The Broken Bow City Council met for their regular meeting Tuesday, May 14, in the Broken Bow Public Library at 6 p.m..
Mayor Rod Sonnichsen called the meeting to order with all members present.
The agenda included the approval of minutes from April 23, the approval of bills, and the approval of Ka-Boomer’s Inc. Fireworks application, all of which were approved without issue.
In new business, Mayor Sonnichsen proclaimed May 24 as Poppy Day in Broken Bow. The Council also reviewed and approved the 2023 Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Annual Report. Additionally, the Russell property located at 631 South 9th was sold for $8,200.
One of the main topics discussed was the consideration of ordinance amendments related to business permits and regulations for merchants and vendors. City Administrator Dave Schmidt presented the complete rewrite incorporating feedback from Lexington, Kearney, and existing Broken Bow ordinances to ensure fairness and equality in regulations. Ordinance 1282 would establish these regulations and the three readings were not waived, with a motion made by Chris Myers.
Similarly, Ordinance 1283 proposed amendments to vendor permit fees in the city, with three readings also not waived following a motion by Luke Wassom.
The Council addressed a temporary street closure proposal for two parking spaces on the northwest corner of the Square on June 1st, 2024. This closure is intended to accommodate the Wheels 4 Warriors USA & Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association’s poker run from approximately 5 – 8 p.m. The Council approved the closing of the parking spaces.
Dave Schmidt reported on the successful citywide cleanup last Saturday, as over 46,000 lbs. of refuse was collected. The tree dump will be open and free again this Saturday for those who missed out.
The flooding at City Hall in Broken Bow was discussed, but plans are already in motion to begin renovations once insurance matters are settled. In a show of goodwill, no late fees will be assessed on utility bills paid by the May 30 cutoff date.
Paul Holland highlighted National Police Officer’s Week and congratulated all the dedicated officers serving our community.
Mayor Sonnichsen wrapped up the City Council meeting by expressing his gratitude for all the input from the audience, and he adjourned the meeting at 7:02 p.m.
The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 28 in the Broken Bow Municipal Building at 6 p.m.
