Cherry County public meetings in 2025

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss employee pay increases and a salary resolution for elected officials from 2027-2030. The board will also consider a grant application for emergency management and a law enforcement agreement for Highway 20.

• Authorization for Emergency Management Director to apply for the CWDG (Stop the Burn) Grant
• 2027-2030 Elected Officials Salary Resolution
• Cost of Living Increase for County Employees
• 2026 Highway 20 Law Enforcement Interlocal Agreement
• Resolution #2025-18 to transfer inheritance tax funds to the General Fund

The Board of Corrections authorized Justice Administrator Sharon Hesse to enter into an agreement with CIDNET. The agreement involves inmate bandwidth usage and revenue percentages.

• Authorized Justice Administrator Sharon Hesse to enter into the CIDNET agreement (3-0)

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will consider salary resolutions for elected officials and cost of living increases for county employees. The board will also review an interlocal agreement for Highway 20 law enforcement and a fund transfer from inheritance tax to the general fund.

• Authorization for Emergency Management Director to apply for CWDG (Stop the Burn) Grant
• 2027-2030 Elected Officials Salary Resolution
• Cost of Living Increase for County Employees
• 2026 Highway 20 Law Enforcement Interlocal Agreement
• Resolution #2025-18 Fund Transfer from Inheritance Tax to General Fund

The Board of Commissioners approved a multi-year salary increase for elected officials and cost-of-living adjustments for county employees. The board also authorized a grant application for emergency management and approved several fund transfers and agreements.

• Approved 18% salary increase for 2027 for elected officials (excluding Commissioners) with 3% annual increases for 2028-2030 (2-1)
• Approved 3% cost of living increase for 2026 for full-time employees (3-0)
• Authorized department supervisors to give up to 2% cost of living increases for part-time employees in 2026 (3-0)
• Authorized Emergency Management Director to apply for the CWDG Grant (3-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-18 to transfer funds from Inheritance Tax Fund to General Fund (3-0)
• Approved 2026 Highway 20 Law Enforcement Interlocal Agreement (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $297,812.59 from the General Fund (3-0)
• Approved minutes from December 9, 2025 meeting (3-0)

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will meet to interview candidates and appoint a Zoning Administrator. The board will also discuss employee salaries, benefits, and the abandonment of 908th Road.

• Interviews and appointment of Zoning Administrator
• Report to abandon 908th Road
• 2027-2030 Elected Officials Salary Resolution
• Authorization of remote working for employees
• Cost of Living Increase Scale

The Board of Commissioners hired Katie Ormesher as the Zoning Administrator. The board also approved various fund claims and authorized inspections for the old courthouse building.

• Appointed Katie Ormesher as Zoning Administrator (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $139,339.83 across multiple funds (3-0)
• Approved displaying a photo of the Veteran’s Memorial Committee in the Courthouse (3-0)
• Authorized Commissioner DeNaeyer to seek bids from two building inspectors for the old courthouse building (3-0)
• Approved November 25, 2025 Board of Commissioners minutes (3-0)
• Approved November 25, 2025 Board of Corrections minutes (3-0)

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss administrative appointments and infrastructure permits. The board is scheduled to review applications and appoint a Zoning Administrator. Other business includes bridge inspections and grant invoicing.

• Right of Way Permit for ALLO Communications
• Mainelli Wagner quote for privately owned bridge inspection
• Setting bid opening date for Road District 1 Loader
• SLCG Grant FY 2023 Applied Connective invoicing and FY 2024 Round 4
• Zoning Administrator applications, interviews, and appointment

The Board of Corrections met on November 25, 2025. The meeting consisted of a jail and staff census update provided by Justice Administrator Sharon Hesse. No official actions were taken.

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss county road updates and emergency management. The board is scheduled to interview and appoint a Zoning Administrator.

• Right of Way Permit for ALLO Communications
• Setting bid opening date for Road District 1 Loader
• Mainelli Wagner quote for privately owned bridge inspection
• SLCG Grant FY 2023 and FY 2024 Round 4 discussions
• Contryman Associates draft financial statement for FY 2024-2025

The Board of Commissioners approved a quote to inspect a privately owned bridge on Anderson Bridge Road and granted ALLO Communications a permit to lay fiber along Chaduza Road. The board also approved FY 2024-2025 financial statements and various fund claims.

