrance X-Ray Scanner with Bio Electronics
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities Committee will meet to discuss youth mentorship programs and recap a recent conference. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the Center for Juvenile Justice Reform.
- Mentorships for Youth
- Recap of Conference
- Center for Juvenile Justice Reform – Advancing Racial Justice and Equity in Youth Legal Systems
The committee announced it is expanding data collection to include adult data, with a contract currently being developed. The group also discussed mentorship for Black youth and planned implicit bias training for August.
- Funded Visionary Youth for Black male youth mentorship
- Accepted cohort placement at Georgetown University for Center for Juvenile Justice Reform
- Expanded data collection to include adult data
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The staff meeting will review the Youth Services Center budget, discuss juvenile probation updates, and consider a real estate purchase agreement for 1005 O Street.
- Youth Services Center budget overview
- Quarterly juvenile probation update
- Purchase agreement for 1005 O Street
The Board discussed a $6 million General Fund shortfall and reviewed staffing needs for the Youth Service Center. Members also discussed a new purchase agreement for 1005 "O" Street and received a juvenile probation update.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for June 29, 2023 (4-0 with one abstention)
- Entered Executive Session for litigation, real estate, and legal advice (5-0)
- Exited Executive Session (5-0)
- Agreed to cap closing costs at $7,500 for the 1005 "O" Street purchase agreement
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes budget overviews for Aging Partners, the Health Department, Information Services, and Human Resources. The agenda also features a bi-annual report on the county's strategic plan and updates from various county offices.
- Joint department budget overviews: Aging Partners, Health Department, and Information Services
- Human Resources budget overview
- Strategic Plan bi-annual progress report
- Quarterly Veterans Service Office update
- Executive session regarding pending or potential litigation and legal advice
The Board approved the minutes from the June 22, 2023, staff meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of departmental budget overviews and progress reports, with no other formal votes recorded.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for June 22, 2023 (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a budget meeting to approve the minutes from the June 20 meeting and discuss the Election Commissioner's budget request, which includes a transparency portal. This is part of the county's budget process for the upcoming fiscal year.
- Approval of budget meeting minutes for June 20, 2023
- Election Commissioner Todd Wiltgen's budget request including a transparency portal
The Board approved the budget meeting minutes from June 20, 2023. The Election Commissioner presented the department's budget, discussing staffing needs, voter identification requirements, and the costs of administering elections.
- Approved budget meeting minutes for June 20, 2023 (4-0 with one abstention)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider a range of routine and significant items, including a $1.5 million appropriation for the Bridge and Special Road Fund, a $387,000 transfer from the General Fund, and resolutions adopting paid parental leave for county employees. The board will also vote on several contracts, grants, and personnel recommendations, plus a public hearing on the road fund appropriation.
- Resolution to supplement Bridge and Special Road Fund by $1,500,000 (R-23-0044)
- Resolution to transfer $387,000 from General Fund Miscellaneous Budget to various agencies (R-23-0045)
- Resolution adopting paid parental leave for unclassified employees and Deputy Sheriff Captains (R-23-0042, R-23-0043)
- Interlocal agreement with Region V Systems for Mental Health Crisis Center at $208/day per individual (C-23-0534)
- Purchase orders for a Dodge Ram truck ($224,942), Cimline Mastic Machine ($73,163), and Felling trailer ($103,079.88)
The Board approved a new paid parental leave policy effective August 1, 2023, and supplemented the Bridge and Special Road Fund by $1.5 million. Other actions included approving several personnel classification changes and a special events permit for the Cornhusker State Games Cycle Tour.
- Supplemented Bridge and Special Road Fund by $1.5M (5-0)
- Approved paid parental leave policy effective Aug 1, 2023 (3-2)
- Approved $387,000 transfer from General Fund Miscellaneous Budget (5-0)
- Approved special events permit for 2023 Cornhusker State Games Cycle Tour (5-0)
- Created Youth Services Program Coordinator classification (5-0)
- Approved $3,592.50 claim to The Mediation Center (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved $126,000 change order for patching on S. 56th (5-0)
- Tabled parental leave benefits for unclassified employees and Deputy Sheriff Captains (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a discussion regarding the candidate for Director of Community Corrections. The board will also review and approve minutes from interviews held on June 21, 2023.
- Approval of interview minutes for the Director of Community Corrections
- Discussion of the Director of Community Corrections candidate
The Board of Commissioners voted to hire Jeff Kilpatrick as the Director of Community Corrections with a salary of $110,000. The offer is contingent upon a background check and relocation to Lancaster County.
- Approved minutes of the Director of Community Corrections interviews from June 21, 2023 (5-0)
- Directed offer of employment to Jeff Kilpatrick for Director of Community Corrections (4-1)
- Set salary for Director of Community Corrections offer at $110,000
- Denied request to include a pay incentive for retention
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board will review several quarterly budget overviews and departmental updates. Discussion includes a candidate for the Director of Community Corrections and various legislative and administrative reports.
- Quarterly HR update and budget overview
- Rural Water District No. 1 update
- Quarterly Planning update and budget overview
- Library budget overview
- Purchasing budget overview
The Board approved the nomination of Chair Christa Yoakum to serve as the voting delegate for the 2023 NACo Annual Business Meeting. The meeting primarily consisted of departmental updates regarding human resources, rural water, planning, libraries, and purchasing.
- Approved minutes for June 15, 2023 (3-0)
- Nominated Christa Yoakum as delegate for 2023 NACo Annual Business Meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is meeting to interview candidates for the position of Director of Community Corrections. The agenda consists solely of these interviews and adjournment, with no other business items.
- Interviews for Director of Community Corrections position
The Board of Commissioners conducted interviews with four candidates for the Director of Community Corrections position. The Board agreed to delay a final decision until additional feedback is collected from County staff.
- Tabled Director of Community Corrections appointment pending staff feedback
- Adjourned meeting at 2:44 p.m. (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a budget meeting to review and discuss the county sheriff's budget and the proposed FY2024 budget for Visit Lincoln, including the Visitors Improvement and Promotion Funds. The agenda also includes approval of the previous budget meeting minutes. This is a working session to consider budget items before final adoption.
- Approval of budget meeting minutes from June 13, 2022
- County Sheriff budget presentation by Terry Wagner
- Visit Lincoln FY2024 budget presentation by Jeff Maul
- Visitors Improvement Fund and Visitors Promotion Fund documents
The Board of Commissioners held budget hearings for the County Sheriff and Visit Lincoln. No formal votes were taken on the proposed budgets or the law enforcement training facility plans.
- Approved budget meeting minutes for June 13, 2023 (3-0 with one abstention)
Board of Equalization
The Board approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls and several specific property valuation changes. It denied a report of destroyed real property for Jeff Schumacher and approved motor vehicle tax exemptions for Peace Lutheran Church.
- Approved minutes from June 6, 2023 meeting (4-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (4-0)
- Denied report of destroyed real property for Jeff Schumacher (4-0)
- Approved assessed valuation changes for Jon C and Deonne L Bruning, Centurion Nebraska LLC, Lincoln Public Schools, Mavis A Reller Revocable Trust Life Estate, L of Lincoln LLC et al., and Roger and Sharon Hergenrader (4-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Peace Lutheran Church (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine claims, contract renewals, and several new agreements, including a $1.45 million motor fuel contract and a $327,425 culvert repair bid. They will also hold a public hearing on an amusement license for a gravel festival and consider a resolution to study vacating right-of-way near Crete.
- Renew Whitehead Oil motor fuel contract up to $1,450,000
- Award CIPP Culvert Liners bid to Subsurface, Inc. for $327,425
- Public hearing on amusement license for Grounded Nebraska Gravel Festival (June 23-25, Roca)
- Resolution to study vacating right-of-way near W. Prucha St. & SW 112th St., Crete
- Marketing contract with Eleanor Creative: $91,000 plus up to $50,000 in ads
The Board approved a bid for culvert liners and several operational contracts, including motor fuel and tax statement printing. They also granted amusement and liquor licenses for local events and accepted grants for juvenile services and speeding prevention.
- Approved $327,425 bid to Subsurface, Inc. for CIPP Culvert Liners (4-0)
- Approved $1.45M motor fuel contract with Whitehead Oil Company (4-0)
- Approved $262,000 contract with Peregrine Services, Inc. for tax statements (4-0)
- Approved amusement license for Grounded Nebraska Gravel Festival (4-0)
- Approved special designated license for Meadowlark Music Festival (4-0)
- Approved $90,000 Nebraska Crime Commission grant for Juvenile Services (4-0)
- Approved $18,560 NDOT grant for Sheriff's Office speeding prevention (4-0)
- Approved $91,000 marketing and hiring contract with Eleanor Creative (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a market review for the Election Commissioner salary and several appointments to the Visitors Promotion Committee. The agenda also covers reports from the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer and updates on various board member meeting attendances.
- Market review of Election Commissioner salary
- Reappointment of Tara Knuth as Vice Chair of the Visitors Promotion Committee
- Appointment of Tim Savona to the Visitors Promotion Committee
- Request to proclaim September 17-23, 2023, as Constitution Week
The Board of Commissioners approved a salary adjustment for the Election Commissioner based on a market review. They also approved minutes from two previous staff meetings and held an executive session regarding litigation and legal advice.
- Set Election Commissioner salary at $115,723 (3-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes for May 30, 2023 (3-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes for June 1, 2023 (3-0)
- Entered executive session for pending litigation and legal advice (3-0)
- Tabled Visitors Promotion Committee appointments to a Tuesday meeting
- Decided to volunteer for meal service at People’s City Mission on June 27
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)- Lancaster County
The Lancaster County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) will meet to approve the agenda and prior minutes, hear a presentation from the EPA on public warning and protective actions for hazardous materials incidents, and discuss old business including the termination of the COVID-19 emergency. New business includes agency reports from LLCEMA and LLCHD, a healthcare coalition update, and review of membership applications. The meeting is largely informational and procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.
- EPA presentation on public warning and protective actions for hazardous materials incidents
- Discussion of COVID-19 emergency termination on May 11, 2023
- Recap of Guardians of Freedom Airshow tabletop exercise (May 24)
- Introduction of new LLCEMA Deputy Director Amanda Burki and Emergency Management Specialist Leshan Taruru
- Review of LEPC membership applications and approvals
The committee announced the end of the local COVID-19 state of emergency effective March 11, 2023. The meeting primarily consisted of agency reports, training opportunities, and a presentation on hazardous materials incidents.
- Announced termination of local COVID-19 state of emergency (March 11, 2023)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a budget meeting to review and discuss proposed budgets for the Property Management, Public Defender, and Corrections departments. The meeting includes approval of the previous budget meeting minutes and presentations from department heads. No final decisions are made at this meeting; it is a discussion and review session.
- Approval of budget meeting minutes for May 23, 2023
- Property Management Fund 66 and Building Fund budget review
- Public Defender budget review
- Corrections budget review
The Board held budget hearings for Property Management, the Public Defender, and Corrections. No funding decisions were made during the meeting, though the Board approved the May 23, 2023, budget meeting minutes.
- Approved budget meeting minutes for May 23, 2023 (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners approved several infrastructure projects, including broadband expansion and road and bridge repairs. They also authorized various service contracts and an agricultural land lease.
- Approved $7,087,767.36 contract with Bauer Underground, Inc. for broadband conduit (4-0)
- Approved $1,234,917.73 bid to Pavers, Inc. for North 98th Street grading and paving (4-0)
- Approved $677,747.80 bid to Tim Sisco Construction LLC for Culvert Maintenance Phase II (4-0)
- Approved $198,269 contract with JMN Construction LLC for repairs to County Bridge N-96 (4-0)
- Approved 3-year agricultural lease with Jake McQuillen for 13.92 acres (4-0)
- Approved $15,600 agreement with Mental Health Association of Nebraska for jail inmate services (4-0)
- Approved $26,101.69 reimbursement application for petroleum release cleanup at Lancaster Patrol Station (4-0)
- Approved combined $60,000 for weed abatement and noxious weed spraying contracts (4-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will consider approving amendments to contracts for fire sprinkler maintenance, motor fuel, legal publishing, janitorial supplies, and document shredding, as well as new annual contracts for fire extinguisher inspection and waste collection. They will also receive updates on the County City Building garage remodel and Hall of Justice front service counter remodel, and approve general vouchers for May 2023.
- Amendment to Contract #6513 with Mahoney Fire Sprinkler, Inc. for fire sprinkler system inspection and maintenance
- Amendment to Contract #20-137 with Whitehead Oil Company for motor fuel
- Amendment to Contract #21-080 with Lincoln Journal Star for publishing legal notices
- New Contract #23-057 with Summit Fire Protection Company for annual fire extinguisher inspection and testing
- New Contract #23-118 with Uribe Refuse Services, Inc. for waste and recyclables collection
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to approve minutes, consider additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, and hold a public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from 14 organizations, including Food Bank of Lincoln and CenterPointe Inc. The board will then take action on those applications. The agenda is otherwise routine and procedural.
