Bennet public meetings in 2025
166 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Board of Commissioners
The Board will approve minutes from the Dec. 16 meeting and several claim payments. It will adopt multiple contract amendments, change orders, and new business items, including a large purchase of license plate readers. The meeting also includes a salary‑increase resolution, a special event permit, and adoption of the 2026‑2028 strategic plan.
- Approve claim to El Centro de las Americas for $10,148.11
- Amend US Bank contract for commercial card services (no cost)
- Change Order 3 to Genesis Contracting increases SquareOne Center contract by $221,340.27
- Purchase license plate readers from Motorola Solutions for $793,715.71
- Contract with General Excavating to repair Bridge K-144, not to exceed $218,268.42
The board approved the meeting minutes, several routine claims, and multiple contract amendments and change orders, including a $793,715.71 purchase of license plate readers from Motorola. It also adopted a resolution for salary increases, approved a special event permit for the 2026 Animal Run, and adopted the 2026‑2028 Lancaster County Strategic Plan. Additional approvals included a bridge repair contract, an agreement for inmate educational workshops, and stop‑loss insurance coverage.
- Approved minutes of Dec 16, 2025 meeting (3-0)
- Approved claims processed through Dec 19, 2025 (3-0)
- Approved $10,148.11 claim to El Centro de las Americas (2-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved contract amendments for US Bank, Judson Irrigation, Graybar, Kidwell, Michael Todd (3-0)
- Approved Change Order 3 to Genesis Contracting ($221,340.27 increase) (3-0)
- Approved resolution for annual salary increases (3-0)
- Approved special event permit for 2026 Animal Run (3-0)
- Approved purchase of Motorola license plate readers $793,715.71 (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board approved the December 11, 2025 meeting minutes with a 5-0 vote and adjourned the session at 10:07 a.m. with a 5-0 vote. No substantive policy, budget, or operational decisions were finalized; items such as salary increases and insurance guideline revisions were discussed but deferred for future formal action.
- Approved December 11, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 10:07 a.m. (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board will approve the minutes from the Dec. 9 meeting and process claims, including a $1,534.54 payment to Victory Park LLC. It will adopt several contract amendments, notably a $1,828,166.01 amendment for construction at the Square One Family Resource Center. New business includes resolutions on payments, bank depositories, traffic signs, environmental services, and personnel pay grade changes.
- Approve Victory Park LLC claim for $1,534.54 (Batch 328407)
- Amend contract C-24-0940 with Genesis Contracting Group LLC for up to $1,828,166.01 construction at Square One Family Resource Center
- Change Order 2 to contract C-25-0236 with JMN Construction, increase not to exceed $19,318
- Resolution authorizing traffic signs on Northwest 105th Street and West McKelvie Road
- Professional Services Agreement Supplemental 2 with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig, up to $32,558.60 for additional environmental services
The Lancaster County Board approved the meeting minutes and several claim payments. It adopted multiple contract amendments and change orders, and passed resolutions to let the County Clerk issue payments, designate banks as depositories, install traffic signs, and sign a supplemental environmental agreement. The board also approved personnel pay‑grade changes. All motions carried unanimously (5‑0 or 4‑0).
- Approved minutes of Dec 9, 2025 meeting (4-0)
- Approved claims processed through Dec 12, 2025, including $1,534.54 Victory Park LLC claim (5-0)
- Approved consent items: contract amendments and change orders (5-0)
- Authorized County Clerk to issue payments while Board is adjourned (5-0)
- Designated banks as depositories for 2026 (5-0)
- Authorized installation of traffic signs on Northwest 105th St and West McKelvie Rd (5-0)
- Authorized Board Chair to sign Environmental Agreement Supplemental 2 (5-0)
- Approved Personnel Policy Board recommendations to change and delete pay grades (5-0)
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee will meet to discuss an ARPA update, a proposed Food Bank budget, and recommendations for the 2026 Keno High School Prevention Fund, which requires a vote. The committee will also set meeting dates for 2026 and receive reports from United Way and Region 5 Systems.
- Vote on 2026 Keno HS Prevention Fund Recommendations
- Vote on Food Bank proposed budget
- ARPA Update
- United Way report
- Set 2026 Meeting Dates
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will approve the minutes from the December 9, 2025 meeting and receive updates on the 2026‑2028 County HR Strategic Goals. Staff will present Square One change orders and schedule the mid‑year budget review. An executive session will address potential litigation and legal advice, and the board will consider two Community Based Juvenile Services Aid grant applications totaling $1,353,879.
- Approval of meeting minutes for December 9, 2025
- Presentation of 2026‑2028 County HR Strategic Goals
- Review of Square One change orders (documents provided)
- Grant applications to Nebraska Crime Commission: $1,094,870 and $259,009 for juvenile services aid
- Executive session on potential litigation and legal advice
The commissioners approved the minutes from the Dec. 9 meeting and authorized two grant applications totaling $1,353,879 for FY2027 community‑based juvenile services. They also approved the annual lobbyist memo, entered and exited an executive session on potential litigation, and set a Feb. 12 date for the midyear budget review. The meeting was adjourned at 10:23 a.m.
- Approved Dec. 9, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approved FY2027 Juvenile Services Aid Grant application for $1,094,870 (4-0)
- Approved FY2027 Juvenile Services Aid Enhancement Grant application for $259,009 (4-0)
- Approved lobbyist memo (4-0)
- Entered executive session on potential litigation (4-0)
- Exited executive session (4-0)
- Scheduled midyear budget review for Feb. 12 (decision made, no vote recorded)
- Adjourned meeting at 10:23 a.m. (4-0)
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The Advisory Board is meeting to discuss maintenance and security updates for the MHCC building. The board will also review staffing positions and the adoption of an AI assistant. Other topics include financial recredentialing and the EPC Pilot expansion project.
- MHCC building maintenance regarding vents, showers, and cleaning
- Installation of cameras and review of sound problems
- Adoption of an AI assistant via Credible/Qualifacts
- Staffing updates for MHT FT/On-Call and Night Shift Team Supervisor positions
- Feedback and questions on the EPC Pilot expansion project
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will receive a report of findings and recommendations regarding the Lincoln Lancaster Initiative to Navigate the Community’s Unsheltered Population. The board will also discuss meetings attended by members and review the upcoming meeting schedule.
- Presentation by Matt White on low-barrier emergency shelter recommendations
- Approval of December 4, 2025 staff meeting minutes
The commissioners approved the minutes from the December 4, 2025 meeting with a 4‑0 vote and one abstention. They then voted to adjourn the staff meeting at 10:17 a.m. with a 4‑0 vote. No other actions or emergency items were taken.
- Approved December 4, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Adjourned meeting at 10:17 a.m. (4-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review contracts, and discuss administrative items. The agenda includes approval of a change order and pay application for the County Board/City Council Office Remodel and consideration of contracts for HVAC filters and telephone answering services. The commission will also receive and file the independent auditor's report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
- County Board/City Council Office Remodel - Change Order and Pay Application Approval
- Amendment to Contract for HVAC Filters #22-227 Lampes Clean Air Specialists
- Contract for Annual Service for Telephone Answering Services #25-150 Executive Answering Service
- Independent Auditors Report for Public Building Commission for fiscal year ending June 30, 2025
Board of Commissioners
The Board will approve the minutes from the Dec 2, 2025 meeting and several claim payments, including $8,550 to The Mediation Center and multiple vendor invoices ranging from $348.16 to $28,718. The Board will adopt a series of contract amendments, such as extending the Fastenal contract to $40,000, adding $9,915 for bridge design services, and increasing the St. Monica’s Behavioral Health Services contract to $188,966. New business includes appointments to county boards, adoption of a multi‑year road and bridge construction program for fiscal years 2026‑2031, and approval of several contracts and purchase orders totaling over $600,000, such as a $103,400 consultant work order and a $367,722.20 culvert‑maintenance contract.
- Grant contract with City of Lincoln Police Department for Coordinated Response to Reducing Domestic Violence program, $45,816
- Consultant work order modifying contract C‑18‑0721 for design and project management duties, $103,400 (Saltillo Road, 27th‑68th St.)
- Culvert maintenance contract with Tim Sisco Construction LLC, up to $367,722.20
- Purchase order for SpeedAlert 24 radar message sign for Sheriff’s Office, $28,078.91
- Purchase order for RAVEN bundle with interdiction for Sheriff’s Office, $69,660.47
The board approved the minutes from the Dec. 2 meeting and processed multiple county claims, including an $8,550 payment to The Mediation Center. It adopted several contract amendments, appointed members to the County Extension and Keno Human Services boards, and approved a $45,816 grant to the Lincoln Police Department. The most significant action was adopting the One- and Six-Year Road and Bridge Construction Program for fiscal years 2026 through 2031.
- Approved Dec. 2 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved county claims through Dec. 5, including $8,550 Mediation Center claim (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved amendments to seven county contracts (5-0)
- Approved $45,816 grant to Lincoln Police Department for domestic-violence response program (5-0)
- Appointed three new members and reappointed two to County Extension Board (5-0)
- Reappointed Susan Tatum to Keno Human Services Advisory Board (5-0)
- Adopted One- and Six-Year Road and Bridge Construction Program for FY 2026‑2031 (5-0)
- Approved utility easement for Lincoln Electric System on specified tract (5-0)
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee will meet to discuss the recommendations from the Nebraska Crime Commission report. The agenda includes updates on school training, a book club, and the RESTORE program. The meeting also allows for any other items the members wish to raise. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.
- Review R/ED Report Recommendations from NE Crime Commission
- School Training discussion
- Book Club discussion
- RESTORE program updates
- Other items
The Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee reviewed the state’s return to Title II compliance and a plan by Christian Bijoux, noted completion of school and GARE trainings, discussed book club selections, and announced a forthcoming housing report. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The next meeting is set for February 6 2026.
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will receive updates on planning, juvenile probation, and aging services. The body is deciding on a letter of support for a cybersecurity grant and reviewing unclassified salaries and personnel rules.
- Letter of support for City of Lincoln’s FY 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program
- Review of unclassified salaries
- Review of Personnel Rule 17.3 regarding starting rates at original appointment
- Appointments and reappointments to the County Extension Board
- Reappointment of Susan Tatum to the Keno Human Services Advisory Board
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a letter of support for the City of Lincoln's application for the FY 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, which would fund physical building security and digital cybersecurity projects. The board also approved the Visitors Promotion Committee's updated grant guidelines, making $12 million available for tourism-related projects. Several quarterly updates were presented, including from Planning, Juvenile Probation, and the Department of Aging, but no other formal decisions were made.
- Approved letter of support for cybersecurity grant application (3-0)
- Approved Visitors Improvement Fund grant guidelines with $12M available (3-0)
- Approved minutes of November 20, 2025 meeting (3-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will approve the minutes from the November 25 meeting and process several routine claims. Commissioners will adopt consent items including right‑of‑way contracts and a change order with no added cost. A public hearing will result in a resolution for a Class I liquor license for Capitol View Winery. New business includes a bond‑conversion resolution, health‑care agreement, interlocal agreement, and multiple purchase orders for county projects.
- Right‑of‑way contracts: $355 to Ralph and Sara Living Trusts (North 40th & Ashland Rd), $2,225 to Douglas Janak Living Trust (South 162nd & South 176th St), $4,060 to Ivan and Susan Bruss, $1,390 to Kyle and Elizabeth Bruss
- Change Order 1 to contract C-25-0467 with Van Kirk Bros extending project to Feb 1 2026 at no additional cost
- Resolution to convert Series 2024B revenue‑refunding bonds (Tabitha InterGen Project) to tax‑exempt status
- Purchase order to Husker Steel Inc for sheet piling, $39,360 (Bid 25‑206)
- Purchase order to General Excavating for repair of County bridge K‑144, $218,268.42 (Project 21‑59)
The commissioners voted 4-0 to deny Ball Vineyard & Estates LLC’s Class I liquor license because it does not comply with local zoning regulations. They also approved a resolution converting the remaining $5 million taxable portion of the 2024 bond series to tax‑exempt status. Additional approvals included a health‑care provider agreement with Devoted Health, an interlocal agreement with the Southeast Nebraska Development District, and several procurement contracts for county infrastructure projects.
- Denied Class I liquor license for Capitol View Winery (4-0)
- Approved conversion of $5 M taxable bond portion to tax‑exempt status (4-0)
- Approved Devoted Health agreement for Mental Health Crisis Center (4-0)
- Approved interlocal agreement with SENDD, contingent on updated bylaws (4-0)
- Approved right‑of‑way contracts totaling $7,? (Ralph & Sara Living Trust, Douglas Janak, Ivan & Susan Bruss, Kyle & Elizabeth Bruss) (4-0)
- Approved purchase order to Husker Steel Inc for sheet piling, $39,360 (4-0)
- Approved contract to General Excavating for bridge K‑144 repair, $218,268.42 (4-0)
- Approved purchase order to Ace Eaton Metals for fall culverts, $72,087.20 (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Commissioners will approve minutes from the November 18 meeting and several financial claims, including payments to The Mediation Center and El Centro de las Americas. They will adopt routine contract amendments for services such as mental‑health screening, asphalt supply, cleaning, and community programs. New business includes authorizing a $2.3 million contract with Esri Canada for mass appraisal software, a $93,432 purchase of police cameras, and a $12,210 grant for a drunk‑driving awareness program.
- Approve claim to The Mediation Center for $7,650.
- Amend Blue Valley Behavioral Health contract up to $228,059.66 for Youth Services Center and $20,600 for County Jail.
- Contract with Esri Canada Limited for mass appraisal software replacement, not to exceed $2,319,773.
- Purchase order to Motorola Solutions for body‑worn cameras, in‑car cameras, and license plate readers totaling $93,432.18.
- Grant contract with Nebraska DOT Highway Safety Office for $12,210 to support a “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” mobilization.
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $2,319,773 contract with Esri Canada to replace the county’s mass appraisal software. In the same meeting they adopted several other contracts and agreements, including a $93,432 purchase of police cameras, a three‑year police bargaining agreement, and a $12,210 DOT safety grant. They also granted an Exceptional Circumstance Award to Angelica Menendez and authorized termination of a substance‑use education contract. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote unless noted otherwise.
- Approved $2,319,773 Esri Canada contract for mass appraisal software (5-0)
- Approved $93,432.18 purchase of body‑worn and in‑car cameras and license plate readers (5-0)
- Adopted three‑year police bargaining agreement with Fraternal Order of Police (5-0)
- Approved $12,210 DOT Highway Safety grant for County Sheriff (5-0)
- Granted Exceptional Circumstance Award to Angelica Menendez (5-0)
- Authorized termination of contract C‑24‑0511 with Dwight Brown effective Dec 31 2025 (5-0)
- Approved consent items including contract amendments and right‑of‑way contracts (5-0)
- Approved claims including $7,650 Mediation Center claim (4-0 with one abstention)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will receive quarterly updates on veterans services and health and wellness. The meeting includes a semi-annual progress report and planning session for the county's strategic plan.
- Quarterly VSO update from Mark Lakamp
- Quarterly Health and Wellness update from Danielle Fischer
- Community Corrections Director report from Jeff Kilpatrick
- Strategic Plan semi-annual progress report and planning session with BerryDunn
Commissioners approved the November 13, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4‑0 vote and one abstention. The staff meeting included updates on veteran services, health and wellness, community corrections, and the strategic plan, but no actions were approved, denied, or tabled. No substantive decisions were recorded beyond the procedural approval of minutes.
- Approved November 13 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will consider approving a construction manager at risk contract and a bond resolution for the parking garage expansion, along with several contract amendments and a parking services agreement. They will also review a change order and pay application for the County Board/City Council office remodel, and address a personal property damage claim.
- Approval of change orders and pay application for County Board/City Council office remodel
- Construction Manager at Risk contract for PBC Parking Garage Expansion
- PBC Bond Resolution 138 for garage expansion
- Parking Services Agreement with Park and Go during construction
- Amendments to contracts with Graybar Electric, Midwest Alarm, W.W. Grainger, Home Depot, and Spectrum Paint
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to discuss amending the hours of operation for alcoholic liquor sales in the county. The meeting includes several contract approvals for engineering services and infrastructure maintenance.
- Public hearing on amending established hours of operation for the sale of alcoholic liquors
- Proposed $367,722.20 contract to Tim Sisco Construction LLC for culvert maintenance (Phase I)
- Engineering agreements with Alfred Benesch & Company for Fletcher Avenue, South 68th Street, and South 98th Street
- Childcare Assistance grant contracts totaling $215,000 for three organizations
- Public hearing set for Dec 2 regarding a Class I liquor license for Ball Vineyards and Estates LLC
The Lancaster County Board unanimously approved a resolution (R‑25‑0083) that changes the county’s alcohol‑sale hours to permit off‑sale of beer, wine and spirits starting at 6 a.m. on Sundays. The board also approved the meeting minutes, several claim payments, and a large set of contract and right‑of‑way amendments. All actions recorded were adopted with a 5‑0 vote.
- Approved minutes of the Nov 4, 2025 meeting (5‑0)
- Approved claims processed through Nov 14, 2025, including payroll amendment (5‑0)
- Approved out‑of‑time claims for four vendors dated Nov 17, 2025 (5‑0)
- Approved consent items: multiple contract amendments, right‑of‑way contracts, utility permit, change orders, and grant contracts (5‑0)
- Approved amendment to alcohol sales hours (Resolution R‑25‑0083) allowing 6 a.m. Sunday sales (5‑0)
- Approved resolution authorizing the County Board to sign the on‑call professional services agreement with Alfred Benesch & Company (5‑0)
- Preliminary engineering services agreement with Alfred Benesch & Company (up to $93,273.79) – vote outcome not recorded in the minutes
Keno HS Prevention Fund Advisory Board
The Keno HS Prevention Fund Advisory Board will begin with member introductions. The board will conduct a review of the Keno grant. They will also discuss scheduling the next meeting, with the date to be determined.
- Introductions of board members
- Review of the Keno grant
- Discussion of next meeting date (TBD)
The board reviewed 2026 Keno HS Prevention Fund applications and recommended allocating $250,000 to various agencies. A motion to forward those recommendations, except United Way’s, to the Joint Budget Committee passed 7‑0. A second motion to forward United Way’s $0 recommendation also passed 6‑0, with one abstention.
- Forwarded $250,000 allocation recommendations (excluding United Way) to Joint Budget Committee (vote 7-0)
- Forwarded United Way $0 funding recommendation to Joint Budget Committee (vote 6-0, 1 abstention)
- Recommended total allocations of $250,000 across agencies based on application review
Juvenile Justice Collaborative
The Juvenile Justice Collaborative will review program updates and committee reports, consider forming new School Engagement and Prevention & Early Intervention committees, and discuss funding recommendations for the 2026‑2027 period. No final decisions are noted in the agenda.
- 2026‑2027 Juvenile Justice Funding Recommendations
- Formation of School Engagement Committee
- Formation of Prevention & Early Intervention Committee
- Updates from RED Committee
- Updates from Youth Crisis Response Coalition
Mason Kein moved to approve submitting the CBA application as recommended; Shannon Sieck seconded and the motion passed with no opposition. Dawn Rockey moved to approve the recommendations for the remaining funding sources listed in the attachment; Natalie Wiebelhaus seconded and the motion also passed with no opposition.
- Approved submission of the CBA application (motion passed, no opposition)
- Approved recommendations for all other funding sources (motion passed, no opposition)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will approve the minutes from the November 6 staff meeting and hear reports from the Crisis Center Director, the Corrections Director, and the Deputy County Attorney. A request to amend Resolution R-92-4870, which sets Sunday liquor sale hours, will be presented for discussion and possible action. The meeting also includes a position‑control (budget) update and an executive session for real‑estate and legal matters.
- Approval of meeting minutes for November 6, 2025
- Crisis Center Director report (Scott Etherton)
- Corrections Director report (Brad Johnson)
- Request to amend Sunday Alcohol Sales Resolution R-92-4870
- Position control (budget) update by Dennis Meyer and Kevin Nelson
The commissioners approved the November 6 meeting minutes (4‑0). They voted to hire two unfunded positions, passing the motion 3‑0. The board also passed a resolution allowing Apace to explore selling part of its newly purchased building and entered (and later exited) an executive session (both 3‑0). No decision was made on the request to change liquor sale hours; it will be considered at a future public hearing.
- Approved November 6 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Hired two unfunded staff positions (3-0)
- Authorized Apace to explore sale of part of its building (resolution passed)
- Entered executive session to discuss real estate transaction and legal advice (3-0)
- Exited executive session (3-0)
- Deferred decision on revising liquor sale hours; to be heard at next public hearing
Board of Corrections
The Board of Corrections will meet to approve minutes from August 14, 2025. The session includes updates from the Department of Corrections, Community Corrections, and the Youth Services Center.
- Approval of August 14, 2025 meeting minutes
- Department of Corrections update from Director Brad Johnson
- Community Corrections quarterly update from Director Jeff Kilpatrick
- Youth Services Center quarterly update from Director Brad Alexander
The Board of Corrections approved the minutes from its August 14, 2025 meeting. The motion was moved by Matt Schulte, seconded by Sean Flowerday, and passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote. No other actions were taken because quorum was lost later in the meeting.
- Approved August 14, 2025 Board of Corrections minutes (3-0)
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board will discuss building maintenance, camera installation issues, and AI assistant adoption. Staffing updates, including full‑time and on‑call positions and supervisor interviews, will be considered. Financial matters such as recredentialing will be reviewed. The meeting will also include feedback on the EPC pilot expansion project.
- Camera installation review and sound problem investigation
- AI assistant adoption discussion
- Staffing updates: full‑time/on‑call positions and supervisor interviews
- Financial recredentialing matters
- EPC Pi lot expansion project – feedback and questions
The Advisory Board approved the meeting minutes with a 6‑aye vote. It then voted 6‑ayes to cancel the scheduled January 2026 meeting, keep the December 2025 meeting, and resume meetings in February 2026. The board adjourned the session with a unanimous 6‑aye vote.
- Approved meeting minutes (6 ayes)
- Cancelled January 2026 meeting, kept December 2025 meeting, resume February 2026 (6 ayes)
- Adjourned meeting (6 ayes)
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Youth Crisis Response Coalition will meet via Zoom to receive agency updates and a presentation from the Executive Director of OutNebraska. The body will discuss grant updates and resources for families affected by SNAP changes and the government shutdown.
- Guest presentation by OutNebraska Executive Director
- Agency updates from LPD, CenterPointe, Cedars, Education, LFS, and Region V
- Review of resources regarding SNAP changes and government shutdown
- Review of crisis data
The meeting provided program updates from CenterPointe/SquareOne, Cedars, LPS, Lutheran Family Services, Probation, Better Living, NJJA, LOSS Team, and Human Services. A guest speaker from OutNebraska reviewed resources for LGBTQ youth and parents. No votes, approvals, or formal actions were recorded.
