Red Willow County Commissioners Tackle Budget, Infrastructure, and Community Support

McCook, Neb.- The Red Willow County Board of Commissioners and the Board of Equalization met on Monday, June 23, 2025, covering a full agenda that included road improvements, community funding, tax assessments, and legislative updates. Chairman Ted Gans and Commissioner Randy Dean led the respective meetings, with Commissioner Charles Fritsche also present.

Emergency Preparedness Plan Updated

To ensure the county remains ready for disasters, the board approved an updated Local Emergency Operations Plan (LEOP).

Resolution No. 1560, prepared by Emergency Manager Kevin Darling, outlines resources and steps to be taken in emergencies such as tornadoes. It was added to the agenda as an emergency item to meet a July 1 deadline.

Property and Vehicle Tax Adjustments

The Board of Equalization approved changes that affect local tax rolls.

An omitted building on Klinkebiel Cattle Company’s property, constructed in 2024, was added to the tax list, increasing taxable property by $139,464. They also approved a motor vehicle tax exemption for Community Hospital for a new Toyota RAV4 used in their home health fleet.

Support Renewed for Family Resource Center

The county will continue backing local programs that serve families.

New Family Resource Center Director Kaye T. Bieck shared updates on services including cooking and sewing classes, hygiene supply distribution, and foster care training. Commissioners approved $7,500 in support for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, matching last year’s contribution.

Livestock Operation Expansion Approved

An agricultural development project received final approval following a public hearing.

Ruggles Farms, Inc., represented by Settje Agri-Services & Engineering, applied for a Conditional Use Permit to expand a livestock feeding operation. Zoning Administrator Craig Bennett confirmed the plan complied with county regulations and had received prior approval from the Planning & Zoning Committee. Resolution No. 1559 was adopted, granting the permit.

County Road Project Bid Accepted

The board moved forward with a summer road maintenance project.

B&H Paving of Scott City, Kansas, submitted the sole bid for the 2025 armor coat project — a surface treatment that helps preserve rural roads. Commissioners accepted their bid of $169,726 to cover 11.3 miles, including Lebanon-Bartley Road (403). The work is expected to begin in August using MC3000 oil, chosen for its compatibility with county gravel.

Legislative Update from NACO

The board received updates on new state laws that will affect counties.

Beth Farrell with the Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) summarized several bills:

• LB468 (Inheritance tax): Did not pass; inheritance tax remains in effect.

• LB373: Allows roads to be vacated without a formal road study.

• LB561: Clarifies overweight hauling permits for dairy milk transport.

• LB97: Moves Nebraska to rear-only license plates in 2029.

• DHHS office space: Counties will no longer need to provide office space starting in 2028.

Increased Support for McCook Humane Society

Animal care services will receive a modest funding boost.

Joyce Anderson from the McCook Humane Society requested additional support due to rising costs and increased intake. The board approved $450 per month in funding for 2025–2026 — up $50 from last year.

Funding for Region II Services and SWATS

Mental health and workforce services will continue receiving local support.

Kylie Joyce (Region II Services) and Mandy Broussard (SWATS) presented their annual reports. The county approved $23,116 in funding — a 1% increase based on population — to support both organizations.

Dispatch Agreement with City of McCook

The county will continue sharing emergency communication services with the city.

A revised agreement for 911 dispatch services with the City of McCook was approved, totaling $107,367 for the upcoming fiscal year (or $8,947.25 per month).

County Road Classification Map Approved

A map classifying county roads was reviewed and approved.

Prepared by the Nebraska Department of Transportation, the map’s full purpose wasn’t entirely clear to commissioners, but approval was granted as a routine step.

Consent Agenda and Budget Planning

Routine financial items and budget preparations were also approved.

The board approved the consent agenda, which included past meeting minutes and claims totaling $592,661.28. They also scheduled protest hearings for July 14–18 and authorized an agreement with Daniel Miller CPA for budget preparation services.