• Approved ALLO Communications permit to lay fiber along Chaduza Road (3-0)
• Set January 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM CST to open sealed bids for District 1 loader (3-0)
• Selected Chairman McConaughey as NACO Conference Election representative (3-0)
• Accepted Mainelli Wagner quote to inspect privately owned bridge on Anderson Bridge Road (3-0)
• Approved FY 2024-2025 financial statement and Management Representation Letter (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $267,565.19 (General Fund), $123,656.04 (Road Fund), $5,623.71 (Visitors Promotion), $352.00 (Health Claims), $9,312.59 (Emergency Management), and $26,602.00 (Courthouse) (3-0)
• Approved Applied Connective invoicing for SLCG FY 2023 grant reimbursement (3-0)
• Authorized Emergency Management Director to apply for SLCG FY 2024 Round 3 grant (3-0)

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will meet to review employee benefits and pay scales. The board will also consider fund transfers and review quotes for the courthouse boiler.

• Courthouse boiler quotes
• Cost of Living Rate Scale for part-time and full-time employees
• Zoning Administrator position applications
• Salaried employee PTO and sick leave benefits
• Resolution #2025-15 and #2025-16 fund transfers

The Board of Commissioners approved a contract with Monroe HVAC to replace the courthouse boiler and venting system. The board also authorized several fund transfers and approved claims totaling over $365,000 across multiple funds. No action was taken on remote work authorization for Emergency Management or the inspection of a privately owned bridge.

• Approved $23,700 quote from Monroe HVAC for boiler and venting replacement (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-15: Fund Transfer from Health Claim Fund to General Fund (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-16: Fund Transfer from General Fund to Emergency Management Fund (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-17: 2025 Year End Certification of Highway Superintendent (3-0)
• Approved General Fund claims of $154,819.81 (3-0)
• Approved Road Fund claims of $177,138.40 (3-0)
• Approved Visitor Promotion Fund claims of $10,108.64 (3-0)
• Approved Visitor Improvement Fund claims of $23,120.00 (3-0)

Meeting

The board will discuss and act on specific articles of the zoning regulations and river setbacks. The meeting includes a proposal for a moratorium on Animal Feeding Operations and Wind and Solar Conditional Use Permits.

• Action on Zoning Regulations Article 9, 10, 11 & 12
• Action on River Setback outside Scenic River Ag District
• Proposed moratorium for Animal Feeding Operations
• Proposed moratorium for Wind and Solar Conditional Use Permits
• Discussion on adding definitions to Zoning Regulations

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss personnel changes for the Zoning Administrator and review quotes for courthouse doors and outdoor lights. The board will also receive a legal update regarding BSH Kilgore LLC vs Cherry County.

• Resignation and advertisement for the Cherry County Zoning Administrator position
• Quotes for Cherry County Courthouse and South doors and outdoor lights
• Legal update on BSH Kilgore LLC vs Cherry County, et al (Case #CI25-42)
• MOU between Cherry County Veterans Service and VetraSpec
• 908th Road culvert and road change

The Board of Commissioners accepted the resignation of Zoning Administrator Jane Stolzenburg and approved advertising for the position. The board also approved several courthouse maintenance bids and authorized the start of a road abandonment process.

• Accepted resignation of Zoning Administrator Jane Stolzenburg
• Approved advertising for the Cherry County Zoning Administrator position
• Authorized commission report to abandon a portion of 908th Road
• Approved $3,542.00 bid from Anderson Electric for courthouse outdoor lights
• Approved $3,432.75 bid from Lower Construction for south building door replacement
• Approved listing surplus equipment and vehicles on Purple Wave
• Approved $837.50 payroll reimbursement for Jane Stolzenburg
• Approved Aflac Dental Plan Option 4 effective January 1, 2026

Meeting

The board will meet to discuss state statutes and proposed changes to zoning regulations. No new business items are listed on the agenda.

• Review of state statute 23-114.03 regarding zoning regulations
• Review of proposed Zoning Regulations changes provided by Keith Marvin

The Planning Commission reached a consensus to use the updated draft zoning regulations provided by Keith Marvin on September 23, 2025, as the working copy for future changes. The commission reviewed specific revisions to permitted and conditional uses, as well as setbacks. No new business was introduced.

• Approved October 23, 2025 agenda (7-0-2)
• Approved October 7, 2025 minutes (7-0-2)
• Consensus reached to use September 23, 2025 draft zoning regulations as the working copy
• Excused absences for Gary S. and Gordon W. (7-0-2)

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss county levies, zoning fees, and various facility maintenance quotes. The meeting includes updates on daycare services and the state legislature, as well as sessions for the Board of Equalization and Board of Corrections.