Justice Council
The Lancaster County - City of Lincoln Justice Council will receive population statistics and quarterly reports from corrections directors. The body will also discuss action items related to a criminal justice system assessment.
- Corrections population statistics and charts update from Director Brad Johnson
- Community Corrections quarterly report from Director Jeff Kilpatrick
- Criminal Justice System Assessment action items for community corrections
- Agency updates from Courts, City Attorney, County Attorney, Public Defender, and Law Enforcement
The council voted 13‑0 to approve the August 8, 2025 Justice Council minutes. No substantive policy actions were decided; the meeting consisted of updates and discussion. The council then voted 13‑0 to adjourn at 8:57 a.m.
- Approved August 8, 2025 minutes (13-0)
- Adjourned meeting (13-0)
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The committee will meet to introduce members and discuss school training and a book club. Laura Suhr, Chris Reid, and Casey Karges will provide updates on the RESTORE program. The next meeting is scheduled for December 5, 2025.
- School Training presentation by Karen Bell-Dancy
- Book Club discussion led by Karen Bell-Dancy
- RESTORE program updates by Laura Suhr, Chris Reid, and Casey Karges
- Next meeting scheduled for December 5, 2025
The meeting provided updates on school and GARE trainings, the RESTORE program, and truancy initiatives. Participants discussed data, resource needs, and potential incentives but did not vote on or approve any measures. No formal decisions were recorded.
YFCRC (SquareOne) Governing Board
The SquareOne Governing Board will consider several motions, including approval of the meeting minutes, a change to the regular meeting time, and a request for an annual audit waiver. The board will also hold a nomination and vote for a member with lived experience. Updates will be provided on Region 5 systems (CenterPointe), county projects at 220 S. 17th and a reinvestment grant, as well as city police department crisis call information. The meeting includes a public comment period before adjournment.
- Approve minutes from the November 6 meeting
- Motion to change the board’s regular meeting time
- Request for an annual audit waiver for the board
- Nomination and vote for a member with lived experience
- Region 5 systems update (CenterPointe) and county updates (220 S. 17th, reinvestment grant)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting will review several reports and two financial actions. Commissioners will consider an invoice from the Lincoln Community Foundation for the 2027 Lincoln Vital Signs Biennial Report amounting to $10,000. They will also discuss a recommendation to allocate up to $250,000 to local food assistance organizations until the next budget committee meeting on December 15, 2025.
- Invoice from Lincoln Community Foundation for the 2027 Lincoln Vital Signs Biennial Report – $10,000
- Recommendation to allocate up to $250,000 to food programs at Food Bank of Lincoln, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, Community Action Partnership of Lancaster & Saunders Counties, Center for People, Good Neighbor Community Center, The Salvation Army, Catholic Social Services, and Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools
- Quarterly Information Services update presented by Carl Steffen, CIO
- Quarterly Federal Infrastructure Projects update presented by Pam Dingman and Larry Legg
- Veterans Service Office Director report by Mark Lakamp
The commissioners approved the October 30, 2025 meeting minutes and authorized two financial items: a $10,000 invoice from the Lincoln Community Foundation and a $250,000 allocation to local nonprofit food programs. They also adopted a funding framework for the Visitors Improvement Committee, establishing a minimum grant of $250,000, a maximum of $3 million, an annual payout cap of $500,000 and an overall program limit of $12 million, with payments to begin July 1 2026. The meeting was adjourned at 9:56 a.m.
- Approved October 30, 2025 minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved Item 8A invoice $10,000 (4-0)
- Approved Item 8B $250,000 food‑program allocation (4-0)
- Adopted Visitors Improvement Fund parameters: $250k‑$3M grants, $500k annual cap, $12M total cap, payments start July 1 2026 (5-0)
- Tabled Item 7 executive session
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board will approve minutes from the Oct. 28 meeting and several routine contracts, including amendments to waste‑collection and hazardous‑waste services. New business includes authorizing a lease of 17,605 sq ft at 901 West Bond Street for $105,543.50, an interlocal road‑improvement agreement with Waverly for $21,343.48, and a public hearing on changing liquor‑sale hours. The meeting also features a resolution to let the County Clerk issue payments after adjournment and a proposal to regulate roadside mailboxes.
- Approve $17,408.43 claim to Unico Group Inc for goods and services
- Amend Safety Kleen Systems contract (C‑24‑0862) to renew service through Nov 11 2026, cost not to exceed $5,000
- Lease 17,605 sq ft at 901 West Bond Street to County Records Management for $105,543.50 (first 12‑month term)
- Interlocal agreement with City of Waverly to regrade Oldfield Street; Waverly will pay $21,343.48
- Schedule public hearing Nov 18, 2025 on amending County Resolution 4870 regarding liquor‑sale hours
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a series of contracts and resolutions, including a $21,343.48 interlocal agreement with the City of Waverly to regrade and treat Oldfield Street. It also approved a lease of 17,605 sq ft at 901 West Bond Street for $105,543.50, and resolutions authorizing clerk payments while the board is adjourned and establishing mailbox safety standards. All motions carried unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.
- Approved claims through Oct 31 2025 (5‑0)
- Approved consent items covering multiple contract amendments and right‑of‑way agreements (5‑0)
- Approved resolution authorizing County Clerk to issue payments while board is adjourned (5‑0)
- Approved mailbox safety regulation resolution (5‑0)
- Approved interlocal agreement with City of Waverly for Oldfield Street improvement ($21,343.48) (5‑0)
- Approved lease of office space at 901 West Bond Street for $105,543.50 (5‑0)
- Approved contract with Jones Automotive Inc for emergency equipment services ($23,345.26) (5‑0)
- Approved compensatory time‑off agreements for five Mental Health Crisis Center employees (5‑0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will review reports from the Budget and Fiscal and Emergency Management directors. The meeting includes discussions on a mailbox resolution and testimony regarding the Noxious Weed and Invasive Plant Species Assistance Fund.
- Mailbox Resolution and Regulations
- Testimony on LR168 regarding the Noxious Weed and Invasive Plant Species Assistance Fund
- Visitors Improvement Fund update
- Approval of October 23, 2025 meeting minutes
The Board approved the minutes of the October 23, 2025 staff meeting by a 4‑0 vote. It also approved the written testimony on Legislative Resolution 168 concerning the Noxious Weed Assistance Fund by a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 9:57 a.m. by a 3‑0 vote.
- Approved October 23, 2025 staff meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approved written testimony on LR168 (3-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 9:57 a.m. (3-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will approve minutes from the October 21 meeting and process several claims, including a $10,722.50 payment to The Mediation Center. Routine contract amendments and grant awards are slated for approval, covering services such as vehicle washes, alarm monitoring, and childcare assistance. New business includes resolutions on tax list adjustments, the hazard mitigation plan, and various service agreements and appointments.
- Approve claim to The Mediation Center for $10,722.50 (Batch 326488)
- Amend contract with JetSplash Full-Service Car Wash (cost not to exceed $2,500) for 2025‑2026
- Grant $100,000 to Lincoln Literacy for the Bridgeway to a Better Life program
- Resolution adopting the 2025 Lower Platte South Resources District Hazard Mitigation Plan (R-25-0080)
- Amend purchase order with Anderson Ford Auto Group to $327,334
The commissioners approved the minutes from the October 21 meeting and a $10,722.50 claim to The Mediation Center. They adopted several contract amendments and grant contracts for childcare assistance, struck uncollectible property from the tax list, and adopted the 2025 Lower Platte South Resources District Hazard Mitigation Plan. The board also appointed a new Chief Information Officer and approved a design services agreement for streambank erosion projects.
- Approved minutes of the Oct. 21 meeting (4-0)
- Approved claim to The Mediation Center for $10,722.50 (4-0)
- Approved amendments to multiple County contracts (vehicle wash, alarm monitoring, material testing, supplies, cloud services, paint) (4-0)
- Approved grant contracts for childcare assistance programs (amounts $15,000‑$100,000) (4-0)
- Approved resolution to strike uncollectible property taxes (4-0)
- Approved resolution adopting the 2025 Lower Platte South Resources District Hazard Mitigation Plan (4-0)
- Appointed Carl Steffen as Chief Information Officer (4-0)
- Approved agreement with The Schemmer Associates for streambank and drainage design services (cost not to exceed $20,000) (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The commissioners will review staff reports and a salary recommendation for Assistant Public Defender Darik von Loh. In the executive session they will consider two grant applications: a $550,000 request to the DOJ’s Community‑Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative and an $830,000 request to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. The meeting also includes routine updates from department directors and a public comment period.
- Salary recommendation for Assistant Public Defender Darik von Loh
- Application and letter of support to the DOJ for $550,000 Community‑Based Violence Intervention grant
- Application to OJJDP for $830,000 Strategies to Support Children Exposed to Violence grant
- District Energy Corporation Board appointment request
- Strategic planning session with BerryDunn scheduled for November 20, 2025
The commissioners approved two major grant applications: $830,000 from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and $550,000 from the U.S. Department of Justice. They also appointed Commissioner Sean Flowerday to the District Energy Corporation board and entered then exited an executive session on potential litigation. The meeting minutes were approved and the session was adjourned.
- Approved October 16 minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved OJJDP grant $830,000 (5-0)
- Approved DOJ grant $550,000 (5-0)
- Appointed Sean Flowerday to DEC board (5-0)
- Entered executive session on potential litigation (5-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee will meet to discuss SNAP cuts and take action on the matter. The meeting will include introductions and a public comment period.
- SNAP Cuts Discussion – Action Item
- Public Comment period limited to 15 minutes
- Next meeting scheduled for December 15, 2025
The committee approved a motion allowing Director Hoyle to allocate up to $250,000 of gaming revenue to local agencies addressing hunger, with the motion passing 4‑0 (Council Member Bowers abstained). The meeting was then formally closed by a 5‑0 vote.
- Authorized Director Hoyle to allocate up to $250,000 gaming revenue to hunger‑relief agencies (4-0, Bowers abstained)
- Closed the meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals such as meeting minutes, claims, and contract amendments. New business includes a cost‑free partnership with the Food Bank of Lincoln, a lease for print services at $207.39 per month, a $1,200,000 purchase of Motorola radio communications equipment and body‑worn cameras, and a $320,434 order for seven Ford Police Interceptors. The board will also review grant contracts for childcare and clinic programs, each for $100,000.
- Amendment to Wellpath LLC contract for Youth Services Center, cost not to exceed $489,251.04 (2025‑2026 term)
- Amendment to K2 Construction snow and ice removal contract, cost not to exceed $20,000
- Right‑of‑way contract with John Thomas Marshalek II and Glenn Joseph Marshalek for West Little Salt Road and Northwest 12th Street, $1,365
- Purchase of Motorola radio communications equipment and body‑worn cameras, total $1,200,000
- Purchase order for seven Ford Police Interceptors from Anderson Ford Auto Group, $320,434
The commissioners approved several consent items, including contract amendments and grant awards. They also approved new agreements: a Food Bank workshop program, a lease for election printing services, a $1.2 million purchase of Motorola radio and body‑worn cameras, and a $320,434 order for seven Ford police interceptors. All motions passed unanimously.
- Approved minutes of Oct 14 Board meeting (4‑0)
- Approved minutes of Oct 14 Road & Bridge meeting (3‑0, 1 abstention)
- Approved claims through Oct 17 with amendment (4‑0)
- Approved consent items (contract amendments, grant contracts, mileage report) (4‑0)
- Approved agreement with Food Bank of Lincoln for inmate workshops (5‑0)
- Approved lease assumption with Election Commission for print services ($207.39/mo) (5‑0)
- Approved notice to proceed purchase of Motorola radio and body‑worn cameras ($1.2 M) (5‑0)
- Approved purchase order for seven Ford Police Interceptors ($320,434) (5‑0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to approve minutes from the previous meeting and review first-quarter expenditures and revenues. The agenda also lists upcoming meetings for board members and includes a scheduled executive session.
- Approval of October 9, 2025 staff meeting minutes
- Review of first-quarter expenditures and revenues
- Executive session for potential litigation, pending litigation, union negotiations, and legal advice
- Discussion of board member meetings attended
- Schedule of upcoming board member meetings
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will discuss instituting eminent domain proceedings against three parties near Saltillo Road. The board is also reviewing several road-related contracts and a federal grant for road safety.
- Eminent domain proceedings against Stanley and Jody Bartels, Alan and Laurel Baade, and John and Michaela Erixson near Saltillo Road
- Acceptance of a $320,000 US Department of Transportation grant for the Local Road Safety Plan and Safe Mobility - Supplemental Action Plan
- MOU with Envirotech Services LLC for liquid magnesium chloride not to exceed $205,500
- Professional services agreement with NDOT for Saltillo Road not to exceed $34,407.35
- Annual salary setting for Chief Deputy Treasurer Taiheem Pleasant at $106,938.72
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting minutes, several claims, and a series of right‑of‑way and grant contracts. It accepted a $320,000 U.S. DOT Safe Streets grant and authorized eminent‑domain proceedings against three property owners. All items were adopted unanimously (4‑0).
- Approved minutes of the Oct 7, 2025 meeting (4‑0)
- Approved claims through Oct 10, 2025, including an $850 Verizon VSAT claim (4‑0)
- Approved right‑of‑way contracts for $487, $595, $487, and $703 (4‑0)
- Approved $10,000 grant contract with Berniklau Education Solutions for the BEST Alternative School (4‑0)
- Accepted $320,000 U.S. DOT Safe Streets and Roads for All grant (4‑0)
- Authorized eminent‑domain proceedings against Stanley & Jody Bartels, Alan & Laurel Baade, and John & Michaela Erixson (4‑0)
- Approved NDOT professional services Supplement 2 costing up to $34,407.35 (4‑0)
- Set Chief Deputy Treasurer Taiheem Pleasant’s salary at $106,938.72 effective Oct 16, 2025 (4‑0)
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‑Year and Six‑Year Road and Bridge Improvement Program for fiscal years 2026 and 2027‑2031. No specific projects or funding amounts are listed in the agenda. Members of the public may provide testimony during the hearing. The meeting will adjourn after the hearing.
- Public hearing on the One‑Year and Six‑Year Road & Bridge Improvement Program (FY 2026, FY 2027‑2031)
The commissioners voted to adjourn the October 14, 2025 meeting. No other actions or approvals were taken; the public hearing was informational only.
- Adjourned meeting (3-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will consider approving a construction manager at risk (CMAR) contract for the parking garage expansion, along with several contract amendments and a resolution allowing a therapy dog in county buildings. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, vouchers, and a pay application for the County Board/City Council office remodel.
- Parking garage expansion update and CMAR contract approval
- Resolution 137 for policy exception on regulating animals in Hall of Justice, County-City Building, and 605 S. 10th Building
- Amendment to electrical generator maintenance contract #25-056 with HM Cragg Company
- Amendment to ATM service contract #6624 with Cash Money 24 7 LLC
- Amendments to snow and ice removal contracts #24-194 with K2 Construction and Vasa Construction
STOP Committee
The Lancaster County Community Corrections STOP Committee will consider approval of the April 10, 2025 meeting minutes. It will review the law enforcement fund balance and discuss fund requests from the Lincoln Police Department and the Community Corrections program. The meeting also includes a class attendance count summary, public comment, and adjournment.
- Approve minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting
- Present class attendance count summary
- Review law enforcement fund balance
- Consider fund request from LPD (Lincoln Police Department)
- Consider fund request from CMC (Community Corrections)
The STOP Committee unanimously approved the Lincoln Police Department’s request for four mobile radar units and ten Alco‑Sensor FST devices, totaling $16,334.50. It also unanimously approved Community Corrections’ request for a new classroom projector costing $4,368.85. The meeting minutes were approved 4‑0 and the meeting was adjourned 5‑0.
- Approved meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approved LPD radar units and Alco‑Sensor FST purchase $16,334.50 (4-0)
- Approved Community Corrections projector purchase $4,368.85 (4-0)
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will review second quarter 2025 investment plans and first quarter payroll costs. The body will also discuss leave benefits for retirees and a disaster declaration update.
- Second Quarter 2025 Investment Review for 401(a) and 457(b) plans
- First Quarter payroll costs and position control review
- Leave Benefits Upon Retirement policy discussion
- Application for SFY 2026 JAG Technology Grant funding from the Nebraska Crime Commission
- Executive session regarding pending and potential litigation
The commissioners approved the September and October staff meeting minutes by a 3-0 vote. They also approved the application for the Nebraska Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant technology funding and authorized the chair and vice chair to vote at the upcoming NACO meeting, each by 3-0. The board entered and exited an executive session and adjourned, all with unanimous votes.
- Approved September 23, 2025 strategic planning minutes (3-0)
- Approved September 25, 2025 strategic planning minutes (3-0)
- Approved October 2, 2025 staff meeting minutes (3-0)
- Approved NACO voter registration form authorization (3-0)
- Approved JAG technology grant application for FY 2026 (3-0)
- Entered executive session for pending litigation (3-0)
- Exited executive session (3-0)
- Adjourned the meeting (3-0)
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board will consider updates on the EPC Pi lot expansion project and discuss building maintenance issues such as fire control, vents, showers, cleaning, and camera installation. It will also address staffing positions, advisory board nominations, and a financial report. Additional items include conference feedback and miscellaneous updates.
- Approval of September 2025 minutes
- Nomination openings for advisory board membership
- Camera installation and review of intermittent sound problems
- EPC Pi lot expansion project – feedback and questions
- Financial report
The Advisory Board approved the meeting minutes with an 8‑aye vote. The board decided to reserve a future social‑media advertisement for recruiting new members. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that received 5 ayes.
- Approved meeting minutes (8 ayes)
- Reserved social‑media ad for future member recruitment
- Adjourned meeting (5 ayes)
Pension Review Committee
The committee will meet to review investment performance for the 401(a) and 457(b) plans through the second quarter of 2025. Representatives from Empower and Segal Marco Advisors will present the review.
- Second quarter 2025 investment review for 401(a) and 457(b) plans
- Approval of March 4, 2025 meeting minutes
The Pension Review Committee approved the March 4, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously (8‑0). It then moved three investment funds—the Eaton Vance Atlanta Capital SMID Fund, the Victory Small Cap Value Fund, and the American Funds EuroPacific Growth Fund—onto the watchlist, each vote passing 9‑0. The meeting was adjourned at 3:30 p.m. with a unanimous 9‑0 vote.
- Approved March 4, 2025 minutes (8‑0)
- Placed Eaton Vance Atlanta Capital SMID Fund on watchlist (9‑0)
- Placed Victory Small Cap Value Fund on watchlist (9‑0)
- Placed American Funds EuroPacific Growth Fund on watchlist (9‑0)
- Adjourned meeting at 3:30 p.m. (9‑0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider several contract renewals for supplies and snow removal. They are also deciding on new equipment purchases and an agreement for inmate telephone services.
- Purchase of two Walk'n'Roll Compactors from Murphy Tractor & Equipment for $73,660
- Contract renewal with ODP Business Solutions, LLC for office supplies not to exceed $230,000
- Contract renewals for motor oils and lubricants with Safety Kleen Systems and Sapp Bros Inc not to exceed $50,000
- Increase of $36,359.56 for environmental services with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig for Fletcher Avenue
- Award of contract to Encartele Inc for inmate telephone and visitation services
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a series of routine items, including the September 30 meeting minutes and multiple claim payments. It also adopted contract amendments, a supplemental environmental services agreement, a purchase of two road compactor machines, and a $2,550,004.23 contract for inmate telephone and visitation services. All motions passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.
- Approved September 30 meeting minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved claims through Oct 3, including payroll amendment (4-0)
- Approved $10,144.32 claim to El Centro de las Americas (3-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved consent items: contract amendments for supplies, snow removal, generator maintenance, office supplies, childcare, and utility permit (4-0)
- Approved resolution authorizing Chair to sign Supplement 2 to contract C‑22‑0397 (4-0)
- Approved Supplement 2 agreement increasing expenditures by $36,359.56 (4-0)
- Approved purchase order for two Walk'n'Roll Compactors totaling $73,660 (4-0)
- Approved $2,550,004.23 inmate telephone and visitation services contract (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting on Oct 2, 2025 will include reports from the Youth Services Center Director, Records Management Director, and a quarterly HR update. A briefing will be given on the CPC25008 six‑year road and bridge construction program. The board will review insurance requirements and then hold an executive session for a real‑estate transaction strategy and legal advice. No formal actions or votes are listed.
- Youth Services Center Director report
- Records Management Director report
- Quarterly HR update (Item 3__Oct 2025 Updated - County.pdf)
- Briefing on CPC25008 road and bridge construction program (Item 5__CPA25008 Summary Report.pdf)
- Review of insurance requirements (Item 6__Contractual Insurance Results Guide.pdf and Item 6__Contractual Determination Form_Answers Included.pdf)
The commissioners approved a motion to enter an executive session at 10:54 a.m. for a real‑estate strategy discussion and legal advice, with a 5‑0 vote. They later voted 4‑0 to exit the executive session at 11:10 a.m. The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0 vote at 11:16 a.m.
- Enter executive session on real estate transaction, legal advice (5-0)
- Exit executive session (4-0)
- Adjourn meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will approve routine contracts and a $4.4 million grant for road grading and resurfacing. The meeting also includes appointments to the Air Pollution Control Advisory Board and a public comment period.
- HUD grant award of $4,400,000 for Fletcher Avenue grading and resurfacing
- Contract with JMN Construction for bridge repair (D-143 and D-157) with a change order of $60,214.40
- Contract with Victory Supply for Correctional Facility clothing and supplies (max $30,168.68)
- Contract with Bob Barker Company Inc for Correctional Facility clothing and supplies (max $64,412.19)
- Appointments to the Air Pollution Control Advisory Board
The board approved the September 23 meeting minutes and the claims processed through September 26, each with a 4‑0 vote. It adopted a package of consent items updating several county contracts and approved appointments to the Air Pollution Control Advisory Board, including two new members and the reappointment of Ed Hubbs, all by 4‑0 votes. The board accepted a $4.4 million HUD grant for Fletcher Avenue grading and resurfacing, approved a $15,265 USGS water‑monitoring agreement, and authorized contracts for correctional‑facility clothing supplies, each with a 4‑0 vote.
- Approved September 23 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approved claims through September 26 (4-0)
- Adopted consent items updating eight county contracts and a right-of-way contract (4-0)
- Appointed Scott Hajek and Zuleika Doremus to the Air Pollution Control Advisory Board (4-0)
- Reappointed Ed Hubbs to the Air Pollution Control Advisory Board (4-0)
- Approved resolution to assume maintenance of Vanderview Ridge gravel roads (4-0)
- Accepted $4.4 million HUD grant for Fletcher Avenue road project (4-0)
- Approved USGS surface-water monitoring agreement costing $15,265 (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will approve the September 18 staff meeting minutes, receive an insurance update, adopt a resolution condemning political violence and honoring victims Charlie Kirk and Melissa Hortman, and confirm appointments to the Air Pollution Control Advisory Board. The meeting also includes a public comment period.
