Mayor Bulkley Says 2017 Was a Year of Change in State of City Address

COLUMBUS, Neb. - Mayor Jim Bulkley told the city council that his first year in office was a "year of change." Bulkley delivered his State of the City address in Monday's council meeting, beginning by saying that many personnel changes were made this past year. He mentioned new city administrator Tara Vasicek, new police chief Chuck Sherer and the addition of a full-time fire chief Daniel Miller, as well as three other new city employees. Bulkley also cited the new Columbus Middle School, Cargill's expansion and the building of the 3rd Ave. viaduct as construction projects that began this past year. He also told the dozens in attendance that the city's $75 million budget is "being managed wisely." "We continue to provide the necessary services to pave and plow our streets, handle out wastewater and deliver safe drinking water. Our parks continue to grow, the newest being Frontier Park, near the armory. And the need for ball fields, soccer fields and all the other amenities are always being discussed," says Bulkley. He said 2018 is also a big year for the city. He cited the city and the county teaming up to provide one efficient 911 facility, and a May bond issue that would build a new police and fire station. "The details will be shared and the timeline laid out. This project is quickly becoming a reality," says Bulkley.