Red Willow County Commissioners Table Vaccine Funding Request

McCOOK, Neb. — The Red Willow County Board of Commissioners voted Tuesday to table a request from the Red Willow County Health Department for an additional $20,000 to support vaccine purchases.

Health Department Director Rhea Hernandez requested the funding to help maintain vaccine supplies for local children and students amid rising costs and demand.

Commissioners acknowledged the increased costs but determined the additional funding was not immediately necessary because the department remains within its overall budget. Commissioners noted the health department has used about two-thirds of its annual budget so far and could exceed the vaccine line item if needed as long as the department stays within its total budget.

The board voted 3-0 to table the request.

The commissioners also heard from Janell Anderson Ehrke, a candidate for the Nebraska Legislature’s District 38 seat. Ehrke, who serves as Chief Operating Officer of GROW Nebraska, introduced herself and discussed priorities including supporting agriculture, strengthening small businesses, and leveraging institutions such as McCook Community College to promote economic growth in rural Nebraska.

She also discussed property tax concerns and the importance of maintaining a strong tax base to keep residents in the state. Ehrke also addressed redistricting concerns, noting the current legislative district boundaries separate McCook from part of its trade area.

In other business, Tasha Wulf of the Red Willow County Extension Office presented the office’s annual report. Wulf highlighted Extension programs serving Red Willow County and surrounding communities, including education in early childhood development, agriculture, and community health. Extension educators in McCook work collaboratively with staff in neighboring counties to deliver programming and connect local communities with University of Nebraska resources.

Commissioners approved a Special Designated License for the Roundup Bar and Grill in Indianola and approved the Red Willow County Fair Board’s request to designate the Methodist Food Booth building as surplus property.

The board also acknowledged a Notice of Special Exception Hearing from the City of McCook and received an update from the Red Willow County Treasurer reporting that 65 parcels were sold at public tax sale for a total of $119,611.53 in unpaid taxes collected.

The Clerk of the District Court reported monthly revenue of $1,527.53.

Commissioners later entered closed session to discuss a personnel matter. No action was taken following the closed session.