- Approve staff meeting minutes for September 18, 2025
- Insurance update presented by Sue Eckley and Tom Champoux (Lancaster County Premium Summary 2025‑2026)
- Adopt Resolution Condemning Political Violence (honoring Charlie Kirk and Melissa Hortman)
- Confirm Air Pollution Control Advisory Board appointments: Scott Hajek, Zuleika Doremus, and reappointment of Ed Hubbs
- Public comment period (up to 15 minutes)
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners met on September 25, 2025, but no quorum was present. As a result, no actions, approvals, or votes were taken during the session.
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Board of Commissioners will hold a strategic planning session presented by BerryDunn, followed by a public comment period on agenda items. No formal decisions or votes are scheduled; the meeting is informational and includes an adjournment.
- Strategic Planning Session – BerryDunn
- Public Comment on items on the agenda
- Adjournment
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a strategic planning session presented by BerryDunn. The meeting includes a public comment period for residents to speak on agenda items. No specific decisions or contracts are listed. The session will end with adjournment.
- Strategic planning session – BerryDunn presentation
- Public comment period for agenda items
The commissioners agreed on six core priorities—public safety, community health, economic prosperity (including affordability), climate‑smart and resilient infrastructure, government stewardship, and welcoming and diverse communities—for the county’s next three‑year strategic plan. They instructed the consultants to refine the guiding‑principle language to emphasize both innovation and sustainability and confirmed the plan will contain no more than six priorities. The meeting was adjourned by a 4‑0 vote.
- Adopted six core priorities for the next three‑year strategic plan (public safety, community health, economic prosperity, climate‑smart and resilient infrastructure, government stewardship, welcoming and diverse communities) – agreed
- Directed consultants to refine guiding‑principle wording to emphasize innovation and sustainability – agreed
- Set limit of no more than six strategic priorities to maintain focus – agreed
- Motion to adjourn carried 4‑0 (Flowerday motion, Yoakum seconded) – approved
Board of Commissioners
The Board will approve the minutes from the September 16 meeting and several claim payments, including $6,550 to The Mediation Center and $12,559.91 to El Centro de las Americas. It will adopt routine consent items such as contract amendments, right‑of‑way agreements, and a subaward to the YWCA of Lincoln for up to $17,145. New business includes a resolution on the 2025‑26 property tax request, several purchase orders totaling over $150,000, and housing‑rehabilitation contracts through the Owner‑Occupied Rehabilitation Housing program.
- Resolution R-25-0069 setting the 2025‑26 property tax request for Lancaster County and the Rural Library
- Purchase order to Electronic Contracting Company for up to $89,727.99 to upgrade the Crestron AV system
- Purchase order to Monroe Truck Equipment Inc for $37,216 of rear cross conveyors and spreaders
- Subaward contract with YWCA of Lincoln for the Diverting the School to Prison Pipeline program, not to exceed $17,145
- Right‑of‑way contract with B&W Landon Family Farms LLC for $595 at Agnew Road and 176th Street
The Board adopted a resolution setting the 2025‑26 property tax levy at 21.4482 cents for Lancaster County and 1.3055 cents for the Rural Library, with a 5‑0 vote. It also approved a special designated license for No Shave Nebraska’s banquet, a $75,000 agreement with the National Safety Council for a defensive‑driving course, and purchase orders for an AV system upgrade, truck equipment, and a trailer, each with a 5‑0 vote. Additional actions included approving the September 16 meeting minutes, routine claims, and adopting the 2026 legislative priorities, all with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.
- Approved September 16 meeting minutes (4‑0, 1 abstention)
- Approved claims processed through September 19, 2025 (5‑0)
- Approved $6,550 claim to The Mediation Center (4‑0, 1 abstention)
- Approved $12,559.91 claim to El Centro de las Americas (4‑0, 1 abstention)
- Approved 2025‑26 property tax resolution (5‑0)
- Approved special designated license for No Shave Nebraska banquet (5‑0)
- Approved $75,000 National Safety Council defensive‑driving agreement (5‑0)
- Approved purchase orders for AV system upgrade ($89,727.99), truck equipment ($37,216), and trailer ($21,378) (5‑0)
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee will consider the consent agenda minutes from June 30, 2025. It will vote on the 2025‑2026 Early Childcare Assistance Grant Review. The committee will discuss gaming revenue and allow public comment before adjourning.
- Consent agenda: minutes from 6/30/25
- 2025‑2026 Early Childcare Assistance Grant Review – vote
- Gaming revenue discussion
- Public comment period (up to 15 minutes)
- Next meeting scheduled for Dec 15, 2025
The committee approved the consent agenda and June minutes by a 6‑0 vote. It moved the Educare childcare recommendation and the remaining childcare assistance recommendations to the County Board and City Council for final approval. The committee approved $100,000 for Lincoln Literacy and $100,000 for Clinic With A Heart, each passing 6‑0. Several other gaming‑revenue proposals were held for consideration at the December meeting.
- Approved consent agenda and June minutes (6-0)
- Moved Educare childcare recommendation to County Board and City Council (5-0)
- Moved remaining childcare recommendations to County Board and City Council (6-0)
- Allocated $100,000 to Lincoln Literacy (6-0)
- Allocated $100,000 to Clinic With A Heart (6-0)
- Held $150,000 Housing Innovations homelessness initiative for December meeting
- Held $100,000 Voices of Hope renovation proposal for December meeting
- Held $100,000 Lincoln Literacy funding proposal for December meeting
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting to hear presentations on a criminal justice system assessment, draft legislative priorities, a budget update, and a district energy overview. They will also discuss a workplace drug policy and may enter executive session for legal matters.
- Criminal justice system assessment presentation by University of Nebraska-Omaha researchers
- Draft 2025 legislative proposals presented by Kissel, Kohout, ES Associates LLC
- SquareOne budget update by Budget and Fiscal Officer Dennis Meyer
- District Energy Corporation overview by Aaron Evans and Wade Leibbrandt
- Workplace drug and substance use policy discussion
Commissioners approved the September 4 legislative retreat minutes by a 3-0 vote. The board then moved into an executive session on potential litigation, which passed 4-0, and exited the session later with another 4-0 vote. No other formal actions or approvals were recorded.
- Approved September 4 meeting minutes (3-0)
- Entered executive session on potential litigation (4-0)
- Exited executive session (4-0)
LB644 - Joint Public Hearing with affected Taxing Entities
The Bennet City Council will hold a joint public hearing with Lancaster County and other taxing entities to discuss property tax requests. The meeting includes budget presentations from Hickman, Lincoln, and Waverly.
- Joint public hearing on property tax requests
- Budget presentations from Hickman, Lincoln, and Waverly
- Public comment period with 3-minute time limit
- Meeting at County-City Building, Room 112
- Sign-in required for reporting purposes
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will conduct a tour of the Clinic with a Heart located at 1701 S. 17th Street, Lincoln, NE, on September 16, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. The meeting will allow public comments limited to fifteen minutes, with individual speakers limited to three minutes. No decisions or votes are scheduled for this agenda item.
- Tour of Clinic with a Heart at 1701 S. 17th Street, Lincoln
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider routine approvals such as minutes and claims, and will vote on several contract amendments and right-of-way payments. New business includes policy updates, tax sale certificate authorization, and multiple service agreements. Notable items involve increased expenditures for monitoring equipment, fire alarm services, and a major engineering contract for a federal‑aid paving project. The board will also discuss a $416,689.70 purchase order for annual riprap supply.
- Amend Vigilnet contract for SCRAM monitoring, increasing total to $80,000 (+$44,000)
- Amend Midwest Alarm Services contract, cost not to exceed $10,000
- Right‑of‑way payment to Stanley Jr and Keren Sunblade, $1,575 (North 148th St & Little Salt Rd)
- Agreement with The Schemmer Associates Inc for engineering services, total $194,171 (County share $19,417.10)
- Purchase order to RL Tiemann Construction for riprap material, $416,689.70
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a series of routine items, including minutes, claims, contract amendments, and several resolutions. Notably, they authorized a $194,171 agreement with The Schemmer Associates for engineering services on the 148th Street and Holdrege Street federal‑aid paving project. All motions were carried with a 3‑0 vote except the special license, which passed 5‑0.
- Approved minutes of the Sept 9, 2025 meeting (3-0)
- Approved claims processed through Sept 12, 2025 (3-0)
- Approved contract amendment increasing Vigilnet SCRAM equipment spend by $44,000 (3-0)
- Approved multiple right‑of‑way contracts totaling $13,? (3-0)
- Approved resolution amending the County Records Management Policy (3-0)
- Approved resolution directing the Treasurer to issue tax sale certificates for delinquent parcels (3-0)
- Approved $194,171 agreement with The Schemmer Associates for engineering services on a federal‑aid paving project (3-0)
- Approved $416,689.70 purchase order to RL Tiemann Construction for annual riprap supply (3-0)
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board will approve the budget and discuss building maintenance, including a new electronic door strike and camera installation. The board also received updates on staffing and a program in Nashville.
- Budget approval
- Electronic door strike installed at MHCC
- Camera installation at MHCC
- In-person program in Nashville for late September
- EPC Parking lot expansion project discussion
The Advisory Board approved the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes with a roll‑call vote of seven ayes. A motion to adjourn the meeting was then made and also passed with seven ayes. No other actions were voted on or decided during this session.
- Approved meeting minutes (7 ayes)
- Adjourned meeting (7 ayes)
Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency
The Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency will meet to elect leadership and approve previous minutes. The primary action item is the adoption of a resolution to approve the budget for FY2024-2025 following a public hearing.
- Election of Chair and Vice Chair
- Approval of September 17, 2024 minutes
- Resolution to approve the FY2024-2025 budget
The joint public agency elected Christa Yoakum as Chair and Leirion Gaylor Baird as Vice Chair. It approved the September 17, 2024 meeting minutes. The agency adopted the resolution approving the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget. A tentative date for the next meeting was set for September 8, 2026.
- Elected Christa Yoakum Chair and Leirion Gaylor Baird Vice Chair (4-0)
- Approved September 17, 2024 minutes (4-0)
- Adopted FY 2025-2026 budget resolution (4-0)
- Set next meeting for September 8, 2026 (4-0)
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency
The Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency will hold a public hearing to discuss the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 8:30 AM in Room 112 of the County-City Building.
- Public hearing on proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
- Meeting location: County-City Building, Room 112
- Public testimony limited to five minutes per speaker
The Lancaster County Correctional Facility Joint Public Agency met on September 9, 2025. A public hearing presented the FY 2025‑2026 budget, with no public comments recorded. The board voted to adjourn the meeting at 8:37 a.m. with a 4‑0 vote.
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)- Lancaster County
The Local Emergency Planning Committee will receive agency reports on emergency management and public health. The body will discuss 2025 severe weather reviews and updates on three specific disaster declarations. A presentation on the Citizen Corps Program is also scheduled.
- Review of DR-4838 July 31, 2024 Severe Wind Event
- Review of DR-4869 Mar 19, 2025 Severe Winter Weather-Blizzard
- Update on pending Aug 9-10, 2025 Severe Wind Event
- Results of the March 26 Statewide Tornado Drill
- Lancaster County THIRA Workshop scheduled for Oct 14
The committee approved the agenda and the March 11 meeting minutes, with the motion carried and no opposition recorded. It affirmed a move to a bi‑annual meeting schedule, holding meetings each spring and September, with the September meeting serving as the annual meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion that carried with zero opposed votes.
- Approved agenda and March 11 minutes (motion carried, no opposition)
- Affirmed bi‑annual meeting schedule (spring and September meetings)
- Adjourned meeting (motion carried, 0 opposed)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review several contracts for road maintenance, correctional facility supplies, and community grants. The meeting includes proposals for pay grade changes for engineering staff and the adoption of a bargaining agreement with IBEW Local 1536.
- Subgrant award of $237,270 for the Coordinated Response to Reducing Violence Against Women in Lancaster County project
- Contracts for correctional facility clothing and supplies with Bob Barker Company Inc ($64,118.19) and Victory Supply LLC ($30,168.68)
- Agreement with Panama Energy Center LLC for road maintenance, repair, and reclamation
- Change order for Pavers Inc to add mailbox turnouts not to exceed $47,023.38
- Proposed pay grade increases for Civil Engineer I, II, III, IV and Assistant County Engineer
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the September 2 meeting minutes and all pending claims, including a $3,872.50 invoice. It adopted a series of consent items covering right‑of‑way contracts, a mailbox turnouts change order, and grant contracts for community programs. The board also approved a resolution authorizing the County Engineer to sign the federal‑aid transportation funds certification, several road‑maintenance and licensing agreements, an IBEW labor contract, and a $237,270 subgrant for a violence‑against‑women project.
- Approved September 2 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved claims through Sep 9, including $3,872.50 invoice (5-0)
- Approved consent items: right‑of‑way contracts ($655, $730) and $47,023.38 change order (5-0)
- Approved resolution authorizing County Engineer to sign federal‑aid transportation funds certification (5-0)
- Approved agreement with Panama Energy Center LLC for road maintenance on project roads (5-0)
- Approved IBEW Local 1536 bargaining agreement (term Aug 21 2025 – Aug 31 2027) (5-0)
- Approved $237,270 subgrant for coordinated response to violence against women (5-0)
- Approved $4,000 agreement with Lincoln League of Women Voters for voter‑registration assistance (5-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will consider approving a construction manager at risk contract for the parking garage expansion, a change order and pay application for the County Board/City Council office remodel, and several contract amendments. The meeting also includes approval of August 2025 vouchers, use of the Hall of Justice for National Adoption Day, and election of officers.
- Parking garage expansion CMAR contract approval
- County Board/City Council office remodel change order and pay application
- Amendment to carpet cleaning contract #24-148 with Supersteam
- Amendment to fire alarm inspection contract #6396 with Midwest Alarm Services
- New contract #25-028 with Americom for security and surveillance
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Youth Crisis Response Coalition meets to receive agency updates and review the Zero Suicide Framework, including suicide screening tools, and discuss crisis data. The group also plans its next meeting for November 10, 2025.
- Review Zero Suicide Framework and suicide screening tools
- Review Crisis Data
- Next Coalition Meeting: November 10, 2025 from 12-1pm via Zoom
Coalition members shared program updates, including CenterPointe's service statistics and SquareOne grant funding, and discussed ongoing grant and data reports. They reviewed suicide‑prevention frameworks, barriers to family engagement, and recent increases in crisis‑related data. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the session.
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The committee will meet to review a data presentation from LPS and discuss school training. The agenda also includes updates on RESTORE and a book club discussion.
- LPS Data Presentation by Ryan Zabawa
- School Training discussion with Karen Bell-Dancy
- RESTORE updates from Laura Suhr
The RED Committee reviewed LPS data on out‑of‑school suspensions, vaping violations, and the new Accountability Matrix. Members noted upcoming training for multicultural liaisons and social workers, and announced the next book club selection. The October meeting was cancelled and the next meeting is set for November 7, 2025.
- October meeting cancelled (canceled)
- Next meeting scheduled for November 7, 2025 (scheduled)
- Karen to train multicultural liaisons on bias and micro‑aggressions in Sept/Oct (planned)
- Book club to discuss "Between the World and Me" in mid‑November (planned)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The board approved the August 28 staff meeting minutes unanimously (5-0). They entered an executive session for potential litigation and exited it, each motion passing 5-0. The board agreed that Budget Officer Dennis Meyer will prepare and deliver the County’s Property Tax Request Act presentation at the September 18 public hearing. The meeting was adjourned with a 4-0 vote.
- Approved August 28 staff meeting minutes (5-0)
- Entered executive session for potential litigation (5-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
- Meyer will prepare and deliver Property Tax Request Act presentation (no vote recorded)
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider approving the county budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The meeting includes public hearings on general assistance guidelines and zoning regulation amendments, as well as several new contracts and lease agreements.
- Approval of the 2025-2026 fiscal year budget
- Contract with Americom Communications Corp for security and surveillance not to exceed $250,000
- Lease for adult probation services at 3940 Cornhusker Highway for $46,333.24 first year
- Right-of-way contracts for Saltillo Road Improvement totaling $67,062.07
- Text Amendment 25009 to amend Zoning Regulations Articles 2, 4, and 13
The Board approved the Lancaster County budget for fiscal year 2025‑2026, lowering the property‑tax increase to 5.96 % with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. It also adopted the amended General Assistance Guidelines (5‑0) and a zoning‑regulation amendment that passed 4‑1. Additional resolutions recognizing National Preparedness Month, authorizing school‑zone traffic signs, certifying bridge Q‑110, approving a settlement agreement with New Generation Properties, and granting a special license to The Hub Central Access Point all passed unanimously.
- Approved 2025‑2026 county budget, 5.96% tax increase (5‑0)
- Adopted amended General Assistance Guidelines (5‑0)
- Approved zoning‑regulation amendment Text 25009 (4‑1)
- Recognized September 2025 as National Preparedness Month (5‑0)
- Authorized school‑zone traffic signs at 68th St & Princeton Rd (5‑0)
- Certified completion of bridge Q‑110 (5‑0)
- Authorized settlement agreement with New Generation Properties (5‑0)
- Granted special license for The Hub Central Access Point event (5‑0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will receive quarterly updates from the Veterans Service Officer and Information Services. The meeting includes a presentation on National Preparedness Month and an executive session for legal and union matters.
- Quarterly VSO update from Mark Lakamp
- Quarterly IS update from Carl Steffen
- National Preparedness Month presentation by Jim Davidsaver
- Executive session regarding potential litigation, union negotiations, and legal advice
- Approval of August 21, 2025 Legislative Retreat Meeting minutes
The commissioners approved the minutes from the August 21 legislative retreat with a 4‑0 vote and one abstention. They then voted 5‑0 to enter an executive session, 5‑0 to exit it, and 5‑0 to adjourn the meeting.
- Approved legislative retreat minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Entered executive session (5-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and vote on instituting eminent domain proceedings for properties near 1740 N Street and South 56th Street and Saltillo Road. The board is also reviewing several road improvement contracts and a software modernization project for public safety.
- Eminent domain proceedings against New Generations Properties LLC (near 1740 N Street) and I-Rent LLC (near South 56th Street and Saltillo Road)
- Right-of-way contracts for Saltillo Road Improvement totaling $156,455
- Agreement with Don’t Panic Labs LLC for CJIS public safety platform software not to exceed $500,000
- Contract award to Bob Barker Company Inc for correctional facility clothing and supplies for $64,412.19
- Grant contracts for juvenile services with Voices of Hope ($8,250), Lighthouse ($31,000 and $35,000), and Rabble Mill ($25,000)
The commissioners approved the minutes from the August 19 meeting and the claims up to August 22. Routine consent items covering contract amendments, right‑of‑way contracts and grant agreements were adopted unanimously. A resolution to institute eminent domain proceedings against I‑Rent LLC was approved by a 3‑0 vote with one abstention. Additional resolutions on levy allocation, a road right‑of‑way study, a culvert replacement agreement, and a drug‑court interlocal agreement were each approved unanimously.
- Approved August 19 meeting minutes (3‑0)
- Approved claims through August 22 with amendment (3‑0)
- Adopted consent items including contract amendment and grant contracts (3‑0)
- Approved eminent domain resolution against I‑Rent LLC (3‑0, 1 abstention)
- Approved levy‑allocation resolution for political subdivisions (4‑0)
- Approved resolution directing a road right‑of‑way study (4‑0)
- Approved culvert replacement agreement in Olive Creek Lake area (4‑0)
- Approved interlocal agreement for Lancaster County Drug Court Program (4‑0)
Board of Commissioners - Legislative Retreats
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is holding a legislative retreat to review the 2025 regular legislative session and discuss new and prior legislative proposals. The meeting includes approval of staff meeting minutes and public comment on agenda items.
- Approval of staff meeting minutes for August 14, 2025
- Review of 2025 regular legislative session with final report and spreadsheets
- Discussion of new legislative proposals for retreat
- Review of prior proposals and standing priorities
The commissioners approved the August 14 staff meeting minutes (4‑0). They agreed to add a proposal for a county Conflict Counsel Office to the working list. The board supported further study of a proposal to shorten the 14‑day limit for Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center placements and asked for data on juvenile transfer times before any legislation. They reaffirmed support for existing Medicaid, radio, East Beltway and treatment court proposals and pledged to continue backing a veterans‑benefits anti‑deception bill. The meeting was adjourned (4‑0).
- Approved staff meeting minutes for Aug 14, 2025 (4-0)
- Placed Conflict Counsel Office proposal on working list (consensus)
- Supported further study of shortening 14‑day YRTC placement limit (no vote recorded)
- Requested additional data on juvenile transfer times before pursuing legislation (no vote recorded)
- Reaffirmed support for Medicaid Section 1115 waivers, interoperable radio funding, East Beltway financing, and medication‑assisted treatment courts (no vote recorded)
- Agreed to continue supporting veterans‑benefits anti‑deception bill in 2026 (no vote recorded)
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board will approve routine contracts for road improvements, fuel, and security, and set a public hearing for the 2025-26 budget.
- Approval of $702,000 Saltillo Road Improvement contract
- Approval of $250,000 security and surveillance contract
- Setting public hearing for Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget
- Approval of $29,047.43 claim to El Centro de las Americas
- Approval of $135,000 grant to El Centro de las Americas
The Board approved a disaster and emergency declaration in response to the August 9‑10 storms, with a 5‑0 vote. It also set public hearings for eminent domain proceedings and the FY 2025‑26 budget on August 26, both approved 5‑0. Additionally, the Board approved a series of contracts and agreements, including a $158,338.40 salary for Supervising Attorney Charlie Byrd, a special fire‑fighter fundraiser license, a child‑support subaward, a court‑record digitization plan, and a $250,000 security services contract, each passing 5‑0.
- Disaster and emergency declaration approved (5-0)
- Public hearing on eminent domain scheduled for Aug 26 (5-0)
- Public hearing on FY 2025-26 budget scheduled for Aug 26 (5-0)
- Salary for Supervising Attorney Charlie Byrd set at $158,338.40 (5-0)
- Special designated license for Hallam Volunteer Fire fundraiser approved (5-0)
- Ratification of subaward agreement for child support services (C-25-0654) approved (5-0)
- Agreement to digitize historical court records (C-25-0625) approved (5-0)
- Contract with Inteconnex LLC for security services (up to $250,000) approved (5-0)
Juvenile Justice Collaborative
The Juvenile Justice Collaborative is meeting to receive updates on various programs and committees. The group will also review program request forms.