• Set 2025 Cherry County Levies
• Award bid for Cherry County Justice Center Access Control System
• Discuss Cherry County Zoning Fee Schedule
• Right of Way Permit for Telcom Construction for Lumen
• Declare surplus vehicles for Road and Sheriff’s Dept

The Board of Commissioners approved a contract for courthouse boiler venting and a right-of-way permit for fiber optic installation. The board also approved a zoning fee schedule and general claims, while denying one grant claim from the Agricultural Society.

• Approved $4,450 proposal for courthouse boiler venting from Monroe HVAC
• Approved Lumen fiber optic right-of-way permit for Berry Bridge Road
• Approved zoning fee schedule (excluding solar permits)
• Denied $20,000 grant claim #25107199 from Cherry County Agricultural Society
• Approved $79,879.38 in General Fund claims
• Approved $127,975.80 in Road Fund claims
• Rescheduled Oct 28 meeting to 1:00 p.m. CST
• Moved Nov 11 meeting to Nov 12 at 10:00 a.m. CST

Meeting

The board will review proposed changes to zoning regulations and state statutes regarding adult entertainment. The meeting includes specific discussions and potential actions on various sections of the zoning regulations.

• Review of state statute 28-801 regarding adult entertainment
• Review of proposed Zoning Regulations changes provided by Keith Marvin
• Discussion and action on Zoning Regulations 8.16 to the end of the chapter (excluding section 8.18)
• Discussion and action on Zoning Regulations Article 9, 10, 11, and 12

The Planning Commission discussed updates to adult entertainment and water energy regulations. The board voted to table the final review of proposed changes and scheduled a special meeting for October 23, 2025.

• Approved October 7, 2025 agenda (8-1)
• Approved September 2, 2025 minutes (8-1)
• Voted to hold special meeting on October 23, 2025 to review zoning changes (5-3)
• Tabled review of Keith Marvin's proposed changes to next meeting (8-1)
• Tabled zoning sections 9, 10, 11, and 12 to November meeting (7-2)
• Excused absence of Gary S. (7-2)

Special

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss and potentially act on the county's comprehensive plan. The board will also address the zoning fee schedule.

• Cherry County Comprehensive Plan
• Zoning Fee Schedule

The Board of Commissioners reviewed the Planning & Zoning Comprehensive Plan and identified several changes and additions to be sent to Marvin Planning Consultants. The board discussed a Zoning Fee Schedule but took no action.

• Reviewed Comprehensive Plan and identified changes for Marvin Planning Consultants
• Tabled Zoning Fee Schedule discussion to October 14, 2025

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will discuss zoning updates, fee schedules, and the county comprehensive plan. The board will also open and award bids for the Cherry County Justice Center Access Control System.

• Award bid for Cherry County Justice Center Access Control System
• Discuss Cherry County Zoning Update and Fee Schedule
• Litigation update regarding BSH Kilgore LLC vs Cherry County (Case #CI 42-25)
• Bookmobile Interlocal Agreement with Valentine Public Library
• MOU Agreement with Cherry County Hospital

The Board of Commissioners approved claims totaling $471,445 across five funds and adopted an interlocal agreement with the Valentine Public Library for the Bookmobile. The board also voted to maintain the Zoning Administrator as a salaried position at $1,000 per month. No action was taken during an executive session regarding BSH Kilgore LLC litigation.

• Approved $306,204.45 in General Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $150,707.75 in Road Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $7,286.69 in Visitors Promotion Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $7,864.73 in Health Claims Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $9,652.24 in Emergency Management Fund claims (3-0)
• Adopted interlocal agreement with Valentine Public Library for Bookmobile (3-0)
• Continued Zoning Administrator as salaried position at $1,000/month (2-1)
• Authorized notice letters to landowners regarding road ditch mowing (3-0)

Special

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings to determine the final tax request and the FY 2025-2026 budget. Following the hearings, the board will discuss and act on the budget and related resolutions.

• Public hearing for Setting the Final Tax Request
• Public hearing for Cherry County FY 2025-2026 Budget
• Resolution 2025-13 Setting Final Tax Request
• Resolution #2025-14 Resolution of Adoption & Appropriations

The Board of Commissioners held public hearings regarding the final tax request and the proposed 2025-2026 budget. Following these hearings, the board approved the budget and adopted resolutions for the tax request and appropriations.

• Approved FY 2025-2026 Cherry County Budget (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-13 Setting Final Tax Request (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-14 Adoption and Appropriations (3-0)

Joint Public Hearing

Cherry County will hold a joint public hearing to present the budget and tax rates. Caleb Johnson of J13 Enterprises will provide the budget presentation.

• Budget and tax rate presentation by Caleb Johnson, J13 Enterprises

Emergency

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners is holding an emergency meeting to address a specific legal matter. The board will discuss and act on the legal strategy regarding Case #CI25-42 in the District Court of Cherry County.

