Oakland-Craig Board of Education Meeting Minutes

March 22, 2016 Leave a comment


The regular monthly Board of Education meeting was held Monday, March 14, 2016 in the Board Meeting Room in the Elementary Building. Administrators present were Superintendent Smith, Secondary Principal Droescher and Elementary Principal Bland. President Thiele called the meeting to order at 8:00 p.m. and noted the Nebraska Open Meetings Law. Notice of this meeting was properly posted and/or published by advance Public Notice in accordance with Board Policy #2008 with notice and advance agenda given to the President of the Board and all members prior to the meeting date.

 

ROLL CALL

Roll Call was called with the following members present: Anderson, Brett Johnson, Kiley Johnson, Magnusson, Pille, Ray, Richards, Schmidt and Thiele.

 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

            Pille moved that the agenda be approved as presented. Kiley Johnson seconded the motion. There was no discussion. Voting results were: For Motion-9; Against Motion-0; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

REGULAR AGENDA

 

President Thiele welcomed approximately 20 visitors. Three patrons addressed the Board.

 

DLR – CURTIS JOHNSON UPDATES ON THE PARKING LOT, HIGH SCHOOL AND BOILER PROJECTS

Curtis Johnson of DLR updated the Board on several items. Specifications for the boiler project have been sent to contractors to bid on. Curtis presented cost estimates for paving the parking lot north of the elementary building. The assessment on the high school building is nearing completion. Curtis gave the preliminary report which included ideas on how to make the building ADA accessible. Cost estimates will be reported at a future Board Meeting.

           

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE REPORT

            Student Representative, James Moseman, reported on the happenings at the High School. The Student Council would like to place 3 picnic tables outside the high school building. They will coordinate with the janitors on placement. The shop class will build them. Twelve students have completed the Microsoft Office Specialist certification. The FFA has received a Farm Credit Grant for $2,000 to be used for creating and maintaining a garden. The produce will then be used in the cafeteria as a first step to making a fully functional Farm to School Program. Tommy Nelson and Dylan Swenson were congratulated for their participation at the State wrestling tournament. The Girls Basketball Team was recognized for qualifying for the State tournament. James concluded his report by providing a list of upcoming events and activities.

 

APPROVAL OF MARCH 2016 CLAIMS FROM THE GENERAL FUND

Magnusson ­­moved that the March 2016 claims from the General Fund, in the amount of $81,643.51 be approved as presented. Pille seconded the motion. There was no discussion. Voting results were: For Motion-9; Against Motion-0; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

APPROVAL OF MARCH 2016 CLAIMS FROM THE SAVINGS AND DEPRECIATION FUND

            Pille moved that the March 2016 claims from the Savings and Depreciation Fund, in the amount of $29,956.64 be approved as presented. Magnusson seconded the motion. Mr. Smith explained that this was for the purchase of the Chrome Books for the high school. Voting results were: For Motion-9; Against Motion-0; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

APPROVAL OF MARCH 2016 CLAIMS FROM THE LUNCH FUND

Ray ­­moved that the March 2016 claims from the Lunch Fund, in the amount of $10,207.69 be approved as presented. Magnusson seconded the motion. There was no discussion. Voting results were: For Motion-9; Against Motion-0; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE FEBRUARY 8, 2016 SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Anderson moved to approve the minutes from the February 8, 2016 board meeting as presented. Kiley Johnson seconded the motion. There was no discussion. Voting results were: For Motion-8; Against Motion-0; Other-1 (Ray abstained). Motion carried.

 

STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS

Pille reported that the Buildings Grounds and Transportation Committee met on March 1st. Items discussed included leaks in the gym, replacing the pickup and issues with the drain in the kitchen.

The Adhoc Committee met on February 17th, February 24th and March 7th. Smith provided a copy of the notes from those meetings. Members of the committee explained the selection processes for the bond underwriter and the architect firm. They suggested that we retain D.A. Davidson & Co. as the bond underwriter and Prochaska & Associates, Inc. as the architect firm.

 

DISCUSS, CONSIDER AND TAKE ALL NECESSARY ACTION TO RETAIN THE FIRM OF EITHER AMERITAS INVESTMENT CORP., D.A. DAVIDSON & CO., OR FIRST NATIONAL CAPITAL MARKETS, INC., AS BOND UNDERWRITER AND APPROVE EXECUTION OF A PRE-BOND DISCLOSURE LETTER FROM THE SELECTED BOND UNDERWRITER SETTING FORTH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE SELECTED BOND UNDERWRITER’S OBLIGATIONS AND LIMITATIONS DURING THE PERIOD UP TO ANY BOND ISSUE ELECTIONS RELATING TO A PROPOSED NEW SECONDARY SCHOOL FACILITY.

