By Marisa Dawson, Courtesy Photos

The Bennington City Council covered a variety of city business during its regular monthly meeting Monday, Nov. 9, including recognizing a local police officer for exceptional service, reviewing agreements for future fiber-optic infrastructure, addressing sewer rate adjustments and establishing a new permitting process for private swimming pools.

The meeting opened with the recognition of Bennington Police Officer Stacia Nelson, who was presented with the department’s Meritorious Conduct Medal for her work on two significant cases in 2026.

Police Chief Andrew Hilscher and Assistant Police Chief Daniel Stocker presented the award, highlighting Nelson’s dedication to protecting children and providing compassionate support to victims of violent crimes.

According to the department, Nelson began investigating alleged sex crimes involving a local youth in January. The investigation required months of work, search warrants and coordination with the U.S. Marshals and law enforcement agencies outside Nebraska. Her efforts ultimately led to the arrests of four adults, two locally and two out of state. The investigation remains ongoing.

In September, Nelson also transported a victim of sexual and physical assault to an emergency room for examination and treatment. Rather than simply completing the transport, she remained with the victim throughout the process, supporting both the patient and medical staff and advocating for the victim when needed.

The department later received commendation from the hospital’s Forensic Nursing Department for Nelson’s ability to balance her professional responsibilities with compassionate, personal support.

The Meritorious Conduct Medal recognizes Nelson’s exceptional service, high character and dedication to the community.

Fiber-optic infrastructure agreements

Council members next considered master agreements with Forged Fiber LLC and Qwest Corporation, doing business as CenturyLink QC, regarding the installation and operation of communications cable and facilities within public rights-of-way. Representatives discussed the companies’ processes for notifying residents and coordinating construction with the city.

Scott Wilson, representing one of the providers, explained that the company’s typical process is to distribute door hangers approximately 14 days before construction begins. The company also works with contractors to address complaints and concerns that arise during construction.

Discussion included the placement of underground fiber lines, coordination with existing utilities and minimizing disruption to residents and property owners. The providers indicated that they generally prefer underground installations and will work around existing infrastructure where necessary. Construction is anticipated to begin sometime in spring or summer 2027, although specific timelines will depend on the projects and coordination involved.

The agreements establish a framework for the companies to install and maintain communications infrastructure within city rights-of-way.

Other business and development requests

The Council also considered a special designated liquor license application submitted by the Bennington Public Schools Foundation for a fundraising event at the Bennington American Legion Hall. The application requested permission to serve beer and wine during two events scheduled for Jan. 15 and 16, 2027.

Another development-related item involved a request from Terranova Equities I LLC for additional time to record the final plat for the Rainwood Square subdivision.

The revised final plat was approved by the council in January 2026, with a recording deadline of Jan. 12, 2027. The developer requested a 60-day extension, which would move the deadline to March 13, 2027.

The request was intended to allow additional time for coordination, documentation and required signatures. It did not propose any changes to the previously approved plat or its conditions.

Sewer connection fees and monthly rates

The Council continued its annual review of the city’s sanitary sewer fees and rates, considering two ordinances that had been introduced at the October meeting. Ordinance No. 553 addresses sanitary sewer connection fees, while Ordinance No. 554 addresses sewer use rates and collections.

City staff explained that the connection fee adjustments reflect corresponding increases in rates charged by the City of Omaha. The proposed changes are intended to keep Bennington’s fees aligned with the costs associated with its sewer services.

The sewer use rate review similarly accounts for increases passed along by the City of Omaha. Staff noted that the city had completed a sewer lining project using available funds, so the proposed adjustments were not intended to recover the cost of that project. Both ordinances were brought back to the council following their initial consideration in October, allowing time for public review and input before further action.

Street funding and sewer project updates

The Council also considered Resolution No. 2026-16, which authorizes the mayor to sign the city’s annual year-end certification for the street superintendent. The certification is required by the Nebraska Department of Transportation and helps municipalities qualify for annual incentive payments. The necessary documentation must be submitted by Dec. 31.

An update was also provided on the city’s 2026 sanitary sewer cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining project. The project was nearing completion, with the agenda including consideration of a $12,616.64 pay application and certification of substantial completion.

New permitting process for private swimming pools

One of the more substantial discussions involved establishing a new city permitting process for private swimming pools. City staff explained that Douglas County recently changed its requirements and will no longer require a building permit through its building inspections department for swimming pools. However, residents must still obtain the applicable permit from the Douglas County Health Department.

In response, Bennington staff developed a proposed local permitting process to ensure the city can continue reviewing pool installations for appropriate placement and public safety considerations. Under the proposed process, residents would submit a city application, site plan, construction plans and applicable fee. The city would review the materials before the applicant obtains the required county permits.

Once the county permits are obtained, residents would provide copies to the city before receiving authorization to begin construction. After construction is completed, the city would require the necessary closing documentation and a final site review. Staff also recommended establishing a $100 private pool construction permit fee to cover the administrative and review work involved.

The proposed process was developed in consultation with Douglas County building inspections and the Douglas County Health Department. Staff indicated that the first few applications may require additional coordination as the city works through the new process. The council discussed the proposal and the need to maintain appropriate oversight of private pool installations.

Department updates and closing business

The meeting also included routine monthly reports from the library, police department, public works department and city office, along with the city’s project tracker.

During the meeting, city staff also shared excitement about the launch of the city’s newly updated website, which had gone live the previous week. Check out the new website here: https://www.benningtonne.gov/

Following public comments, council members entered executive session for discussions with the city attorney regarding contract negotiations before concluding the meeting.