• Legal strategy for complaint in BSH Kilgore, LLC vs. Cherry County, et al (Case #CI25-42)

The Board of Commissioners met to determine the legal strategy for the case BSH Kilgore, LLC vs. Cherry County, et al. The board decided to utilize their insurance coverage through NIRMA for the defense and requested co-counsel.

• Approved submission of BSH Kilgore, LLC vs. Cherry County matter to NIRMA for coverage, response, and co-counsel (3-0)

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will discuss the second draft of the FY 2025-2026 budget and Zoning Regulations Section 1202. The board will also act on items regarding the surveyor's budget and employee classification for the zoning department.

• Proposed FY 2025-2026 Budget Draft #2
• Zoning Regulations Section 1202
• Resolution #2025-12 Authorization of Petty Cash Fund
• Cherry County Surveyor invoicing and budget
• Road Department traffic counter

The Board of Commissioners approved a revised NIRMA Right of Way policy and permit requiring board execution. The board also adopted Resolution #2025-12 for petty cash funds and approved multiple claims lists totaling over $220,000 across various funds.

• Approved NIRMA Right of Way policy and permit with changes requiring board execution (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-12 Authorization & Reauthorization of Petty Cash Funds (3-0)
• Approved General Fund claims of $62,242.33 (3-0)
• Approved Road Fund claims of $116,282.11 (3-0)
• Approved Visitor Promotion Fund claims of $12,568.36 (3-0)
• Approved Register of Deeds P&M Fund claims of $1,436.50 (3-0)
• Approved Employee Health Insurance Claims Fund claims of $22,399.62 (3-0)
• Approved Bookmobile, Emergency Management, and 911 fund claims (3-0)

Meeting

The board will discuss and act on zoning regulations and a potential moratorium on all confined animal feeding operations. Members will also review public participation for wind and solar regulations and examine Knox County's approach to those issues.

• Action on Zoning Regulations 8.09 through the end of the chapter (excluding solar)
• Discussion and action on a moratorium on all confined animal feeding operations
• Discussion of public participation for wind and solar regulations
• Review of Knox County zoning regulations regarding wind and solar
• Discussion regarding live streaming meetings

The commission voted against a moratorium on all confined animal feeding operations. Members also made several specific revisions and deletions to proposed zoning regulations, including rules for salvage yards.

• Denied moratorium on all confined animal feeding operations (3-6)
• Approved September 2, 2025 agenda (9-0)
• Approved July 9, 2025 minutes (8-1)
• Struck regulation 8.11 from proposed Conditional Use Permit list
• Struck regulation 8.14 entirely
• Revised regulation 8.13 to set specific conditions for salvage or junk yard operations
• Revised regulation 8.15 by removing items 3, 4, 5, 8, and 9 and updating item 7 regarding setbacks

Meeting

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will discuss the FY2025-2026 budget for the Valentine Public Library and a tax request from Cherry County Hospital. The board will also consider bids for the Cherry County Jail Access Control System and the abandonment of two bridges south of Brownlee Road.

• FY2025-2026 Valentine Public Library Budget
• FY2025-2026 Cherry County Hospital Tax Request
• Procedure to abandon Bridge #3505 and #3510 south of Brownlee Road
• Award or re-open sealed bids for Cherry County Jail Access Control System
• NIRMA Right to Occupy Application & Permit with Fees Adoption

The Board of Commissioners approved a bid for courthouse generator maintenance and authorized the process to abandon two bridges. The board also appointed a new Board of Adjustments alternate and approved various fund claims.

• Accepted Cummins bid of $2,061.37 to service the County Courthouse generator (3-0)
• Approved $3,381.01 invoice for tire amnesty overage to be split between three road departments (3-0)
• Appointed Dewayne Lancaster as Board of Adjustments alternate for a three-year term (3-0)
• Authorized Highway Superintendent Jay D Osburn to start the process to abandon Bridge # ending 3505 and Bridge # ending 3510 (3-0)
• Authorized Sheriff Osburn to open a checking account with Security First Bank for WEX Bank fuel bills (3-0)
• Approved General Fund claims of $263,442.91 (3-0)
• Approved Road Fund claims of $132,008.03 (3-0)
• Approved Visitors Promotion Fund claims of $6,621.79 and Health Claims Fund claims of $2,210.70 (3-0)

Special

The Cherry County Board of Commissioners will review budget requests for the 2025-2026 cycle. The board will also discuss and act on resolutions regarding miscellaneous distributions and the petty cash fund.

