May 31, 2024

Mayor Brandon Kelliher Announces Decision to Remove Enhanced Employment Area (EEA) from City Council Agenda

Posted May 31, 2024 2:31 PM

North Platte, NE – Mayor Brandon Kelliher announced a significant decision regarding a possible Enhanced Employment Area (EEA) change at District 177. After thorough deliberations and consultations with various stakeholders, the changes to the EEA have been removed from the upcoming City Council agenda. REV Development, the District 177 development company, had planned to request an increase in the amount of funds that could be raised using the EEA if the City Council approved changes to the existing ordinance. 

“After receiving input from several local subcontractors who have worked on the District 177 development and discussions with both the general contractors and the developer, I have decided to remove the Enhanced Employment Area discussion from the City Council agenda,” stated Mayor Kelliher.  

Mayor Kelliher emphasized the importance of collaboration and open communication in ensuring the success of all development activities in the community.  "The EEA ordinance changes may return to the City Council agenda only after District 177 developers largely resolve the financial disputes," Kelliher added. This approach aims to ensure that financial issues are addressed satisfactorily before further council action is considered, thereby protecting the interests of local subcontractors and the broader community. 

“I am opposed to the idea that city government should become involved in the day-to-day transactions of private businesses however in this case city council is able to assist local businesses by creating the opportunity to clear up the financial issues,” Kelliher stated. 

Mayor Kelliher extends his gratitude to the local subcontractors, general contractors, and developers for their ongoing contributions and input. Their feedback has been invaluable in making informed decisions that align with the best interests of North Platte’s residents and businesses.