- Updates from RED committee
- Updates from Youth Crisis Response Coalition
- Updates from Family Engagement committee
- Updates from Prevention committee
- Review of Program Request Forms
The August 15, 2025 meeting of the Juvenile Justice Collaborative in Bennet, Nebraska consisted of program updates, committee reports, and announcements about funding applications and upcoming events. Attendees shared information on Girl Scouts activities, behavioral health services, and upcoming focus groups on homelessness. No motions, approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.
Board of Corrections
The Board of Corrections will meet to approve minutes from May 22, 2025. The session includes updates from the Department of Corrections, Community Corrections, and the Youth Services Center.
- Approval of May 22, 2025 meeting minutes
- Department of Corrections update from Director Brad Johnson
- Community Corrections update from Director Jeff Kilpatrick
- Youth Services Center update from Director Brad Alexander
The Board of Corrections approved the minutes from the May 22, 2025 meeting with a 3‑0 vote. The board then adjourned the August 14, 2025 meeting at 11:05 p.m. with another 3‑0 vote. No public comments were received.
- Approved May 22, 2025 Board of Corrections minutes (3-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 11:05 p.m. (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will receive updates on federal infrastructure projects and a briefing on battery energy storage systems. The meeting includes a budget update regarding a fifteen cent allocation and a disaster declaration update.
- Briefing on TX25009 regarding Battery Energy Storage Systems
- Fifteen cent allocation and budget update
- Quarterly federal infrastructure projects update
- Disaster declaration update
- Discussion of public hearing dates for the One and Six Year Road Improvement Plan
The commissioners approved the July 31 staff meeting minutes (3‑0). They voted to enter an executive session for potential litigation, union negotiations, and legal advice (3‑0) and to exit it later (3‑0). The board cancelled the September 11 staff meeting and the December 18 staff meeting, each motion carried 3‑0. Public hearing dates for the One‑ and Six‑Year Road Improvement Plan were set for October 2025.
- Approved July 31, 2025 staff meeting minutes (3-0)
- Entered executive session on potential litigation, union negotiations, legal advice (3-0)
- Exited executive session (3-0)
- Cancelled September 11 staff meeting (3-0)
- Cancelled December 18, 2025 staff meeting (3-0)
- Scheduled One‑ and Six‑Year Road Improvement Plan public hearings for October 2025 (date to be determined)
Public Building Commission
The commission will conduct a budget hearing and vote on the 2025-26 budget. Members will also review a project update and Construction Manager at Risk approval for the parking garage expansion.
- Approval of 2025-26 budget
- County Board/City Council Office Remodel change order and pay applications
- Parking garage expansion project update and Hausmann agreement for preliminary services
- Contract amendment for Executive Answering Service (#14-236)
- MOU amendments for Voss Lighting, Verizon Wireless, and Kurita America Inc.
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve routine contracts, grants, and road improvement agreements. The board will also set public hearings on zoning changes, eminent domain proceedings, and general assistance guidelines.
- Renew $42K Cintas linen contract and $160K Verizon wireless services
- Approve $245K contract extension for Square One Family Resource Center
- Award $1.1M in grants for youth programs and halfway housing
- Approve $21K–$46K road improvement contracts for Saltillo Road
- Set hearings on battery energy storage zoning and eminent domain cases
The Lancaster County Board approved the minutes from the July 29 meeting and the claims processed through August 8, including a payroll amendment. It adopted a series of consent items covering contract amendments, grant contracts, and public‑hearing schedules. The Board also approved a proclamation for Barney Day, several special event permits, a resolution setting cost‑of‑living wage adjustments for classified employees, and reappointments to the Planning Commission. All motions carried with a 4‑0 vote.
- Approved July 29, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approved claims through Aug 8, 2025, with payroll amendment (4-0)
- Approved multiple contract amendments and grant contracts (consent items) (4-0)
- Approved proclamation designating Aug 15, 2025 as Barney Day (4-0)
- Approved special events permit for Goodlife Adventures Gravel Worlds race (4-0)
- Approved resolution for 2025‑2026 cost‑of‑living wage adjustments (4-0)
- Approved reappointments to Lincoln‑Lancaster County Planning Commission (4-0)
- Approved agreement with Zelle Human Resources Solutions for salary recommendations ($3,500) (4-0)
Justice Council
The Lancaster County - City of Lincoln Justice Council will meet to discuss a jail and criminal justice system assessment. The presentation will be delivered by representatives from UNO, HDR, and Ethical Correctional Consulting Inc.
- Approval of May 2, 2025 meeting minutes
- Jail and Criminal Justice System Assessment presentation
The Justice Council approved the February 14, 2025 meeting minutes with a 13‑0 vote. Members heard a jail and criminal‑justice system assessment but took no action on it. The council then adjourned the meeting at 8:59 a.m. with a 14‑0 vote.
- Approved February 14, 2025 Justice Council minutes (13-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:59 a.m. (14-0)
Board of Commissioners
The provided agenda indicates there is no meeting scheduled for this date. The document contains only procedural information regarding agenda availability and interpreter services.
Board of Commissioners - Miscellaneous
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is attending the Federal Legislative Summit. The event takes place at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland, Nebraska.
- Attendance at Federal Legislative Summit on August 5, 2025
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners met on August 5, 2025 for a Federal Legislative Summit at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Commissioners and guests heard remarks from federal and state officials, including Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Mike Flood. The agenda consisted of introductions, keynote speeches, and a panel discussion. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will discuss the FY25-26 proposed budget and cost of living adjustments for unrepresented employees. The meeting includes a vendor recommendation for Flexible Spending Account and COBRA administration and a review of property valuation protest filings.
- Proposed FY25-26 Lancaster County Budget
- Cost of living adjustment (COLA) for unrepresented employees
- RFP recommendation for Flexible Spending Account and COBRA administration
- Overview of 2025 property valuation protest filings
- Mayor's nominations for Planning Commission reappointment: Cristy Joy, Cindy Ryman Yost, and Lorenzo Ball, Jr.
The Board voted 5‑0 to approve the ballot nominating Chad Korte for the Nebraska Regional Interoperability Network Board of Directors and authorized Chair Vest to sign it. Commissioners also unanimously agreed to reappoint Cristy Joy, Cindy Ryman Yost, and Lorenzo Ball Jr. to the Planning Commission for terms ending August 24, 2031. The staff meeting minutes from July 24 were approved by a 4‑0 vote, and the Board entered and later exited an executive session on potential litigation by 5‑0 votes. The meeting was adjourned at 10:02 a.m. by a unanimous 5‑0 vote.
- Approved July 24 staff meeting minutes (4-0)
- Entered executive session on potential litigation (5-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
- Approved reappointment of Cristy Joy, Cindy Ryman Yost, Lorenzo Ball Jr. to Planning Commission
- Approved NRIN ballot for Chad Korte, authorizing Vest to sign (5-0)
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will discuss several contracts, including transit funding and road improvement appraisals. The board is also deciding on a settlement for opioid claims against Purdue Pharma LP and the Sackler family.
- Reimbursement of up to $1,397,789 from Regional Behavioral Health Authority for Mental Health Crisis Center services
- Authorization to settle opioid claims against Purdue Pharma LP and the Sackler family
- Right-of-way contracts totaling $67,652.50 for projects at 176th Street, South 120th Street, and Northwest 19th Street
- Grant of up to $37,000 from the Visitors Improvement Fund to the University of Nebraska State Museum
- Agreement with Kubert Appraisal Group for services at Northwest 56th Street to West Holdrege Street not to exceed $9,300
The commissioners approved the July 22 meeting minutes and several county claims, including two out‑of‑time claims totaling $26,035.77. They adopted routine consent items covering traffic‑sign contracts and right‑of‑way agreements. The board also approved a resolution and subaward agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation to secure Federal Transit Administration Section 5311 funding, costing up to $18,281 for the first year.
- Approved July 22 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved claims through July 25, 2025 (5-0)
- Approved out‑of‑time claim for El Centro de las Americas $9,722.20 (4-0 with 1 abstention)
- Approved out‑of‑time claim for Felsburg, Holt & Ullevig $16,313.57 (5-0)
- Approved consent items for traffic sign and right‑of‑way contracts (5-0)
- Approved resolution for NDOT subaward to obtain federal transit funding (5-0)
- Approved subaward agreement with NDOT for the same funding program (5-0)
- Approved Use‑of‑Force training contract with Bastille LLC, up to $1,520 (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will review budget updates and a cost of living adjustment for unrepresented employees. The meeting includes an action item regarding a crime commission subgrant and a report on an employee reimbursement claim.
- Acceptance of a $55,166.00 subgrant award from the Nebraska Crime Commission (Contract C-25-0465)
- Discussion of unrepresented employee cost of living adjustment (COLA)
- Budget updates including General Fund Balance, Expenditures, and Payroll
- Employee reimbursement claim for Larry Legg in the amount of $328.93
- Executive session regarding litigation, real estate, security, and legal advice
The commissioners approved the July 10 and July 17 staff meeting minutes. They adopted a $1 million budget reduction plan that adds a half‑time Election Commissioner position, voting 5‑0. The board also authorized re‑signing a $55,166 subgrant from the Nebraska Crime Commission and approved a $328.93 employee airfare reimbursement, each with a 4‑0 vote. An executive session was entered and later exited, both motions passing unanimously among those present.
- Approved July 10 and July 17 staff meeting minutes (3-0, two abstentions)
- Approved $1 million budget reduction plan, adding half‑time Election Commissioner position (5-0)
- Authorized re‑signing acceptance of $55,166 subgrant from Nebraska Crime Commission (4-0)
- Approved $328.93 employee airfare reimbursement claim (4-0)
- Entered executive session for litigation, real estate, security, and legal advice (5-0)
- Exited executive session (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will review several grant contracts for youth and behavioral health services. The board is also considering a multi-million dollar construction contract and an interlocal agreement for educational services.
- Proposed $3,075,680.38 contract to JMN Construction LLC for replacement of Structures G-114, G-226, G-115, and G-222
- Proposed $999,050 agreement with Educational Service Unit (ESU) 18 for youth detained at the Youth Services Center
- Proposed $200,000 grant contract with Rabble Mill for The Bay LNK program
- Proposed $164,200 subaward contract with CenterPointe for the SquareOne Program
- Special Designated Licenses for pumpkin patch events at Roca Berry Farms (16531 South 38th Street, Roca)
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved the July 15 meeting minutes and several claim payments. They appointed Cynthia Beliford to the Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Committee and granted special licenses for pumpkin‑patch events. Major contracts were approved, including a $3,075,680.38 bridge replacement project and an interlocal agreement with ESU for youth services. Additional grant contracts and a zoo event contract were also adopted.
- Approved July 15 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approved claims through July 18, 2025 (5-0)
- Approved appointment of Cynthia Beliford to advisory committee (5-0)
- Approved special designated licenses for pumpkin‑patch events (5-0)
- Approved JMN Construction bridge replacement contract $3,075,680.38 (5-0)
- Approved interlocal agreement with ESU up to $999,050 (5-0)
- Approved Rabble Mill grant contract $200,000 (4-0)
- Approved Lincoln Children’s Zoo employee event contract $4,850 (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will meet to receive a semi-annual strategic plan progress report and a budget update. The meeting includes discussions on drug court transitions and information services.
- Strategic plan semi-annual progress report by BerryDunn
- Budget update regarding Aging Partners Rural Transit and salary studies
- Drug court transition update from Community Corrections and the State of Nebraska
- Appointment of Cynthia Beliford to the Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Committee
- Executive session for union negotiations and legal advice
The Board approved the recommended personnel changes, including pay corrections for Clerk, Corrections, Community Corrections, Public Defender staff, and wage‑study adjustments for County Engineer classifications, while rejecting the reallocation of a vacant Clerk position. The motion to approve the July 3 and July 10 staff meeting minutes passed 3‑0. The Board entered and exited an executive session for union negotiations and legal advice, each vote 4‑0, and adjourned at 10:58 a.m. with a 4‑0 vote.
- Approved July 3 and July 10 staff meeting minutes (3‑0)
- Approved personnel pay corrections and wage‑study adjustments
- Rejected reallocation of vacant Clerk of the District Court position
- Entered executive session for union negotiations and legal advice (4‑0)
- Exited executive session (4‑0)
- Adjourned meeting at 10:58 a.m. (4‑0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review several grant contracts for local organizations and a proposal for a human resources services assessment. The meeting includes decisions on special event licenses and a property dispute settlement.
- Agreement with Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker LLC for HR assessment costing $119,900 plus expenses up to $9,500
- Grant contracts from Visitors Improvement Fund for Lincoln Sports Foundation ($100,000), Lincoln Children’s Museum ($100,000), Star City BMX ($50,000), and Lux Center for the Arts ($20,300)
- Contract amendment with Aramark Correctional Services LLC for food services not to exceed $1,791,410.24
- Settlement agreement regarding a property dispute at 220 South 17th Street in Lincoln
- Special Designated Licenses for Meadowlark Music Festival and Sesostris Shrine Holding Corporation
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved the July 8 meeting minutes and several financial claims. It adopted a contract amendment increasing the Aramark food‑service contract to $1,791,410.24 and approved a $325,417.17 grant with CenterPointe. The Board also adopted a proclamation for National Pretrial Probation Week, a special event license for the Meadowlark Music Festival, and set a $53.65‑per‑hour salary for two deputy county attorneys.
- Approved July 8 minutes (3-0)
- Approved claims through July 11, including amendment (4-0)
- Approved out‑of‑time billing claims (4-0)
- Approved Aramark contract amendment (price increase to $1,791,410.24) (4-0)
- Approved $325,417.17 grant contract with CenterPointe (4-0)
- Approved proclamation for National Pretrial Probation and Parole Supervision Week (4-0)
- Approved special license for Meadowlark Music Festival event at Prairie Pines Nature Preserve (4-0)
- Approved $53.65 per hour salary for Deputy County Attorneys Jessica Murphy and Steve Schmidt (4-0)
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Youth Crisis Response Coalition will meet via Zoom to review program and legislative updates. The group will also discuss processes and screeners for youth mental health and suicide.
- Program updates
- Legislative updates
- Youth Mental Health & Suicide Screeners & Processes
The coalition shared updates on CenterPointe's new respite beds, the Youth Smart Recovery program, and the co‑responder service. LFS reported work on Community Treatment Aid and repurposing a head‑start space. Legislative work on LB 530 and upcoming conferences in Columbus and Orlando were noted. No formal actions were approved, denied, or tabled at this meeting.
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners is holding a staff meeting to receive briefings on broadband eligible locations and the county budget. Members will also receive a preliminary briefing regarding battery energy storage systems.
- BEAD eligible locations briefing
- Budget and fiscal update
- Preliminary briefing on TX25009 (Battery Energy Storage Systems)
The Board did not approve the July 3, 2025 staff meeting minutes because a quorum of commissioners was not present. Approval was deferred to the next Thursday staff meeting.
- Deferred approval of July 3 staff meeting minutes (no quorum)
Board of Commissioners - Village Meetings
The board will receive updates on health, water, legislation, and regional development. The meeting includes a roundtable discussion on a strategic plan update.
- Health Department update from Director Kerry Kernen
- Water 2.0 update from Director Liz Elliott
- Legislative update from Kissel, Kohout, ES Associates LLC
- Southeast Nebraska Development District (SENDD) update from Housing Manager Ryan Bauman
- Strategic Plan Update roundtable discussion
The July 10 meeting featured updates on the health department’s programs, the Water 2.0 infrastructure project, state legislative actions, the SENDD housing grant, and the county strategic‑plan outreach. Participants discussed valuation trends and public‑safety funding. No actions were approved, denied, or voted on during the session.
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board will discuss facility maintenance and staffing updates. The board will also review financial data for the fiscal year end and program adjustments with Credible/Qualifacts.
- Building maintenance including dryer vent, electronic strike for MHB door, and camera installation
- Staffing updates for MHT FT/On-Call positions and Evening Supervisor
- Onboarding of CD evaluator
- Fiscal year end financial review
- Feedback on EPC Pilot expansion project
The board approved the meeting minutes with a roll‑call vote of four ayes. A motion to cancel the August 13 meeting was carried with two ayes. The next meeting was set for September 10, 2025 at noon.
- Approved meeting minutes (4 ayes, no objections)
- Cancelled August 13, 2025 meeting (2 ayes, 1 nay, 2 abstentions)
- Scheduled next meeting for September 10, 2025 at noon (5 ayes)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will discuss the PBC Parking Garage Expansion traffic study and downtown corridors master plan. The body is also considering the approval of several contract amendments and new service agreements.
- PBC Parking Garage Expansion traffic study and downtown corridors master plan
- County Board/City Council Office Remodel Pay Application 001
- Contract amendment for fire sprinkler system maintenance with Mahoney Fire Sprinkler, Inc.
- Contract amendments for waste and recyclable collection with Uribe Refuse Services, Inc.
- New contracts for electrical generator maintenance (HM Cragg Company) and security surveillance (Inteconnex, LLC)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will review several grant contracts and right-of-way agreements. The board is also deciding on text amendments to county subdivision and zoning regulations.
- Paving construction contract for 148th Street and Holdrege Street estimated at $698,981.24 (County share $139,796.24)
- Grant contract with Rabble Mill for youth programs in the amount of $200,000
- Grant contract with People's City Mission for $103,500
- Text amendments to Subdivision Regulation Chapter 3 and Zoning Regulations Article 2 and 15
- Grant contract with Friendship Home for $24,514
The Lancaster County Board approved the July 1 meeting minutes and claims through July 3, both unanimously. It adopted routine consent items (except one grant contract) and passed two zoning resolutions, one approving a lot‑width amendment and another approving the denial of a home‑occupation amendment. The Board also approved a special license for Meier’s Cork ’n Bottle, a substance‑abuse evaluation agreement, and a paving contract worth $698,981.24.
- Approved July 1 minutes (4-0)
- Approved claims through July 3 (4-0)
- Approved consent items (except grant contract) (4-0)
- Approved Text Amendment 25007 lot‑width resolution (4-0)
- Approved denial of Text Amendment 25007 Article 15 (home occupations) (4-0)
- Approved special license for Meier’s Cork ’n Bottle (4-0)
- Approved agreement with Melissa Strizek for substance‑abuse evaluations (4-0)
- Approved paving contract for 148th & Holdrege Streets ($698,981.24) (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will discuss personnel rule amendments, a human resources assessment, and a budget update. The meeting includes an action item regarding a public safety grant and an executive session for legal matters.
- Application for a $23,000.00 grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation
- Amendments to Personnel Rules 5, 6, 7, and 9
- Review of Audit Engagement Letter
- Budget update and new position requests for 2025-26
- Executive session regarding pending and potential litigation
The commissioners approved the June 26 minutes and entered an executive session on pending litigation (both 5‑0 votes). They approved a $23,000 Firehouse Subs public‑safety grant (5‑0). The board agreed that County Engineer Pam Dingman will determine how to spend the $750,000 gaming tax, and declined to add new full‑time positions for the Engineering and Public Defender offices this fiscal year. The HR assessment contract was placed on the July 15 agenda for later approval.
- Approved June 26 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Entered executive session on litigation matters (5-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
- Approved $23,000 Firehouse Subs grant for rescue throw bags (5-0)
- Board agreed engineer to allocate $750,000 gaming tax revenue
- Declined new full‑time positions for Engineering Department this fiscal year
- Declined new full‑time positions for Public Defender’s Office this fiscal year
- Placed $120,000 HR assessment contract on July 15 agenda for formal vote
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will discuss several infrastructure contracts, including road repairs and bridge replacements. The board is also holding a public hearing on subdivision and zoning regulation amendments.
- Contract with Pavers Inc for road repair at Old Cheney and Saltillo Road not to exceed $1,414,246.17
- Contract with Van Kirk Sand & Gravel Inc for replacement of bridge J-138 not to exceed $731,015.85
- Contract with Wellpath LLC for County jail medical care services for $4,504,383
- Public hearing on Text Amendment 25007 regarding subdivision and zoning regulations
- Contract with Van Kirk Sand & Gravel Inc for repair of box culvert Q-217 not to exceed $189,366
The Board approved the June 24 meeting minutes and all claims processed through June 27, including several specific payments. It adopted numerous contract amendments for fire safety, storm sirens, soil stabilization, paint, waste services, jail medical care, weed‑abatement, right‑of‑way work, and a utility permit. In the public hearing, the Board unanimously decided to vote against the home‑occupation portion of Text Amendment 25007.
- Approved June 24 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved claims through June 27, including payroll amendment (5-0)
- Approved specific claims: $21,835.64 to El Centro de las Americas, $654.90 to Youth for Christ, $10,822.50 to The Mediation Center (each 4-0 with one abstention)
- Approved multiple contract amendments for fire sprinkler, storm sirens, soil enzyme, paint, waste services, jail medical care, and weed‑abatement contracts (5-0)
- Approved right‑of‑way contracts totaling $125,147 (5-0)
- Approved utility permit 2643 with Segra (no cost) (5-0)
- Board unanimously voted to reject home‑occupation portion of Text Amendment 25007 (5-0)
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee will meet to vote on 2025-2026 JJPF recommendations and a request from Friendship Home. The committee will also discuss gaming revenue and receive reports from the United Way, Region V Systems, and the Mayor’s Office/One Lincoln.
- Vote on 2025-2026 JJPF Recommendations
- Vote on Friendship Home Request
- Discussion on Gaming Revenue
The Joint Budget Committee approved the consent agenda and February minutes unanimously. It voted to forward the 2025‑2026 JJPF funding recommendations to the County Board. The committee approved a $12,400 expense for Friendship Home emergency shelter and authorized Director Hoyle to pay it from either the Keno HS Prevention Fund or Gaming Revenue dollars. The meeting was formally closed with a unanimous vote.
- Approved consent agenda & February minutes (5-0)
- Moved 2025‑2026 JJPF Recommendations to County Board for final approval (5-0)
- Approved $12,400 Friendship Home emergency shelter expense; empowered Director Hoyle to pay via Keno HS Prevention Fund or Gaming Revenue dollars (5-0)
- Closed the meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will hold budget hearings for the Health Department, Aging Partners, and Libraries. The meeting includes discussions on problem solving court fees, disaster declarations, and zoning resolutions. The Board will also consider a grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice.
- Grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice for $500,000 to prevent and respond to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking against children and youth
- Budget hearings for Health Department, Aging Partners, and Libraries
- Reappointments of Bryan Sullivan, Jeff Barclay, and Jason Hoehne to the Visitors Promotion Committee
- Briefing on TX25007 regarding subdivision and zoning resolutions for average lot width and home occupations
- Discussion of Nebraska Court Rule § 6-1208 regarding problem solving court fees
The commissioners approved the minutes from the June 10 and June 12 staff meetings. They authorized Jeff Kilpatrick to draft a letter supporting proposed changes to problem‑solving court fee language. The board approved and submitted a $500,000 grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women. They also authorized the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer to sign the grant‑related documents.
