The Ogallala City Council approved a permit to relocate a single-family home, received updates on community development and reviewed several ongoing city projects during its latest meeting.
City Manager Tell Jensen discussed the meeting during an interview, describing it as one of the shorter sessions following a previous meeting with a lengthy agenda.
One of the main items involved a request to move a single-family home to 2103 Warrior Drive. Jensen said the home was originally facing demolition before someone offered to purchase it and move it to the property for repairs.
“So he kind of saved a house as well as kind of save some maintenance,” Jensen said.
Before approving a moving permit, the city reviews several factors, including zoning requirements, street conditions and whether the structure can safely fit along the planned route. Jensen said the city also wanted to make sure the proper insurance was in place before approving the request.
The council also received a quarterly report from Keith County Area Development, along with information from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. Jensen said the presentations provided council members with data and updates on ongoing community development efforts.
Another topic was the city's upcoming online permitting process. Jensen said the city is working with Cloudpermit to make it easier for residents and businesses to apply for permits online. The system will include mobile food vendor permits, which are scheduled to take effect Jan. 1.
“We're looking to see how to make it easier, more accessible to the public in order to apply for a permit,” Jensen said.
He added that permits will still require city approval, even after the online application process is implemented.
Jensen also provided updates on the airport, including the recent hiring of an airport attendant. The new employee is expected to take on more responsibility for airport operations, with additional updates and information planned for the next council meeting.
The city's technology needs were another part of Jensen's report. He presented council members with quotes and estimates from several companies as the city considers upgrades and modernization. Jensen said he outlined the costs, budget considerations and pros and cons of the different options.
The council also discussed a review of third-party billing services. Jensen said the city is examining what a possible transition could cost and how it would affect operations at City Hall if the work were handled by an outside vendor.
The council also completed a second reading of a proposed ordinance addressing RV parks and campgrounds. Jensen said the ordinance must go through three readings before it can be passed.