• 2025-2026 Budget Workshop to review budget requests
• Adoption of Miscellaneous Distribution Resolution #2025-11
• Authorization and reauthorization of the Petty Cash Fund
• Adoption of Petty Cash Fund Resolution #2025-12

The Board of Commissioners held a budget workshop to review fiscal year 2025-2026 requests, including department and Road Fund budgets. No action was taken on the preliminary tax request or the petty cash fund. One resolution regarding tax allocation was approved.

• Adopted Resolution #2025-11 Tax Allocation to Miscellaneous Districts (3-0)
• No action taken on Resolution #2025-12 Adopt Petty Cash Fund

Meeting

The Board approved updating the county website for federal ADA compliance and designated two new private roads for 911 purposes. The board also adopted a program compliance resolution and approved multiple fund claims.

• Approved naming Highland Trail as a private road (3-0)
• Approved naming Rio Vista Lane as a private road (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-10 for County Annual Certification of Program Compliance (3-0)
• Approved MIPS to update county website for Federal ADA compliance (3-0)
• Approved $67,619.06 in General Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $90,164.48 in Road Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $12,636.66 in Visitor Promotion Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $10,623.19 in Bookmobile Fund claims (3-0)

Meeting

The Board approved Zoning Resolution Z-98 to authorize CUP 001-23 for TK Angus. Other key actions included accepting a FEMA grant for a new siren in the Village of Merriman and appointing members to the Hospital Board of Trustees.

• Approved Zoning Resolution Z-98 to approve CUP 001-23 (3-0)
• Accepted FEMA-4778-DR-NE Hazard Mitigation Grant for Merriman siren (3-0)
• Approved $32,361.35 quote from Blue Valley for Merriman siren equipment (3-0)
• Appointed Andrea Brown to a 6-year term on Hospital Board of Trustees (3-0)
• Re-appointed Deanna Scott to a 4-year term on Hospital Board of Trustees (3-0)
• Accepted Contryman Associates engagement letter for 2024-2025 fiscal year audit (3-0)
• Approved MIPS as joint public hearing postcard printing service (3-0)
• Approved $355,080.39 in General Fund claims (3-0)

Meeting

The Board of Equalization approved 17 property valuation protests and one damaged real property protest. The Board of Commissioners discussed potential conditions for a permit related to the TK Angus court case and scheduled a follow-up meeting.

• Approved 17 property valuation protests (#5, 10, 16, 17, 20, 26, 32, 34, 35, 36, 38, 47, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53) (3-0)
• Approved Destroyed Property Protest #425-25-01 to lower building value (3-0)
• Scheduled Zoom meeting with TK Angus representative for July 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

Meeting

The Planning Commission approved attaching documented changes to zoning regulations for sections 8.03 through 8.06 to the official minutes. The board also approved the June 3, 2025 minutes as amended. No other substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved July 9, 2025 agenda (8-0-1)
• Approved amended June 3, 2025 minutes (5-2-1-1)
• Approved attaching documented changes to zoning regulations for sections 8.03 to 8.06 (7-1-1)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved an $80,000 bid for the Cherry County Jail roof and authorized replacing two bridges with culverts. The board also ordered a 30-day response from BSH Kilgore regarding zoning investigation findings.

• Approved $80,000 bid from Strong 1 LLC for Cherry County Jail roof (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-08 to replace Anderson Bridge Road bridge with a culvert (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-09 to replace 908th Road bridge with a culvert (3-0)
• Approved Request to Occupy Right of Way for US Geological Survey water level sensor on Borman Bridge (3-0)
• Approved Lincoln Financial Group life insurance for employees at $385.34/month (3-0)
• Authorized Treasurer to issue County Tax Sale Certificates (3-0)
• Approved $101,229.06 in general fund claims (3-0)
• Voted to require written response from BSH Kilgore within 30 days regarding investigation findings (3-0)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners adopted a revised pay scale for road department employees to align with a $20/hour starting wage for CDL holders. The board also approved a supplemental agreement with the State of Nebraska for the Minnechaduza Bridge detour and distributed public grazing funds.

• Adopted revised road department pay scale to reflect $20/hour CDL starting wage (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-07 for State of Nebraska Agreement No. XL2305-02 Supplemental Agreement #2 (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-05 Public Grazing Funds Distribution 2025 (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-06 Cash In Lieu of Health Insurance (3-0)
• Approved General Fund claims of $187,131.88 (3-0)
• Approved Road Fund claims of $93,246.21 (3-0)
• Approved Tax List Corrections #45-48 (3-0)
• Approved Motor Vehicle Exemption for Berean Bible Church & Lakota Mission Dpt (3-0)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of a Meeting Owl 3 to livestream meetings starting July 8, 2025. The board also authorized sealed bids for the jail roof and Justice Center security upgrades. No action was taken regarding a proposed letter to organic farmers and ranchers.