            Richards moved (i) to retain the bond underwriting firm of D.A. Davidson & Co., (“Underwriter”), (ii) to approve execution of the Underwriter’s pre-bond disclosure letter dated March 14, 2016, (“Disclosure”) in the form on file with official school district records and as presented at this meeting, acknowledging Underwriter as the expected joint bond underwriter for and on behalf of Burt County School District 11-0014, a/k/a Oakland-Craig Public Schools (“OCPS”), along with Burt County School District 11-0001, a/k/a Tekamah-Herman Public Schools, and setting forth certain pre-bond underwriting services, obligations and limitations of the Underwriter to the school districts during the period up to any bond issue election relating to a proposed new secondary school facility (“Project”), and (iii) to authorize and direct the OCPS Superintendent of Schools, or other designee, to complete any such negotiations and make necessary modifications to the Disclosure as deemed appropriate by the Superintendent, or a designee in OCPS’s best interest, and to sign, execute and deliver the final Disclosure and any other necessary approvals or other transaction documents and make payments under such Disclosure as may be necessary to complete the transaction, and to implement and administer the same through the course of the Project as contemplated thereby, for and on behalf of this School District. Schmidt seconded the motion. After discussion and on roll call vote, the following members voted in favor of passage and adoption of the above motion: Brett Johnson, Kiley Johnson, Magnusson, Pille, Richards, Schmidt and Thiele. The following members voted against the same: Anderson and Ray. Voting results were: For Motion-7; Against Motion-2; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

DISCUSS, CONSIDER AND TAKE ALL NECESSARY ACTION TO RETAIN THE ARCHITECT FIRM OF EITHER CANNON MOSS BRYGGER & ASSOCIATES, P.C., DLR GROUP INC., PROCHASKA & ASSOCIATES, INC., OR THE CLARK ENERSEN PARTNERS, INC., AND APPROVE EXECUTION OF A PRE-BOND PHASE ARCHITECT AGREEMENT, BY AND BETWEEN BURT COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 11-0014, A/K/A OAKLAND-CRAIG PUBLIC SCHOOLS, AND BURT COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 11-0001, A/K/A TEKAMAH-HERMAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, AND WITH THE SELECTED ARCHITECT FIRM AS THE JOINT ARCHITECT FOR THE SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN ARCHITECTURAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES TO THE SCHOOL DISTRICTS WITH A PRE-BOND FEE LIMITATION OF $10,000 ($5,000 FOR EACH DISTRICT) DURING THE PERIOD UP TO ANY BOND ISSUE ELECTIONS RELATING TO A PROPOSED NEW SECONDARY SCHOOL FACILITY.

 

Pille moved (i) to retain the architect firm of Prochaska & Associates, Inc., (“Architect”), (ii) to approve the Pre-Bond Phase Architect Agreement (“Agreement”) by and between Burt County School District 11-0014, a/k/a Oakland-Craig Public Schools (“OCPS”), and Burt County School District 11-0001, a/k/a Tekamah-Herman Public Schools, and with the Architect, in the form on file with official OCPS records and as presented at this meeting, as the joint architect for the school districts to provide certain pre-bond architectural and administrative services to the school districts during the period up to any bond issue election relating to a proposed new secondary school facility (“Project”), and (iii) to authorize and direct the OCPS Superintendent of Schools, or other designee, to complete any such negotiations and make necessary modifications to the Agreement as deemed appropriate by the Superintendent, or a designee in OCPS’s best interest, and to sign, execute and deliver the final Agreement and any other necessary contracts, certifications, approvals or other transaction documents and make payments under such Agreement as may be necessary to complete the transaction, and to implement and administer the same through the course of the Project as contemplated thereby, for and on behalf of this School District. Brett Johnson seconded the motion. After discussion and on roll call vote, the following members voted in favor of passage and adoption of the above motion: Brett Johnson, Kiley Johnson, Magnusson, Pille, Richards, Schmidt and Thiele. The following members voted against the same: Anderson and Ray. Voting results were: For Motion-7; Against Motion-2; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION ON POSSIBLE SPORTS CO-OP WITH TEKAMAH-HERMAN

            Pille reported that he and President Thiele met with a couple board members from Tekamah-Herman to discuss a possible sports co-op. Tekamah-Herman would like to co-op boys basketball due to projected low numbers for the next couple of years. After lengthy discussion, it was decided to not proceed with the co-op.

 

DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE APPROVAL OF THE ADDITION OF A 1.0 FTE TEACHER IN THE ELEMENTARY BUILDING

Principal Bland presented several options for class splits for the next school year and the possible need for an additional teacher in the elementary. Much discussion followed. At this time, an additional teacher will not be hired. It was decided to split the 2016-2017 2nd grade class but not split the Kindergarten.

