McCook City Council Approves Fireworks Funding, Updates Pool Fees; Sports Complex Progress Continues

McCOOK, Neb. — The McCook City Council met Monday evening for its regular meeting, approving several routine items along with funding for a Fourth of July celebration and updates to local swimming pool fees.

Dispatchers Recognized as “First First Responders”

Council approved a proclamation designating April 12–18 as Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

McCook Police Chief, Kevin Hodgson, highlighted the role of dispatchers, noting they handle approximately 24,000 calls per year and serve as the first point of contact during emergencies.

“They’re the ones behind the scenes bridging the gap between the public and emergency services,” Hodgson said.

The department currently has six dispatchers, with two in training, and provides dispatch services for multiple agencies across the region.

$1,500 Approved for Freedom Festival Fireworks

Council approved a request from the Southwest Nebraska Freedom Festival Committee to use $1,500 in ACE funds to support the annual Fourth of July fireworks display.

Event organizers said the festival continues to grow and brings together the community while honoring veterans, active military, and first responders. The event is typically held at the fairgrounds and includes food, activities, and fireworks, with contingency plans in place for weather.

Council members noted the event has also supported local projects, including improvements at the veterans cemetery.

Sports Complex Construction Moving Quickly

City Manager, Nate Schneider, shared an update on the ongoing sports complex project, noting rapid progress on infrastructure and field development.

• Paving has been completed on part of West Q Street to the complex

• Additional roadwork is underway connecting to Highway 83

• Water and sewer infrastructure is largely in place

• Turf installation has begun on the championship baseball field

Schneider said the project is moving quickly, with a tentative goal of September completion, though some portions could be ready sooner.

Changes Approved for Swimming Pool Fees

Council approved an ordinance updating swimming pool fees and simplifying the system.

Key changes include:

• Eliminating the babysitter/grandparent pass

• Replacing it with a senior (60+) season pass

• Removing separate lap swimming and water walking passes

• Transitioning to a more streamlined fee structure, including online purchasing options

City staff said the changes are intended to reduce administrative burden and improve efficiency.

Other Business

Additional items approved as part of the consent agenda included:

• Minutes from previous meetings

• Engineering agreements for infrastructure improvements

• Claims and financial reports

• Multiple street closures for community events, including Heritage Days, Third Thursdays, and Cruisin’ the Bricks

Looking Ahead

• A Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for April 13 to discuss zoning regulations, including RV policies

• Updates on utility infrastructure projects are expected at the next council meeting

• Residents were also reminded that the choice gas election period is open through April 22