• Approved $1,049 purchase of Meeting Owl 3 for livestreaming (3-0)
• Authorized sealed bids for jail roof replacement or repair (3-0)
• Authorized sealed bids for Justice Center locks and cameras (3-0)
• Approved creation of HSA Account with Security First Bank for employee health insurance (3-0)
• Approved General Fund claims totaling $256,025.13 (3-0)
• Approved Road Fund claims totaling $523,804.68 (3-0)
• Approved minutes from May 27, 2025 for Board of Commissioners, Equalization, and Corrections (3-0)

Meeting

The Planning Commission approved several amendments to proposed zoning regulations and adopted a new conditional use permit process for the Niobrara Council. The board also modified sign index requirements and scheduled its next meeting for July 9, 2025.

• Adopted 'Option 2' for Niobrara Council zoning permit process (6-0)
• Struck sign size language from chapters 502.07 #5 letter I and 502.07 #6 letter I (6-0)
• Replaced proposed regulation 801.03 with current section 608 (6-0)
• Approved proposed regulations 801.04, 802.01, and 802.02 with selected existing definitions (6-0)
• Approved proposed regulation 802.03 with specific insertions from existing regulations (6-0)
• Approved proposed regulations 802.05, 802.06, and 802.07 (6-0)
• Approved proposed regulations 802.08 through 802.15 with an amendment to 802.08 (6-0)
• Approved April 1, 2025 minutes as amended (5-1)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved a forest service stage one burn ban and accepted a $20,048 cybersecurity grant. They also adopted a budget resolution for fund transfers and approved the TCPR Protocol and Policy for the Justice Center.

• Approved moving into forest service stage one burn ban (Consensus)
• Approved TCPR Protocol and Policy for Justice Center (3-0)
• Adopted Budget Resolution #2025-04 for fund transfers (3-0)
• Approved $20,048 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program award (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $248,824.30 from General Fund (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $120,693.23 from Road Fund (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $5,357.53 from Visitors Promotion Fund (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $11,783.05 from Health Claims Fund (3-0)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved general, road, and visitor promotion fund claims totaling $627,480. They also authorized a letter of support for the Nebraska Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (NBEAD) program. The board directed a review of job classifications and salaries for non-elected employees.

• Approved $115,298.39 in General Fund claims
• Approved $507,111.13 in Road Fund claims
• Approved $5,071.18 in Visitor Promotion Fund claims
• Approved letter of support for Nebraska Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (NBEAD)
• Approved review of non-elected job classifications and salaries by Pam Bourne
• Approved April 29, 2025 minutes for Board of Commissioners, Board of Equalization, and Board of Corrections
• Entered and exited executive session to discuss policy, protocol, and defamation of character

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2020 John Deere 524L Wheel Loader from Murphy Tractor. The board also distributed Forest Reserve Funds and appointed a 4-H Council Representative. General, Road, and Visitors Promotion fund claims were approved.

• Approved $132,800 bid from Murphy Tractor for 2020 John Deere 524L Wheel Loader (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2025-03 to distribute $9,161.08 in Forest Reserve Funds (3-0)
• Appointed Laura Willert as 4-H Council Representative to the Extension Board (3-0)
• Approved General Fund claims totaling $272,554.44 (3-0)
• Approved Road Fund claims totaling $140,621.08 (3-0)
• Approved Visitors Promotion Fund claims totaling $7,400.70 (3-0)
• Approved regular meeting minutes from April 8, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved Board of Equalization minutes from April 8, 2025 (3-0)

Special

The Board of Commissioners met for a special session to adjust a warrant following a Cherry County Hospital claim adjustment due to a lack of funds. The board discussed safeguards to prevent future issues, but no action was taken on those measures.

• Approved motion to adjust warrant from $372,102.80 to $352,776.48 (3-0)

Meeting

The Board approved the Cherry County Hospital 2025-2026 budget and a contract for a new courthouse boiler with a filtration system. They also authorized a $34,500 loan for a Road District 1 motor grader and a $20,000 tourism grant for Ag Society water infrastructure.