 

CONSIDER AND ACT ON THE HIRING OF STAFF

            Pille moved that Alex Hoefling be hired as Vocal Music Education Teacher for the 2016-2017 School Year.   Anderson seconded the motion. Mr. Smith, Mrs. Bland and Mr. Droescher provided background information on Mr. Hoefling. Voting results were: For Motion-9; Against Motion-0; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE APPROVAL OF ESU 2 TITLE COOPERATIVE     

Brett Johnson moved to approve the contract between Oakland-Craig Public Schools and ESU 2 for Title I Cooperative Services. Magnusson seconded the motion. There was no discussion. Voting results were: For Motion-9; Against Motion-0; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE APPROVAL OF 2016-17 SCHOOL CALENDAR

Brett Johnson moved to approve the Oakland-Craig Public Schools Calendar for 2016-17, as presented. Kiley Johnson seconded the motion. Mr. Smith explained that he polled the faculty and staff and the majority chose the option of teachers returning on August 15th with students starting on August 17th. Voting results were: For Motion-9; Against Motion-0; Other-0. Motion carried.

 

DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE APPROVAL OF FOUNDATION BOARD APPOINTMENTS

Brett Johnson moved to elect, according to the by-laws, the following community members to the Oakland-Craig School Foundation Board of Directors: Kiley Johnson, Andy Rennerfeldt and Paige Peterson. Ray seconded the motion. There was some discussion. Voting results were: For Motion-8; Against Motion-0; Other-1 (Kiley Johnson abstained). Motion carried.

 

DISCUSSION OF TECHNOLOGY STAFFING AND COMPUTER CHECK-OUT

            Mr. Smith reported the Ryan Kroger has resigned from the position of Technology Coordinator effective June 10th. Gerald Brand has agreed to serve as our tech coordinator for the 2016-2017 school year. We are still working on the exact schedule for Mr. Brand but he will teach 2 science classes and we will continue to employ tech interns from Midland. In addition, ESU 2 will help with some of our needs. We are in the process of hiring a science teacher and reconfiguring the class load. Part of this reconfiguration will be to offer a few more ag classes by Mrs. Penke. President Thiele thanked Ryan for all he does for our district.

The administration will work on a computer check out policy for the upcoming school year. After much discussion, it was decided to require a $25.00 deposit to check out a computer for the remainder of this school year.

 

SUB PAY DISCUSSION

            Mr. Smith provided a comparison of substitute teacher pay in the area. Our current rate is the lowest in the area. After some discussion, it was decided to raise the substitute teacher pay to $105 per day.

 

BOARD MEMBER REPORTS

            Brett Johnson thanked the Board Members that have been putting in extra time with the sports co-op and consolidation talks.

 

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

            Elementary Principal Bland reported that MAP testing has been completed. NeSA Reading, Math and Science assessments will begin at the beginning of April. Parent Teacher Conferences were held last week with 96% of the parents attending.  Mrs. Bland congratulated Connor Guill for his 1st place finish and Kara Peterson for her 4th place finish in the Burt County spelling bee. She also thanked Corner Drug and the Mulder family for bringing world traveler Dean Jacobs to Oakland-Craig. He held assemblies for the entire school. She explained Breakout EDU which encourages students to think “outside the box” to solve problems. A list of upcoming events and activities was presented. Current PK-6th grade enrollment is 257 students, which is up 1 student from last month and 6 students from last year.

 

Secondary Principal Droescher reported current enrollment for the 7th through 12th grades at 186 students which down 1 from last month and 6 from last year.   NeSA Reading, Math and Science assessments will begin at the end of March. Congratulations were extended to Mrs. Meyer and students for tying for 2nd place at the East Husker Conference Art Show.  A list of upcoming events and activities was provided.

 

Superintendent Smith provided a list of upcoming Board Member workshops and asked members for plans to attend. Superintendent Smith provided the most recent state aid numbers that show we will receive about $50.00 in state aid next year. Smith shared a letter we received from patrons of another school district complementing our student section at a district basketball game. Smith reported that he will be covering for Mrs. Bland during her maternity leave. Since there is enough money in the QCPUF fund, we anticipate being able to pay those bonds off in May. Smith thanked Shannon Harney for coming up with a loader and moving some snow for us. He also thanked Paige Peterson for organizing the Boot Camp to raise money for the O-C Foundation.

 

 

There being no further business on the agenda of this meeting, President Thiele adjourned this meeting at 11:53 p.m.

