NORFOLK, Neb. – A Norfolk public official who has been with the city for over three decades is leaving his position. The City of Norfolk announced that Public Safety Director Shane Weidner will be taking a new job at Nucor Steel Nebraska.
Weidner began his career in the city as a firefighter in April of 1990. He was promoted to the position of rescue supervisor in November of 1991 and shift commander in May of 1994. Two years later, he was promoted to the position of fire chief and remained in that position until accepting the position of city administrator on August of 2011. He served in that capacity until he assumed the responsibilities of public safety director in July 2017.
Under Weidner’s leadership as fire chief, the city navigated a potential propane tank explosion in 2009, during which nearly a third of Norfolk’s population needed to be evacuated, as well as a major flood in 2010.
In addition, Weidner oversaw the construction of a new fire station in 2004 and significant upgrades to fire and EMS operations. As city administrator, Shane oversaw the incorporation of Economic Development Operations into a city department, construction of Norfolk’s outdoor Aquatic Center and Veteran’s Memorial Park, and a local option sales tax for the renovation and expansion of the Norfolk Public Library.
As Public Safety Director, Weidner helped the city respond to the record-breaking flood of 2019, the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020 and implemented a new city-wide communications system upgrade.
“Shane’s accomplishments are too numerous to list,” said Norfolk City Administrator Andy Colvin. “His impact on Norfolk and the surrounding region during his outstanding and honorable career will be felt for generations. His passion for public service and commitment to the safety and well-being of Norfolkans has been embedded into the culture of the entire City staff. He will be greatly missed by everyone.”
Norfolk Mayor Josh Moenning also expressed his gratitude for Shane’s service.
“Shane Weidner guided this community through some of its most challenging periods – with uncommon steadiness, courage and compassion,” Moenning said. “Norfolkans have been served exceptionally well by this man, who’s dedicated his livelihood to their well-being.”
The city said in a statement that it will begin the process seeking Weidner’s replacement “in the near future.”
