Larry Fox

The council meeting addressed several items including public hearings for a conditional use permit, a comprehensive development plan amendment, and zoning changes. The council also processed a liquor license application and a related manager application. General business included the approval of a preliminary/final plat and a request for a fence height increase. Several contracts were awarded for the Street and Landfill Departments, including equipment for asphalt recycling, salt and sand spreading, and a shredder. Additionally, the council approved an Enterprise Resource Planning solution contract, bank signature authority for utility accounts, and downtown revitalization program guidelines.

The council held a worksession to review the proposed 2016-2017 Hastings Utilities Budget, focusing on challenges such as water quality, infrastructure project timelines, and environmental compliance. Discussions included proposed rate increases for water and sanitary sewer services, a staffing study, and salary adjustments. The council also explored financial planning regarding reserve funds, marketing fund allocations for economic development, software collaboration between city and utility services, and strategies for future utility management and board appointments.

The council meeting included the introduction of the new Director of Finance and recognition of various city staff service anniversaries. Consent items included the approval of multiple work orders and a wide range of liquor license renewals. The council held public hearings and granted approval for the final plats of Shadow Ridge 8th Addition, Lakeview 8th Subdivision, and Hastings Commons Subdivision No. 2. A resolution was passed to approve Plan Modification #12.19.17 for Redevelopment Plan 1 at 109 North Burlington Avenue. Furthermore, the council approved an amended professional services contract with the South Central Economic Development District for grant administration and authorized the rescheduling of a future meeting. Finally, the council passed a resolution authorizing the City Attorney to negotiate the purchase of utility poles from Windstream Nebraska, Inc. or to proceed to condemnation if necessary.

The council discussed updates from the Board of Public Works regarding well nitrate testing and annual budget reviews. Administrative business included the presentation of the 2016-2017 Annual City Budget and the approval of an interlocal agreement for Hastings Public Library operations. Major projects and agreements authorized included a fuel oil tank contract for the WEC facility, a performance guarantee letter of credit related to groundwater contamination remediation, a telecommunications right-of-way agreement, a non-federal reimbursable agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration for airport lighting, and a sidewalk patio lease for a local brewing company. Additionally, the council passed an ordinance to vacate a portion of East C Street.

The meeting was held as a Town Hall to receive public input regarding the Downtown City Block Development Project. A representative from the Hastings Economic Development Corporation provided an overview of the project and addressed questions submitted by the audience on behalf of developers and city staff.