OGALLALA, Neb. (June 10, 2025) — The Ogallala City Council will convene Tuesday evening to consider a range of issues, including a potential ban on fireworks due to dry conditions, infrastructure improvements, and updates to public transit software.
The meeting, scheduled at City Hall, will begin with a roll call and verification of notice, followed by a consent agenda and public forum.
One of the key items on the agenda is a recommendation from city administration to prohibit the discharge and sale of fireworks within city limits. Officials cite higher-than-average winds and lower-than-normal rainfall as reasons for the proposed ban, which they say is in the best interest of public safety.
The council will also review a license application from Austin Wheeler, who has passed his exam to become a journeyman plumbing contractor, and consider a software and license agreement with CTS Software for federally mandated public transit scheduling.
Street improvements are also on the docket. The council will discuss specifications and a bid opening date for Project 2025-2, which includes curb, gutter, driveway, sidewalk, and cross pan replacements on sections of West and East 2nd Street. The project is part of the city’s 2024-25 Capital Improvement Plan.
In other business, the council will address a proposed rebate policy for property owners who repair inoperable curb stops within 60 days of notification. City staff estimate more than 30 such curb stops have gone unrepaired since 2019, potentially impacting future water rates.
The police department is seeking approval to amend its special fee schedule, allowing the city manager and police chief to negotiate impound fees in certain cases. Officials say the change would reduce liability and streamline vehicle clearance.
Additionally, the council will vote on a resolution to enter into a 5311 Program Agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation, securing federal and state funding for public transit through fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
City staff will also seek guidance on budgeting for a potential 2026 fireworks show, noting that fundraising efforts in 2024 fell short of expectations.
The meeting is open to the public. Listen to the POST's Z 93.5 Country Wednesday morning at 9am MT for a recap of the meeting.