 

Secretary,

 

 

Julie Ehlers

 

GENERAL FUND
ADE’S PEST CONTROL $185.00
AMERICAN BROADBAND CLEC $201.56
ANDERSON HARDWARE $313.17
APPLE COMPUTER $433.55
AWARDS UNLIMITED $134.65
BLACK DIAMOND ELECTRONICS $3,968.75
BLAIR COMMUNITY SCHOOLS $60.00
BLAND, JESSICA $115.00
CENTRAL VALLEY AG $1,718.78
CITY OF OAKLAND $540.55
CLASSIC SPORTSWEAR $399.54
COMFORT INN $83.00
CONTINENTAL RESEARCH $920.84
CONTINUUM RETAIL ENERGY SERVICES $5,572.69
DIETZE MUSIC HOUSE INC $116.66
DROESCHER, RUSTY $360.00
EAKES OFFICE SOLUTIONS $3,711.89
EDUCATIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES $650.00
EHLERS, JULIE $32.39
ESU 2 $36,187.43
FIRST BANKCARD $502.69
FOLLETT SCHOOL SOLUTIONS INC $131.30
FOOD PRIDE $283.68
GROTH, MARILEE $14.00
HOMETOWN LEASING $1,255.77
J W PEPPER AND SONS INC $61.98
JO-DEL ENTERPRISES $749.50
JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL $286.87
KSB SCHOOL LAW $1,957.48
LUNCHFUND $1,830.00
MALCOLM HIGH SCHOOL $84.00
MELS SMALL ENGINE $21.90
MERCY MEDICAL SERVICES $100.00
MEYER, ANGIE $187.50
MIDAMERICA ADMIN & RETIRMENT SOLUTIONS $354.16
NASB $3,738.00
NCSA $85.00
NEBRASKA AIR FILTERS $127.96
NEBRASKA COUNCIL ON ECONOMIC ED $80.00
NEBRASKA LINK $1,338.40
NEBRASKA PUBLIC POWER $5,438.87
NRCSA $1,140.00
O’KEEFE ELEVATOR $205.00
OAKLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE $10.00
OAKLAND INDEPENDENT $11.35
OMAHA WORLD HERALD $2,551.80
PEARSON EDUCATION $174.79
PENKE, KYLIE $23.43
PROTEX CENTRAL $770.00
REVOLVING ACCOUNT $73.16
RJK ELECTRIC $80.00
RL CRAFT COMMERCIAL ROOFING $100.00
SMITH, JEFFERY $103.00
SUPPLYWORKS $1,597.11
SWEET, DALLAS $10.89
TELEPHONE CONNECTION, INC. $403.75
YOUNGS $54.72
$81,643.51
DEPRECIATION FUND
CDW-GOVERNMENT INC $29,956.64
SCHOOL LUNCH FUND
APPEARA $211.57
BRAUNGER FOODS $2,346.99
FIRST BANKCARD $117.97
FOOD PRIDE $178.24
HILAND DAIRY FOODS COMPANY $3,323.80
PEGLER SYSCO $4,029.12
$10,207.69

O

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Governor Ricketts’ Statement on Terror Attacks in Brussels

March 22, 2016 Leave a comment


Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news of terrorist attacks in Brussels, Belgium.

 

“These continued attacks by Islamic extremists are an assault on freedom-loving people and the shared values of our democratic societies.  Our hearts go out to the victims of the terrorist attacks in Brussels, and Susanne and I join Nebraskans in sending our thoughts and prayers to their families.”

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Scott A. Larsen, 54, of Hooper NE

March 21, 2016 Leave a comment


Scott A. Larsen age 54, of Hooper
Died Friday March 18, 2016 at his home.

Scott was born August 7, 1961 in Fremont to Darrel and Carolyn ‘Moore’ Larsen. He was raised in Fremont through junior high then moved with his family to a farm just outside of Hooper. He graduated from Logan View High School in 1979. After school he worked construction for Ehler’s Construction and Dale Reynolds before going to work for Excel in Schuyler for several years.

Scott liked to hunt, fish, and bowl and was a member of several bowling leagues in Fremont. He was a big Kansas City Royals and Denver Bronco’s fan. He was confirmed at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Hooper, where he was still a member.

Survivors:
Parents – Carolyn and Darrel Larsen of Hooper
Sister – Rita Larsen of Los Altos, California
Aunts and Uncles

The funeral will be 10:30am Tuesday at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Hooper. Rev. Joel Schroeder will officiate. Burial will follow in Hooper Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 3pm to 8pm with the family present from 6pm to 8pm at the Ludvigsen Hooper Funeral Chapel. Visitation will continue for one hour before the service at the church. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Online guestbook at http://www.hooper-scribner.com

Scott Larsen

Scott Larsen

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Leroy D. Novak, 85, of Pender NE

March 21, 2016 Leave a comment


Leroy D. Novak, 85, of Pender, NE died on Sunday, March 20, 2016 at the Pender Community Hospital in Pender, NE. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 23, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Pender; Pastor Miles Ruch will be officiating. The visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Pender. Burial will be in the Rosehill Cemetery of Pender. Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation. Munderloh – Smith Funeral Home of Pender is in charge of the arrangements.