• Approved Cherry County Hospitals 2025-2026 Budget
• Authorized Road District 2 to advertise sealed bids for a new wheel loader
• Authorized $34,500 Security First Bank loan for Road District 1 motor grader
• Accepted $25,755 bid from Monroe HVAC for boiler replacement and filtration
• Approved $20,000 Tourism Grant to Ag Society for water infrastructure
• Accepted state report on Noxious Weed Program Annual Requirements for 2024
• Set starting wage for county road employees at $19.00/hour ($20.00/hour with CDL)
• Approved claims in the amount of $87,440.68

Meeting

The Planning Commission approved a new procedure to approve meeting agendas. The commission also accepted revised language for Section 502.01 of the current regulations to be forwarded to Keith Marvin.

• Approved procedure to approve the agenda (6-0)
• Approved March 3, 2025 minutes as amended (6-0)
• Accepted proposed language revisions for Section 502.01
• Decided to send Niobrara Scenic River Corridor permit process revisions to Kalli Kieborz
• Excused absences for Gordon W., Duane K., and Gary S. (6-0)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of a used motor grader and a dispatching interlocal agreement with Keya Paha County. They also authorized a fund transfer for the Sheriff's Department and made several board appointments. No action was taken on courthouse boiler repairs or a $20,000 Ag Society grant.

• Approved purchase of 2015 John Deere 672G Motor Grader for $136,500 (3-0)
• Adopted Cherry County – Keya Paha County Interlocal Agreement for Dispatching (3-0)
• Approved Resolution #2025-02 fund transfer of $4,711.11 to Inheritance Tax Fund (3-0)
• Appointed Monty Krueger to Veterans Service Committee for 5-year term (3-0)
• Appointed Dale Bowlin to Western Cherry County Extension Board for 3-year term (3-0)
• Appointed Victoria Simmons to Eastern Cherry County Extension Board until Dec 31, 2025 (3-0)
• Reappointed Jan Smith to Valentine Area Extension Board for 3-year term (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $442,000+ across General, Road, Visitors Promotion, Health Claims, and Emergency Management funds (3-0)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners adopted a highway improvement plan and approved a contract to update the 911 recording system. The board also approved a conditional use permit for an outdoor furniture fabrication shop. No action was taken regarding a grant request from the Cherry County Ag Society.

• Adopted Resolution #2025-01 to approve the One- and Six Year Highway Improvement Program Plan (3-0)
• Approved $40,909 Motorola Eventide Logger Solution Agreement for 911 Recording System (3-0)
• Approved CUP #25-01 and Zoning Resolution #Z-98 for Outback Sales LLC fabrication shop (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $56,695.62 from the General Fund (3-0)
• Approved claims totaling $81,925.43 from the Road Fund (3-0)
• Approved February 25, 2025 minutes for Board of Commissioners, Board of Equalization, and Board of Corrections (3-0)
• Tabled decision on Cherry County Ag Society grant request pending further data and audit

Meeting

The Planning Commission approved the February 4, 2025 minutes and decided to proceed with zoning regulation revisions despite suggestions to wait for the Comprehensive Plan. The commission directed the Zoning Administrator to send revised definitions to the County Attorney and Sheriff for review.

• Approved February 4, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Tabled Niobrara Council Zoning recommendations and Section 502 sign portion
• Decided to continue moving forward with zoning regulation revisions
• Directed Zoning Administrator to send definitions to County Attorney and Sheriff for review
• Excused absences of Gary S., Chad T., and Wade A. (6-0)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved a conditional use permit for 10 additional RV electrical hookups at Sharp’s Outfitters LLC. The board also appointed a budget preparer for 2025 and approved several fund warrants totaling over $380,000. No action was taken on a request for local matching funds from Open Plains Transit.

• Approved CUP #004/24 for Sharp’s Outfitters LLC RV electrical hookups (3-0)
• Appointed Caleb Johnson with J13 Enterprises LLC as 2025 Budget Preparer (3-0)
• Approved $261,380.61 in General Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $112,994.28 in Road Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $9,091.92 in Emergency Management Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $5,987.97 in Visitors Promotion Fund claims (3-0)
• Approved $2,134.93 in Health Claims Fund claims (3-0)
• Set March 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. to open bids for a used motor grader (3-0)

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners conducted a workshop to review the Planning & Zoning Comprehensive Plan. Members discussed additions and changes to the document, which will be emailed to Marvin Planning Consultants for recommendations.

• Discussed additions to Comprehensive Plan including table of contents, goals, policies, and chapter introductions
• Discussed enhancing maps and charts for legibility
• Discussed conservation easement recommendations

Meeting

The Board entered a three-year budget preparation contract with J13 Enterprises LLC and appointed five members to the Board of Adjustments. The Board also authorized a health insurance data release agreement and approved $285,964.55 in total claims across the General and Road funds.

