David A Hibler

The subcommittee discussed and approved a license agreement with Schulz Outdoors LLC regarding temporary structures in a flood pool easement. They recommended the board approve the 2027 operational agreement with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and a staff salary increase for the fiscal year 2027 based on consumer price index data, alongside a merit and salary adjustment pool. The subcommittee also reviewed the internal practice for approving director expense reimbursement reports and discussed a proposed new performance evaluation tool for the general manager.

The Subcommittee discussed and recommended action on several infrastructure and environmental projects, including the Copper Dollar Cove principal spillway pipe repair, the Nebraska Environmental Trust grant contract for the Pecan Creek Wetland Complex, and professional services amendments for the Deadmans Run Flood Reduction Project and the P Street drainage pipe repair. Additionally, the Subcommittee reviewed and recommended awarding the bid for Phase 1 of the Deadmans Run Flood Reduction Project construction.

This Groundwater Management Plan for the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District aims to proactively protect and sustain groundwater resources, ensuring beneficial use in conformance with state standards. The plan outlines goals and objectives for both groundwater quantity and quality, focusing on monitoring elevations and contamination, preventing pollution, and encouraging sustainable development. It details management strategies, including non-regulatory approaches like public education and voluntary practices, alongside regulatory authorities to address issues such as nitrate contamination, total dissolved solids, emerging contaminants, and quantity concerns arising from geology, climate, and water use.

The subcommittee considered several action items including a Recreational Trails Program grant agreement with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for the Kolbrook segment of the Prairie Corridor Trail and an amendment to the agreement with JEO Consulting for additional project management and environmental services. The committee also reviewed bids for boundary fence replacements on four saline wetland properties and considered a license agreement for an agricultural crossing on the Homestead Trail. Additionally, staff provided updates on the upcoming LRIP meeting and grant funding opportunities.

The Finance and Planning Subcommittee discussed and approved the proposed schedule for the development of the FY2027 Long-Range Implementation Plan and the associated budget process. Additionally, the committee approved recommendations for the Board of Directors regarding budget overruns exceeding the 20% threshold for bank services and director and staff liability insurance, with the associated costs to be covered by cash reserves.