Leroy was born on December 21, 1930 near Rosalie, NE, the son of Ferdinand and Adela (Fabry) Novak. He was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rosalie. In 1949, he graduated from Rosalie High School. On January 21, 1951, he was united in marriage to Joyce Engel at Immanuel Lutheran Church. To this union five children were born: Nancy, Craig, Scott, Lee and Rhonda. The couple farmed near Rosalie until retiring and moving into Pender in 2000. Two of his favorite past times including playing cards and fishing. He looked forward to his annual fishing trips with his family to Minnesota. Leroy was a gentle man, like a bull in a china shop. He was known for his generosity with friends and strangers alike. He snuck away from his family silently in his sleep, unlike his boisterous loud demeanor.

Leroy is survived by his wife Joyce of Pender, NE, children: Nancy (Larry) Nyquist of Omaha, NE; Craig (Jean) Novak of Loveland, CO; Scott (Reva) Novak of Rosalie, NE; Lee (Carrie) Novak of Hubbard, NE; Rhonda (Jason Miller) Novak Jacob of Lincoln, NE; 14 of his favorite grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters: Lillian Radtke of Hooper, NE and Francie Dorau of Omaha, NE and Dan Miller, his honorary son.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 6 brothers and 4 sisters.

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Stockings Boost Nebraska’s Tiger Trout Population

March 21, 2016 Leave a comment


A fish species that has been a rare catch in Nebraska is becoming more common thanks to the work of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Thousands of tiger trout, a hybrid of brown trout and brook trout, have been raised at the Rock Creek State Fish Hatchery near Parks, Neb., and are being stocked at locations throughout the state for the first time. The colorful species has characteristics of both brookies and browns and is easily identified by the worm-like scale pattern that covers its body. Most of the fish being stocked are 10-12 inches.

Read more about stocking information on the news release.

You can purchase a fishing permit on our website.

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Nebraska Beef: It’s What’s for Dinner

March 21, 2016 Leave a comment


By U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

Wide-open spaces, grazing cattle in rolling pastures, and efficient feed yards cover Nebraska’s landscape. We are “The Beef State.” Our delicious products are the best in the world. They are found on dinner tables from New York to Tokyo, and many places in between. Because Nebraska’s producers are committed to delivering safe and high-quality beef, they continue to reach new consumers around the globe.

 

This success is the result of persistence in the face of adversity. In December of 2003, Israel was one of many countries to suspend imports of U.S. beef. Israel did so following a confirmed case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy, more commonly referred to as BSE. After this case was confirmed, U.S. beef producers quickly implemented strict improvements. But, for nearly 13 years following this discovery, America’s beef producers were unable to ship their products to Israel.

 

When I visited Israel last fall, U.S. Ambassador Dan Shapiro reached out to me to find a solution to this ban. He wanted to bring Nebraska beef back to dinner tables in Israel. The ambassador said he was especially interested in serving Nebraska beef at the embassy’s annual Fourth of July celebration. Following our conversation, I began a dialogue with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to find a way to make this happen.

 

For the next few months, my office worked closely with the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. I also spoke regularly with officials from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture in a concerted effort to find the best solution. Finally, in February of 2016, an agreement was achieved. The ban was lifted, and the USDA announced that, for the first time in over a decade, an American shipment of beef will be delivered to Israel. What’s more, Nebraska will have the honor of supplying this shipment.
As part of this agreement, WR Reserve, a processing plant in Hastings, was selected to make the first delivery. This company’s hard work and dedication to complying with a rigorous inspection process made this agreement possible.

 

Agriculture is the driving force of Nebraska’ economy, and beef is a critical component of that success. With nearly $7.2 billion in annual cash receipts, our beef represents the largest sector of the state’s economy, while leading the nation in every aspect of beef production. In our state, cattle outnumber people by more than three to one. Nebraska is also the number one cattle on feed state. This fact illustrates our steadfast commitment to supplying the world with affordable, safe, and high-quality Nebraska beef.

 

This historic agreement with Israel is a win for both Nebraska and the Israeli people. For the first time in many years, consumers in Israel will once again be able to enjoy world-class Nebraska beef. And for Nebraska, opening this new market means increased opportunities that can benefit our communities and strengthen our economy.

 

According to the USDA, Israel imported $405 million in beef products from other nations. Ninety-five percent of these imports originated in Latin America, with additional volumes coming from Australia and the European Union. Nebraska now has an opportunity to be a competitor in that marketplace.

 

Throughout this process, I was honored to collaborate with state, federal, and international officials. This teamwork and persistence made it possible for Nebraska’s beef producers to lead the charge. I’m proud of our beef producers, and excited for the beef industry.

 

Going forward, I will continue working to ensure Nebraska’s beef producers have every opportunity to succeed and feed the world.