- Public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for 14 organizations, including Food Bank of Lincoln, CenterPointe Inc, and Lincoln Berean Church
- Action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications
- Approval of minutes from May 16, 2023 meeting
- Additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls
The Board approved several motor vehicle tax exemption applications following a public hearing. The Board also approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls and the minutes from the May 16, 2023 meeting.
- Approved May 16, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls (3-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications (3-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, claims, and a consent agenda covering contract amendments, right-of-way purchases, change orders, and grant agreements. New business includes special event permits, an internship agreement with Concordia University, and several contracts for fiber optic lines and utility relocations. The board will also consider recommendations from the Joint Budget Committee for childcare assistance and 2023-2024 funding.
- Claims totaling over $68,000, including $59,843.01 to City of Lincoln Information Services
- Right-of-way contracts with Matthew Murray Trust totaling $24,235 for South 120th Street projects
- Change order for asphalt overrun not to exceed $48,100.50 with Constructors, Inc.
- Agreement with Lancaster Rural Water District No. 1 for utility relocation at estimated cost of $30,788.45
- Three BNSF Railway license agreements for fiber optic lines at $956 each, funded by ARPA
The Board of Commissioners approved several grant contracts for juvenile justice programs and a variety of infrastructure and service agreements. They also granted special event and licensing permits for June 24, 2023. The board approved funding recommendations from the Joint Budget Committee for childcare assistance and 2023-2024 funding.
- Approved $8,107.43 claim to Indian Center (2-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved grant contracts for The Salvation Army ($19,000 total) and Youth for Christ ($12,500 total)
- Approved special event permit for Grounded Nebraska gravel cycling rides and 5K run (3-0)
- Approved special designated license for Farmside Weddings & Events at Roca Berry Farms (3-0)
- Approved internship program agreement with Concordia University, Nebraska (3-0)
- Approved $30,788.45 agreement with Lancaster Rural Water District No. 1 for utility relocation (3-0)
- Approved three BNSF Railway Company license agreements for fiber optic lines at $956 each (3-0)
- Approved JBC recommendations for 2022-2023 Childcare Assistance and 2023-2024 funding (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The staff meeting includes updates on agency budgets for the Crisis Center, Youth Services Center, Community Corrections, and Administrative Services. The agenda also features a discussion regarding the sale of 1005 O Street.
- Sale of 1005 O Street
- FY24 Youth Services Center budget update
- SENDD housing program update
- Agency budget reviews for Crisis Center and Community Corrections
The Board of Commissioners voted to change regulations for the Southeast Nebraska Development District housing program to allow rural residents to apply. Other items included a legislative update and discussions regarding the potential sale of 1005 O Street.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for May 25, 2023 (3-0)
- Directed staff to change housing program regulations to include rural areas of Lancaster County (5-0)
Joint Budget Committee
The committee approved two $100,000 grants for childcare assistance and moved the 2023-2024 funding recommendations forward for final approval. Members also discussed the allocation of state gambling prevention funds.
- Approved 2023-2024 JBC Funding Recommendations for final City Council and County Board approval (5-0)
- Approved $100,000 grant request from Waverly SD 145 (4-0, McDowell abstained)
- Approved $100,000 grant request from Lincoln Littles (4-0, McDowell abstained)
- Approved consent agenda and April and May minutes (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine approvals and new business, including a $2.3 million ARPA grant recommendation for The Bridge Behavioral Health, several road and infrastructure contracts, and multiple juvenile justice grants. The board will also set a public hearing for a gravel festival amusement license and consider a resolution transferring $136,830 in funds.
- ARPA award up to $2.3M to The Bridge Behavioral Health for capital improvements
- Contract with Pavers, Inc. for $1,087,775.55 for South 56th Street and countywide asphalt resurfacing
- Contract with Midwest Infrastructure, Inc. for $694,371.33 for ARPA culvert maintenance (Phase II)
- Contract with Qualifacts Systems, LLC for $380,000 for Credible Platform Software License
- Public hearing set for June 20 on amusement license for Grounded Nebraska Gravel Festival
The Board of Commissioners denied a recommendation to award $2.3 million in ARPA funds to The Bridge Behavioral Health. Other actions included approving several road and infrastructure contracts and granting amusement licenses for local festivals.
- Denied $2.3M ARPA grant to The Bridge Behavioral Health (4-1)
- Approved $1,087,775.55 asphalt resurfacing contract with Pavers, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved $694,371.33 culvert maintenance contract with Midwest Infrastructure, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved $558,000 road salt contract with BlackStrap, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved $380,000 software license contract with Qualifacts Systems, LLC (5-0)
- Approved $136,830 appropriation transfer within the General Fund (5-0)
- Approved amusement licenses for Meadowlark Music Festival and Run Four the Pines (5-0)
- Approved $71,623 agreement for probation officer services (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a presentation by the Director of Lincoln-Lancaster County Human Resources regarding paid parental leave. No other specific agenda items were listed for discussion.
- Discussion of paid parental leave
The Board reviewed a draft paid parental leave policy and discussed leave length, intermittent use, and eligibility. No final vote was taken on the policy; the Director of Human Resources will update the draft based on Board feedback before returning it for consideration.
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will discuss agency budgets for the Clerk of the District Court, County Assessor/Register of Deeds, Board of Equalization, and County Engineer. They will also hear updates on paid parental leave and FMLA, the health and wellness coordinator, and the community corrections director search. An action item is a letter of support for the NACo Counties for Career Success Cohort application.
- Discussion of paid parental leave and FMLA with Barb McIntyre, Lincoln-Lancaster County Human Resources Director
- Review of agency budgets including Clerk of the District Court, County Assessor/Register of Deeds, Board of Equalization, and County Engineer
- Action item: Letter of Support for NACo Counties for Career Success Cohort Application
- Update on Community Corrections Director search by Laura Leppky
- Legislative update from Kissel, Kohout, ES Associates LLC
The Board reached a consensus to hold a special staff meeting on May 30 to further discuss a proposed paid parental leave policy for County employees. The Board also set June 21 as the date for formal interviews for the Community Corrections Director position.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for May 18, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved agenda amendment to include Executive Session (5-0)
- Entered Executive Session at 9:27 a.m. (5-0)
- Exited Executive Session at 9:53 a.m. (4-0)
- Scheduled special staff meeting for May 30 regarding paid parental leave
- Scheduled Community Corrections Director interviews for June 21
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on converting the Waverly Rural Fire Protection District to a suburban fire protection district. The board will also consider awarding a $7,087,767.36 contract for county broadband infrastructure, a $198,269 bridge repair contract, and several other contracts and resolutions.
- Public hearing and resolution on Waverly Rural Fire Protection District conversion to suburban district (R-23-0034)
- Award contract to Bauer Underground, Inc. for broadband in southeast, northeast, and northwest quadrants, $7,087,767.36 (B-23-110)
- Award contract to JMN Construction, LLC for repair of County Bridge N-96, $198,269 (B-23-086)
- Contract with Van Dorn Valley Construction, LLC for ARPA Culvert Maintenance Phase I, not to exceed $606,437.25 (C-23-0438)
- Resolution extending deadline for property valuation protests from July 25 to August 10, 2023 (R-23-0035)
The Board approved a major contract to complete the county's broadband system and authorized several infrastructure projects, including bridge repairs and culvert maintenance. They also approved the conversion of the Waverly Rural Fire Protection District to a suburban district.
- Awarded $7,087,767.36 broadband contract to Bauer Underground, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved Waverly Rural Fire Protection District conversion to suburban district (5-0)
- Approved $606,437.25 ARPA Culvert Maintenance contract with Van Dorn Valley Construction, LLC (5-0)
- Awarded $198,269 contract to JMN Construction, LLC for Bridge N-96 repair (5-0)
- Appointed Leshan Taruru as Emergency Management Specialist at $58,864.00 annually (5-0)
- Approved property exchange of .02 acres with the village of Davey (5-0)
- Extended real property protest hearing deadline to August 10, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved $12,289.60 waste collection contract with Uribe Refuse Services, Inc. (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a budget meeting to review proposed budgets from the County Clerk, Records Management, Weed Control, and Risk Management departments. The agenda consists of presentations and document reviews for each department's budget, followed by adjournment.
- County Clerk budget review
- Records Management budget review
- Weed Control budget review
- Risk Management budget review including Workers Comp and Other Self Insurance
The Board held a budget meeting to review financial reports and projections from the County Clerk, Records Management, Weed Control, and Risk Management departments. No formal votes were taken on budget appropriations or funding changes during the session.
- Adjourned meeting at 11:20 a.m. (4-0)
Board of Corrections
The Board of Corrections will review population statistics showing the jail at 98.7% of operational capacity, discuss a potential needs assessment of the criminal justice system, and elect a chair and vice chair. The board will also hear updates on programming, transportation, work crews, and training.
- Average daily jail population of 665, at 98.7% of operational capacity
- Discussion of a criminal justice system needs assessment, possibly requiring a budget and RFP
- Election of Chair and Vice Chair for the board
- Custodial sanctions: 1,904 offenders served 28,906 days since August 2015 at an estimated $100/day
- Lincoln Regional Center waiting periods increased; no reimbursements received for inmates held over 30 days
The Board approved the February 16, 2023 meeting minutes and elected leadership positions. The County Corrections Director presented population statistics showing the jail is at 96.6 percent of operational capacity.
- Approved February 16, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Designated Christa Yoakum as Chair and Sean Flowerday as Vice Chair indefinitely (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to discuss a legislative update, the Waverly Suburban Fire Protection District, a first-quarter report from the Board of Corrections, a county engineer update including a Davey property exchange and an East Beltway Corridor easement with Waverly, and agency budgets for the County Attorney, Extension, Juvenile Court, and District Court. An action item is an agreement with the University of Nebraska to test County Bridge Q-110 on Pine Lake Road at no cost to the county. The board will also go into executive session for pending litigation and legal advice.
- Action item: Agreement with UNL Board of Regents to test County Bridge Q-110 on Pine Lake Road over Stevens Creek, no cost to county
- Discussion of Waverly Suburban Fire Protection District
- County Engineer update: Davey property exchange and East Beltway Corridor easement with City of Waverly
- Agency budget presentations: County Attorney, Extension, Juvenile Court, District Court
- Executive session for pending/potential litigation and legal advice
The Board approved the minutes from the May 11, 2023, meeting. Other business included legislative updates, discussions on fire district conversions, and budget reviews for the County Attorney and County Extension offices.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for May 11, 2023 (5-0)
- Entered Executive Session for litigation and legal advice (5-0)
- Exited Executive Session (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to approve minutes, consider additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, and hold a public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from three organizations. The board will then take action on those applications. Public comment is also scheduled.
- Approval of May 2, 2023 minutes
- Additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls
- Public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemptions: Cristo Rey Catholic Church, St. Monica's Home, Lighthouse
- Action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications
The Board of Equalization approved several motor vehicle tax exemption applications and updated the tax assessment rolls. A resident presented research alleging that 2023 property assessments across the county were inequitable and violated state law.
- Approved minutes from May 2, 2023 meeting (5-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Cristo Rey Catholic Church, St. Monica’s Home, and Lighthouse (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine consent items and new business, including a $1.1 million grant from the Nebraska Crime Commission for community aid, a $694,371.33 bid for ARPA culvert maintenance, and a speed limit increase on Southwest 14th Street. The agenda also includes contract amendments, right-of-way purchases, and utility permits. Public comment and an executive session are scheduled.
- Grant award of $1,101,774 from Nebraska Crime Commission for Lancaster County Community Aid (C-23-0392)
- Bid award to Midwest Infrastructure, Inc. for ARPA Culvert Maintenance Phase II, $694,371.33 (B-23-126)
- Resolution to increase speed limit on Southwest 14th Street between N-33 and West Saltillo Road from 50 to 55 MPH (R-23-0032)
- Grant contract with Cedars Youth Services for Carriage House program, $250,000 (C-23-0410)
- Right-of-way contracts totaling over $26,000 for various road projects
The Board of Commissioners approved a bid for ARPA culvert maintenance and authorized environmental services for the Arbor Road Bridge. They also increased the speed limit on a segment of Southwest 14th Street and approved several right-of-way and utility contracts.