- Approved June 10 & June 12 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Authorized Kilpatrick to draft letter supporting court fee language change (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved and submitted $500,000 DOJ grant application (5-0)
- Authorized Deputy Chief Administrative Officer to sign grant documents (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on several grants, contract renewals, and a road project award. The board is also reviewing a budget transfer and a settlement agreement.
- Awarding Federal Aid Project HSIP-3365(8) to Pavers Companies at 148th and Holdrege for an estimated $698,981.24
- Acceptance of a $166,805 State Crisis Intervention Program grant for the SquareOne project
- Acceptance of a $92,000 Juvenile Services Commission Grant Program award
- Transfer of $20,000 from the General Fund Miscellaneous Budget to the County Assessor/Register of Deeds Budget
- Agreement with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig for environmental tasks not to exceed $35,000
The commissioners approved the minutes from the June 17 meeting and all pending claims, including three late‑billing items. They adopted routine consent items covering contract amendments and a right‑of‑way contract. The board also approved a $500 cash award to Ryan Lowe, transferred $20,000 to the Assessor/Register of Deeds budget, and awarded a federal aid road improvement contract to Pavers Companies with a county share of $139,796.24. Additional approvals included an environmental services agreement, several grant awards, and a settlement agreement.
- Approved June 17 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approved all pending claims, including three late‑billing items (4-0)
- Approved consent items: contract amendments and $1,757 right‑of‑way contract (4-0)
- Approved $500 one‑time cash award to Ryan Lowe (4-0)
- Approved $20,000 transfer from General Fund to Assessor/Register of Deeds budget (4-0)
- Approved award of Federal Aid Project HSIP-3365 to Pavers Companies; county share $139,796.24 (4-0)
- Approved environmental services agreement with Felsburg Holt & Ullevig, up to $35,000 (4-0)
- Approved $166,805 state grant for SquareOne project (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners is reviewing several high-cost infrastructure agreements and county contracts. The board will also discuss funding transfers and set a public hearing for zoning and subdivision regulation amendments.
- Two paving projects on North 162nd Street with estimated total costs of $6,685,000 each
- Contract amendment with Wellpath LLC for jail medical care totaling $4,504,383
- Public hearing scheduled for July 1, 2025, regarding Text Amendment 25007 for zoning and subdivision regulations
- Purchase of one Ford F-150 Police Responder for $47,075
- Transfer of $137,076 from the General Fund Miscellaneous Budget to various agencies
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the meeting minutes and recent claims, then adopted a series of contract amendments and resolutions. Key actions included a $4,504,383 amendment to the jail medical services contract, a zoning public hearing, a veterans committee reappointment, and a $137,076 fund transfer. The board also approved a major NDOT road project agreement with a county share of $1.27 M.
- Approved minutes of June 10, 2025 meeting (4-0)
- Approved claims processed through June 13, 2025 (4-0)
- Approved amendment to Wellpath LLC jail medical services contract, total price $4,504,383 (4-0)
- Approved amendment to Tradebe Environmental Services hazardous waste contract, cost not to exceed $5,400 (4-0)
- Approved public hearing on July 1, 2025 for Text Amendment 25007 to subdivision and zoning regulations (4-0)
- Reappointed Tony Anguiano to the County Veterans Service Committee for a five‑year term (4-0)
- Approved transfer of $137,076 from the General Fund Miscellaneous Budget to various agencies (4-0)
- Approved NDOT program agreement for North 162nd Street, Ashland Road to Davey Road, total project $6,685,000, county share $1,273,500 (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will hold budget hearings for the Planning and Purchasing departments. The body will also consider a grant application for the FY2025 High Priority Commercial Motor Vehicle program.
- Budget hearing for the Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning Department
- Budget hearing for Lincoln-Lancaster County Purchasing
- Application for the FY2025 High Priority Commercial Motor Vehicle grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation
- Reappointment of Tony Anguiano to the County Veterans Service Committee for a five-year term
- Executive session regarding union negotiations, litigation, and legal advice
The commissioners approved the May 22 meeting minutes (3-0). They approved the FY2025 High Priority Commercial Motor Vehicle grant application (4-0). The board entered and later exited an executive session (3-0 and 4-0). The meeting was adjourned (4-0).
- Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
- Approved FY2025 High Priority Commercial Motor Vehicle grant application (4-0)
- Entered executive session for union and litigation matters (3-0)
- Exited executive session (4-0)
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The Advisory Board is meeting to review facility maintenance and staffing updates. The agenda includes discussions on the 2025-26 budget and the outcome of the Region 5 Audit.
- MHCC building maintenance, electronic strike door, and camera installation
- 2025-26 budget review
- Region 5 Audit outcome
- Staffing updates for MHT FT hiring, On-Call status, and Evening Supervisor
- EPC Pilot expansion project
The Advisory Board approved the meeting minutes with a roll‑call vote of four ayes. The proposed by‑laws update was tabled for future consideration. The board then adjourned the meeting by a roll‑call vote of five ayes. No other formal actions were taken.
- Approved meeting minutes (4 ayes)
- Tabled By‑Laws update (no vote)
- Adjourned meeting (5 ayes)
Public Building Commission
The commission will receive a design presentation and project update for the PBC Parking Garage Expansion. The body is also deciding on numerous contract approvals and amendments for construction, fuel, and facility services.
- PBC Parking Garage Expansion design presentation and project update
- Contract approval for County Board/City Council Office Remodel with Genesis Contracting Group LLC
- Contract approvals for General Construction Services #24-098 with multiple vendors including Carlson Restoration Waitt Carlson LLC, CL Construction LLC, and Hampton Commercial Construction Inc
- Contract for publishing legal notices with Lincoln Journal Star
- Amendments to fuel supply contracts with Sapp Bros, Inc. and Whitehead Oil Company
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review several infrastructure projects, including bridge replacements and culvert lining. The board is also deciding on grant contracts for community services and a franchise agreement for cable television.
- Bridge replacement contracts for bridge C-262 ($131,105.40) and bridge J-138 ($731,015.85)
- Contract with Subsurface Inc for countywide CIPP culvert liners not to exceed $350,000
- Change order for Pavers Inc (Project 25-01) increasing cost by up to $441,907.25
- Interlocal agreement with Saunders County for a bridge on Ashland Road estimated at $182,000
- Franchise agreement with Spectrum Mid-America LLC for cable television system
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved the minutes from the June 3 meeting and several claim payments. They adopted a package of consent items that amended multiple county contracts, approved right‑of‑way agreements, change orders, and grant contracts. The board appointed two members to the Aging Partners Areawide Advisory Council and set the annual salary for the Chief Deputy Public Defender. It also approved an interlocal agreement with Saunders County to split the cost of a new bridge, and authorized contracts for culvert liners and bridge replacements.
- Approved June 3 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approved claims processed through June 6 (4-0)
- Approved consent items amending contracts, right‑of‑way agreements, change orders and grant contracts (4-0)
- Appointed Jackie Greenfield and Nate Woods to Aging Partners Areawide Advisory Council (5-0)
- Set salary for Brittani Lewit, Chief Deputy Public Defender, at $171,569.23 (4-0)
- Approved interlocal agreement with Saunders County to split bridge construction cost of $182,000 (4-0)
- Approved contract with Subsurface Inc for CIPP culvert liners up to $350,000 (4-0)
- Approved award to Van Kirk Bros Contracting for replacement of County bridge J-138 for $731,015.85 (4-0)
YFCRC (SquareOne) Governing Board
The SquareOne Governing Board will meet to approve previous minutes and decide on a tagline for the organization. The board will also receive updates regarding Region 5 systems, county projects, and city crisis calls.
- Decision on tagline for SquareOne
- Update on CenterPointe (Region 5 Systems)
- Update on 220 S. 17th (County)
- Update on Reinvestment Grant (County)
- Update on LPD Crisis Calls (City)
The board approved the minutes from May 1, 2025 with a 4‑0 vote (one abstention). The board approved the "Facing Crisis Together" tagline with a 5‑0 vote. The meeting was formally closed with a 5‑0 vote. The July meeting was cancelled due to a holiday.
- Approved minutes from 5/1/25 (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved tagline "Facing Crisis Together" (5-0)
- Closed the meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will review several road improvement contracts and right-of-way agreements. The board is also deciding on contracts for pavement rejuvenation, record moving, and equipment maintenance.
- Proposed $1,414,246.17 contract with Pavers, Inc. for Old Cheney and Saltillo Road project
- Proposed $294,967.74 contract with Proseal Inc for pavement rejuvenation
- Proposed $189,366 contract with Van Kirk Sand & Gravel Inc to repair Box Culvert Q-217
- Proposed $79,987.80 purchase order to Office Innovations for moving 36,000 boxes of records
- Contract renewal with Nebraska Machinery Company LLC for CAT motor grader maintenance not to exceed $250,000
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a series of contract amendments, easement changes, and procurement agreements, including a $1,414,246.17 pavement contract and a $294,967.74 pavement rejuvenation contract. They also approved a NEPA determination, a records‑moving contract, and the transfer of a police service dog. All motions carried with a 5‑0 vote. The board entered and exited an executive session on potential litigation.
- Approved amendment to easement with Bruce C Kuster Revocable Trust (5-0)
- Approved NEPA determination for Safe Roads for All grant (5-0)
- Approved Proseal Inc pavement rejuvenation contract up to $294,967.74 (5-0)
- Approved Van Kirk Sand & Gravel contract $189,366 for Box Culvert Q-217 repair (5-0)
- Approved Pavers Inc contract $1,414,246.17 for Old Cheney and Saltillo Road surface repairs (5-0)
- Approved Office Innovations contract $79,987.80 for moving 36,000 boxes of records (5-0)
- Approved transfer of police service dog to County Sheriff’s Office (5-0)
- Approved consent items covering multiple contract amendments and change orders (5-0)
Juvenile Justice Collaborative
The JDAI Collaborative is meeting to receive program and committee updates. The body will discuss the 2025–2030 Community Plan and conduct mandatory data review and grant training.
- 2025–2030 Community Plan
- Mandatory Data Review and Grant Training
- Youth Crisis Response Coalition updates
- Family Engagement updates
- Prevention updates
The meeting consisted of program updates, committee status reports, and information about the 2025‑2030 Community Plan. No approvals, denials, or other formal actions were recorded. Attendees were reminded of upcoming grant‑review training, the referral‑process spreadsheet, and the next meeting on August 15, 2025.
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will conduct budget hearings for the Mental Health Crisis Center, Youth Services Center, and County Treasurer. The meeting also includes updates from the Veterans Service Office and Information Services.
- Budget hearing for Mental Health Crisis Center
- Budget hearing for Youth Services Center
- Budget hearing for County Treasurer
- Proposed appointments of Jackie Greenfield and Nate Woods to the Aging Partners Areawide Advisory Council
- Executive session regarding pending litigation, potential litigation, and legal advice
The commissioners approved the May 22 meeting minutes unanimously. They voted 4‑0 to enter an executive session to discuss pending and potential litigation, and later voted 4‑0 to exit that session. The board also agreed to hold the legislative retreat on August 21, 2025, and to extend two partial‑term appointments on the Aging Partners Areawide Advisory Council to full terms. In the Youth Services Center budget discussion, the board approved the proposal to allow one daily phone call for each youth.
- Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0)
- Entered executive session on pending litigation (4‑0)
- Exited executive session (4‑0)
- Agreed to schedule legislative retreat for August 21, 2025
- Extended Jackie Greenfield and Nate Woods appointments to full terms
- Approved Youth Services Center idea of one daily phone call per youth
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review several new contracts and grant agreements. They are deciding on service providers for auditing, engineering, and corrections programs, as well as approving specific business licenses.
- Audit services contract with Allen, Gibbs, & Houlik LC not to exceed $393,700
- Grant for Cedars Youth Services Emergency Shelter program for $325,145.25
- Grant for Community Action Partnership Basic & Emergency Needs program for $155,250
- Washbay repair contract with Judds Brothers Construction Co not to exceed $46,565
- Keno satellite location approval for Kramer Bar & Grill at 11365 West Kramer Street
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a series of contracts and resolutions, all passing with a 4‑0 vote. Major approvals included a three‑year audit services contract for up to $393,700, a wildlife damage management contract for $11,785.85, and an on‑call engineering services agreement up to $25,000. The board also approved a keno satellite location, a special event license, and routine consent items renewing existing contracts.
- Approved $393,700 three‑year audit services contract (4-0)
- Approved $11,785.85 USDA wildlife damage management contract (4-0)
- Approved up to $25,000 annual on‑call engineering and architectural services (4-0)
- Approved up to $16,640 annual Mental Health Association WRAP classes contract (4-0)
- Approved $46,565 washbay repair contract with Judds Brothers (4-0)
- Approved resolution for keno satellite at 11365 West Kramer Street (4-0)
- Approved special designated license for Meier’s Cork ’n Bottle event (4-0)
- Approved routine consent items renewing multiple county contracts (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will conduct budget hearings for the Clerk of the District Court, County Assessor/Register of Deeds, Board of Equalization, and Juvenile Probation. The meeting also includes updates on health and wellness and military leave policy.
- Budget hearings for Clerk of the District Court, County Assessor/Register of Deeds, Board of Equalization, and Juvenile Probation
- Discussion of Adult Probation North Reporting Center at 3940 Cornhusker
- Review of Military Leave Policy
- Quarterly Health and Wellness update
- Executive session regarding real estate, litigation, and legal advice
The commissioners approved the May 15 meeting minutes with a 2-0 vote and one abstention. They then moved to an executive session at 9:30 a.m. to discuss a real estate transaction, pending and potential litigation, and to receive legal advice, passing the motion 3-0. The session was exited at 10:01 a.m. by a 3-0 vote. No other formal approvals or denials were recorded.
- Approved May 15 meeting minutes (2-0, 1 abstention)
- Entered executive session on real estate and litigation (3-0)
- Exited executive session (3-0)
Board of Corrections
The Lancaster County Board of Corrections will convene at 555 South 10th Street, Room 112, immediately after the Board of Commissioners staff meeting. The board will approve minutes from the February 20, 2025 meeting and receive updates from the Department of Corrections, Community Corrections, and Youth Services Center. Members of the public may speak during a 15-minute public comment period, limited to three minutes per speaker.
The Board approved the purchase and installation of new servers for the Youth Services Center, as noted in the May 20 approval. Approval of the February 20, 2025 meeting minutes was tabled by Chair Vest. No other substantive actions were voted on during the session.
- Approved new servers for Youth Services Center (Board approved on 5/20)
- Tabled approval of February 20, 2025 meeting minutes (no vote recorded)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve routine minutes, claims, and consent items including contract amendments and grant awards. Key decisions include a $2,599,666 paving contract for South 148th Street and Yankee Hill Road, a $1,123,748 state grant for crime prevention, and multiple service agreements. The board will also hear a liquor license amendment application and consider proclamations and appointments.
- Approval of $2,599,666 paving contract with Pavers Inc for South 148th Street and Yankee Hill Road
- Approval of $1,123,748 state grant from Nebraska Crime Commission (Grant 26-CB-0517)
- Approval of $55,847 video server equipment contract with Securitas Technology for Youth Services Center
- Approval of $10,844.27 responsible charge services agreement for Federal Aid project on 148th Street and Holdrege Street
- Approval of $50,000 transitional housing program contract with Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach
The Lancaster County Board approved a series of financial actions, most notably a $2,599,666.08 contract with Pavers Inc for paving South 148th Street and Yankee Hill Road. It also adopted a liquor‑license amendment, a mental‑health awareness month proclamation, and appointed a new member to the County Board of Health. All motions passed with votes ranging from 2‑1 to unanimous.
- Approved $2,599,666.08 paving contract with Pavers Inc (3-0)
- Approved $10,844.27 Responsible Charge Services Agreement (3-0)
- Approved $15,000 employee‑engagement consulting with Modern HR Collaborative (3-0)
- Approved $56,000 fleet‑maintenance contracts for Graham Tire, Jensen Tire, and Watson's Auto (3-0)
- Approved $50,000 transitional‑housing contract with Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach (3-0)
- Approved $125 per STOP class agreement with Marcus Hall (3-0)
- Approved liquor‑license amendment for Todd E. Tinnean (3-0)
- Adopted proclamation declaring May 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold budget hearings for the County Attorney, Extension, District Court, and Juvenile Court offices. They will also consider appointing Tamara Sloan to the Lincoln-Lancaster County Board of Health and discuss an engagement letter from BerryDunn for a strategic plan update. An executive session is scheduled to discuss a real estate transaction, pending and potential litigation, and legal advice. The board will also vote on a relinquishment letter to SAMHSA regarding a Recovery Services and Support Center award.
- Appointment of Tamara Sloan to the Lincoln-Lancaster County Board of Health (term through April 15, 2027)
- Engagement letter from BerryDunn for strategic plan update
- Budget hearings for County Attorney, County Extension, District Court, and Juvenile Court
- Executive session on real estate transaction, pending/potential litigation, and legal advice
- Action item: relinquishment letter to SAMHSA for Recovery Services and Support Center award
The Commissioners voted 4‑0 to approve a relinquishment letter to SAMHSA for the Lancaster County Recovery Services and Support Center award. They also approved entering an executive session (4‑0) to discuss a real‑estate transaction and litigation matters, and later voted 3‑0 to exit that session. The meeting minutes from May 8 were formally approved by a 3‑0 vote.
- Approved May 8 meeting minutes (3‑0)
- Entered executive session on real‑estate and litigation issues (4‑0)
- Exited executive session (3‑0)
- Approved relinquishment letter to SAMHSA (4‑0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss administrative items. The agenda contains no specific new business or contract details.
- Approval of April 8, 2025 meeting minutes
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on resolutions to amend air pollution regulations and vacate a public road, approve claims totaling over $664,000, and consider contract amendments for inmate phone services and bridge designs. They will also set a public hearing for a liquor license change and adopt policies for property valuation protests.
- Approval of $664,105.21 claim to Vogtscapes Inc for goods/services
- Amendment to inmate phone contract (ICSolutions) to comply with FCC regulations, effective June 4, 2025
- Amendment to bridge design contracts for Bridges R-213 and B-133 with Schemmer Associates ($11,045 and $37,755)
- Resolution to amend Lincoln-Lancaster County Air Pollution Control Program Regulations (R-25-0039)
- Resolution to vacate portions of a public road (R-25-0038)
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a $435,000 transfer of appropriations from the General Fund Miscellaneous budget to the Election Commissioner and Mental Health Board budgets. The board also approved several contract amendments, a resolution to vacate part of a public road, and extended the deadline for property protest hearings. All motions carried unanimously with a 4‑0 vote.
- Approved minutes of May 6, 2025 meeting (4-0)
- Approved claims through May 9, 2025, including $664,105.21 claim to Vogtscapes Inc (4-0)
- Approved multiple contract amendments, e.g., $11,045 design add‑on for Bridge R‑213 and $37,755 for Bridge B‑133 (4-0)
- Approved $435,000 transfer of appropriations to Election Commissioner and Mental Health Board budgets (4-0)
- Approved resolution vacating portions of 141st Street south of Rock Creek Road (4-0)
- Extended deadline for real‑property protest hearings to August 10, 2025 (4-0)
- Adopted 2025 Board of Equalization policies and procedures for property valuation protests (4-0)
- Accepted $140,613 amended subgrant from Nebraska Crime Commission’s Violence Prevention Grant (4-0)
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Lincoln/Lancaster County Youth Crisis Response Coalition will meet via Zoom on May 12, 2025. The agenda includes guest presentations from the Wellbeing Initiative and Inspire Occupational Therapy, agency updates, and a review of crisis data and assessments used in the field. Members will discuss next steps for engaging independent providers and sharing crisis response resources. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion and information-sharing meeting.
- Guest speaker Casey Thomas from Wellbeing Initiative
- Guest speaker Mariah Flodman from Inspire Occupational Therapy
- Review of limited information on assessments used in the field
- Review of crisis data
- Discussion on engaging independent providers and sharing crisis response resources
The meeting featured a guest speaker from Inspire Occupational Therapy and program updates from NJJA, Bryan Health, Human Services, Region 5, and CenterPointe. Participants discussed data‑sharing challenges, outreach to private practitioners, and potential networking events. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will review budget reports and Board of Equalization policies. The body is deciding on grant applications and a strategic plan update engagement letter. The meeting includes an executive session for union negotiations and real estate strategy.
- Application for FY2026 Title II Formula Grant Program Funding in the amount of $225,000
- Letter of support for Northeast Nebraska Telephone Company’s BEAD Grant application
- Board of Equalization policies, procedures, and Resolution 2025
- Engagement letter from BerryDunn for Strategic Plan Update
- License Agreement for Protests BOE hearing venue
The commissioners approved the April 29 and May 1 staff meeting minutes (3-0). They approved the PEHP fund lineup (5-0), authorized a letter of support for Northeast Nebraska Telephone Company’s BEAD grant application (5-0), and approved a $225,000 Title II grant application to the Nebraska Crime Commission (5-0). The board also entered and later exited an executive session (5-0 and 4-0).
- Approved April 29 and May 1 staff meeting minutes (3-0)
- Approved PEHP fund lineup (5-0)
- Authorized letter of support for NNTC BEAD grant (5-0)
- Approved $225,000 Nebraska Crime Commission Title II grant (5-0)
- Entered executive session for union, real‑estate, and legal matters (5-0)
- Exited executive session (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on vacating portions of a road and amending air pollution control regulations. They will also consider several consent items including contract renewals, utility permits, and a letter of support for a broadband grant. New business includes resolutions to apply for convention center facility financing, support Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital's spending request, and award a $393,700 audit services contract. Personnel actions include setting a chief deputy's salary and reappointing members to the indigent defense committee.
- Public hearing to vacate portions of a public road near North 141st Street
- Amendments to Lincoln-Lancaster County Air Pollution Control Program Regulations
- Zone change request from AG Agriculture to AGR Agriculture Residential at 6205 West Denton Road
- Resolutions to apply for state assistance under the Convention Center Facility Financing Assistance Act
- Award of audit services contract to Allen, Gibbs & Houlik LC for $393,700 over three years
The Board unanimously approved a resolution authorizing Lancaster County to apply for assistance under the Convention Center Facility Financing Assistance Act and to submit the corresponding state application. The same meeting also approved several routine items, including the April 29 minutes, claims through May 2, out‑of‑time oil claims, a set of consent contracts, and a change of zone for a property on West Denton Road. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote.