 

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

 

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News From Bancroft Senior Center

March 21, 2016 Leave a comment


Bancroft Senior Center News by Connie Bargmann

* The senior center provides Information and Assistance to any individual who is looking for services for themselves or another person 60 years and older, the center manager and/or center participant can provide information to individuals on services available within the community. We link individuals to the services and opportunities that are available within or beyond the community itself. We will then establish adequate follow-up procedures to see that their needs were met. For more information call 402-648-3387.

*If you are 60 years and older and need information on programs designed to help keep you in your home longer or if you need legal help, contact Connie at 402-648-3387 or in the evening at 402-648-7648.

* We have the following medical equipment to loan out on an as need basis, wheel chair, bath seats, toilet seat riser and portable toilet chair, crutches or walkers. Call 402-648-3387 during office hours.

Meals on Wheels

*Would you like to get Meals on Wheels? Anyone over the age of 60 years and lives within the city limits are eligible for these meals. You may sign up anytime for the Meals on Wheels program; you can get the meals delivered however many times you want them each week. You must call 402-687-2332 before 8:30 a.m. if you want a meal that day. The suggested donation for the meals is $4.00.

 

Weekly Activities:

Wed. Mar. 23: We will have melody chimes practice at 9:00 a.m. Come and have coffee with us at 10:15 a.m. There will be chair exercises at 1:00 p.m. Sign up to play in the pitch tournament at 1:30 p.m.

Thurs. Mar. 23: Tai Chi class at 9:30 and walking club at 10:45 a.m. Rolls and coffee, 9-11 a.m. Sign up to play in the pinochle and hand and foot tournament at 1:30 p.m.

Fri. Mar. 24: Come and have coffee at 9:30 a.m. The center will be closed this afternoon

Mon. Mar.28: There will be chair exercises at 12:45 p.m. Sign up to play in the pitch tournament at 1:15 p.m. The monthly board meeting will be at 3:30 p.m.

Tues. March 29: Tai Chi class is at 9:30 a.m. Stop in for coffee at 10:00 a.m. Walking exercises 10:45 a.m. Come in the afternoon to play Skip-Bo, dominoes or the card game 65 starting at 1:30.

Wed. March 30: We will have melody chimes practice at 9:00 a.m. Coffee times at 10:15 a.m. Chair exercises at 1:00 p.m. Sign up to play in the pitch tournament at 1:30 p.m.

 

 

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Legislative Session Progresses

March 21, 2016 Leave a comment


By Governor Pete Ricketts

The legislative session is moving quickly.  It seems like it was only a few weeks ago when I outlined the top priorities to work on with the Legislature in my State of the State address.  Working together, we have made progress on a number of key issues.  With only a few weeks left, however, there is still much to accomplish before session adjourns and senators return home.  A significant amount of work on top priorities like tax relief, infrastructure funding, and balancing the budget is yet to come.

 

At the opening of session, I designated property tax relief as my number one priority.  Wherever I travel, I continually hear from Nebraskans who feel the pain of our state’s high property taxes.  Earlier this session, I testified at two hearings in support of property tax bills, which have been a collaborative effort between Senators Gloor and Sullivan and my administration.  Nebraskans at those hearings confirmed the need for more property tax relief, and also provided feedback on how we could improve the bills.

 

Following the hearings, the senators, their committees, and I have continued to work to make adjustments to these bills.  After much discussion, the Revenue and Education Committees and I have agreed upon proposed amendments to the property tax relief bills.  These amendments do three major things: First, they provide additional targeted direct property tax relief for ag land property taxpayers.  Second, they limit the carryover of unused restricted funds by community colleges to three percent.  Third, they make changes to our state’s education funding formula to enhance local accountability in our school districts.

 

Because the amendment to LB958 contains significant changes from the original version, the Revenue Committee will hold a new hearing on the proposed amendment on March 24, 2016 at 2:00pm at the Nebraska State Capitol.  Nebraskans are invited to attend the hearing to give their feedback on the new proposed amendment.  If you are not able to attend and would still like to testify, you are welcome to submit your written testimony to the Revenue Committee by emailing kdelka@leg.ne.gov.  Written testimony must be submitted before the hearing to be included in the official record.

 

In addition to property tax relief, we have been working with the Appropriations Committee on the Transportation Innovation Act (TIA), a bill that makes targeted investments to accelerate expressway construction and bridge repair.  These targeted investments utilize existing sources of revenue, including a $50 million cash reserve transfer and unprogrammed motor vehicle fuel tax revenue.  After advancing from committee unanimously, the TIA successfully passed the first round of debate with overwhelming support.  There are two more rounds of debate on the TIA before it can reach my desk for approval.