- Awarded $694,371.33 culvert maintenance bid to Midwest Infrastructure, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved $250,000 grant for Cedars Youth Services Carriage House program (4-1)
- Increased speed limit on SW 14th Street from 50 to 55 MPH (5-0)
- Approved $100,615.71 environmental services agreement for Arbor Road Bridge (5-0)
- Approved $1,926.19 claim to Indian Center Inc (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved special designated license for Westview Bed and Breakfast event (5-0)
- Approved $10,706.76 wildlife damage management agreement with USDA (5-0)
- Approved 10 right-of-way contracts and 4 utility permits (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to receive updates on legislation, broadband, and property valuations, and to review agency budgets for Human Services, Emergency Management, and the County Treasurer. Action items include a Joint Budget Committee funding recommendation and a proclamation for National Provider Appreciation Day.
- Joint Budget Committee Funding Recommendation (ACTION A)
- Proclaiming May 12, 2023, as National Provider Appreciation Day (ACTION B)
- Agency budgets: Human Services/General Assistance, Emergency Management, County Treasurer
- Broadband update from JEO Consulting Group
- County Assessor/Register of Deeds update with property valuation overview
The Board approved a $250,000 grant to CEDARS for a life skills shelter serving young homeless parents or pregnant youth. The Board also approved the staff meeting minutes from May 4, 2023, and reached a consensus to hold the BOE final action on August 8, 2023.
- Approved $250,000 grant to CEDARS for Carriage House program
- Approved May 4, 2023 staff meeting minutes (5-0)
- Consensus to hold BOE final action on August 8, 2023
Board of Commissioners - Village Meetings
The meeting consists of several informational updates from county and city officials. Topics include broadband, information services, the Lincoln Airport, and planning.
- Broadband update from JEO Consulting Group and Lincoln-Lancaster County Information Services
- Information Services update from Lincoln-Lancaster County Information Services
- Lincoln Airport Authority update
- Planning update from Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning Commission
The meeting consisted of informational updates and community reports; no formal votes or legislative decisions were recorded. Officials provided progress reports on broadband infrastructure, information services, and airport projects.
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee is discussing a request from CEDARS for a $250,000 gift from Lancaster County to help fund construction of the Carriage House at 6601 Pioneers Boulevard. The facility would provide short-term housing and life skills education for homeless pregnant or parenting teens. The total project cost is $3,000,000, with $680,000 already committed by private donors.
- Request for $250,000 county gift to CEDARS for Carriage House construction
- Carriage House: 6,800 sq ft, four 1-bedroom and two 2-bedroom apartments
- Total project cost: $3,000,000
- Private donors committed $680,000; $510,000 in pending requests
- Facility at 6601 Pioneers Boulevard, Lincoln
The Joint Budget Committee voted to move a funding request for the Cedars Carriage House project forward for final approval by the County Board. The project requested $250,000 from the County, with legislation providing $1M in matching funds.
- Moved Cedars Carriage House $250,000 funding request forward for County Board final approval (6-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals including claims, right-of-way contracts, and reports, plus a public hearing on a rural transit funding application. New business includes awarding a $1,087,775.55 road resurfacing bid, a $239,336.78 engineering contract supplement, and a $161,055.83 waste collection contract.
- Award bid to Pavers, Inc. for South 56th Street and Countywide Asphalt Resurfacing, $1,087,775.55
- Approve JEO Consulting Group supplement for Arbor Road Bridge engineering, not to exceed $239,336.78
- Approve waste collection contract with Uribe Refuse Services, $161,055.83 for two years
- Approve claim to El Centro de las Americas, $6,893.71
- Resolution to apply for $210,813 in federal transit funds for rural public transportation
The Board of Commissioners approved a contract for countywide asphalt resurfacing and authorized funding for public rural transit. They also approved engineering services for the Arbor Road Bridge and various right-of-way contracts.
- Approved $1,087,775.55 bid to Pavers, Inc. for South 56th Street and Countywide Asphalt Resurfacing and Patching (5-0)
- Approved resolution to apply for $270,000 in federal and state funds for Public Rural Transit for FY 2023-24 and 2024-25 (5-0)
- Approved $239,336.78 agreement with JEO Consulting Group, Inc. for Arbor Road Bridge engineering (5-0)
- Approved $161,055.83 waste and recyclables collection contract with Uribe Refuse Services, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved $25,000 contract with Advanced Door and Dock Systems LLC (5-0)
- Approved $6,893.71 claim to El Centro de las Americas (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved special event permit for Market to Market Relay on 10/7/2023 (5-0)
- Approved right-of-way contracts for Bison AG LLC, the TeSelles, the Schafers, the Heidbrinks, and the Lambies (5-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will review and potentially approve several contracts and updates, including a janitorial supplies amendment and two overhead door service contracts. They will also receive updates on the County City Building garage remodel and Hall of Justice counter remodel, and approve April 2023 vouchers.
- Amendment to MOU083 for janitorial and sanitation supplies with National Everything Wholesale
- Contract #23-029 with Advanced Door and Dock Systems LLC for overhead door services
- Contract #23-029 with Bulldog Garage Doors for overhead door services
- County City Building Garage Remodel change order and payment application
- Hall of Justice Front Service Counter Remodel update
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Lincoln/Lancaster County Youth Crisis Response Coalition is meeting to review minutes, receive agency updates, and discuss grant updates, Mobile Crisis Response Team training standards, and the 988 hotline. The group will also plan for the 2023 Nebraska Community Aid & Juvenile Justice Conference and gather input for its bimonthly newsletter.
- Agency updates from Cedars, LPD, Center Pointe, Lancaster Connected, and Region V
- Grant updates presented by Sara
- Mobile Crisis Response Team Training Standards update
- 988 hotline update with input from Coalition members
- 2023 Nebraska Community Aid & Juvenile Justice Conference on June 14-15
The coalition passed the minutes from the March meeting and received agency updates regarding youth services. LPD presented data showing 3 youth suicides in 2023 and 83 total suicide attempts across all ages. No other formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.
- Passed minutes from the March YCRC meeting
Justice Council
The Lancaster County-City of Lincoln Justice Council will meet to approve minutes from February 3, 2023, and receive updates from Lancaster County Corrections, Community Corrections, and the Public Defender. The meeting includes population statistics, a report on the NNCJCC Annual Meeting, and updates from various justice system agencies.
- Approval of Justice Council minutes for February 3, 2023
- Corrections update from Director Brad Johnson with population statistics and charts
- Community corrections update from Assistant Director Landon Parks on NNCJCC Annual Meeting and Local Problem-Solving Court Steering Committee
- Public Defender update from Kristi Egger
- Agency and organizational updates from courts, city attorney, county attorney, law enforcement, probation, service providers, and other community partners
The Lancaster County-City of Lincoln Justice Council met on May 5, 2023. A motion to have the council serve as the steering committee for local problem-solving courts passed 6-0, but it was noted after the vote that only six voting members were present, short of the required seven-member quorum, so the action was invalid. The council also approved the February 3, 2023 meeting minutes 7-0. Presentations covered jail population statistics, community corrections programs, and public defender data, but no other binding decisions were made.
- Approved February 3, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
- Motion to serve as problem-solving court steering committee passed 6-0 but lacked quorum (7 members required), so action invalid
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider submitting two grant applications to the U.S. Department of Justice totaling $1.97 million for the Family Resource Center and the Safe and Healthy Families Initiative. They will also discuss the county court budget, a legislative update, a homestead exemption outreach mailing, Bridge N-114, an ARPA update, and agency budgets for adult and juvenile probation. Action items include authorizing termination of a contract.
- Submission of a $1,000,000 grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice for the Family Resource Center.
- Submission of a $970,000 grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice for the Safe and Healthy Families Initiative (SAHFI).
- Authorize Brad Johnson to send notice of termination of Contract C-22-0467 to Johna Stephens.
- Discussion of Bridge N-114 with County Engineer Pam Dingman.
- Update on ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds from Budget and Fiscal Officer Dennis Meyer.
The Board voted 5-0 to submit a $1,000,000 grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice for the Family Resource Center. They also approved a separate $970,000 grant application for the Safe and Healthy Families Initiative. A contract termination with Johna Stephens was authorized with a 30-day notice reformation. The Board discussed the County Court budget, a legislative update, and a bridge project, but took no final action on those items.
- Approved submission of $1M DOJ grant for Family Resource Center (5-0)
- Approved submission of $970,000 DOJ grant for Safe and Healthy Families Initiative (5-0)
- Authorized termination of Contract C-22-0467 with 30-day notice (5-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes of April 27, 2023, as amended (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will consider approving minutes from its April 18 meeting, review additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, and hear notices of assessed valuation changes for three property owners. The board will also hold public hearings and take action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from eight organizations, including churches and nonprofits.
- Approval of April 18, 2023 meeting minutes
- Additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls
- Assessed valuation changes for Palwasha Barkzai, Red Capital Management LLC, Smart Travel LLC
- Public hearings on motor vehicle tax exemptions for 8 organizations including Slavic Christian Church, American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln
- Action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization approved minutes, additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls, and notices of assessed valuation change for three properties due to clerical errors. They also approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for several organizations. During public comment, residents raised concerns about the fairness of 2023 property assessments.
- Approved minutes of April 18, 2023 meeting (5-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved notices of assessed valuation change for Palwasha Barkzai, Red Capital Management LLC, and Smart Travel LLC due to clerical errors (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Slavic Christian Church, St. Teresa Catholic Church, American Red Cross, Family Service Association of Lincoln, First Slavic Baptist Church, Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln, Redeemer Lutheran Church, and Innovative Blood dba Nebraska Community Blood Bank (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on a comprehensive plan amendment to add a major streets and right-of-way map. The board will also consider several contracts, including road salt and culvert maintenance, and declare an end to the COVID-19 local emergency.
- Comprehensive Plan Amendment No. 23001 to add major streets and right-of-way map
- Contract with BlackStrap, Inc. for road salt, $558,000
- Contract with Van Dorn Valley Construction for ARPA culvert maintenance, $606,437.25
- Contract with Kubert Appraisal Group for appraisal services, up to $28,000
- Resolution to install 55 MPH sign on South 68th Street near Lincoln South Beltway
The Board of Commissioners approved an amendment to the 2050 Lincoln-Lancaster County Comprehensive Plan to add major streets and right-of-way maps. Several infrastructure contracts were awarded, including road salt and culvert maintenance. The Board also authorized a study regarding the vacation of right-of-way near South 91st Street and Nebraska Parkway.
- Approved Comprehensive Plan Amendment No. 23001 (5-0)
- Approved $558,000 bid to BlackStrap, Inc. for road salt (5-0)
- Approved $606,437.25 ARPA Culvert Maintenance contract to Van Dorn Valley Construction, LLC (5-0)
- Approved $107,632.80 purchase order to Ace Eaton Metals for culverts (5-0)
- Approved resolution to install 55 MPH sign on South 68th Street (5-0)
- Approved resolution to study vacating right-of-way near South 91st Street and Nebraska Parkway (5-0)
- Approved $48,540.91 video monitoring upgrade for Mental Health Crisis Center (5-0)
- Approved $1,686 agreement with Data Axle for homestead exemption mailing list (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a tour of the CenterPointe facility at 2200 South 10th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska. This is a site visit rather than a decision-making meeting, with no formal agenda items or votes scheduled.
- Tour of CenterPointe at 2200 South 10th Street, Lincoln
Commissioners Roma Amundson and Rick Vest toured the CenterPointe Campus for Health and Wellbeing. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during the tour.
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to discuss legislative updates, county engineer reports, budget presentations, and a COVID-19 update. Action items include submitting a $550,000 grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice for the Safe and Healthy Families Initiative, approving Juvenile Justice Prevention Fund recommendations, and authorizing the chair to sign an unclaimed property form.
- Submission of $550,000 grant application to DOJ Office on Violence Against Women for Safe and Healthy Families Initiative
- Authorize Deputy Chief Administrative Officer to sign grant-related documents
- Approval of Joint Budget Committee recommendations for 2023-2024 Juvenile Justice Prevention Fund
- Authorization for Chair to sign Nebraska State Treasurer Unclaimed Property Form
- County Engineer update on Facilities Study and Bridge N-114
The Board approved an increase in funding for the Joint Budget Committee, with $200,000 specifically earmarked for early childhood education and childcare nonprofits. The Board also voted to hire Express Employment to assist in the search for a Community Corrections Director.
- Approved $250,000 funding increase to the Joint Budget Committee, with $200,000 for early childhood development (3-1)
- Approved hiring Express Employment to conduct the search for a Community Corrections Director (4-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes for April 20, 2023 (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners approved an interlocal agreement to use up to $400,000 in ARPA funds for a HAZMAT vehicle storage building. They also adopted amendments to the Lincoln-Lancaster County Air Pollution Control Program Regulations and Standards. Additionally, the Board approved several staff salaries and various vendor claims.