- Approved April 29, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved claims through May 2, 2025 with payroll amendment (5-0)
- Approved out‑of‑time claims for Otte Oil ($776.93) and Whitehead Oil ($3,319.29) (5-0)
- Approved consent items including contract amendments, right‑of‑way, speaking services, utility permits, bridge change order, and BEAD grant support (5-0)
- Approved Change of Zone 25009 from AG to AGR for 6205 West Denton Road (5-0)
- Approved resolution to apply for Convention Center Facility Financing Assistance Act (R-25-0024) (5-0)
- Approved resolution to submit State application under the same act (R-25-0025) (5-0)
- Approved resolution supporting Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital’s Congressionally Directed Spending Request (R-25-0036) (5-0)
Justice Council
The Justice Council will receive organizational updates from law enforcement, legal, and court agencies. The meeting includes reports on population statistics from Lancaster County Corrections and an update from Community Corrections.
- Approval of February 14, 2025 meeting minutes
- Agency updates from Law Enforcement, County Attorney, Public Defender, Courts, City Attorney, Probation, and Service Providers
- Lancaster County Corrections population statistics and charts
- Lancaster County Community Corrections update
The council voted to approve the February 14, 2025 Justice Council minutes with an 11‑0 vote. No other motions or votes were recorded; the remainder of the meeting consisted of agency updates on law enforcement, the county attorney, public defender, courts, and corrections.
- Approved February 14, 2025 Justice Council minutes (11-0)
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities Committee will meet to discuss data topics for a guest speaker, a school training initiative, a book club, and updates on the RESTORE program. All items are discussion-only with no formal decisions or votes scheduled.
- Data discussion – topics for Dr. Wiener
- School training – Karen Bell-Dancy
- Book club – Karen Bell-Dancy
- RESTORE updates – Laura Suhr and Casey Karges
The RED Committee reviewed data gaps, noting loss of LPS free‑and‑reduced lunch data and planning to use zip‑code information; Ryan will check with LPS legal about possible data sharing. Karen will lead a three‑day summer training called “Courageous Conversations” for about 50 school liaisons and family advocates. The book club chose *Red River Girl* for a Zoom discussion on July 31. No Bridging the Gap event will be held this year, and the next meeting is scheduled for June 6, 2025.
YFCRC (SquareOne) Governing Board
The SquareOne Governing Board will meet to discuss insurance policies and receive updates from regional, county, and city entities. The board is scheduled to vote on premium proposals for public liability insurance.
- Policy application for public liability insurance for the SquareOne Governing Board
- Region 5 Systems update regarding CenterPointe
- County updates regarding 220 S. 17th and a Reinvestment Grant
- City update regarding LPD Crisis Calls
The board approved the minutes from April 3, 2025 by a 5‑0 vote. The board authorized the County Risk Manager to submit an application for the lower‑cost “Intact” insurance proposal, passing 6‑0. The Lancaster County Board approved about $800,000 in additional funds for building renovations at 220 S 17th Street, enabling co‑location of several services.
- Approved minutes from 4/3/25 (5-0)
- Authorized County Risk Manager to submit Intact proposal application (6-0)
- Approved about $800,000 additional funds for building renovations at 220 S 17th St
- Closed meeting (motion passed 6-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting covering a legislative update, federal infrastructure projects, a public safety assessment, and discussion of a hiring freeze. They will also consider revisions to the Lincoln-Lancaster County Air Pollution Control Program regulations and hold budget hearings for County Court, Adult Probation, and Administrative Services. The meeting includes an executive session on pending litigation, reappointments to the Indigent Defense Advisory Committee, and other routine matters.
- Revision to Lincoln-Lancaster County Air Pollution Control Program Regulations and Standards with a proposed resolution
- Budget hearings for County Court, Adult Probation, and Administrative Services
- Public Safety Assessment presentation by Community Corrections Director Jeff Kilpatrick
- Hiring freeze discussion
- Reappointments of Christopher 'Spike' Eickholt, Ryan Swaroff, and Andrew Weeks to the Indigent Defense Advisory Committee
Commissioners approved the April 24, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4‑0 vote. A legislative update on several Nebraska bills was presented. The staff gave updates on multiple federal infrastructure projects. A motion to rescind the hiring freeze was introduced, but the vote outcome was not recorded in the minutes.
- Approved April 24 minutes (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will discuss several infrastructure contracts and the sale of properties at 2220 South 10th Street and 101 North 30th Street. The meeting includes a public hearing on a zoning change for 6205 West Denton Road and a sheriff's badging ceremony.
- Contract with Highway Improvement Inc for countywide crack seal not to exceed $519,300
- Contract with Rose Equipment Inc for asphalt crack repair sealant for $100,200
- Public hearing for zoning change from Agricultural to Agricultural Residential at 6205 West Denton Road
- Sale of properties located at 2220 South 10th Street and 101 North 30th Street
- Contract renewal with Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services not to exceed $139,095
The Board approved a resolution authorizing the Chair and the Chief Administrative Officer to execute documents for the sale of properties at 2220 South 10th Street and 101 North 30th Street to CenterPoint. It also approved the termination of lease agreements for those properties and a resolution directing Public Rural Transit to apply for $334,000 in federal and state funds. Several contract amendments, right‑of‑way agreements, and a major crack‑seal contract were also approved.
- Approved minutes of April 22, 2025 meeting (5-0)
- Approved claims processed through April 25, 2025 (5-0)
- Approved $4,303.48 claim to El Centro de las Americas (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved consent items including contract amendments and right‑of‑way agreements (5-0)
- Approved resolution to apply for $334,000 federal/state transit funds (5-0)
- Approved termination of lease agreements for 2220 South 10th Street (5-0)
- Approved resolution authorizing sale of properties to CenterPoint (5-0)
- Approved Highway Improvement Inc crack‑seal contract up to $519,300 (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting to discuss updates on legislation, the Lincoln Sports Foundation, the Pathfinder Program, and the county budget including additional appropriations and hiring freeze requests. A public hearing is scheduled for a zoning change (CZ25009) concerning the Galloway Property at 6205 W Denton Rd. The board will also consider a Region 5 match certification and review board member meetings attended.
- CZ25009: Zoning change request for Galloway Property at 6205 W Denton Rd
- Lincoln Sports Foundation update on facilities and operations
- Budget update with additional appropriations memo and hiring freeze requests
- Region 5 systems county matching funds certification for FY25-26
- Legislative update from Kissel, Kohout, ES Associates LLC
The commissioners approved the April 17 meeting minutes by a 4‑0 vote. They approved an additional county match request of $100,248 with a 3‑1 vote. They also approved the hiring positions request with a 4‑0 vote. Budget hearings are scheduled to begin next Tuesday.
- Approve April 17 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Approve additional county match request of $100,248 (3-1)
- Approve hiring positions request (4-0)
- Approve additional appropriations memorandum draft (unanimous agreement)
- Adjourn the meeting (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on several contracts, including a $182,152.20 bridge repair and a $187,705 jail substance use treatment contract. They will also set public hearings for a rezoning request at 6205 West Denton Road and for amendments to the Air Pollution Control Program regulations. Routine consent items include contract renewals and right-of-way acquisitions.
- Bridge O-037 repair contract with JMN Construction LLC for $182,152.20
- Substance use treatment and supportive housing contract with Bridge Behavioral Health for jail inmates, $187,705
- Amendment to CenterPointe Youth Mental Health Diversion Program contract, increasing by $20,000 to $445,962.50
- Amendment for mobile license plate reader system from Vigilant Solution LLC, increasing by $21,339.20 to $131,339.20
- Setting public hearing for Change of Zone 25009 (AG to AGR) at 6205 West Denton Road on April 29
The commissioners approved the minutes from the April 15 meeting and the county claims through April 18, including an $11,722.50 claim to The Mediation Center. They adopted a package of consent items that amended several existing contracts and approved new right‑of‑way agreements. The board also passed a resolution setting a public hearing date for a road vacation and approved five new contracts for bridge repair, equipment rental, construction, printing, and investment advisory services.
- Approved April 15 minutes (3-0)
- Approved claims through April 18 with payroll amendment (3-0)
- Approved $11,722.50 claim to The Mediation Center (2-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved consent items: contract amendments and right‑of‑way contracts (3-0)
- Approved resolution fixing public hearing date for North 141st Street road vacation (3-0)
- Approved JMN Construction contract for Bridge O‑037 repair, up to $182,152.20 (3-0)
- Approved Titan Machinery contract for tractor rentals, up to $99,200 (3-0)
- Approved Hampton Commercial Construction contract for general services, up to $300,000 (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting on April 17, 2025. Key items include a discussion of a hiring freeze, an executive session for union negotiations and legal advice, and a legislative update. The board will also approve prior meeting minutes and hear public comment.
- Discussion of a hiring freeze at 9:15 a.m.
- Executive session for union negotiations and legal advice at 8:45 a.m.
- Legislative update from Kissel, Kohout, ES Associates LLC at 8:30 a.m.
- Approval of staff meeting minutes for April 10, 2025
- Public comment on items on the agenda
The board approved the April 10 meeting minutes unanimously. They entered and later exited an executive session on union negotiations and legal advice, each with a 5‑0 vote. The hiring freeze was tabled until May 8, passing by a 3‑2 vote.
- Approved April 10 minutes (5‑0)
- Entered executive session (5‑0)
- Exited executive session (5‑0)
- Tabled hiring freeze until May 8 (3‑2)
- Adjourned meeting (5‑0)
Board of Commissioners
The Board will consider declaring a disaster emergency for a severe winter storm and blizzard, and vote on a $250,000 commitment to match a workforce housing fund. Other business includes a public hearing to amend the County One- and Six-Year Road and Bridge Program, changes to the County Purchasing Manual, and approval of various contracts and right-of-way acquisitions.
- Disaster declaration (D-25-0001) for severe winter storm and blizzard
- Commitment letter to match $250,000 for Middle-Income Workforce Housing Fund
- Resolution amending County Purchasing Manual, raising open-market threshold to $15,000 and informal bid threshold to $15,000–$70,000
- Contract with Capital City Transfer Service Inc for coroner transport, not to exceed $200,000 over four years
- Public hearing action on Text Amendment 25003 to Subdivision Regulation Chapter 4, Section 4.13a
The Board approved the minutes from the April 8 meeting and authorized all pending claims, including two out‑of‑time invoices totaling $10,205.60. Consent items covering several contract amendments, right‑of‑way agreements, a grant and a subaward were adopted unanimously. The Board also approved resolutions amending the County road‑bridge program, the subdivision regulation, and the County Purchasing Manual, and declared a disaster emergency for the March 19 blizzard to enable reimbursement.
- Approved April 8 meeting minutes (5‑0)
- Approved all claims through April 11, including out‑of‑time invoices ($9,915.60 and $290) (5‑0)
- Adopted consent items: contract amendments, right‑of‑way contracts, grant and subaward (5‑0)
- Approved resolution amending the County One‑and‑Six‑Year Road and Bridge Program (5‑0)
- Approved resolution amending the Lancaster County Subdivision Regulation (5‑0)
- Approved amendment to the County Purchasing Manual thresholds (5‑0)
- Declared disaster and emergency for the March 19 blizzard (5‑0)
- Approved purchase order to Ace Eaton Metals for Spring County Culverts ($93,279.16) (5‑0)
STOP Committee
The STOP Committee approved the January 9 meeting minutes (2‑0). It then approved the Lincoln Police Department’s revised conference request totaling $4,944.16 (4‑0) and the Lincoln Sheriff’s Office conference request totaling $3,274.00 (4‑0). The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous vote (5‑0).
- Approved January 9 meeting minutes (2-0)
- Approved LPD $4,944.16 fund request (4-0)
- Approved LSO $3,274.00 fund request (4-0)
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The commissioners approved the Nebraska Department of Agriculture Noxious Weed Program reports (5‑0). They also approved a letter of support for Pinpoint Communications, Inc.'s application for the Nebraska Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) grant (5‑0). Additionally, the board approved a letter of approval to SENDD for the Middle Income Workforce Investment Fund grant (5‑0). All motions were carried unanimously or with unanimous affirmative votes.
- Approved Noxious Weed Program Reports (5-0)
- Approved letter of support for Pinpoint Communications BEAD grant (5-0)
- Approved letter of approval to SENDD for Middle Income Workforce Investment Fund grant (5-0)
- Approved minutes from April 3, 2025 meeting (2-0, 1 abstention)
- Entered executive session for union negotiations and legal advice (4-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
- Approved personnel Rule 15 amendment (no vote recorded, board had no questions)
- Approved personnel Rule 17.26 title updates (no vote recorded, board had no questions)
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The board will review and potentially approve January 2025 meeting minutes, discuss building maintenance issues (caulking, faucet repair, security), and address staff hiring for a full-time mental health technician and on-call status. Financial items include the 2025-26 budget, Medicare/Medicaid processing, and a Region 5 audit. Miscellaneous topics cover camera installation, co-responder updates, and a pilot expansion project.
- Maintenance: caulking around bedroom floors, unit food prep room faucet, MHB room security
- Staff updates: MHT FT hiring, on-call status, CD evaluator
- Financial: 25-26 budget, Medicare processing, Medicaid (Molina), Region 5 audit
- Camera installation and wiring
- EPC Pilot expansion project
The Advisory Board approved the meeting minutes with a roll‑call vote of seven ayes. The proposed by‑law update was tabled for future consideration. A motion to adjourn was approved by six ayes, ending the session.
- Approved meeting minutes (7 ayes)
- Tabled by‑law update (no vote recorded)
- Approved motion to adjourn (6 ayes)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will discuss the design presentation for the parking garage expansion, approve several contract amendments for services including elevator maintenance and pest control, and consider general vouchers for March 2025.
- Parking garage expansion design presentation (old business)
- Amendment to elevator/escalator service contract #19-258 with Kone, Inc.
- Amendment to PPE/first aid supplies contract #22-024 with Fastenal Company
- Amendment to pest control contract #24-052 with Orkin, LLC
- General voucher approval for March 2025
Board of Commissioners
The Board will consider initiating eminent domain against Tam Nguyen/Tam Square Realty for the HISP-3365(8) project at the southeast corner of North 148th and Holdrege Streets. They will also hold a public hearing on a text amendment to subdivision drainage standards and vote on multiple contracts, including a $2.6 million road paving project on South 148th Street and right-of-way acquisitions for Saltillo Road improvements.
- Eminent domain resolution against Tam Nguyen/Tam Square Realty for Project 21-03 (HISP-3365(8)) at SE corner of N 148th & Holdrege
- Award contract to Pavers Inc for S 148th Street (Yankee Hill Road) project in amount of $2,599,666.08
- Right-of-way contracts for Saltillo Road Improvement totaling $228,300 across six property owners
- Public hearing on Text Amendment 25003 to amend County Subdivision Regulations Chapter 4.13 Drainage
- Contract with ALLO Fiber for ELAN Bandwidth services to 14 County Engineering facilities at $33,600 per year
The Board approved a $2,599,666.08 contract with Pavers Inc. for road work on South 148th Street. It also approved several other contracts, including bridge repairs up to $210,148.12, pavement markings up to $196,486.24, and a $10,814.25 audio‑visual services agreement. A resolution transferring appropriations between county funds was adopted, and a settlement with The Tree Guys was finalized. All approvals were passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.
- Approved $2,599,666.08 contract with Pavers Inc. for South 148th Street road project (5‑0)
- Approved $210,148.12 contract with JMN Construction LLC for bridge repairs (5‑0)
- Approved $196,486.24 contract with Straight-Line Striping Inc. for pavement markings (5‑0)
- Approved $10,814.25 agreement with Encore for audio‑visual services (5‑0)
- Approved $40,000 contracts with Sunset Law Enforcement and Snyder Shooting Supply for ammunition (5‑0)
- Approved resolution transferring appropriations between general fund and court budgets (5‑0)
- Approved settlement and general release with The Tree Guys (5‑0)
- Approved consent items including contract amendments and right‑of‑way agreements (5‑0)
YFCRC (SquareOne) Governing Board
The SquareOne Governing Board will meet to vote on a member with lived experience and three non-voting members. The board will also receive updates regarding insurance, Region V, and county and city projects.
- Vote for Member with Lived Experience
- Vote for three Non-Voting Members
- Update on 220 S. 17th
- Update on Reinvestment Grant
- Update on LPD Crisis Calls
The governing board adopted the March 6, 2025 minutes with a 5‑0 vote. It approved the nomination of Nikki Siegel as a Voting Member with Lived Experience (6‑0) and the nomination of Marisela Solorio as a Non‑Voting Member (6‑0). The board also approved a motion to close the meeting (4‑0).
- Approved March 6, 2025 minutes (5-0)
- Approved nomination of Nikki Siegel as Voting Member with Lived Experience (6-0)
- Approved nomination of Marisela Solorio as Non‑Voting Member (6-0)
- Approved motion to close the meeting (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
At this staff meeting, the Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider additional appropriations for county and district courts, an adult drug court interlocal agreement, and a budget update including vacancy savings and hiring freeze requests. The board will also enter executive session to discuss union negotiations, a real estate purchase, potential litigation, and legal advice. An action item authorizes signing a letter of support for Second Chance Act Reauthorization.
- Additional appropriations for County Court and District Court
- Adult Drug Court Interlocal agreement for FY24
- Executive session on union negotiations, real estate purchase, potential litigation
- Budget update: vacancy savings, hiring freeze requests (Property Management), FY2024 audit
- Action item: Authorizing Brad Johnson to sign Council of State Governments letter of support for Second Chance Act Reauthorization
The commissioners approved the March 27, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4-0 vote. They then moved to an executive session to discuss a real estate purchase, pending litigation and legal advice, also approved 4-0. After the session, they voted 4-0 to reconvene in the open meeting.
- Approved March 27, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Entered executive session for real estate purchase, pending litigation, legal advice (4-0)
- Exited executive session (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Comprehensive Plan Amendment 25001, which proposes amendments to the County One-and Six-Year Road and Bridge Program. The Board will also consider awarding a $519,300 countywide crack seal contract, a $182,152 bridge repair contract, and accepting an $87,744 election security grant. Consent items include renewing contracts for road salt ($558,000) and other supplies, as well as multiple right-of-way acquisitions and setting a future public hearing on drainage regulations.
- $519,300 crack seal contract with Highway Improvement Inc (Project 25-02)
- $182,152 bridge repair contract with JMN Construction LLC for County Bridge O-037 (Project 25-51)
- $87,744 election security grant from Nebraska Crime Commission (SFY 2025 JAG)
- $558,000 road salt contract renewal with Blackstrap Inc (C-23-0456)
- $31,570 right-of-way acquisition from Raymond and Barbara Poole Revocable Trust for North 148th and Holdrege Street (Project 21-03)
The commissioners approved a series of routine claims and contract amendments, adopted resolutions on witness fees and the Sheriff’s K9 donation fund, and approved major procurement items including a $519,300 crack seal contract and an $87,744 grant award. The board also reappointed three members to the County Board of Health with a 3-1 vote.
- Approved claims through March 28, 2025, including $266.73 to El Centro de las Americas (4-0)
- Amended contracts for PPE, road salt, snowplow parts, apparel, and mailing services (4-0)
- Approved right-of-way contracts totaling $42,? (31,570 + 1,243 + 9,288 + 550) (4-0)
- Adopted resolution for unclaimed witness fees (R-25-0020) (4-0)
- Authorized Treasurer as signer for Sheriff’s K9 donation fund (R-25-0021) (4-0)
- Reappointed three members to County Board of Health (3-1)
- Approved $519,300 countywide crack seal contract (4-0)
- Accepted $87,744 grant award for election security project (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will discuss a legislative update, planning briefings (including a road program amendment and a subdivision drainage amendment), and enter executive session for union negotiations, pending litigation, and legal advice. They will also review a mailbox policy, budget updates with hiring freeze requests and FY25-26 budget hearing dates, and act on a letter of support for Nextlink Internet's BEAD grant application and a $163,821 grant application to the Nebraska Crime Commission for Juvenile Services. Reappointments to the Board of Health and a schedule of meetings are also on the agenda.
- Action item: Letter of support for Nextlink Internet’s BEAD grant application
- Action item: Application for FY2026 Juvenile Services Commission Grant Program funding of $163,821
- Budget update: Hiring freeze requests from County Engineer, Public Defender, and Community Corrections
- Budget update: Draft department budget hearings for FY25-26
- Planning briefings: CPC25001 (County One and Six Year Road and Bridge Program) and TX25003 (Subdivision Resolution drainage amendment)
The commissioners approved the March 20 meeting minutes unanimously (5‑0). They approved the application for a $163,821 Nebraska Crime Commission Juvenile Services grant (4‑0). They also approved a letter of support for Nextlink Internet’s BEAD grant application (4‑0). The reappointments to the Lincoln‑Lancaster County Board of Health were rolled over to a regular Tuesday meeting.
- Approved March 20, 2025 minutes (5-0)
- Approved $163,821 Juvenile Services Commission grant application (4-0)
- Approved letter of support for Nextlink BEAD grant (4-0)
- Rolled over Board of Health reappointments to Tuesday meeting (no vote recorded)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will meet on March 25, 2025, to consider several business items. They will vote on a storm warning siren contract for $38,652.60, a resolution to study vacating a portion of public road right-of-way, and approve multiple contract amendments and a subaward for a racial equity training program. The meeting also includes approval of claims and a special presentation.
- Contract with Blue Valley Public Safety Inc for storm warning sirens not to exceed $38,652.60
- Resolution directing study and report on vacation of a portion of public road right-of-way (R-25-0019)
- Subaward contract with YWCA of Lincoln for Racial Equity Training Program not to exceed $13,970
- Amendment to contract with JEO Consulting Group for on-call structural services, total not to exceed $40,000
- Special designated license for Sesostris Shrine event at 1050 Saltillo Road, Roca on April 5, 2025
The commissioners unanimously approved a resolution directing the County Engineer and Planning Department to study and report on a public road right‑of‑way vacation. They also approved several contracts, including a storm‑warning siren contract, a special event license, a grant for drug‑impaired‑driving enforcement, and various service agreements. A letter opposing LB629 was authorized, and the meeting minutes and claims were ratified.
- Approved resolution R-25-0019 to study road right‑of‑way vacation (5-0)
- Approved Blue Valley Public Safety contract for storm warning sirens, up to $38,652.60 (5-0)
- Approved special designated license for Sesostris Shrine event at 1050 Saltillo Road (5-0)
- Approved min‑grant contract with NDOT Highway Safety Office, $3,600 for drug‑impaired‑driving enforcement (5-0)
- Approved GT Distributors contract for sheriff uniforms, not to exceed $3,000 (5-0)
- Approved consent items amending three county contracts and subaward to YWCA, up to $13,970 (5-0)
- Approved motion to send a letter opposing LB629 (5-0)
- Approved the March 18 meeting minutes and claims through March 21 (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will review the midyear budget, hiring freeze requests, and the FY2025-2026 budget process. The meeting includes updates on planning, legislative matters, and the 2025 Visitors Improvement Fund grant guidelines.
