City of Wilber

The special meeting's primary purpose was the review, discussion, and possible action regarding the Zoubek Addition plans. Key discussion points focused on the construction of the water main, street, and sewer main for the development. While engineered plans were provided for the sewer main, the water main and street construction lacked engineering design and stamping, only having as-built record drawings. A motion to halt further building permits until completion of infrastructure was not seconded. The Council ultimately instructed the developer to obtain engineered design plans, complete with seal and signature, for the water main and street construction for future review and consideration.

Key discussions during the meeting involved the approval of claims and the passage of Ordinance #988, which imposes a one-half percent Sales and Use Tax commencing April 1, 2026, for funding municipal improvements. A public hearing was held concerning the consideration and subsequent approval of the One and Six Year Plan for street improvements. The Fire Chief reported on the increased contract with the Saline County Rural Fire District, the purchase of air packs and air bottles (partially grant-funded), and the decision to declare the 1969 Aerial Truck and 1950 Dodge Power Wagon as surplus property for sale, with proceeds earmarked for the restoration of a 1933 International vehicle. The Council also addressed a water line identification issue in the Zoubek addition, approved ambulance and utility bill write-offs, and awarded a bid for a generator at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The key discussion topics for this meeting of the Mayor and Council included Subdivision Conveyances requiring Resolution 2025-12, a discussion and potential action regarding a subdivision request by Mike & Kris Hyde, and unfinished business. New business items involved discussion and action on softball field and ballpark improvements, a Capacity Purchase Agreement with NPPD & NORRIS PUBLIC POWER, review of City Insurance bids, consideration of Resolution 2025-11 for Year-End Certification of the City Street Superintendent for 2025, appointment of an Engineer with Olsson Assoc. as the City Street Superintendent for 2026, approval of Olsson Agreements for General Engineering Services and Street Superintendent work for 2026, reappointment to the Wilber Housing Authority Board, discussion/action on an agreement for lift station access, discussion/action on a sewer line dedication request from Barnas, purchase of a Generator for the Wastewater Shop, discussion/action on the Zoubek addition (water, sewer, road), a Building Permit application for a new house, discussion/action on Well project items, an update on Nuisance properties, TIF discussion/action update, Annexations, and discussions regarding Czech Festival camper parking and Food Vendor regulations. City reports from various departments and the Mayor were also scheduled.

The regular meeting addressed several agenda items, including the approval of claims for various city operations. A decision was made to award the sale of a 1969 Ford Smeal Aerial Fire Truck to Al Ertzner for $4365.00, with the proceeds designated for the Fire Department. The Council approved the Agreement Renewal and Certificate of Compliance for Maintenance Agreement 42 with the Nebraska Department of Transportation. The purchase of eighteen white lounge chairs to replace older ones at the swimming pool was authorized. Updates were received regarding a prospective 2.5% rate increase from Norris Public Power and nuisance property contacts being managed by the Mayor. The Council reappointed members to the City Board of Adjustment and the City Planning and Zoning Board. A closed session was held to discuss possible litigation concerning non-compliance with city regulations for utility construction in the Zoubek addition, resulting in direction to notify the developer regarding design and permitting requirements. A second closed session discussed city personnel and wage negotiations. No formal action was taken following the personnel discussion in open session.

The special meeting addressed infrastructure for the Zoubek addition, specifically concerning sewer, water, and street requirements. The Council held a closed session to strategize on this matter. Following the closed session, the Council directed the City Attorney to engage an engineer to investigate if the construction and installation of the 4-inch water line meet necessary water main requirements, and to verify if the road construction into the Zoubek subdivision meets required standards. The cost of these engineering studies will be charged to the developer, Jerrod Zoubek.