- Approved interlocal agreement for HAZMAT storage building using up to $400,000 in ARPA funds (4-0)
- Approved amendments to Air Pollution Control Program Regulations and Standards (4-0)
- Approved $49,000 contract renewal with 360 Health Services, LLC for Covid-19 Rapid Test Kits (3-1)
- Approved annual salary of $79,435.20 for Deputy County Attorney Michelle Potts (4-0)
- Approved annual salary of $136,423.79 for Chief Field Deputy Brian Grimm (4-0)
- Approved $5,000 grant to Lincoln Crossroads Festival from Visitors Promotion Fund (4-0)
- Approved special designated license for National Audubon Society event on May 21, 2023 (4-0)
- Approved claims for Rabble Mill ($3,297.42), El Centro de las Americas ($9,309.15), and The Mediation Center ($19,392.50)
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee is meeting to approve the 23-24 JJPF recommendations and discuss opioid allocations, state gambling prevention funding, and reports from United Way, Region V, and the Mayor's Office/One Lincoln. The agenda includes a consent agenda for minutes and a human services activity report.
- Approve 23-24 JJPF Recommendations
- Discussion on Opioid Allocations
- Discussion on State Gambling Prevention Allocation
- Reports from United Way, Region V, and Mayor's Office/One Lincoln
The committee approved moving the 2023-2024 Juvenile Justice Prevention Fund recommendations to the County Board for final approval. Members also received updates on opioid allocations, gambling prevention funds, and the development of a Family Resource Center.
- Approved consent agenda and November minutes (5-0)
- Approved moving 2023-2024 Juvenile Justice Prevention Fund Recommendations to County Board for final approval (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a staff meeting to discuss several items, including a proposed interlocal agreement to build an emergency response/hazmat storage building using ARPA funds, a legislative update, an executive session on litigation and union negotiations, and reports on noxious weed programs, motocross finances, and Youth Services Center per diem rates. Action items include authorizing submission of an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant application.
- Proposed interlocal agreement for ARPA-funded emergency response/hazmat storage building
- Nebraska Department of Agriculture noxious weed program reports and requirements
- Motocross financials for 2022
- Youth Services Center per diem calculation for FY24
- Authorize Kerin Peterson to submit EECBG grant application
The Board decided to counter a $315 per diem offer from Probation with a rate of $465 for the Youth Services Center. Additionally, the Board approved a grant application for energy efficiency and accepted a noxious weed program report.
- Approved $465 per diem rate counter-offer to Probation (5-0)
- Approved Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant application (5-0)
- Authorized EECBG pre-award information sheet (5-0)
- Accepted Nebraska Department of Agriculture Noxious Weed Program report (5-0)
- Approved April 13, 2023 staff meeting minutes (5-0)
- Entered Executive Session for litigation, legal advice, and union negotiations (5-0)
- Exited Executive Session (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals including claims, right-of-way contracts, and utility permits, plus several new business items. Key decisions include awarding a $2.3 million bid for replacing two bridges, approving a $1 million contract for another bridge replacement, and authorizing a $17,600 bridge inspection agreement. The board will also vote on a resolution to install a 55 MPH traffic sign and a $120,894 grant contract for narcotics prosecution.
- Contract with JJK Construction LLC to replace County Bridge E-38, not to exceed $1,002,680.25
- Award bid to Vogtscapes, Inc. for replacement of County Bridges R-184 and S-180, estimated total $2,321,728.50
- Resolution to install 55 MPH traffic sign on northbound South 84th Street near Saltillo Road
- Grant contract with City of Lincoln Police Department for LINC narcotics cooperative, $120,894
- Agreement with JEO for fracture critical bridge inspections, not to exceed $17,600
The Board approved contracts for the replacement of three county bridges and inspections for eight others. Additionally, the Board voted to oppose a legislative amendment regarding eminent domain for electric generation.
- Approved $2,321,728.50 contract to Vogtscapes, Inc. for Bridges R-184 and S-180 (5-0)
- Approved $1,002,680.25 contract to JJK Construction LLC to replace Bridge E-38 (5-0)
- Approved agreement with JEO for bridge inspections not to exceed $17,600 (5-0)
- Voted to oppose AM1121 to LB255 regarding eminent domain (5-0)
- Approved $120,894 grant contract for the Lincoln/Lancaster County Investigative Narcotics Cooperative (5-0)
- Approved installation of a 55 MPH traffic sign on northbound South 84th Street (5-0)
- Approved $8,000 claim to Indian Center (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved agreement with Baylor Evnen PC for legal services (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Board denied appeals regarding the taxable status of properties belonging to the State of Nebraska and the University of Nebraska. The Board also approved several motor vehicle tax exemption applications and updated the tax assessment rolls.
- Approved minutes from April 4, 2023 meeting (5-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Denied taxable status appeals for State of Nebraska and Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemptions for Calvary Cemetery, Cristo Rey Catholic Church, First Baptist Church, Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, and Tabitha Inc (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to discuss several items, including a briefing on a comprehensive plan amendment, an update on the Board of Equalization, and a possible action on a $50,000 grant application for an arts program for justice-involved youth. The meeting also includes an executive session for legal matters and updates on the community corrections director search, county audit, and Children's Justice Clinic.
- Action item: submission of $50,000 grant application to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention for the Art Program for Justice-involved Youth
- Briefing on Comprehensive Plan Amendment 23001 to add the Major Streets and Right-of-Way Map
- Board of Equalization update including policies, referee contracts, and hearing venue
- Lancaster County audit presentation by RSM US LLP
- Children's Justice Clinic update with University of Nebraska contracts
The Board voted to support two Nebraska legislative bills regarding water sources and broadband. They also approved the use of Cornerstone Staffing for a director search and authorized contract updates for the Children’s Justice Clinic.
- Approved staff meeting minutes for April 6, 2023 (4-0)
- Voted to support LB531 regarding a second water source for the City of Lincoln (4-0)
- Voted to support LB683 regarding the Nebraska Broadband Office (4-0)
- Approved continuing the Community Corrections Director search with Cornerstone Staffing (3-0)
- Approved moving forward with contract updates for the Children’s Justice Clinic (3-0)
STOP Committee
The committee approved two funding requests for law enforcement equipment. The Lincoln Police Department and Nebraska State Patrol were both granted funds for radar systems.
- Approved November 10, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
- Approved $16,765 for 7 Stalker DSR 2 antenna radars for LPD (5-0)
- Approved $4,694 for 2 ProLaser 4 Bundles for NSP (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners approved a zoning resolution to update special permit conditions for private schools, campgrounds, and antennas. They also authorized several service contracts and a $22,000 payment for inmate chaplain services.
- Approved Zoning Resolution No. 23003 to amend Articles 2, 6, 13, and 17 (5-0)
- Authorized $22,000 from Inmate Benefit Fund to Good News Jail and Prison Ministries (5-0)
- Approved $12,800 NDOT mini-grant for 'Click It or Ticket' mobilization (5-0)
- Approved janitorial services contract with Heartland Document Services not to exceed $5,700 (5-0)
- Approved apparel contract with Production Creek, LLC not to exceed $5,000 (5-0)
- Approved software reseller MOU with SHI International Corp not to exceed $25,000 (5-0)
- Approved equipment rental contract with Murphy Tractor & Equipment Co, Inc not to exceed $10,200 (5-0)
- Approved various consent items including right-of-way contracts and contract amendments (5-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will consider approving several contract amendments and a building controls upgrade for the City County Building. They will also review a K Street appraisal and approve general vouchers for March 2023. The meeting includes a security update and discussion of administrative items.
- Building Controls Upgrade for City County Building
- K Street Appraisal report review
- Amendment to contract with Graybar Electric Company for electrical, lighting, and data communications (MOU019)
- Amendment to contract with Fastenal Company for personal protective equipment and first aid supplies (22-024)
- Amendment to contract with Orkin LLC for pest control (20-022)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting covering a legislative update, a health department update on a HazToGo grant and air pollution regulation revisions, a proposed department budget hearing schedule, a community corrections update, and a COVID-19 update. The board will also consider submitting a FY2023 Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) program grant application. The agenda includes routine items like approving prior minutes and scheduling board member meetings.
- Submission of FY2023 LEMHWA Program Grant Application
- Revision to Lincoln-Lancaster County Air Pollution Control Program Regulations and Standards
- Nebraska Environmental Trust Grant for HazToGo
- Proposed Department Budget Hearings - 2023-24
- Nebraska Community Aid and Juvenile Justice Conference, June 14-15, 2023, Graduate Hotel, Lincoln, NE
The Board approved the submission of a grant application for the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) program. Other business included discussions on the Community Corrections Director position and updates on state legislative priorities.
- Approved submission of CY2023 LEMHWA Program Grant application for up to $200,000 (5-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes for March 30, 2023 (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board approved a four-year food services contract with Aramark Correctional Services and initiated eminent domain proceedings for a bridge project. Other actions included approving several right-of-way contracts, utility permits, and promotional grants.
- Approved $1,689,244.50 first-year food services contract with Aramark Correctional Services (5-0)
- Approved eminent domain proceedings against Linda K Guill and Richard L Klauz for Bridge E-38 (5-0)
- Approved $309,855.70 contract with Highway Improvement Inc. for crack sealing (5-0)
- Approved appointment of Amanda Burki as Emergency Management Deputy Director at $83,636.80 salary (5-0)
- Approved $3,200 appraisal contract with Kubert Appraisal Group (5-0)
- Approved four $5,000 promotional grants from the Visitors Promotion Fund (5-0)
- Approved right-of-way contracts totaling $67,335 for various properties (5-0)
- Approved $4,820 advertising agreement with NRG Media LLC for Sheriff's Office recruiting (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will meet to approve prior minutes, consider additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, and review notices of assessed valuation changes for two properties. The board will also hold a public hearing and take action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from multiple organizations.
- Approval of March 21, 2023 minutes
- Additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls
- Notices of assessed valuation change for Starostka-Lewis LLC and Angel Strub
- Public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from 15 organizations including City Impact, YMCA of Lincoln Nebraska, and Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital
- Action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications
The Board approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls and updated valuations for two properties due to clerical errors and new construction. The Board also approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for several organizations following a public hearing.
- Approved minutes from March 21, 2023 meeting (5-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved assessed valuation changes for Starostka-Lewis LLC and Angel Strub (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for multiple organizations (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to discuss legislative updates, road projects, and a crisis center camera upgrade, and to consider action items including grant applications and an agreement for using the fairgrounds as a polling place. The board will also enter executive session for pending litigation and legal advice.
- Agreement to use Lancaster Event Center Fairgrounds as polling place for April 4 and May 2, 2023 elections (no cost to County)
- Grant application to Nebraska Crime Commission for Juvenile Services funding ($563,930)
- Grant application to Department of Justice for Second Chance Act Reentry Education and Employment ($900,000)
- Authorize Deputy CAO to sign SFY 2024 Juvenile Services Application Certification
- Appointment of Ryan Swaroff to Indigent Defense Advisory Committee (term expiring April 30, 2025)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on a $1,002,680.25 contract to replace County Bridge E-38, approve several contract renewals and right-of-way purchases, and consider a settlement agreement. The agenda includes routine consent items and new business, with public comment periods for items not on the agenda.
- Award bridge replacement contract to JJK Construction, LLC for $1,002,680.25 (Project 22-48)
- Approve right-of-way contracts totaling $30,129 for five properties, including $19,235 to Lois M Schmidt
- Renew contracts with Graybar Electric ($20,000) and Orkin ($14,000)
- Approve $262,444 contract with Nebraska DHHS for deputy county attorney costs in parental rights cases
- Set public hearing for April 11 on Text Amendment No. 23003 to the Zoning Resolution
The Board approved a $1,002,680.25 contract to JJK Construction, LLC for bridge replacement. Other actions included approving several right-of-way contracts, electrical service agreements, and a special events permit for a triathlon.
- Awarded $1,002,680.25 contract to JJK Construction, LLC for Bridge E-38 replacement (5-0)
- Approved $99,266 agreement for Family Treatment and Safe and Healthy Families Court programs (5-0)
- Approved $262,444 reimbursement contract with NE Dept of Health and Human Services (5-0)
- Approved $110,000 total for electrical services across six vendors (5-0)
- Approved $25,000 contract with Production Creek, LLC for work clothing (5-0)
- Approved special events permit for Last Blast Lincoln Triathlon on Sept 10, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved $7,556.98 agreement with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig for environmental services (5-0)
- Set public hearing for April 11, 2023, regarding Zoning Resolution Text Amendment No. 23003 (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider a utility permit for broadband fiber installation, hear recommendations for Convention and Visitors Bureau promotion fund grants, discuss the Youth Services Center per diem, and review an amendment to the Airport Authority interlocal agreement. The meeting also includes a legislative update, an executive session on litigation, and a COVID-19 update.