 

As always, my administration is also working to hold the line on the rate of growth in spending.  Recently, the Appropriations Committee advanced a budget from committee that holds the line on spending similar to the responsible rate proposed in my budget.  Holding the line on the rate of growth in spending is critical to ensuring that the Legislature and I can continue to provide tax relief in the coming years.

 

As the session continues, my administration will continue to work with the Legislature to address these and other important priorities for hardworking Nebraskans.  If you want to share your thoughts on these bills or others with your senator, you can find all of the information you need to contact your senator by visiting www.NebraskaLegislature.gov.  To reach my office, you can call 402-471-2244, email pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov, or follow me on Twitter @GovRicketts and at facebook.com/GovernorPeteRicketts.

Governor Pete Ricketts

Governor Pete Ricketts

 

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Village of Decatur Meeting Minutes

March 21, 2016 Leave a comment


The Board of the Village of Decatur met in a Regular Session at 4:50 P.M. at the City Hall on March 10th, 2016. Visitors signing in Phyllis Mitchell with Relay For Life, Jaccie Uehling with Relay For Life, Cathy Sears with Alumni, Pam Nelsen with Alumni, Darien Beatty, Greg Beatty, Justin Smith, David Malloy, Jim Phelps, Luke Dunning, Nico Hardemen.

1)         Regular Meeting Called to Order by Chairman Kellogg

Roll Call: Gatewood-y, Kellogg-y, Siecke-y, Tolby-absent

 

2)        Agenda and minutes of the previous month’s meeting received:

Roll Call: Gatewood-y, Kellogg-y, Siecke-y

 

3)        Approval and/or correction and suspended reading of the previous month minutes.

Roll Call: Gatewood-y, Kellogg-y, Siecke-y

 

4)        EXCUSE BOARD MEMBERS NOT ATTENDING THE MEETING:

Gatewood made a motion to excuse Tolby 2nd Siecke

Kellogg-y, Gatewood-y, Siecke-y

 

 

5)         OATH OF OFFICE:

Lance Anderson read:                                     OATH OF OFFICE

 

STATE OF NEBRASKA                  )

)           SS:

COUNTY OF BURT                         )

 

I, Lance Anderson, do solemnly swear that I will support the constitution of the United States and the constitution of the State of Nebraska, against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or for purpose of evasion; and that I will faithfully and impartially perform the duties of the office of Board of Trustees according to law, and to the best of my ability. And I do further swear that I do not advocate, nor am I a member of any political party or organization that advocates the overthrow of the government of the United States or of this State by force or violence; and that during such time as I am in this position I will not advocate nor become a member of any political party or organization that advocates the overthrow of the government of the United States or of this State by force or violence, so help me God.                                                              Lance Anderson(signed)

 

Subscribed and sworn by the above named Lance Anderson before me this 10th day of March, 2016. Witness my hand and official seal.

 

Ann Chytka/ Village Clerk(signed)

Officer administering oath

6)         REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND OR COMMITTEES:

 

1)         Police: Monthly Report- Chief Smith reported 20 warnings, 6 Citations, 14 Incident reports, 2 arrests, we have collected one of the grants that we turned in for $500.00 and then we will be receiving another grant for $441.00. Chief Smith wanted to let the people of Decatur to know that any violations of ordinances will be forwarded to the city attorney and there will be a $48.00 court cost added.
2)         Lights: Monthly Report- Tenant VS Owner Delinquent Utility Bills, Cheryl reported that we had an incident where there was a light bill that was not paid by the renter and before they new renter can have lights on the owner needs to pay the bill. Cheryl agreed to accept 1/2 of the bill. There was discussion among the board. Anderson made a motion that we have our city attorney look at it and see if we need a document or just use the ordinance if we need a documents he can do that also. 2nd by Gatewood

Roll Call Kellogg-y, Siecke-y, Anderson-y, Gatewood-y.

Letter from Burt County Public Power. Cheryl read a letter from Burt Country Public Power stating sorry in the confusion about the 2 letters received but that the increase for the delivery of power is going up 1.16%. That the letter we received stating that it was going up 2.6% was sent to us in error.
3)         Water & Sewer: Monthly Report- Lance gave the report he stated that we need 2 new filters and that it   needs to be put on the budget for next year. Kellogg stated that we need to apply for grants.

Clerk reported that she has been in contact with NENEDD and there are grants available but we need       to get the surveys out and back.
4)         Parks: Monthly Report- Park Rates currently $16.00 and tents are $11.00. Starting April 1st we will       start having to pay a 3% lodging tax for the camp ground. Siecke made a motion to raise park rates for    camp pads to $18.00 and tents will be raised to $12.00. Rates will go into effect April 1st, 2016. 2nd   by Gatewood. Roll Call Kellogg-y, Anderson-y, Siecke-y, Gatewood-y.