• Entered 3-year budget preparation contract with J13 Enterprises LLC
• Appointed Shane Daniels, Orrin Schaeffer, Kerry Keys, RJ Luthy, and Garrett Swanson to the Board of Adjustments
• Approved $189,948.23 in General Fund claims
• Approved $96,016.32 in Road Fund claims
• Authorized signing of business associate agreement with Benefit Management Services
• Approved $11,803.70 payment to New Generations from Inheritance Tax Fund
• Set public hearing for CUP #25-01 Outback Sales LLC for March 11, 2025
• Scheduled Comprehensive Plan workshop for February 18, 2025

Meeting

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a conditional use permit for a recycled plastic furniture fabrication shop. The board also elected its officers and decided to maintain current bylaws without changes.

• Recommended approval of CUP#25-1 for Outback Sales LLC poly outdoor furniture fabrication shop (7-1 abstention)
• Elected Wade Andrews as Chairman (8-0)
• Elected Duane Kime as Vice Chairman (8-0)
• Elected Sherri Bacon as Secretary (8-0)
• Approved no changes to Planning Commission Bylaws and Rules of Procedure (8-0)
• Approved January 21, 2025 minutes as amended (8-0)
• Excused absence of Bill W. (8-0)

Meeting

The Board approved several fund claims, a revised construction bid for the South Extension Office, and the 2023-2024 audit draft. The board also authorized a loan for a District 2 skid steer and made several appointments to the Planning & Zoning Board.

• Approved claims totaling $280,510.38 (General Fund), $128,586.59 (Road Fund), $5,498.94 (Visitors Promotion Fund), $24,621.73 (Health Claims Fund), $50,000.00 (Covid ARPA Fund), $9,211.17 (Emergency Management Fund), and $11,403.35 (Inheritance Tax Fund)
• Accepted Highway Superintendent job description
• Approved revised bid for Cherry County South Building for $20,706.46
• Approved 2023-2024 Audit Draft
• Authorized Security First Bank loan for District 2 skid steer
• Accepted Michael McLeod’s resignation from Planning & Zoning Board
• Re-appointed Gordon Witte and Wade Andrews to Planning & Zoning (2025-2028)
• Appointed Bill Wachob, Chad Tetherow, and Gary MacLeod to Planning & Zoning Board

Meeting

The Planning Commission approved the January 7 minutes and made several decisions to omit or restructure sections of proposed zoning regulations. The board also established a follow-up process regarding missing revised regulations from Keith Marvin.

• Approved January 7, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Decided Chairman Wade A. will contact Keith Marvin regarding missing revised zoning regulations
• Consensus to omit section 4.10.09 (Administrative Agency: Enforcement) pending verification of state statutes
• Decided to omit Article 6 (Off Street Parking)
• Decided a specific chapter for signs (Article 7) is unnecessary as regulations will be placed in pertaining chapters
• Tabled Niobrara Council 4.09 and Article 5 for future review
• Discussed changing 'NRCAG' to 'Scenic River Boundary' in sections 502.01, 501.03, and 502.07

Meeting

The Board of Commissioners completed its 2025 annual reorganization, including the appointment of leadership and committee liaisons. The board approved a new Highway Superintendent job description and appointed JD Osburn to the role. Additionally, the board approved a letter of support opposing the Animal ID mandate.

• Appointed Commissioner McConaughey as Chairman for 2025 (3-0)
• Appointed Commissioner DeNaeyer as Vice Chairman for 2025 (3-0)
• Approved 2025 Board committee and liaison designations (3-0)
• Designated six banks as 2025 depositories for county funds (3-0)
• Appointed Samantha Leonard as Health Insurance Plan and Sam.Gov Administrator (3-0)
• Approved the Cherry County Highway Superintendent Job Description (3-0)
• Appointed JD Osburn as Cherry County Highway Superintendent (3-0)
• Approved letter of support opposing the Animal ID mandate (3-0)

Meeting

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a conditional use permit for RV electrical hookups at Sharp’s Outfitters LLC. The board also established a new protocol to forward all conditional use permit applications to the Niobrara Council following public hearings.

• Recommended approval of CUP#004/24 Sharp’s Outfitters LLC, RV Electrical Hookups (6-0)
• Approved December 3, 2024 minutes (5-0)
• Decided to revise current Niobrara River Corridor Agricultural District Zoning Regulations rather than adopt proposed regulations
• Agreed to forward all CUP applications and public hearing minutes to the Niobrara Council to start a 90-day review clock
• Excused absence of Michael M. (6-0)
• Scheduled special meeting for January 21, 2025 at 2:00 PM CT