- Utility Permit No. 2334 for Bauer Underground Inc. to install fiber conduit for the Lancaster County Broadband Project-Southwest Quadrant along W Denton Road, S. Folsom, and SW 12th Street (Project No. C-23-0089, Bid No. 22-259)
- Convention and Visitors Bureau Promotion Fund Grant Recommendations presented by Jeff Maul and Aaron Stitt
- Youth Services Center per diem discussion led by Director Steven Wesley
- Proposed Amendment No. 1 to Interlocal Agreement between City, County, and Lincoln Airport Authority
- Executive session for pending and potential litigation and legal advice
The Board approved several grant contracts for the Convention and Visitors Bureau and a utility permit for fiber conduit installation. Commissioners also voted to support two state legislative bills and directed the Chief Administrative Officer to draft termination letters for Youth Services Center contracts to renegotiate per diem rates.
- Approved grant contracts for Convention and Visitors Bureau, including History Nebraska (5-0)
- Directed Chief Administrative Officer to draft termination letters for Youth Services Center per diem contracts (5-0)
- Approved utility permit No. 2334 for Bauer Underground Inc. fiber conduit installation (5-0)
- Approved support for LB734 regarding infrastructure damage penalties (4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved support for LB511 regarding rural radio upgrades (5-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes from March 16, 2023 (3-0 with two abstentions)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve routine items including minutes, claims, and consent items, as well as discuss new business such as contracts, agreements, and appointments. The agenda includes several contract amendments, right-of-way purchases, and professional service agreements.
- Approval of claims including $13,300 to The Mediation Center and $8,111.86 to El Centro de las Americas
- Contract amendment with Blue Valley Public Safety Inc. for siren maintenance up to $80,000
- Right-of-way contracts totaling over $38,000 for various road projects
- Contract with Tim Sisco Construction LLC for box culvert replacement up to $595,693.50
- Agreement with Dr. Moises Rodriguez for training at Youth Services Center up to $15,000
The Board of Commissioners approved a $595,693.50 contract for box culvert replacements and several other road and maintenance agreements. The board also granted two amusement license renewals and appointed Nicole Ringler to the Commissioners' Award of Excellence Committee.
- Approved $595,693.50 contract with Tim Sisco Construction LLC for box culvert replacements (5-0)
- Approved $149,925.73 contract with Straight-Line Striping Inc. for pavement markings (5-0)
- Approved $124,200 and $122,200 purchase orders for crushed gravel from Vogtscapes, Inc and R L Tiemann Construction (5-0)
- Approved amusement license renewals for Jerry McCabe and Anthony Hillhouse (5-0)
- Approved $15,000 agreement with Dr. Moises Rodriguez for Youth Services Center training (5-0)
- Approved appointment of Nicole Ringler to the Commissioners' Award of Excellence Committee (5-0)
- Approved one-step pay increase for Administrative Secretary Saige Walker (5-0)
- Approved real estate transfer from Fire Ridge, LLC for future South Street and 98th Street connection (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will approve the minutes from the March 7, 2023 meeting. The body will process additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls. It will hold public hearings and take action on four motor vehicle tax exemption applications.
- Approval of minutes from the March 7, 2023 meeting
- Additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls
- Motor vehicle tax exemption application for Catholic Social Services
- Motor vehicle tax exemption application for Trinity United Methodist Church of Lincoln
- Motor vehicle tax exemption application for Lincoln Berean Church
The Board approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls. It also approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for four organizations following a public hearing.
- Approved minutes from March 7, 2023 meeting (5-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Catholic Social Services, Trinity United Methodist Church of Lincoln, Lincoln Berean Church, and Nebraska Safety Council (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to discuss a zoning text amendment (TX23003) that would modify definitions, the 'R' district, special permits, and height/area regulations. They will also receive updates on juvenile probation, youth services, and COVID-19, and may enter executive session for litigation and union negotiations.
- Briefing on Text Amendment TX23003 to amend Articles 2, 6, 13, and 17 of the Lancaster County Zoning Regulations
- Quarterly Juvenile Probation Update from Chief Probation Officer Beverly Hoagland
- Quarterly Youth Services Center Update from Director Steven Wesley
- Executive session for pending/potential litigation, legal advice, and union negotiations
- Action item: Letter(s) of Support for Community Project Funding
The Board voted to oppose legislative bills LB287 and LB322 while supporting others related to mental health and property tax testimony. Additionally, the Board directed staff to review per diem rates for the Youth Services Center. The Board also approved a letter of support for community project funding on Fletcher Avenue.
- Approved March 9, 2023 staff meeting minutes (3-0)
- Voted to oppose LB287 regarding joint public agencies (3-0)
- Voted to support County Treasurer Garver's testimony on LB577 (3-0)
- Voted to support LB381 Mental Health Wellness Act (3-0)
- Authorized testifier to oppose funding decreases at DHHS budget hearing (3-0)
- Voted to support LB736 via letter (3-0)
- Directed YSC staff to examine and recommend new per diem rates (3-0)
- Approved letter of support for Fletcher Avenue project funding (3-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will review updates on the Hall of Justice front counter and County City Building garage remodels, consider a panic button upgrade contract, and approve numerous contracts for services including concrete, electrical, fencing, moving, and plumbing. They will also discuss a security update, approve February 2023 vouchers, and consider a wellness fair and UNL Law courtroom use.
- Hall of Justice Front Service Counter Remodel update and payment application
- County City Building Garage Remodel update and payment application
- Panic Button Upgrade Contract Approval (#23-050)
- Contract for Concrete and Pavement Services (#23-046) with multiple contractors
- Contract for Electrical Services (#23-055) with multiple contractors
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)- Lancaster County
The Lancaster County Local Emergency Planning Committee will meet to approve the agenda and previous minutes, hear agency reports, and discuss the ongoing COVID-19 situation, including the upcoming end of the federal emergency declaration. The meeting will also feature a presentation on BNSF Railway's hazmat response process and updates on training and upcoming events.
- Vote to approve agenda and Dec 13th meeting minutes
- COVID-19 update: federal emergency declaration ends May 11th
- Presentation: BNSF Railway hazmat response process
- Severe Weather Awareness Week: Mar 27-31, tornado drill Mar 29
- Upcoming events: Lincoln Marathon, Cornhusker State Games, Guardians of Freedom Airshow
The committee approved the current agenda and previous meeting minutes. Members received updates on COVID-19 emergency order end dates, severe weather awareness, and a presentation on BNSF railroad hazardous materials response.
- Approved March 14, 2023 agenda and December 13, 2022 meeting minutes
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to discuss a candidate for the Director of Community Corrections. The agenda contains only this discussion item and adjournment, with no other business listed.
- Discussion of Director of Community Corrections candidate
The Board of Commissioners directed the Human Resources Talent Acquisition Division Leader to hire Darci Poland and negotiate a salary for the Director of Community Corrections position.
- Directed Laura Leppky to hire Darci Poland and negotiate a salary (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine consent items including contract amendments, right-of-way purchases, and subaward contracts for juvenile justice programs. New business includes resolutions, agreements, and road maintenance contracts. The meeting also includes public comment and announcements.
- Contract amendments for computers, vehicle lifts, propane, and bridge engineering (up to $85,493, $1,500, $40,000, $4,550)
- Right-of-way purchases for six properties totaling $9,184 (e.g., NW 27th & West Bluff Rd, SW 126th & Pioneers Blvd)
- Subaward contracts for Family Treatment Drug Court: $188,841 to St. Monica's, $63,566 to UNL
- Purchase orders for crushed rock: $269,440 to Westover Rock & Sand, $178,760 to R.L. Tiemann
- Crack sealing bid to Highway Improvement, Inc. for $309,855.70
The Board of Commissioners approved several high-value contracts for road maintenance, including crushed rock and crack sealing. They also authorized various service contracts for HVAC, propane, and juvenile services. An agreement regarding asphalt specifications for the Walters Ridge subdivision was tabled.
- Approved $309,855.70 bid to Highway Improvement, Inc. for crack sealing (4-0)
- Approved $269,440 purchase order to Westover Rock & Sand, Inc. for crushed rock (4-0)
- Approved $178,760 purchase order to R.L. Tiemann Construction for crushed rock (4-0)
- Approved $88,777.03 agreement with HopeSpoke for Youth Services Center case management (4-0)
- Approved up to $125,000 for tire service contracts with Pomp’s Tire Service and Walker Tire (4-0)
- Approved up to $40,000 for HVAC services with four vendors (4-0)
- Approved up to $40,000 propane supply contract with Otte Oil & Propane (4-0)
- Tabled agreement with Cedar Woods Estates, LLC regarding asphalt specifications (4-0)
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The coalition approved the minutes from the January meeting. Members provided agency updates regarding youth caseloads, waitlists, and new programs. Planning is proceeding for a Family Resource Center, including a concept paper approved by the DBH.
- Passed minutes from the January YCRC meeting
Juvenile Justice Collaborative
The JDAI Collaborative is holding its regular meeting to discuss juvenile justice initiatives. The agenda includes presentations on Unite Us and an educational advocate, program and committee updates, and a family engagement presentation. This is a routine working meeting, not a decision-making session.
- Presentation by Ericka Lewon on Unite Us
- Presentation by LaShawnda Nimox on Educational Advocate
- Family Engagement presentation by Elton and Casey
- Committee updates: RED, Youth Crisis Response Coalition, Prevention
- Follow-up meeting for CBA program submitters
The collaborative meeting consisted of program updates from various youth and social service agencies. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded; the session focused on inter-agency coordination and resource sharing.
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is meeting to conduct interviews for the position of Director of Community Corrections. The agenda contains only the interview process and adjournment, with no other business items listed.
- Interviews for Director of Community Corrections position
The Board conducted interviews with five candidates for the Director of Community Corrections position. No final hiring decision was made during the meeting. HR was requested to complete reference checks prior to the following Tuesday meeting.
- Approved motion to recess at 10:45 a.m. (5-0)
- Approved motion to adjourn at 4:42 p.m. (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting with updates from planning, HR, emergency management, and budget staff, plus a review of retirement plan investments. Action items include approving two grant applications to the Nebraska Crime Commission and authorizing the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer to sign federal grant certifications. The board will also discuss a COVID-19 update and a strategic plan draft.
- Grant application to Nebraska Crime Commission for JAG funding: $95,734
- Grant application to Nebraska Crime Commission for VAWA funding: $276,338
- Authorize Deputy CAO to sign SFY 2024 JAG and STOP (VAWA) grant assurances
- Quarterly HR update includes 2023 Draft Strategic Plan and HR Accomplishments 2022
- Fourth quarter 2022 investment review for 401(a) and 457(b) plans
The Board voted to oppose legislative bills LB322 and LR23CA, while supporting LB612, LB506, and LB365. They also approved three grant applications for crime prevention and victim services. Additionally, the Board awarded a Customer Relations Award of Excellence to Erika Pecina.
- Opposed LB322, which would prohibit new joint public agencies from taxing (5-0)
- Opposed LR23CA, a constitutional amendment to prohibit inheritance tax, unless the Dorn amendment is adopted (4-1)
- Approved support for LB612 to appropriate funds for office space reimbursement (5-0)
- Approved support for LB506 regarding federal funds for Natural Resources and Environment and Energy (5-0)
- Approved support for LB365 to permit counties to conduct elections by mail (4-1)
- Approved Commissioner’s Award of Excellence for Erika Pecina (4-0)
- Approved $95,734 JAG grant application for Project RESTORE (5-0)
- Approved $276,338 VAWA grant application for intimate partner violence (5-0)
Pension Review Committee
The Pension Review Committee will meet to review investment performance for the fourth quarter of 2022 for the county's 401(a) and 457(b) plans. Representatives from Empower and Segal Marco Advisors will present the review. The committee will also consider approval of minutes from the November 22, 2022 meeting.
- Review of Q4 2022 investment performance for 401(a) and 457(b) plans
- Presentation by Empower and Segal Marco Advisors
- Approval of November 22, 2022 meeting minutes
The committee did not take any official action or make decisions because a quorum was not present. Members and consultants reviewed 2022 investment performance, plan demographics, and upcoming system migrations.
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will hold a public hearing and take action on applications for motor vehicle tax exemptions from 16 organizations, including churches, a school, and nonprofits. The board will also approve minutes from its February 21 meeting and consider additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls.
- Public hearing on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for 16 organizations, including Lincoln Berean Church, Parkview Christian School, Tabitha Inc, and Dialysis Center of Lincoln Inc
- Action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications
- Approval of minutes from February 21, 2023 meeting
- Additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls
The Board approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls. It also approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications following a public hearing where no one testified.