- 2025 Visitors Improvement Fund grant guidelines
- Request to place marker at Highland Precinct
- Midyear budget follow-up and hiring freeze requests
- FY2025-2026 budget process instructions
- Engineer truck purchase
Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee
This is a procedural meeting of the Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee. The agenda includes approval of minutes, a chair update with a resignation and appointment of a committee member, a resolution of gratitude, appointment of an adjunct advisor, and a site recommendation subcommittee update. No major policy decisions or financial items are on the agenda.
- Resignation of committee member appointed pursuant to Article 3.5 of the bylaws
- Appointment of committee member pursuant to Article 3.5 of the bylaws
- Resolution expressing gratitude for meritorious service
- Appointment of adjunct advisor pursuant to Article 3 of the bylaws
- Site recommendation subcommittee update
The Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee approved the October 17, 2024 minutes, appointed Anna Wishart to the committee, approved a resolution thanking Lynn Rex and appointed her as an adjunct advisor, and unanimously accepted the Site Recommendation Subcommittee’s recommendation of the Garfield site, directing the County Board to pursue a state turnback‑tax application for the convention center.
- Approved October 17, 2024 minutes (7-0)
- Appointed Anna Wishart to the Assemble Lincoln Standing Committee (7-0)
- Approved resolution expressing gratitude for Lynn Rex’s service (8-0)
- Appointed Lynn Rex as Adjunct Advisor (8-0)
- Accepted Garfield site recommendation and directed County Board to submit turnback‑tax application for convention center (8-0)
Board of Commissioners
The board will consider a cost-sharing agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation to repair a slope failure on West Rock Creek Road, and will vote on routine consent items including contract renewals, a $35,000 childcare grant, and setting a public hearing on the road program. New business also includes resolutions recognizing Severe Weather Awareness Week and authorizing contracts for tractors, ammunition, and a Ford Bronco, along with a memorandum of understanding for maintenance supplies. The agenda includes an executive session on potential litigation and time for public comment on non-agenda items.
- Cost-sharing agreement with NDOT for slope failure repair on West Rock Creek Road (R-25-0017)
- Award of contract to Titan Machinery for 4-wheel drive tractor rental at $99,200 (B-25-050)
- Award of contracts to Snyder Shooting Supply/Snyder Precision LLC and Sunset Law Enforcement for ammunition, total $40,000 (B-25-046)
- Grant contract with Waverly School District 145 for childcare assistance, $35,000 (C-25-0173)
- Resolution recognizing March 24-28 as Severe Weather Awareness Week and April 5 as Storm Spotter Appreciation Day (R-25-0018)
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a $99,200 annual rental contract with Titan Machinery for four-wheel drive tractors used for highway mowing. The board also approved several other contracts, including a $40,000 ammunition supply contract and a $27,429 purchase of a Ford Bronco. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on a Mediation Center claim.
- Approved $99,200 tractor rental contract with Titan Machinery (5-0)
- Approved $40,000 ammunition supply contracts with Snyder Shooting Supply and Sunset Law Enforcement (5-0)
- Approved $27,429 purchase of 2025 Ford Bronco from Anderson Ford (5-0)
- Approved $6,950 claim to The Mediation Center (4-0, one abstention)
- Approved $35,000 Childcare Assistance grant contract with Waverly School District (5-0)
- Approved $7,370 distracted driving grant application with NDOT (5-0)
- Approved release of utility easement in Whitetail Run Addition (5-0)
- Approved taking no position on LB484 (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting to receive updates on legislative matters, human resources, and emergency management. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes, discussion of board member meetings attended, and scheduling of future meetings. No votes on ordinances, contracts, or rezonings are listed.
- Approval of staff meeting minutes for March 6, 2025
- Legislative update from Kissel, Kohout & Associates LLC
- Quarterly HR update from Lincoln-Lancaster Human Resources
- Emergency management update including Severe Weather Awareness Week (March 24-28, 2025)
- Disaster declaration update and discussion of board member meetings attended
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners voted 3-0 to oppose LB484, a bill that would redefine agricultural and horticultural land for property tax assessment, and to send a letter of opposition. The board also approved the minutes from the March 6, 2025 meeting. The meeting included informational updates on legislative activity, human resources, and emergency management, but no other formal decisions were made.
- Approved minutes of March 6, 2025 meeting (3-0)
- Opposed LB484 (redefining agricultural land for property tax assessment) with a letter (3-0)
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)- Lancaster County
The Local Emergency Planning Committee will review agency reports and the status of LB 346 regarding the consolidation of boards and commissions. The body will also discuss 2024 Tier II reporting and plan a Threat Hazard Identification Risk Assessment workshop for October 2025.
- Review of 2024 Tier II Reporting (120 total reports for Lancaster County)
- Discussion of LB 346 regarding consolidation/elimination of boards and commissions
- Statewide Tornado Drill scheduled for March 26, 2025, at 10:00am
- Planning for Threat Hazard Identification Risk Assessment (THIRA) Workshop for mid-October 2025
- Southeast Nebraska Healthcare Coalition Medical Response & Surge Exercise on May 16, 2025
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will review February 2025 vouchers and the fiscal year 2024 independent auditors report. The body will consider several contract amendments and new agreements for fuel, window cleaning, and maintenance.
- Contract for Annual Supply of Motor Fuel #24-199 with Sapp Bros Inc. and Whitehead Oil Company
- Amendment to Contract for Envelope Supply and Printing #22-019 with Cornhusker State Industries
- Amendment to Contract for Window Cleaning #22-269 with Squeegee Squad
- Amendment to Contract for Preventative Maintenance for Variable Frequency Drives #6484 with Cerris Systems
- MOU for Maintenance, Repair, Operating MRO Supplies with Lawson Products Inc.
Board of Commissioners
The board will vote on consent items including a $26,400 amendment to a mental health contract and multiple right-of-way contracts for road projects. New business includes a $300,000 slope repair agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation, a $49,950 case management software subscription, and a $230,300 purchase order for truck bodies. A large set of personnel classification revisions and deletions will also be considered.
- $300,000 agreement with NDOT to repair slope failure on West Rock Creek Road near State Highway 79
- $49,950 annual subscription with Pine Technologies for corrections case management software
- $230,300 purchase order for two 11-foot service bodies from Reading Truck Equipment
- $26,400 amendment to contract with Unity Inspired LLC for inmate mental health services
- Recommendations to revise, delete, or amend over 100 personnel classifications across multiple departments
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a $300,000 cost-sharing agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation to repair a slope failure on West Rock Creek Road. They also approved a series of personnel classification changes, including revisions and deletions, and multiple contracts for services, equipment, and right-of-way acquisitions. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Chelsea Johnson absent.
- Approved $300K cost-share with NDOT for West Rock Creek Road slope repair (4-0)
- Approved personnel classification revisions and deletions (4-0)
- Approved $230,300 purchase order for two service bodies (4-0)
- Approved $49,950 software agreement with Pine Technologies (4-0)
- Approved $40,000 contract for deceased animal removal (4-0)
- Approved $26,232.80 water line relocation agreement (4-0)
- Approved $6,755.90 claim to El Centro de las Americas (3-0, one abstention)
- Approved consent items including right-of-way contracts (4-0)
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
This is a regular meeting of the Lincoln/Lancaster County Youth Crisis Response Coalition. The group will hear legislative updates, review shared data for trends, and identify beneficial topics and trainings. No formal decisions or votes are scheduled.
- Legislative updates from Bev and Sara
- Review of shared data and identification of trends
- Discussion of beneficial trainings for the group
- Upcoming conferences: 2025 NJJA Annual Conference (May 7-8) and Nebraska Community Aid & Juvenile Justice Conference (June 11-12)
- Next coalition meeting scheduled for May 12, 2025
The coalition heard program updates, including CenterPointe/SquareOne's 93% de-escalation rate and 10 hospital diversions. Bryan Health announced a new ketamine clinic and expanded telehealth crisis services to 26 ERs statewide. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational and discussion-focused.
- No formal decisions or votes recorded
- Bryan Health launched Survival Clinic for treatment-resistant depression
- Bryan Health expanded telehealth crisis services to 26 ERs statewide
- Region V moved to new location at 3600 Union Drive
- Coalition discussed creating recurring round table with CEUs for private practitioners
- Allyson and Amber to explore common assessment tools like PHQ-9
Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee
The Reducing Racial & Ethnic Disparities Committee will hear updates on school training and a book club, receive a presentation from the Center for Juvenile Justice Reform on advancing racial justice in youth legal systems, and hold a discussion on truancy. No binding decisions are scheduled; the meeting is informational and procedural.
- School Training update by Ryan Zabawa
- Book Club update by Karen Bell-Dancy
- Georgetown Update (Center for Juvenile Justice Reform – Advancing Racial Justice and Equity in Youth Legal Systems) by Jason Stille & Laura Suhr
- Truancy Discussion
The Lancaster County Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities Committee discussed plans for a summer racial equity training for LPS teachers, with stipends and training hours for participants. The committee also reported over 40 sign-ups for the book club reading 'I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter' and noted updates on truancy and legislative matters. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.
- Planned racial equity training for LPS teachers this summer (discussed)
- Karen to send curriculum to Brittney for the training (action item)
- Book club discussion scheduled for next week, facilitated by Karen (planned)
- Jenni sent webinar registration link for the Georgetown panel (action item)
- Laura to ask Jace about helping with Collaborative Plan training (action item)
YFCRC (SquareOne) Governing Board
The SquareOne Governing Board will vote to accept Jodi Rezabek's resignation and hold nominations for a Member with Lived Experience and three non-voting members. Updates will be provided on Region V (CenterPointe), county projects (220 S. 17th and a reinvestment grant), and city police crisis calls.
- Acceptance of Jodi Rezabek's resignation
- Nominations and vote for a Member with Lived Experience
- Nominations and vote for three non-voting members
- County updates: 220 S. 17th and Reinvestment Grant
- City updates: LPD Crisis Calls
The SquareOne Governing Board accepted the resignation of Jodi Rezabek, the Voting Member with Lived Experience, and tabled nominations for her replacement and for three non-voting member positions until the next meeting. The board also approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed updates on the SquareOne facility, including demolition at 220 S 17th Street and progress on youth advisory and co-responder programs.
- Approved minutes from December 2024 meeting (4-0)
- Accepted resignation of Jodi Rezabek (4-0)
- Tabled vote on Nikki Siegel for Voting Member with Lived Experience
- Tabled nominations for three non-voting member positions
- Approved meeting closure (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting includes a legislative update, a vacancy savings discussion with the Budget and Fiscal Officer, a quarterly juvenile probation update, and a fourth quarter 2024 investment review for retirement plans. The board will also enter executive session to discuss union negotiations and legal advice. The meeting covers informational updates and staff reports rather than public votes on ordinances or contracts.
- Vacancy savings discussion with Budget and Fiscal Officer Dennis Meyer
- Quarterly juvenile probation update from Nebraska District #3J Probation Officer Beverly Hoagland
- Fourth quarter 2024 investment review for 401(a) and 457(b) plans with Empower and Segal Marco
- Executive session for union negotiations and legal advice
- Legislative update from Kissel, Kohout & Associates
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners took positions on several state legislative bills. They voted to oppose LB546, which would allow utilities to bypass local emergency management, and to appoint Amanda Burki to testify. They also voted to support LB96, which requires DHHS to file certain Medicaid waivers, with testimony from Corrections Director Brad Johnson. The board opposed LR13CA, a constitutional amendment to prohibit inheritance taxes, and a motion to oppose LB258, which changes minimum wage provisions, died due to lack of a second.
- Approved minutes of February 27, 2025 (3-0)
- Opposed LB546 and appointed Amanda Burki to testify (3-0)
- Motion to oppose LB258 died for lack of a second
- Supported LB96 with testimony from B. Johnson or staff (3-0)
- Opposed LR13CA with testimony (3-0)
- Adjourned at 10:27 a.m. (3-0)
Pension Review Committee
The committee will meet to review the fourth quarter 2024 investment performance for 401(a) and 457(b) plans. Representatives from Empower and Segal Marco Advisors will present the review.
- Approval of October 1, 2024 meeting minutes
- Fourth Quarter 2024 Investment Review for 401(a) and 457(b) Plans
- Review of 2025 Strategic Partnership and Communications Plan
The Pension Review Committee reviewed fourth quarter 2024 investment performance for the county's 401(a) and 457(b) retirement plans, noting strong U.S. equity returns and discussing market concentration risks. The committee also reviewed the 2025 Strategic Partnership Plan with Empower, which includes upcoming changes like mandatory Roth catch-up contributions effective January 1, 2026. The committee approved the October 1, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0-1) and adjourned.
- Approved October 1, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0-1)
- Reviewed Q4 2024 investment performance for 401(a) and 457(b) plans
- Discussed 2025 Strategic Partnership Plan with Empower
- Noted upcoming mandatory Roth catch-up requirement effective Jan 1, 2026
- Adjourned meeting (7-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on a Memorandum of Understanding with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to form a Criminal Interdiction Task Force. The consent agenda includes contract renewals for supplies, services, and road work totaling over $1.9 million. A public hearing will be held on a Class C liquor license for Kramer Bar and Grill in Crete. Other new business items include a $1.45 million motor fuel contract, a $210,148 bridge repair award, and a $251,000 grant to Friendship Home for emergency shelter.
- Memorandum of Understanding with DHS/ICE for a Criminal Interdiction Task Force (C-25-0117)
- Motor fuel contracts with Whitehead Oil and Sapp Bros., not to exceed $1,450,000 combined (C-25-0142/0143)
- Bridge repair contract for Bridges D-143 and D-157 awarded to JMN Constructors for $210,148.12 (Project 22-53)
- Grant contract with Friendship Home for Emergency Shelter program in the amount of $251,000 (C-25-0155)
- Public hearing for a Class C liquor license for AP & J LLC dba Kramer Bar and Grill at 11365 West Kramer Street, Crete
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a series of routine contracts and agreements, including motor fuel supply contracts not to exceed $1.45 million, bridge repair contracts totaling $210,148.12, and a Class C liquor license for Kramer Bar and Grill. The board also approved a letter opposing LB211, a property tax bill, with one abstention. All votes were 3-0 with two commissioners absent.
- Approved motor fuel contracts with Whitehead Oil and Sapp Bros, up to $1.45M (3-0)
- Awarded $210,148.12 bridge repair contract to JMN Constructors (3-0)
- Approved Class C liquor license for Kramer Bar and Grill (3-0)
- Approved $196,486.24 pavement marking contract with Straight-Line Striping (3-0)
- Approved $76,513 purchase of two vehicles from Gene Steffey Chrysler (3-0)
- Approved $20,155.91 security camera contract with Accurate Controls (3-0)
- Approved $251,000 Friendship Home emergency shelter grant (3-0)
- Approved letter opposing LB211 property tax bill (2-0, one abstention)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting featuring informational updates from the legislative team, Veterans Service Office, and Information Services, plus a human resources presentation on a proposed background investigation and reference check policy. The board will also receive a midyear budget update from the county budget officer and may enter executive session for legal advice.
- Midyear budget update from County Budget and Fiscal Officer Dennis Meyer
- Presentation of a background investigation and reference check policy by Human Resources
- Quarterly update from the Veterans Service Office
- Quarterly update from Lincoln-Lancaster County Information Services
- Legislative update from Kissel, Kohout & Associates
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners took several actions on state legislative matters. They voted to support LB96 and provide testimony, and to support LB211 and LB242 with letters. They also authorized Todd Wiltgen to testify in a neutral capacity and support an amendment on LB586. The board also received updates on the Veterans Service Office, Information Services, a background check policy, and the midyear budget.
- Approved minutes of Feb 20, 2025 (5-0)
- Supported LB96 and will provide testimony (5-0)
- Authorized Todd Wiltgen to testify neutrally and support amendment on LB586 (5-0)
- Supported LB211 with a letter (5-0)
- Supported LB242 with a letter (4-1)
- Entered executive session for legal advice (5-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
- Adjourned (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will decide on a $557,262.81 contract with Midwest Infrastructure Inc for culvert maintenance and a $178,964 contract with Van Kirk Sand & Gravel Inc for a box culvert extension. An addendum to the corrections officers' bargaining agreement adding bilingual pay is also up for a vote. Consent items include renewals for website design, propane, carpet, and tire services. A public hearing on a Class C liquor license for Kramer Bar and Grill in Crete is scheduled for March 4.
- Contract with Midwest Infrastructure Inc for culvert maintenance, not to exceed $557,262.81
- Contract with Van Kirk Sand & Gravel Inc for box culvert extension, not to exceed $178,964
- Addendum to Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 32 bargaining agreement adding bilingual pay for corrections officers
- Renewal of website design and hosting contract with Civic Plus LLC, not to exceed $35,547.82
- Late claims totaling $15,261.65 from Intuition & Logic Engineering, Thiele Geotech, and Dickey-Hinds-Muir
The Board approved an addendum to the corrections union contract adding bilingual pay, with a 4-1 vote (Schulte dissenting). It also approved consent items renewing multiple service contracts, a culvert maintenance contract, and a culvert extension contract. All other actions were routine approvals.
- Approved bilingual pay addendum to corrections union contract (4-1)
- Approved consent items renewing contracts for website, propane, flooring, furniture, irrigation, tires, HVAC, electrical, and demolition services (5-0)
- Approved culvert maintenance contract with Midwest Infrastructure Inc, up to $557,262.81 (5-0)
- Approved box culvert extension contract with Van Kirk Bros Contracting, up to $178,964 (5-0)
- Approved purchasing entity addendum with U.S. Bank for commercial card services (5-0)
- Approved claims processed through February 21, 2025, with amendment (5-0)
- Approved claims beyond 90-day period for three vendors totaling $15,261.65 (5-0)
- Approved minutes of February 18, 2025 meeting (5-0)
Joint Budget Committee
The Joint Budget Committee will review and vote on the 25-26 JBC Early Childcare Application, the 25-26 JJPF Application, and funding requests from Friendship Home and First Five Nebraska. The agenda also includes reports from United Way, Region V Systems, and the Mayor's Office/One Lincoln, as well as a consent agenda and public comment period.
- Review and vote on 25-26 JBC Early Childcare Application
- Review and vote on 25-26 JJPF Application
- Vote on Friendship Home Request
- Vote on First Five Nebraska Request
- Reports from United Way, Region V Systems, and Mayor's Office/One Lincoln
The Joint Budget Committee approved four items: the 25-26 Early Childcare Application, the 25-26 JJPF Application, a $251,000 request from Friendship Home to move single women from People's City Mission to hotels, and a $24,000 request from First Five Nebraska. All votes were 5-0. The committee also heard reports from Region V Systems on mental health contracts and legislation.
- Approved 25-26 JBC Early Childcare Application as revised (5-0)
- Approved 25-26 JJPF Application as revised (5-0)
- Approved $251,000 Friendship Home request (5-0)
- Approved $24,000 First Five Nebraska request (5-0)
Board of Corrections
The Lancaster County Board of Corrections is meeting to approve minutes from November 2024 and receive quarterly updates from the Corrections, Community Corrections, and Youth Services Center directors. No votes on new policies or contracts are listed; the agenda is primarily procedural and informational. Public comment is allowed on agenda items.
- Approval of November 7, 2024 Board of Corrections meeting minutes
- Corrections Department update from Director Brad Johnson
- Community Corrections quarterly update from Director Jeff Kilpatrick (2nd quarter FY 2024-2025)
- Youth Services Center update from Director Brad Alexander
- Public comment period for items on the agenda
The Lancaster County Board of Corrections met on February 20, 2025, and received updates from the Directors of Corrections, Community Corrections, and the Youth Services Center. No formal policy decisions were made; the board approved the previous meeting's minutes and adjourned. The Youth Services Center director requested the county fund one free phone call per day for youths, but no action was taken.
- Approved November 7, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0, Johnson abstained)
- Adjourned at 12:25 p.m. (3-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to discuss legislative updates, federal infrastructure projects, and the Stepping Up Initiative. They will then enter executive session for a real estate transaction and legal advice. Action items include applying for a $368,400 Byrne SCIP grant from the Nebraska Crime Commission and considering a hiring freeze memorandum.
- Application for Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program grant ($368,400) from Nebraska Crime Commission
- Executive session for strategy on a real estate transaction and legal advice
- Hiring freeze memorandum under consideration
- Quarterly federal infrastructure projects update from County Engineer
- Stepping Up Initiative update from Region 5 coordinator
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a hiring freeze memorandum, effective until June 30, 2025, in a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Schulte dissenting. The board also approved a $368,400 grant application to the Nebraska Crime Commission for the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program. Additionally, the board took positions on several state legislative bills, including supporting LB619, LB25, LB636, and opposing LB424.
- Approved hiring freeze memorandum through June 30 (4-1)
- Approved application for $368,400 Byrne SCIP grant (5-0)
- Supported LB619 and sent testifier (5-0)
- Supported LB25 and sent testifier (5-0)
- Supported LB636 and sent Brad Johnson to testify (5-0)
- Opposed LB424 (5-0)
- Submitted letters of support for LR16CA and LR18CA (5-0)
- Moved Oct 7, 2025 board meeting to 10:00 a.m. (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider approval of minutes, claims, and multiple consent items including contract amendments for website design, road maintenance, youth programs, and plumbing services. A public hearing is scheduled on a request to vacate a portion of 91st Street and Nebraska Parkway. New business includes a reappointment to the Board of Zoning Appeals, a purchase order for flat beds, and a subaward contract with El Centro de las Americas for the Youth Advisory Council Program.
- Public hearing on request to vacate a portion of 91st Street and Nebraska Parkway
- Contract amendment with Civic Plus LLC for website design and hosting, cost not to exceed $29,144.56
- Contract amendment with Clyde Malone Community Center decreasing Youth Advisory Council funding by $20,000 to $60,000
- Setting public hearing for March 4, 2025, on Class C liquor license for Kramer Bar and Grill at 11365 West Kramer Street, Crete
- Subaward contract with El Centro de las Americas for Youth Advisory Council Program, amount not to exceed $106,800
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved consent items including contract amendments and a liquor license hearing date, but held a public hearing on vacating portions of 91st Street and Nebraska Parkway to allow further discussion among interested parties. The board also reappointed Tai Pleasant to the Board of Zoning Appeals, approved a $47,600 purchase order for flatbed trucks, and approved a $106,800 subaward contract with El Centro de las Americas.
