By Marisa Dawson
The Bennington City Council and Community Development Agency met Monday evening, June 8, approving several development and infrastructure-related items while receiving updates from city departments and community partners.
Prior to the City Council meeting, the Community Development Agency approved a redevelopment contract for the Prairie Ridge Townhomes Redevelopment Plan and Project, including authorization for a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) revenue bond.
City officials emphasized that the City of Bennington will have no financial obligation or risk associated with the bond. Construction on the project is expected to begin in November.
“We appreciate the city’s commitment to this project,” said real estate development attorney Brent Beller during the meeting.
The City Council approved a final plat for Morgan Ridge Replat 3, located south of Kempten Creek Drive, north of Bennington Boulevard and between North 158th and 159th Streets.
City staff explained that the proposal makes minor adjustments to lot lines in an area immediately west of a commercial development. The changes will not alter the number of lots or require street modifications. While the adjustments will have a slight impact on the sewer system, officials said the issue can be addressed without tearing up existing streets.
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of the request.
Council members approved an amendment to the interlocal agreement with the City of Omaha for a Keno satellite location in Bennington, extending the agreement through May 14, 2031.
Melodi Sozac, Community Development and Marketing Contact for Big Red Keno, told council members the action was a routine contract renewal. She noted there are currently three Keno locations operating in Bennington and that no complaints or issues have been reported regarding those establishments.
The council approved a supplemental agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) related to the Big Papio Creek Trail project.
City officials said bringing NDOT on board as a responsible charge will help accelerate environmental studies and ensure the project remains compliant with federal requirements. Officials stressed that Bennington will retain local decision-making authority while benefiting from the state’s expertise in managing federally funded projects.
The Planning Commission recommended moving forward with the agreement.
Council members approved Ordinance No. 547, which updates the city’s Arterial Street Improvement Program (ASIP) fees.
The ordinance increases the fee rate from 0.825 to 0.875. Officials noted the updated rate remains below comparable rates in Omaha. Revenue generated through the program is used to help fund road projects that do not qualify for federal funding assistance.
The council approved an $87,087.50 pay application to Municipal Pipe Tool Company, LLC for ongoing sanitary sewer cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) improvements.
The payment includes costs associated with pre-construction televising and inspection work. City officials said they hope to complete the project by August and want the sewer rehabilitation work substantially completed before future street resurfacing projects begin.
Council members authorized staff to advertise for construction bids for Phase 2 of Neumeyer Farm Park once final approval is received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Final project submissions were provided to HUD last month. Officials hope to award construction bids in July, with dirt work potentially beginning in September, weather permitting.
Bennington Public Library Director updates highlighted a successful start to the summer reading program, which has already surpassed 1,000 participants. One popular activity with the program is the library’s “Adopt a Dino” program, where children can adopt a toy dinosaur, name it and take it on local Bennington adventures to earn additional raffle entries.
Library officials also reported reaching out to architects to explore possible expansion options. The city is seeking conceptual floor plans and cost estimates to better understand future funding needs.
Additionally, the library’s annual book sale generated several thousand dollars and may have set a new fundraising record. Remaining books were donated to the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
Police Chief updates indicated that Bennington Daze weekend proceeded without any significant issues.
The department is currently repairing two vehicles, including the K-9 cruiser and a Ford Explorer. Officers issued 23 speeding citations during the previous month and are actively investigating a fraud case. The department also responded to a road rage incident involving an individual who displayed a knife.
City officials thanked the Public Works Department for its efforts during Bennington Daze, noting the team handled additional responsibilities associated with the community celebration.
Public Works staff also addressed an issue at Neumeyer Farm Park after someone tampered with the park’s sprinkler system, causing portions of the grass to brown. The issue was quickly identified and corrected, and a lock has since been installed to prevent future tampering. Officials reported the grass has recovered well.
City Clerk Mindi Laaker informed council members that a resident has requested a temporary neighborhood street closure for a Fourth of July celebration. Because the roadway is not a primary thoroughfare and the neighborhood has multiple access points, city staff worked with the resident regarding required signatures and closure procedures. Neighbors have expressed support for the request.