- Approved February 21, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals including minutes, claims, and consent items, plus several new business items. The most consequential item is a recommendation to award a $1,689,244.50 food services contract to Aramark Correctional Services for the Correctional Facilities. Other notable items include contracts for security, construction, and demolition services, as well as grant agreements and a special liquor license application.
- Award $1,689,244.50 food services contract to Aramark Correctional Services (Bid 23-001)
- Renew security/surveillance contracts with Americom and Inteconnex, each up to $240,000
- Approve $34,513.67 reimbursement from U.S. Marshals for sex offender enforcement
- Increase Emergency Management Performance Grant from $57,996 to $111,776
- Special designated license for Attitude on Food at Roca Ridge Events, April 29, 2023
The Board of Commissioners approved a new food service contract with Aramark Correctional Services and authorized several infrastructure and maintenance contracts. They also approved various grants for the Sheriff's Office and Emergency Management, and authorized right-of-way payments for road projects.
- Approved $1,689,244.50 food services contract with Aramark Correctional Services (5-0)
- Approved $34,705.76 contract with AdvanTech, Inc. for electronic key cabinet (5-0)
- Approved $62,780 purchase order to Contech Engineered Solutions LLC for culvert pipe (5-0)
- Approved $37,676.69 agreement with Otoe County for Old Cheney Road improvements (5-0)
- Approved $34,513.67 reimbursement request to US Marshals Service for sex offender registration enforcement (5-0)
- Approved $10,000 agreement with Conner Psychological Services PC for Sheriff's Office employees (5-0)
- Approved $6,800 NDOT mini-grant for 'U Drive. U Text. U Pay.' mobilization (5-0)
- Approved special designated license for Attitude on Food, Inc. event at Roca Ridge Events (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting to receive updates on legislation, information services, veterans services, county engineer projects, and COVID response. They will also discuss an employee survey proposal and hold an executive session on pending litigation. The agenda is largely informational with no formal votes scheduled.
- County Engineer update on North 98th Street, South 98th Street, Walter's Ridge Subdivision, and South 68th Street
- Employee survey proposal presented by Human Resources
- Executive session for pending and potential litigation and legal advice
- COVID update and response
- Summer Youth Employment Program through American Job Center
The Board voted to oppose state bills regarding consumption taxes and tenant counsel. They also directed staff to develop new policies for agenda placement and public comment. Additionally, the Board approved the February 16 and 23 staff meeting minutes.
- Approved staff meeting minutes from February 16, 2023 (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved staff meeting minutes from February 23, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved support for LB449 regarding the County Bridge Match Program (5-0)
- Approved opposition to LR6CA, LR7CA, and LB79 regarding consumption taxes (5-0)
- Approved opposition to LB187 regarding counsel for tenants in eviction proceedings (4-1)
- Directed staff to propose policies for agenda items and public speaking (4-1)
- Consensus reached to allow Deputy CAO to meet with department heads regarding Summer Youth Employment Program
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine claims, minutes, and consent items, plus several new contracts. Key decisions include awarding a $595,693.50 bid for box culvert replacement, a $149,925.73 pavement marking contract, and a $135,000 University of Nebraska-Lincoln evaluation of the DUI Court. The board will also consider a $45,000 Veterans Treatment Court evaluation and a $26,639.40 corrections uniform supply contract.
- Award bid to Tim Sisco Construction LLC for Box Culvert F-72 replacement, $595,693.50 (Projects 22-24, 22-25)
- Award bid to Straight-Line Striping, Inc. for 2023 pavement markings, $149,925.73 (Project 23-86)
- Contract with UNL to evaluate DUI Court, $135,000 (C-23-0115)
- Contract with UNL to evaluate Veterans Treatment Court, $45,000 (C-23-0114)
- Contract with Galls, LLC for corrections uniforms, not to exceed $26,639.40 (C-23-0112)
The Board of Commissioners approved several infrastructure bids, including culvert replacements and pavement markings. They also authorized contracts for court evaluations and county uniforms, and approved a special events permit for a run-bike-run event.
- Approved $595,693.50 bid to Tim Sisco Construction LLC for box culvert replacements (5-0)
- Approved $149,925.73 bid to Straight-Line Striping, Inc. for 2023 pavement markings (5-0)
- Approved $135,000 contract with UNL to evaluate the Lancaster County DUI Court (5-0)
- Approved $45,000 contract with UNL to evaluate the Lancaster County Veterans Treatment Court (5-0)
- Approved contract with Galls, LLC for County Corrections uniforms not to exceed $26,639.40 (5-0)
- Approved special events permit for Prairie to Prairie Run-Bike-Run on May 21, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved agreement with Whova for conference mobile platform not to exceed $2,299 (5-0)
- Approved right-of-way contracts totaling $4,224 for three separate properties (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting with updates on legislation, health and wellness, the public defender's case management system, and a search for a community corrections director. The only action item is authorizing the CIO to submit a letter of support for Cyber Tatanka. The board will also enter executive session for pending litigation and receive a COVID-19 update.
- Action item: Authorize CIO Abby Eccher to submit letter of support for Cyber Tatanka
- Public Defender's Office: defenderData update with proposal and estimate documents
- Community Corrections Director search update
- Executive session on pending/potential litigation and legal advice
- COVID-19 update and response
The Board authorized support for LB721 to fund the East Beltway project and approved a letter of support for Cyber Tatanka. The Board voted to oppose state bills LB325 and LB637. No decision was reached on the defenderData software upgrade.
- Approved support for LB721 to appropriate funds for the East Beltway project (5-0)
- Approved opposition to LB325 regarding immunity for intentional torts (5-0)
- Approved opposition to LB637 regarding public speaking at meetings (4-1)
- Authorized submission of a letter of support for Cyber Tatanka (5-0)
- Tabled approval of February 16, 2023 staff meeting minutes (5-0)
- Scheduled Community Corrections Director interviews for March 8-10
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is attending the Lincoln Electric System (LES) Energy Summit Breakfast on February 23, 2023, at 7:00 a.m. at the LES Operations Center, 9445 Rokeby Road, Lincoln, NE. This is an attendance event rather than a decision-making meeting; no formal actions or discussions are listed on the agenda.
- Attendance at LES Energy Summit Breakfast
- Location: LES Operations Center, 9445 Rokeby Road, Lincoln, NE
The meeting consisted of a formal program featuring remarks on the state of the Lincoln Electric System (LES) and a keynote speech on electrification and decarbonization. No official votes were taken or policy decisions made during the event.
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will review updates on the County City Building garage remodel, Hall of Justice front counter remodel, and a feasibility study for the North Parking Deck expansion. They will also approve vouchers for December 2022 and January 2023, and consider numerous contract awards and amendments for services like roofing, demolition, HVAC, and security.
- County City Building Garage Remodel payment application
- Hall of Justice Front Service Counter Remodel change orders and payment application
- Feasibility study for North Parking Deck expansion
- Contract awards for roofing services (#22-263) to 10 Men Roofing, Sprague Roofing, Weathercraft, White Castle Roofing
- Contract awards for unit price HVAC services (#23-025) to Capitol Heating, Johnson Controls, MMC Mechanical, Prairie Mechanical, Rutt's Mechanical
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will consider additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls, hear appeals on greenbelt valuation disqualifications, and act on 2023 property tax exemption applications and motor vehicle tax exemptions. The meeting includes public hearings and a public comment period.
- Appeals on greenbelt valuation disqualification by Tom and Deanna Priefert and Kimberly A Klein
- 451 Exemption Applications for 2023 with recommendations for approval, partial approval, and denial
- Motor vehicle tax exemption applications from Bluestem Health and CEDARS Youth Services
- Approval of minutes from February 7, 2023 meeting
The Board approved 10 new 451 exemption applications and two motor vehicle tax exemptions. It granted one appeal for special greenbelt valuation while denying another. A partial exemption was granted for a Bryan Medical Center property.
- Approved minutes from February 7, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved special greenbelt valuation appeal for Tom and Deanna Priefert (5-0)
- Denied special greenbelt valuation appeal for Kimberly A Klein (5-0)
- Approved 10 new 451 exemption applications and denied four others (5-0)
- Approved partial 451 exemption for Bryan Medical Center at 2920 South 84th Street (4-1)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemptions for Bluestem Health and CEDARS Youth Services (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on a consent agenda that includes a $2.26 million broadband conduit installation contract funded by ARPA, plus several smaller contracts and agreements. New business includes terminating a local emergency, appointing pension committee members, and closing a bridge on Martell Road. The meeting is largely routine approvals with no public hearings scheduled.
- $2,263,946.92 contract with Bauer Underground Inc for broadband conduit in southwest Lancaster County (ARPA-funded)
- Bridge R-202 on Martell Road between South 162nd and South 176th Streets to be closed until danger eliminated
- $101,884.15 NDOT agreement for 68th Street preliminary engineering (Firth Road to Stagecoach Road)
- $125,722.88 Felsburg Holt & Ullevig agreement for environmental services on same 68th Street project
- $10,150 claim to The Mediation Center
The Board approved a contract with Bauer Underground Inc. for broadband conduit installation using ARPA funds. They also authorized the temporary closure of Bridge R-202 on Martell Road due to public danger and voted to oppose LB394 regarding eminent domain damages.
- Approved $2,263,946.92 broadband conduit contract with Bauer Underground Inc. (5-0)
- Approved temporary closure of Bridge R-202 on Martell Road (5-0)
- Voted to oppose LB394 and authorized County Engineer to testify (5-0)
- Approved $10,150 claim to The Mediation Center (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved appointment of members to the Pension Review Committee (5-0)
- Approved $101,884.15 NDOT agreement for 68th Street engineering (5-0)
- Approved $125,722.88 Felsburg Holt & Ullevig agreement for 68th Street environmental services (5-0)
- Approved $25,000 agreement with Rey Freeman Communications Consulting LLC (5-0)
Board of Corrections
The Lancaster County Board of Corrections is meeting to review quarterly population statistics, booking and lodging totals, custodial sanctions, and other corrections department operations. The agenda includes approval of the November 3, 2022 minutes and reports on programming, transportation, work crews, and training. The meeting is primarily a review of the department's quarterly data and operations.
- Average daily population 656.5, 98.7% of operational capacity (665)
- 35 felons sentenced to county jail will serve 7,925 days total
- 12 offenders re-sentenced for State Post-Release Supervision violations totaling 2,233 days
- 16 drug court participants will serve 18 remands totaling 219 days
- 23 house arrest violations served 2,389 days
The Board approved the minutes from the November 3, 2022 meeting. The remainder of the meeting consisted of reports on jail population statistics, booking totals, and custodial sanctions.
- Approved November 3, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a mid-year budget review for the Youth Services Center and County Sheriff's office, an update on the Board of Corrections, and an overview of the tax sale process. They will also consider a grant application for the Drug Court Enhancement program and hear updates on community corrections and COVID-19. The meeting includes an executive session for pending litigation and legal advice.
- Mid-year budget action items for Youth Services Center and County Sheriff
- 2023 Drug Court Enhancement Grant Application
- No-cost extension contract amendments with UNL Public Policy Center for Veterans Court and Adult Drug Court
- Tax sale process overview by County Treasurer and Chief Deputy County Attorney
- County Veterans Aid procedures and guidelines review
The Board authorized the hiring of a fifth deputy for the 6 in 6 initiative and approved a $1 million Drug Court enhancement grant application. The Board also approved several staff reclassifications at the Youth Services Center and took positions on multiple state legislative bills.
- Approved fifth deputy hire for 6 in 6 initiative (3-0)
- Authorized submission of $1M Drug Court enhancement grant application (3-0)
- Approved Youth Services Center reclassifications and denied front lobby officer position (3-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes from February 9, 2023 (3-0)
- Voted to support LR1CA (3-0)
- Voted to oppose LB28 (3-0)
- Voted to support LB97 and send a letter (3-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine approvals and several notable items, including a resolution to start eminent domain proceedings for a culvert project and multiple agreements for preliminary engineering and environmental services on Fletcher Avenue from 84th to 148th Street. They will also consider a settlement authorization for opioid claims and various contract renewals.
- Resolution to begin eminent domain against Calvin L. and Jodi L. Sterns (Project 23-20, Culvert D-002)
- Supplemental agreement with Nebraska DOT for Fletcher Ave engineering, total $90,962.28 (County share $18,192.46)
- Supplemental task order with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig for NEPA services, new total $101,963.79
- Authorize signing documents to settle opioid claims against Teva, Allergan, Walgreens, Walmart, CVS
- Contract renewals: Sunset Law Enforcement ammunition ($22,500), Information First ($5,000), Community Action Partnership ($10,000)
The Board of Commissioners authorized the settlement of opioid claims against several pharmacies and manufacturers. They also approved several infrastructure agreements for Fletcher Avenue and appointed a new member to the Board of Zoning Appeals.