- Approved minutes of Feb 11, 2025 meeting (5-0)
- Approved claims processed through Feb 14, 2025 (4-0, Schulte abstained)
- Approved claim to El Centro de las Americas for $11,323.17 (4-0, Yoakum abstained)
- Approved consent items except held item 3A1 (5-0)
- Reappointed Tai Pleasant to Board of Zoning Appeals (5-0)
- Approved $47,600 purchase order to Gary Gross Truck and Accessories for four flatbeds (5-0)
- Approved $106,800 subaward contract with El Centro de las Americas (5-0)
- Approved following lobbyist recommendations on LB219, LB516, LB376 (5-0 each)
Justice Council
The Justice Council will elect a chair and vice chair, receive a corrections update from Director Brad Johnson with population statistics, and review a public safety assessment presented by the Center for Effective Public Policy. The meeting also includes agency and organizational updates from courts, attorneys, law enforcement, probation, service providers, and community partners, followed by public comment.
- Election of chair and vice chair
- Corrections update with 4th quarter 2024 population statistics
- Public safety assessment by Center for Effective Public Policy
- Agency and organizational updates from multiple entities
- Public comment period limited to 15 minutes
The Lancaster County-City of Lincoln Justice Council met and approved the November 2024 minutes. Rick Vest was elected chair and Chelsea Johnson vice chair. The council heard updates on jail population and a presentation on the Public Safety Assessment (PSA) pilot, but took no other formal actions.
- Approved November 1, 2024 minutes (8-0, 2 abstentions)
- Elected Rick Vest as chair and Chelsea Johnson as vice chair (10-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners staff meeting on February 13, 2025 will include a legislative update, a health and wellness update, and an executive session for union negotiations, potential litigation, and legal advice. The board will also discuss the midyear budget follow-up, pay equity, and a sheriff's office programmer position. Additionally, they will consider reappointing Tai Pleasant to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a five-year term.
- Reappointment of Tai Pleasant to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a five-year term
- Midyear budget follow-up with attached agency responses and requests
- Pay equity discussion led by County Attorney Pat Condon
- Sheriff's Office programmer position proposal by Chief Deputy Sheriff Ben Houchin
- Executive session for union negotiations, potential litigation, and legal advice
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved several legislative positions, including supporting LB255 (opioid treatment funding for problem-solving courts) and opposing LB575 (property tax request changes). They also approved a reclassification of a Tech II position to Engineer I in the County Engineer's office. The board discussed a potential county-wide hiring freeze and other budget items, but no final decision was made on those.
- Approved minutes for Jan 30 and Feb 6 meetings (4-0)
- Supported LB255 with testimony (4-0)
- Supported LB219 with testimony from Brad Johnson (4-0)
- Supported LB327 with a letter (4-0)
- Supported LB50 with a letter (4-0)
- Supported LB503 with a letter (4-0)
- Opposed LB575 with testimony from Dennis Meyer (4-0)
- Opposed LB328 (4-0)
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board will consider mid-year budget, Medicare and Medicaid processing updates, and building maintenance caulking. They will also discuss staffing, camera installation, and co-responder program updates. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and membership matters.
- Approval of January 2025 minutes
- Mid-year budget review
- Medicare and Medicaid (Molina) processing updates
- Building maintenance: caulking around bedroom floors
- Camera installation and wiring
Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will meet to decide on a resolution to vacate a portion of a public road. They are also reviewing several service contracts, claims, and a lease for agricultural land.
- Resolution to vacate a portion of a public road (R-25-0014)
- Lease of 57.69 acres of agricultural land to Andrew Neujahr for $85.37 per acre
- Grant contract with Lincoln Police Department for JAG Election Security program for $32,139
- Annual salary setting for Chief Administrative Deputy Jacob Van Pelt at $136,825.06
- Claims for El Centro de las Americas ($11,342.70) and The Mediation Center ($16,722.50)
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to vacate a portion of a public road, leased 57.69 acres of agricultural land to Andrew Neujahr for $85.37 per acre for one year, and set the annual salary for Chief Administrative Deputy Jacob Van Pelt at $136,825.06. The board also approved routine claims, contract amendments, and a settlement agreement. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Matt Schulte absent.
- Approved resolution to vacate portion of public road (4-0)
- Approved lease of 57.69 acres to Andrew Neujahr at $85.37/acre for one year (4-0)
- Set salary for Chief Administrative Deputy Jacob Van Pelt at $136,825.06 (4-0)
- Approved claims including $11,342.70 to El Centro de las Americas (3-0, one abstention)
- Approved claims including $16,722.50 to The Mediation Center (3-0, one abstention)
- Approved contract amendments with Information First Inc and SHI International Corp (4-0)
- Approved utility permit for Unite Private Networks fiber installation (4-0)
- Approved settlement agreement with Cincinnati Insurance Company/Control Logic Inc (4-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will vote on a resolution to adopt a Construction Manager at Risk delivery method, approve a general voucher for January 2025, and consider over 40 amendments to existing contracts for concrete, demolition, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, roofing, and other services. Staff will also provide a security update and discuss administrative items.
- Resolution for Construction Manager at Risk (PBC Resolution 136)
- General Voucher Approval for January 2025
- Amendment to Contract for Concrete Pavement Services #23-046 (multiple contractors)
- Amendment to Contract for Demolition Services #23-023 (multiple contractors)
- New Contract for Painting Services #24-235 (Athey Painting Inc and Brown Brothers)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider a public hearing on vacating a road near North 141st Street, approve routine consent items including contract amendments, and vote on several new business items. Notable actions include a motor fuel contract with an estimated annual cost of $1,450,000 and a real estate sale agreement for two county-owned properties in Lincoln to CenterPointe. The board will also discuss a construction cost reimbursement agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation for road and bridge projects.
- Public hearing on request to vacate portions of a public road near North 141st Street
- Real estate purchase and sale agreement authorizing sale of county-owned properties at 101 North 30th Street and 2220 South 10th Street in Lincoln to CenterPointe
- Motor fuel bid award to Whitehead Oil Company and Sapp Bros Inc at an estimated annual cost of $1,450,000
- Asphalt overlay on Old Cheney Road from South 1st Street to BNSF railroad tracks ($170,985.60 estimate) and bridge deck repair to County Bridge O-37 ($369,938 estimate), with state covering 50%
- Amendment to contract with Jones Automotive for emergency equipment, increasing cost by $12,837.71 to not exceed $212,837.71
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved the vacation of a portion of a public road near North 141st Street, a resolution to correct a clerical error in a prior special permit, and several contracts and resolutions, including a cost-sharing agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation for bridge and road work on Old Cheney Road. The board also amended its position on the state inheritance tax proposal to conditional opposition, and approved the sale of two county-owned properties to CenterPointe.
- Approved vacation of road portion near North 141st Street (5-0)
- Approved resolution correcting clerical error in R-25-0005 (5-0)
- Approved extending hiring incentive for Clinical Director and Psychologist positions (5-0)
- Approved keeping all-way stop signs at three intersections (5-0)
- Approved cost-share agreement with NDOT for Old Cheney Road bridge and overlay work (5-0)
- Approved motor fuel bid to Whitehead Oil and Sapp Bros, est. $1.45M annually (5-0)
- Approved sale of 101 N 30th St and 2220 S 10th St to CenterPointe (5-0)
- Amended inheritance tax position to conditional opposition (4-1)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a staff meeting to consider a resolution for installing traffic control devices at three intersections on Saltillo Road and Roca Road. They will also receive a legislative update, a federal funding update, and discuss pending or potential litigation in executive session. Action items include applications for three Nebraska Crime Commission grants: the RSAT program for substance abuse treatment, JAG funding for the Narcotics Task Force, and JAG funding for RESTORE.
- Resolution to install stop signs at South 54th Street & Saltillo Road, South 68th Street & Roca Road, and South 54th Street & Roca Road
- Application to Nebraska Crime Commission for SFY 2026 RSAT Grant Program funding for residential substance abuse treatment
- Application for SFY 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial JAG Formula Grant Program funding for the Narcotics Task Force
- Application for SFY 2026 JAG funding for RESTORE
- Executive session for pending litigation, potential litigation, and legal advice
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners took official positions on six state legislative bills, supporting LB608, LB684, and LB640, opposing LB585 and LB468, and tabling action on LB501. The board also approved three applications for federal grant funding through the Nebraska Crime Commission for substance abuse treatment, the Narcotics Task Force, and the RESTORE program. A resolution regarding traffic control devices at three intersections was discussed but will be added to the next agenda.
- Approved minutes of January 23, 2025 (5-0)
- Supported LB608, expanding first responder benefits to correctional officers (5-0)
- Supported LB684, transferring juvenile probation to a new agency (5-0)
- Opposed LB585, changing juvenile services aid distribution (5-0)
- Supported LB640, changing jail good-behavior sentence reductions (5-0)
- Opposed LB468, changing inheritance taxes and data center exemptions (4-1)
- Approved RSAT grant application for residential substance abuse treatment (5-0)
- Approved JAG grant application for Narcotics Task Force (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on a zoning text amendment and a comprehensive plan amendment to add 193 acres near South 84th Street and Rokeby Road to the future service limit and change land use to Urban Residential. New business includes awarding a culvert maintenance contract for $557,262.81 and a paging system upgrade for $363,161.25. Consent items include contract renewals and right-of-way acquisitions for Martell Road and 176th Street.
- Public hearing on Comprehensive Plan Amendment 24006 for 193 acres at South 84th Street and Rokeby Road, changing future land use from Agriculture to Urban Residential
- Public hearing on Text Amendment 24012 to Lancaster County Zoning Regulation Articles 2, 4, and 13
- Award of culvert maintenance contract (Phase II) to Midwest Infrastructure Inc for $557,262.81
- Award of paging system upgrade bid to Electronic Engineering for $363,161.25
- Approval of right-of-way contracts with Raymond Leavitt Trust and Mark Leavitt for Martell Road and 176th Street totaling $2,135
The Board approved a resolution amending the 2050 Lincoln-Lancaster County Comprehensive Plan to add 193 acres to the future service limit, revise the area from Tier III to Tier I Priority B, and change the Future Land Use Map from Agriculture to Urban Residential. The board also approved a zoning text amendment, several contracts, and a $557,262.81 culvert maintenance contract. All votes were unanimous 5-0.
- Approved Comprehensive Plan Amendment 24006 adding 193 acres to future service limit (5-0)
- Approved County Text Amendment 24012 to zoning regulations (5-0)
- Approved $557,262.81 culvert maintenance contract with Midwest Infrastructure Inc (5-0)
- Approved $363,161.25 paging system upgrade bid with Electronic Engineering (5-0)
- Approved $20,155.91 sole source contract for security cameras with Accurate Controls Inc (5-0)
- Approved $23,722.79 professional services agreement with NDOT for preliminary engineering (5-0)
- Approved $76,246 grant acceptance authorization from Department of Justice (5-0)
- Approved consent items including contract renewals and right-of-way agreements (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will consider action on a real estate purchase agreement for the sale of 101 N. 30th Street and 2220 S. 10th Street. The board will also hear a legislative update, a semi-annual chamber update, and discuss a resolution adopting common legislative priorities for the Nebraska Legislature's 2025 regular session. Routine items include approval of prior meeting minutes and board member reports.
- Action on real estate purchase agreement for 101 N. 30th Street and 2220 S. 10th Street
- Resolution adopting common legislative priorities for the Nebraska Legislature’s 2025 Regular Session
- Semi-annual update from Lincoln Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Jason Ball
- Scheduling of Employee Recognition Breakfast on May 13 or May 20, 2025
- Discussion of board member meetings attended, including New Americans Task Force and Mutual Aid
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 to support LB145, a noxious weed grant program bill, and authorized the County Weeds Control Superintendent to testify on the county's behalf. The board also approved a resolution adopting common legislative priorities for Nebraska's 2025 session with the three largest populated counties. The board discussed the sale of two county properties to CenterPointe, but took no formal action.
- Approved minutes of January 16, 2025 (4-0)
- Supported LB145 and authorized County Weeds Control Superintendent to testify (4-0)
- Approved resolution adopting common legislative priorities for 2025 session (4-0)
- Adjourned at 9:17 a.m. (4-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on zoning regulations and a comprehensive plan amendment. The board will also decide on a special permit for a large solar facility and award several maintenance and construction contracts.
- Decision on Special Permit 24036 for a solar facility from West Princeton Road to West Gage Road
- Contract award to Tim Sisco Construction LLC for Culvert Maintenance 2024 (Phase II) for $596,817.80
- Contract with Ayars & Ayars Inc for Roca roof repair not to exceed $99,303
- Public hearing for Text Amendment 24012 regarding annual attraction events and zoning definitions
- Public hearing for Comprehensive Plan Amendment 24006 for 193 acres near 84th Street and Rokeby Road
The Board approved County Special Permit 24036 for a large solar facility near West Princeton Road to West Gage Road and Southwest 29th Street to Hwy 77, with amendments addressing vegetation, erosion, and local hiring. A motion to deny the permit failed for lack of a second, and an amendment to compensate property owners surrounded on three or more sides was rejected. The Board also approved consent items, contracts, and special event permits.
- Approved solar facility special permit 24036 with amendments (5-0)
- Denied motion to deny solar permit (failed, no second)
- Rejected amendment to compensate surrounded property owners (2-3)
- Approved consent items including contract amendments and grants (5-0)
- Approved $10,000 claim to Youth for Christ (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved $7,900 claim to The Mediation Center (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved interlocal agreement with City of Lincoln for road detours (5-0)
- Approved special events permits for Goodlife Adventures and Gravel Quest (5-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners holds a staff meeting to discuss legislative updates, an amendment to the subdivision resolution, planning briefings for an agricultural attraction and a growth tier amendment, and proposed amendments to personnel rules including a mental health crisis center hiring incentive. Action items include approving noxious weed control annual reports and permitting corrections chaplains to attend peer support training. Commissioners also report on meetings attended.
- Proposed amendments to Personnel Rules (Rules 1, 8.2, 8.3, 11.2, 17.27, 19) including hiring and retention incentive for Mental Health Crisis Center
- Amendment to Lancaster County Subdivision Resolution Chapter 4, Sec. 4.13A
- Planning briefings: TX24012 (Agricultural Attraction and Annual Attraction Event) and CPA24006 (84th & Rokeby Road Growth Tier & FLU Amendment)
- Noxious Weed Control Annual Reports from Nebraska Department of Agriculture
- Action item: permitting up to six corrections chaplains to attend First Responder Peer Support/Chaplain Training as volunteers
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners took positions on two state legislative bills, approved a corrections chaplain training attendance request, and approved the annual noxious weed control reports. The board also discussed but tabled a draft resolution on common legislative priorities with Douglas and Sarpy counties. All votes were unanimous 5-0.
- Approved minutes of January 9, 2025 (5-0)
- Took position of opposition on Section 69 of LB264 (5-0)
- Took position of support on LB116 (5-0)
- Approved up to six Corrections Chaplains to attend First Responder Peer Support/Chaplain Training (5-0)
- Approved NDA Noxious Weed Control Annual Reports (5-0)
- Tabled draft resolution on common legislative priorities for one week
- Adjourned at 10:38 a.m. (5-0)
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on an appeal for a Special Permit for a large Solar Energy Conversion System of up to 304 megawatts on approximately 2,442 acres. Among new business, the Board will consider a Bridge Match Program agreement with NDOT for replacing Bridge G-222 at an estimated $3.5 million, and several contract amendments including an increase for the SquareOne Family Resource Center to $1,583,000. Also under consideration are a stop loss insurance contract increase for the County health plan to $1,099,588.68, and multiple grant contracts for childcare and youth programs.
- Public hearing on appeal for Special Permit 24036 for a Solar Energy Conversion System up to 304 MW on ~2,442 acres
- Bridge Match Program agreement with NDOT for repair/replacement of County Bridge G-222, total project cost $3,535,651
- Amendment to contract C-24-0940 with Genesis Contracting Group for SquareOne Family Resource Center, increasing total to $1,583,000
- Stop Loss insurance agreement with Symetra Life Insurance for health plan, 2025 cost estimated at $1,099,588.68
- Grant contracts for childcare assistance: St. Mark's Preschool ($20,000), Citylight North Lincoln ($10,000), Parkview Christian School ($35,000)
The Board of Commissioners held a lengthy public hearing on an appeal for a special permit for a large solar energy system (Panama Energy Center) but took no action, deferring a decision to the January 21, 2025 meeting. The board approved numerous routine items, including contract amendments, grants, and a bridge repair agreement. No final decision was made on the solar project.
- Approved minutes of Jan 7 meeting (3-0, one abstention)
- Approved claims with amendment (4-0)
- Approved 9 contract amendments, 2 utility permits, and 6 grant contracts as consent items (5-0)
- Authorized County Bridge Match Program agreement with NDOT for Bridge G-222 repair (5-0)
- Awarded $178,964 contract to Van Kirk Bros Contracting for Box Culvert T-166 extension (5-0)
- Approved $133,287 salary for Assistant Public Defender Amanda Baskin as Supervising Attorney (5-0)
- Approved $1,099,588.68 Stop Loss insurance schedule for 2025 (5-0)
- Approved $10,552.62 tort claim from Hanover Insurance (5-0)
Public Building Commission
The Public Building Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes, discuss old business including a final payment application for the Luxford Studio HVAC upgrade and a bid for the Hall of Justice Drying Room ventilation, and consider new business such as December 2024 voucher approval. The commission will also vote on amendments to contracts for power and hand tools, telephone answering services, and a memorandum of understanding with Home Depot for MRO supplies. A security update and administrative staff report are scheduled.
- Approval of Luxford Studio HVAC Upgrade final payment application
- Hall of Justice Drying Room Ventilation Bid Approval
- Amendment to Contract for Power and Hand Tools #22-012 with Total Tool Supply, Inc.
- Amendment to Contract for Telephone Answering Services #14-236 with Executive Answering Service
- Amendment to MOU for Maintenance, Repair, Operating Supplies with The Home Depot USA
Youth Crisis Response Coalition
The Youth Crisis Response Coalition will meet via Zoom to hear from Cedars Program speakers and discuss Youth BETA. The body will also conduct a data review and receive an update on SquareOne.
- Presentations by Cedars Program speakers Amara Madsen and Cassie Carraway
- Discussion of Youth BETA
- Data review
- SquareOne update
The coalition heard updates on Cedars' prevention programs and the SquareOne crisis response initiative, which has served over 80 families with over 90% de-escalated in community settings. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational and procedural.
- No formal decisions or votes recorded
- Youth BETA event scheduled for Feb 17, 2025
- Next meeting set for March 10, 2025
STOP Committee
The STOP Committee will consider a fund request from the Lincoln Police Department and review several routine reports, including a class attendance count summary, an end-of-year summary, and the law enforcement fund balance. The committee also votes to approve meeting minutes from October 10, 2024.
- Approval of meeting minutes from October 10, 2024
- Class attendance count summary (document)
- End-of-year summary report (document)
- Law enforcement fund balance review (document)
- Fund request from LPD (document)
The Lancaster County Community Corrections Committee approved a Lincoln Police Department request for four mobile radar units at a cost of $12,772.00. The motion carried 3-0. The committee also approved the minutes from the October 10, 2024 meeting. No public comment was made, and the meeting adjourned after about five minutes.
- Approved $12,772.00 for four LPD mobile radar units (3-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from October 10, 2024 (4-0)
Board of Commissioners - Staff Meetings
The Board of Commissioners will receive a briefing on SP24036, a large solar energy conversion system proposed at SW 14th Street & W Hallam Road. The meeting also includes swearing in of commissioners, election of chair and vice chair, a legislative update, and consideration of a supervising attorney classification revision. An executive session is scheduled for potential litigation and legal advice.
- Briefing on SP24036 for large solar energy conversion system at SW 14th Street & W Hallam Road
- Swearing in of county commissioners
- Election of chair and vice chair
- Legislative update from Kissel, Kohout, ES Associates LLC
- Supervising attorney classification revision (Human Resources)
The Board approved committee assignments for 2025 and created a new Engineering Facilities subcommittee. They also heard a briefing on a proposed solar energy project and discussed a legislative update. The meeting was largely procedural, with no major policy decisions made.
- Approved minutes from three prior meetings (4-0, with one abstention each)
- Swore in Commissioners Johnson and Yoakum
- Elected Commissioner Vest as Chair and Yoakum as Vice Chair (5-0)
- Approved committee assignments (5-0)
- Approved creation of Engineering Facilities subcommittee (5-0)
- Entered executive session for potential litigation and legal advice (5-0)
- Exited executive session (5-0)
- Adjourned at 10:44 a.m. (5-0)
Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board
The Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board will discuss building operations, including a passed operational permit and generator issues; staffing changes, including a resignation and a new training class; and financial updates such as the mid-year budget and Medicare processing. Other items include a quote for security cameras and upcoming training.
- Operational permit inspection passed and yearly permit granted
- FT employee resigning; overnight tech moving to days; FT position closing next week
- Mid-year budget review
- Quote for cameras, installation, and wiring
- BETA training scheduled for February 4-7
The Mental Health Crisis Center Advisory Board met on January 8, 2025, and approved the previous meeting's minutes by a 4-0 vote. The by-laws update was tabled, and no other formal decisions were made. The board received updates on facility maintenance, staffing, financial status, and ongoing projects.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (4-0)
- Tabled by-laws update
Board of Commissioners
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners will vote on several service contracts and interlocal agreements. The board is also scheduling public hearings for a large solar energy project and zoning amendments.
- Contract with Cheever Construction Company for Records & Information Management relocation not to exceed $371,600
- Public hearing Jan 14 regarding a 304 megawatt Solar Energy Conversion System on 2,442 acres
- Public hearing Jan 21 regarding Comprehensive Plan Amendment 24006 for 193 acres near 84th Street and Rokeby Road
- Contract with Gana Trucking & Excavating for annual tree hauling not to exceed $50,000
- Right-of-way contract with Paul B Schroeder at North 148th Street and Holdrege Street for $11,755
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners approved a $371,600 construction contract for the Records & Information Management relocation, with completion by June 1, 2025. They also approved $250,000 in Keno Human Services Prevention Fund grants to 29 local organizations, an interlocal agreement with the City of Lincoln for the South 98th Street paving project, and several other contracts including tree hauling, compliance training, and breath testing kits. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Amundson absent, except for one claim that passed 3-0 with one abstention.
- Approved $371,600 contract with Cheever Construction for Records & Information Management relocation (4-0)
- Approved $250,000 Keno Human Services Prevention Fund recommendations for 29 organizations (4-0)
- Approved interlocal agreement with City of Lincoln for South 98th Street paving project (4-0)
- Approved $50,000 annual tree hauling contract with Gana Trucking & Excavating (4-0)
- Approved $21,290 online compliance training agreement with Traliant Operating LLC (4-0)
- Approved $1,980 grant for six Preliminary Breath Testing kits for Sheriff (4-0)
- Approved $12,321.10 claim to El Centro de las Americas (3-0, one abstention)
- Approved special events permit for 2025 Animal Run (4-0)