 

5)         Streets: Monthly Report- Income from city sales tax for December $3,105.82. Siecke stated that we                    need to purchase millings. Millings will be used down at Riverview turn around. Anderson made a                 motion that we get 6 tons of millings and get the asphalt we need to patch the holes.   2nd by Gatewood              Roll Call Siecke-y, Kellogg-y, Anderson-y, Gatewood-y. Anderson brought up the alley between the                  church and the bar and how it needs to be fixed. Siecke stated that Larry is aware of it.
6)        Recycling Report: Recycling is in the process of being hauled to Tekamah and we made $557.73 from                 October’s haul. Anderson asked about the curb-side recycling. Siecke said that it was tabled because not only a few showed interest in it.

 

7)        OLD BUSINESS

8)         NEW BUSINESS

 

1) Alumni- Cathy Sears and Pam Nelsen came to the table. Cathy asked if the Alumni could put some put a       cabinet in the hall basement to display the plaques from Decatur School. She advised this is the last of the           things they have from the old trophy case. Siecke moved to allow the alumni to install a cabinet to display the        plaques from the school. 2nd Gatewood Roll Call- Anderson-abstained, Kellogg-y, Siecke-y, Gatewood-y

2) Dave Malloy- Tapping into water. Dave came to the table and requested the village get him a waterline            to his property. The cost for the pit is $350.00. Dave stated he will be in to make the payment on Friday.

3) Clean up day- Kellogg stated we need to come up with a date. Clerk stated that she has contacted Carrier        Container who we used last year. They are available to bring 4 dumpsters on April 16th at the cost of            $720.00. The containers will be on site for Saturday only. Gatewood asked if she could have high school      students volunteer on clean up day. It was agreed it was a good idea. Anderson said that we need to get help      for the day.

4) Nico Hardeman- Came to the table with 2 concerns, one is the property on that he is cleaning up the property, he was also upset that his wife and bank received letters. Siecke explained that they were on          property so they needed to receive the letters. Nico asked if the rezoning was going to happen tonight?          Kellogg advised not tonight.

5) Jaccie Uehling – Relay for Life June 10th Jaccie came to the table and said that Decatur is where Relay            for Life will be on June 10th. She asked if she could rent 5 camp spots for that Friday night. Uehling stated   that every year there is a tree donated to the place where the Relay for Life is held.

6) Cheryl- Junk Properties she said that she is just wishing the clean-up would move faster. Clerk said that       we still have to have the properties inspected. We are waiting on the requests that we have out. Smith came to            the table and said that he has been calling for bids for the demolition he has talked to 4 different companies. She wanted to thank Jack Quinn for cleaning up his property. It was discussed amongst the board that we need to have the community and business owners come together. It was decided that we have a Town Hall meeting        on Tuesday March 22nd, at 7 PM and it will be held at the Sears Center. This meeting will not be about the             past. It will be on how we can move forward for the future of Decatur.

7) Zoning Commissioner / Building Inspector- Kellogg stated that there is a problem at the north end of town     that is in violation. She is not sure how it needs to be dealt with, is it the zoning commissioner or by the police           department. Anderson thought that the zoning commissioner and police should go up and talk with her and     have her give us a date on when this can be resolved.

Then they moved on and discussed another property up on the north side, Cheryl is going to do some checking on it.

Anderson stated that he wants to hear from our attorney that these properties are in violation.

8) Red Barn- Kellogg stated that we need to set a date of the annual Red Barn Clinic. Kellogg asked the clerk     to set up the date so we can inform the community

9) Vacation request- Clerk requested vacation for 3-11-2016, and May 26,27,&31. Board members did not          have a problem with the clerks request.

 

9)         CORRESPONDENCE

1) Patty Plugge emailed and wanted some feedback on what interests we had what we would like to learn           about.
10)       ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Board meeting will be on April 14, 2016 at 4:30 here at City Hall

 

11)       APPROPRIATIONS AND CONSIDERATION OF THE CLAIMS:

 

1) Claims preapproved by Gatewood and Siecke

2) Motion to Approve the Claims as Submitted

 

Siecke made a motion to approve the claims as submitted. 2nd Gatewood

Roll Call: Anderson-y, Kellogg-y, Siecke-y, Gatewood-y

 

Are there any questions from the audience?

 

 

12)       MOTION TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING

Gatewood 2nd Siecke
Adjournment Time: 6:39 PM

 

__________________________________

Loretta Kellogg / Chair

 

_______________________________________

Ann Chytka / Village Clerk

 

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Leroy D. Novak, 85, of Pender NE

March 20, 2016 Leave a comment


Leroy D. Novak, 85, of Pender passed away Sunday, March 20, 2016 at the Pender Community Hospital in Pender.

Funeral services are pending with Munderloh – Smith Funeral Home in Pender.

Filed under Obituaries Tagged with , ,

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