- Authorized settlement of opioid claims against Teva, Allergan, Walgreens, Walmart, and CVS (4-0)
- Appointed Tai Pleasant to the Board of Zoning Appeals (4-0)
- Approved $90,962.28 agreement with NDOT for Fletcher Avenue preliminary engineering (4-0)
- Approved $101,963.79 agreement with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig for Fletcher Avenue environmental services (4-0)
- Approved eminent domain proceedings against Calvin L. and Jodi L. Sterns (4-0)
- Approved $25,000 flooring contract with Midwest Floor Covering, Inc. (4-0)
- Approved $10,000 consulting agreement with Kim Etherton for Community Corrections (4-0)
- Approved proclamation of February 16, 2023 as 4-H Achievement Day (4-0)
City-County Common Meeting
The City-County Common Meeting will approve minutes, elect a chair and vice chair, and receive updates on organizational changes, Public Building Commission projects, and the Veterans Service Office. No votes on ordinances or contracts are scheduled; the agenda is informational and procedural.
- Election of chair and vice chair
- Introduction of new leaders and organizational chart by HR Director Barb McIntyre
- Update on Public Building Commission projects: City County Parking Garage, K Street and Records Management, Victory Park
- Introduction and update of the Veterans Service Office by Mark Lakamp
The meeting was unable to take official action on the election of leadership or the approval of previous minutes because a quorum was not present. Members discussed human resources organizational changes and provided updates on public building projects.
- Approval of August 16, 2022 minutes rescinded due to lack of quorum
- Election of Chair and Vice Chair postponed due to lack of quorum
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will consider authorizing a letter of support for the City of Waverly’s aquatic center grant. The meeting also includes discussions on broadband updates, community corrections leadership, and zoning appeals appointments.
- Authorization of a letter supporting the Nebraska Department of Economic Development CCCFF Grant for the City of Waverly’s Aquatic Center
- Appointments to the Lancaster County Board of Zoning Appeals: Tai Pleasant, Gregory Pohl, and Nancy Loftis
- Community Corrections Director search update
- Broadband update from JEO Consulting Group
- Voluntary Crisis Residential Center RFP selection committee discussion
The Board approved a letter of support for a $562,000 grant for the City of Waverly's aquatic center. They also established a selection committee for a voluntary crisis residential center and agreed to move forward with a broadband project plan.
- Approved letter of support for City of Waverly's aquatic center grant (5-0)
- Nominated Brad Johnson, Mikayla Johnson, and Scott Etherton to the voluntary crisis residential center RFP selection committee (5-0)
- Approved position of neutral on LB473 (5-0)
- Approved position of support on LB507 (5-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes from January 26, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved mid year budget minutes from February 2, 2023 (5-0)
- Consensus to move forward with broadband plan shown in Exhibit 4
- Approved County Sheriff's Office claim for training reimbursement
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will consider an appeal by Patrick and Tracy Thomas regarding disqualification from special (greenbelt) valuation, and will hold a public hearing on and take action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from 13 organizations. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and a public comment period.
- Appeal on disqualification from special (greenbelt) valuation by Patrick and Tracy Thomas
- Public hearing and action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications for 13 organizations including Mercy City Church, People's City Mission, and The Salvation Army
- Approval of minutes from January 17, 2023 meeting
The Board approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls and granted several motor vehicle tax exemptions. The Board also denied an appeal regarding the disqualification of a 14.34-acre tract from special greenbelt valuation.
- Approved minutes from January 17, 2023 meeting (4-0)
- Approved additions and deductions to tax assessment rolls (4-0)
- Denied special (greenbelt) valuation appeal for Patrick and Tracy Thomas (4-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for multiple organizations (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve routine items including contract renewals, right-of-way purchases, and grant agreements, as well as consider new personnel classifications and pay adjustments. The agenda also includes special presentations for sheriff's office awards and a badging ceremony, plus a legislative update and public comment period.
- Contract renewals: Aetna benefits ($1.37M total), snowplow supplies ($2,500), tractor rental ($22,400), barricade devices ($30,000 each), water softener salt ($8,000)
- Right-of-way purchases: 7 parcels totaling about $9,918, including South 134th & Van Dorn, South 112th & Pioneers Blvd, and others
- Grant contracts for juvenile services: Asian Community & Cultural Center ($19,051), OMNI Inventive Care ($4,873)
- New classifications: Quality Assurance Coordinator (C13), Corrections Sergeant (C19), pay grade change for Juvenile Detention Supervisor
- Agreements for Roca Road utility relocations ($32,954.35 and $37,128.85) and BNSF communication line license ($450 for 20 years)
The Board approved the creation of a grant-funded Quality Assurance Coordinator position and revised the Corrections Sergeant classification. They also authorized several road and utility relocation agreements and a grant for three new outdoor warning sirens.
- Approved creation of grant-funded Quality Assurance Coordinator position (4-0)
- Approved revised classification for Corrections Sergeant (4-0)
- Approved pay grade increase for Juvenile Detention Supervisor to C12 (4-0)
- Approved $3,200 land appraisal contract with Kubert Appraisal Group (4-0)
- Approved $3,320 supplemental agreement with JEO for engineering services (4-0)
- Approved two utility relocation agreements with Lancaster Rural Water District No. 1 totaling $70,083.20 (4-0)
- Approved $450 license agreement with BNSF Railway Company for broadband project (4-0)
- Approved NEMA grant agreement to add three outdoor warning sirens (4-0)
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The Racial and Ethnic Disparities Committee will hear a presentation on juvenile justice data from Dr. Rich Wiener. The committee will also set the next meeting for April 7, 2023.
- Juvenile justice data presentation by Dr. Rich Wiener
- Next meeting scheduled for April 7, 2023 from 12-1pm via Zoom
The committee reviewed juvenile justice system data from November 2018 through July 2022. Members discussed the correlation between Free & Reduced Lunch (FRL) status and recidivism rates. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.
Justice Council
The Lancaster County-City of Lincoln Justice Council will meet to approve updated bylaws, elect a chair and vice chair, and receive updates on corrections, community corrections, and problem-solving courts. The meeting includes presentations on jail population statistics and veterans/DUI court data. This is a regular business meeting with action items.
- Approval of November 4, 2022 minutes
- Action item: updated bylaws (redline version)
- Election of chair and vice chair
- Corrections update with 4th quarter 2022 population statistics
- Community corrections update including NNCJCC membership and Milwaukee meeting
The Justice Council approved updated bylaws to align voting membership with the City Memorandum of Understanding. The council also elected a Chair and Vice Chair. Members received reports on jail population increases and the status of problem-solving courts.
- Approved November 4, 2022 meeting minutes (9-0)
- Approved updated bylaws (9-0)
- Elected Rick Vest as Chair (9-0)
- Elected Matt Schulte as Vice Chair (9-0)
Board of Commissioners - Budget Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a mid-year budget review meeting. They will hear a legislative update, review the FY22-23 mid-year budget, and receive reports from various departments including courts, county engineer, and ARPA. The meeting also covers future funding issues and the 2023-24 budget process.
- Mid-year budget review for FY22-23
- Court appointed attorneys update
- County engineer budget presentation
- ARPA update
- Department responses from assessor, youth services, crisis center, district court, emergency management, county attorney, public defender, sheriff, and administrative services
The Board of Commissioners voted to support LB433 regarding behavioral health funding and LB447 regarding tax benefits for retired firefighters. The Board also approved a new biannual process for discussing job reclassifications during mid-year and departmental budget hearings.
- Approved support for LB433 regarding behavioral health funding distribution (5-0)
- Approved support for LB447 regarding retired firefighter tax benefits (5-0)
- Approved biannual job reclassification discussions at mid-year and departmental budget hearings (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine items including minutes, claims, and consent agenda contracts, plus new business items such as a pay increase for a mental health program manager, a training contract for community corrections staff, and an irrigation maintenance contract. The board will also consider rescinding a previous FMLA policy amendment and creating a new job classification.
- Exceptional Circumstance Award for Crystal Jenkins, Mental Health Program Manager, one-step pay increase
- Agreement with Clare|Matrix for addiction treatment training, $12,335 for 3 days
- Contract with Judson Irrigation, Inc. for irrigation maintenance, not to exceed $15,000
- Rescission of FMLA policy amendments from December 6, 2022
- New classification: Community Corrections Program Supervisor (C10 $51,097.28 - $65,453.44)
The Board of Commissioners approved a maintenance contract for irrigation services and a one-step pay increase for the Mental Health Program Manager. They also authorized grant-funded addiction treatment training and created a new Community Corrections Program Supervisor position.
- Approved $15,000 irrigation maintenance contract with Judson Irrigation, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved one-step pay increase for Mental Health Program Manager Crystal Jenkins (5-0)
- Approved $12,335 grant-funded training agreement with Clare | Matrix (5-0)
- Approved creation of Community Corrections Program Supervisor position (5-0)
- Approved rescission of FMLA Human Resources Policy Bulletin amendments (5-0)
- Approved contract amendments for Purple Wave, Inc. and Empower Annuity Insurance Company (5-0)
- Approved claims processed through January 31, 2023 (4-0)
- Approved late claims for City of Lincoln Personnel ($65) and Tyler Technologies Inc ($1,796) (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting to approve prior minutes, receive a legislative update, introduce three applicants for the Board of Zoning Appeals, and hear updates on the veterans court, midyear budget process, criminal justice-mental health program, and COVID response. The board will also discuss meetings attended by members and review the upcoming schedule. No formal votes or decisions are listed on this agenda.
- Introduction of Tai Pleasant, Gregory Pohl, and Nancy Loftis as applicants for the Board of Zoning Appeals
- Midyear budget process update from Budget and Fiscal Officer Dennis Meyer
- Veterans Court update from County Attorney Pat Condon
- Criminal Justice-Mental Health Learning Sites program update from Kim Etherton
- COVID update and response discussion
The Board approved an application to become a Criminal Justice Mental Health Learning site to serve as a mentor resource. The Board also voted to support several state legislative bills and heard from applicants for the Board of Zoning Appeals.
- Approved application for criminal learning site program (4-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes from January 19, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved support for LB368 and authorized testimony (5-0)
- Approved support for LB709 and authorized testimony (5-0)
- Approved support for LB218 and authorized testimony (5-0)
- Approved support for LB337 and authorized testimony (5-0)
- Approved support for LB552 via letter (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda with multiple contracts and agreements, including a $2.67 million broadband conduit installation bid, a $1.8 million paving contract, and a $662,454 culvert maintenance contract. They will also vote on an interlocal agreement with the City of Lincoln to grant up to $4 million in ARPA funds for the Lincoln Youth Complex. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, claims, and appointments.
- Bid award to Bauer Underground, Inc. for broadband conduit installation, $2,674,829.40 (ARPA funds)
- Contract with Constructor's Inc. for Southwest 14th Street Paving, not to exceed $1,795,527.78
- Interlocal agreement with City of Lincoln to grant up to $4,000,000 for Lincoln Youth Complex sitework
- Contract with Vogtscapes, Inc. for Culvert Maintenance 2023 (Phase I), not to exceed $662,454.25
- Agreement with Great Plains Appraisal Company for TERC appeals services, up to $200,000 per year
The Board approved several major infrastructure contracts, including broadband installation and road paving. It also authorized millions in ARPA funds for a youth sports complex and a public safety radio assessment. Various board appointments and special event permits were also granted.
- Approved $2,674,829.40 contract to Bauer Underground, Inc. for broadband conduit (4-1)
- Approved $4,000,000 grant to Lincoln Youth Complex for sitework preparation (5-0)
- Approved $1,795,527.78 contract to Constructor’s Inc. for Southwest 14th Street Paving (5-0)
- Approved $662,454.25 contract to Vogtscapes, Inc. for Culvert Maintenance 2023 (5-0)
- Approved $25,000 proposal to RFCC, LLC for public safety radio system needs assessment (5-0)
- Approved $14,837.65 agreement with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig for environmental consulting (5-0)
- Approved appointments of Torrey Wilson and Ed Hubbs to Air Pollution Control Advisory Board (5-0)
- Tabled agreement to compensate Jared Ritze as Rural Fire District point of contact (5-0)
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Lincoln/Lancaster County Youth Crisis Response Coalition is proposing to merge the Steering Committee process into the main Coalition meeting, which would then occur every other month. The agenda includes agency updates on 2022 performance and 2023 plans, grant updates, and a review of the 2022 Environmental Scan for youth behavioral healthcare access. The group will also discuss training opportunities for staff and the next meeting scheduled for March 13, 2023.
- Proposal to consolidate Steering Committee meetings into the Coalition meeting held every other month
- Review of 2022 Environmental Scan regarding access to youth behavioral healthcare
- Updates on Mobile Crisis Response Team trainings and the 988 service
- Discussion of grant updates and agency needs for supporting youth and families in crisis
The coalition decided to eliminate its separate Steering Committee and will instead maintain a meeting schedule every other month. Members from various agencies provided updates on youth mental health services, crisis response, and training needs.
- Approved discontinuation of the separate YCRC Steering committee
- Passed minutes from the November YCRC meeting
Board of Commissioners - Tri-County Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will attend the Tri-County Legislative Breakfast on January 20, 2023, in Lincoln. Officials from Lancaster, Douglas, and Sarpy Counties will have informal conversations with state senators about 2023 legislative issues. No formal decisions or votes are scheduled.
- Tri-County Legislative Breakfast with state senators
- Informal discussions on 2023 legislative issues
- Attendance by officials from Lancaster, Douglas, and Sarpy Counties
Officials from Lancaster, Douglas, and Sarpy Counties met with State Senators for informal conversations. No substantive decisions, votes, or actions were recorded in the minutes.
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting with a legislative update, introductions of new officials, a review of juvenile detention supervisor compensation, and a COVID-19 update. They will also consider a $500 membership dues payment and make advisory board appointments.
- Juvenile detention supervisors compensation review
- 2023 Welcoming America membership dues of $500.00
- Appointments to Air Pollution Control Advisory Board: Torrey Wilson and Ed Hubbs
- Reappointment of Brian Wertz to second term on Air Pollution Control Advisory Board
- Introduction of Ryan Wieber as Lincoln City Libraries director
The Board voted to oppose LB29 regarding real property damage assessments and recommended a pay grade increase for Juvenile Detention Supervisors. They also approved membership dues for Welcoming America and corrected previous meeting minutes.
- Opposed LB29 regarding real property damage assessments (4-1)
- Recommended increasing Juvenile Detention Supervisor pay grade from C11 to C12 (5-0)
- Approved $500.00 for 2023 Welcoming America membership dues (5-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes from January 12, 2023 (5-0)
- Corrected November 17, 2022 minutes by striking a dollar amount from a broadband motion (3-0 with 2 abstentions)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine claims, contract amendments, and new agreements, including a $265,509 Nebraska Crime Commission grant for community-based juvenile services. They will also consider resolutions to amend the purchasing manual and authorize engineering services for Northwest 56th Street.
- Claims totaling $44,274.34 to El Centro de las Americas, Rabble Mill, The Mediation Center, and Rick Vest
- Contract amendments renewing furniture and cleaning contracts (Haworth, Teknion, Hood Masters) up to $126,000
- Resolution to amend Purchasing Manual for professional services (R-23-0008)
- Agreement with Nebraska DOT for preliminary engineering on Northwest 56th Street, I-80 to West Holdrege, county cost $13,331.28
- MOU with ODP Business Solutions for office supplies up to $225,000
The Board approved several grant awards for juvenile services, including $265,509 for a truancy diversion program. They also authorized a preliminary engineering agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation for Northwest 56th Street. Additionally, the Board approved various vendor contracts for office supplies, video systems, and furniture.
- Approved $265,509 Nebraska Crime Commission grant for Juvenile Truancy Diversion Program (5-0)
- Approved $19,501 grant to Asian Community & Cultural Center (5-0)
- Approved $55,249 grant to Rabble Mill (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved $13,331.28 engineering agreement for Northwest 56th Street (5-0)
- Approved $225,000 MOU with ODP Business Solutions for office supplies (5-0)
- Approved $40,000 MOU with WatchGuard Video Inc. for public safety video (5-0)
- Approved resolution to amend Purchasing Manual for professional services (5-0)
- Approved $4,860 agreement with Mitchell Repair Information Company LLC (5-0)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will elect 2023 officers, approve prior minutes, and discuss Section 42 housing real property values for 2023. It will hold public hearings on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from several organizations, then take action on those items. The meeting is largely routine administrative business, with public comment periods for non-agenda items.
- Election of 2023 officers for the Board of Equalization
- Approval of minutes from January 3, 2023 meeting
- Discussion of Section 42 housing 2023 real property values
- Public hearings on motor vehicle tax exemptions for Wyuka Cemetery, The Salvation Army, Trinity Lutheran Church, Gentle Shepherd Baptist Church, Food Bank of Lincoln, and Great Plains Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
- Action on Section 42 housing values and motor vehicle tax exemption applications
The Board of Equalization voted to file a petition with the Tax Equalization and Review Commission (TERC) regarding 2023 real property values for Section 42 housing. The action follows concerns from the Assessor that statutory formulas resulted in some properties being valued at zero, which does not reflect actual market value.
- Elected Christa Yoakum as Chair and Sean Flowerday as Vice Chair (5-0)
- Approved minutes from January 3, 2023 meeting (4-0, one abstention)
- Approved additions and deductions to the tax assessment rolls (5-0)
- Approved filing a petition with TERC regarding Section 42 housing 2023 real property values (5-0)
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications for Wyuka Cemetery and Funeral Home, The Salvation Army, Trinity Lutheran Church - School, Gentle Shepherd Baptist Church, Food Bank of Lincoln Inc, and Great Plains Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting with updates on legislation, parks, veterans, IT, broadband, and COVID-19. Action items include approving the NDA noxious weed control annual reports and considering applications for a Board of Zoning Appeals vacancy. The board will also enter executive session for pending litigation and legal advice.
- Approval of NDA noxious weed control annual reports
- Seven applications for BZA vacancy (term ending March 31, 2025)
- Broadband update from JEO Consulting Group
- Introduction of new Parks and Recreation director and Lincoln Parks Foundation executive director
- Executive session on pending litigation and legal advice
The Board approved the NDA noxious weed control annual reports and authorized Chair Christa Yoakum to join the NACo Immigration Task Force. The Board also selected three applicants for interviews for Board of Zoning Appeals vacancies.
- Approved staff meeting minutes from January 5, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved NDA Noxious Weed Control Annual Reports (5-0)
- Approved Chair Yoakum's appointment to NACo Immigration Task Force (5-0)
- Approved interviewing Tai Pleasant, Nancy Loftis, and Gregory Pohl for BZA vacancies (5-0)
STOP Committee
The Lancaster County Community Corrections STOP Committee is meeting to approve prior meeting minutes, review class attendance and year-end summary reports, and consider a fund request from the Lincoln Police Department (LPD). Public comment is also scheduled.
- Approval of special meeting minutes from November 10, 2022
- Class attendance count summary review
- Year-end (EOY) summary report review
- Law enforcement fund balance review
- Fund request from LPD
The committee approved the November 10, 2022 meeting minutes and a fund request for police equipment. Members reviewed the 2022 Class Attendance County Summary, the 2022 Summary Report, and the law enforcement fund balance.
- Approved meeting minutes from November 10, 2022 (6-0)
- Approved $6,419 for LPD equipment including batter handles, cord reels, and Alco-Sensor FSTs (5-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will review and potentially approve several contract amendments and a new contract, including for telephone answering services, furniture, lighting, and HVAC filters. They will also receive updates on the Hall of Justice front service counter remodel and the County City Building garage remodel, including change orders and payment applications. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and November 2022 vouchers, plus a security update.
- Amendment to Contract #14-236 for Telephone Answering Services with Executive Answering Service
- Amendment to MOU #MOU068 for Furniture, Installation and Related Products with Haworth, Inc.
- Amendment to MOU #MOU016 for Lightbulbs, Ballasts and Retrofit Kits with Voss Lighting
- Contract #22-227 for Annual Supply of HVAC Filters with Lampe's Clean Air Specialists
- Updates on Hall of Justice Front Service Counter Remodel and County City Building Garage Remodel
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on routine claims, contract renewals, and several new business items, including a five-year taser purchase for the Corrections department and two road safety resolutions. Public comment is limited to one hour with five-minute speaking slots.
- Approve $57,706.80 five-year taser purchase from Axon Enterprise, Inc.
- Resolution to install stop beacons at North 14th Street and Raymond Road
- Resolution for HILL BLOCKS VIEW sign on Old Cheney Road near 12400 Old Cheney Road
- Set annual salary of $72,142.72 for District Court Staff Attorney Yutian Lei
- Reappoint Ed Woeppel to Board of Zoning Appeals through March 31, 2027
The Board of Commissioners approved several contract renewals, utility permits, and the installation of stop and warning beacons at a specific intersection. They also authorized a five-year purchase order for tasers and supplies for County Corrections.
- Approved installation of stop and warning beacons at North 14th Street and Raymond Road (4-0)
- Approved $57,706.80 five-year contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for tasers and supplies (4-0)
- Approved $72,142.72 annual salary for District Court Staff Attorney Yutian Lei (4-0)
- Approved reappointment of Ed Woeppel to the Board of Zoning Appeals (4-0)
- Approved contract renewal with CivicPlus, LLC for website services not to exceed $20,178.39 (4-0)
- Approved contract renewal with Rixstine Recognition not to exceed $6,000 (4-0)
- Approved utility permits for City of Lincoln Wastewater System and Windstream Nebraska, LLC (4-0)
- Tabled resolution for traffic sign at 12400 Old Cheney Road pending more data (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, swearing in officials, electing a chair and vice chair, and receiving a legislative update. They will also discuss proposed traffic control changes at North 14th Street and Raymond Road, receive a COVID update, and consider applications for a Board of Zoning Appeals vacancy and a reappointment. Two upcoming staff meetings are scheduled to be cancelled.
- Proposed sign changes for traffic control at N 14th and Raymond Road
- Applications for BZA vacancy by Gregory Osborn and Scott Thompson
- Reappointment of Ed Woeppel to BZA for term April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2027
- Cancellation of staff meetings on Feb 2 and Feb 23, 2023
- Election of chair and vice chair
The Board elected Commissioner Yoakum as Chair and Commissioner Flowerday as Vice Chair. The Board also approved committee assignments and reviewed a proposal to replace traffic beacons at North 14th Street and Raymond Road.
- Elected Commissioner Yoakum as Chair (5-0)
- Elected Commissioner Flowerday as Vice Chair (5-0)
- Approved committee assignments (5-0)
- Approved staff meeting minutes from December 13, 2022 (4-0 with 1 abstention)
Board of Equalization
The Lancaster County Board of Equalization will hold a public hearing and take action on motor vehicle tax exemption applications from several nonprofit organizations, including Union College, Goodwill Industries, and Nebraska Wesleyan University. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and a public comment period.
- Motor vehicle tax exemption applications from Union College, Goodwill Industries, Nebraska Wesleyan University, St. Joseph Catholic Church and School, Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, CHI Health St. Elizabeth, St. Paul's Lutheran Church, People's City Mission, Allon Chapel SDA Church, and F Street Neighborhood Church
- Approval of minutes from December 20, 2022 meeting
- Public comment period limited to one hour
The Board of Equalization approved several applications for motor vehicle tax exemptions following a public hearing. The board also approved the minutes from the December 20, 2022 meeting.
- Approved motor vehicle tax exemption applications (4-0)
- Approved December 20, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on a zoning text amendment adding conditions to special permits for industrial, fertilizer storage, and ethanol/biodiesel facilities. They will also consider a $12,076,200 NDOT agreement for shoulder widening on North 14th Street, along with routine claims, contract amendments, and recognitions.
- Public hearing on County Text Amendment No. 22014 to amend zoning and subdivision regulations
- Program Agreement with NDOT for North 14th Street shoulder widening, total cost $12,076,200, county share $2,414,880
- Bid award to Constructors, Inc. for Southwest 14th Street paving, estimated $1,795,527.78
- Contract amendments including Summit Food Service for correctional facilities (up to $390,000) and encompass for Hall of Justice furniture (increase $20,916.12)
- Claims approval including $18,543.83 to El Centro de las Americas and $161.25 to Commissioner Deb Schorr
The Board of Commissioners approved a $12,076,200 project to widen North 14th Street and a $1,795,527.78 contract for Southwest 14th Street paving. The Board also updated zoning regulations for special permits and accepted maintenance for roads in South Ridge Acres Addition.
- Approved $12,076,200 North 14th Street widening project (4-0)
- Awarded $1,795,527.78 Southwest 14th Street paving bid to Constructors Inc (4-0)
- Approved zoning text amendments for industrial and commercial storage permits (4-0)
- Accepted maintenance for roads in South Ridge Acres Addition (4-0)
- Approved $500 exceptional circumstance award for Crystal Floyd (4-0)
- Approved school resource officer agreement with School District 148 (4-0)
- Approved special event permit for 2023 Animal Run (4-0)
- Approved $18,543.83 claim to El Centro de las Americas (3-0, 1 abstention)