Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Airport FAQs
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YES. Turbo propeller aircraft are state-of-the-art and are an average seven years younger than the jet aircraft of major airlines. Jet engines power all regional aircraft, whether a turboprop with propellers on the outside, or a turbofan with fan inside the engine casing. Turbo props are the most economically efficient aircraft for flying shorter distances. The U.S. commercial aviation system, regional airlines included, is the safest mode of transportation in the world. Moreover, the safety record of regional airlines equals that of major airlines - including pilot training and the rest requirements, safety equipment and dispatching procedures.Airport FAQs
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Yes. Regional aircraft are equipped with the same type of sophisticated safety equipment as major airlines, including: Weather Radar, De-icing, Traffic Alert, Collision Avoidance Systems and Ground Proximity Warning Systems.Airport FAQs
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YES. All commercial pilots meet the same FAA requirements. Our pilots complete extensive initial training, recurrent training and are tested by FAA examiners every six months. With a median age of 35 years and an average of 6,000 hours in the cockpit - they are among the most experienced ever employed by the industry.Airport FAQs
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Yes. Every day 150,000 passengers fly regional airlines on more than 12,500 flights to some 780 destinations throughout the United States, Canada the Bahamas and the Caribbean.Airport FAQs
- 550 cities are served by exclusively by regional airlines.
- Nearly 60 million travelers will fly with regional airlines this year.
- 60% of regional airline passengers are business travelers.
- 95% of regional airline passengers fly on flights that are coordinated with major airlines through code-sharing alliances.
Code Enforcement FAQs
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Snow accumulated on any sidewalk needs to be removed twenty-four (24) hours after the cessation of a storm.Code Enforcement FAQs
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No. Snow removed from private property shall not be placed in or upon the public streets, alleys, sidewalks, or other public ways.Code Enforcement FAQs
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Grass within city limits must be kept trimmed below 12 inches on any property zoned residential, commercial or industrial. There are a few rural areas within city limits that are not required to meet this code. (Chapters 5-601 – 5-603)Code Enforcement FAQs
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No. The City of Kearney has specific regulations regarding the storage of equipment, building materials, miscellaneous junk and litter. Items that fall into the ‘nuisance’ category endanger the health and safety of citizens, and/or lower property values for the neighborhood. Most nuisance complaints can be solved by moving the materials into an enclosed building or sealed storage container. If you are unsure whether or not something falls into this category, please contact the Code Enforcement Division at (308) 233-3235.Code Enforcement FAQs
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The Code Enforcement Division handles vehicle complaints on private property, including private parking lots. This can include junked or dismantled vehicles, unlicensed vehicles (regardless of condition), improperly parked vehicles or abandoned vehicles. The City of Kearney must contact a vehicle’s owner before it can be moved by City employees or contractors, which can take several days. However, a property owner can have abandoned vehicles towed immediately at their own expense.Code Enforcement FAQs
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No. Property owners, and tenants with a landlord’s permission, have 15 days to complete vehicle repairs or maintenance before they are required to move the vehicle.Code Enforcement FAQs
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On private property, vehicles must be parked on a hard surface (concrete, brick, asphalt, etc.) or in an enclosed building such as a garage. They cannot block the public right of way, sidewalk or alley. This includes vehicles of all types, boats, RV’s, campers and trailers. If you have questions about which category your vehicle falls into or where you can park on your property, please call the Code Enforcement Division, at (308) 233-3235.Code Enforcement FAQs
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The Kearney Police Department handles all animal complaints: abuse, neglect and barking. Please call the Police while the dog is barking. Code Enforcement Division Ph: (308) 233-3235 Kearney Police Department, Non-Emergency Ph: (308) 237-2104Code Enforcement FAQs
Library FAQs
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Library FAQs
There is no cost to apply for a library card. Bring a valid form of photo identification (i.e. driver’s license or passport), as well as proof of current address (i.e. bank statement, lease, checkbook, etc.) to the main desk of the library. Youth aged 17 and younger need a parent or guardian to sign them up for a card. There are no residential requirements to get a library card. Your library card allows you to check out materials, use the computers, access the internet, access our online resources, reserve a study room, reserve a meeting room, request and reserve library materials, use the bookmobile, and use our interlibrary loan service!
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Library FAQs
You may have up to 99 items checked out at one time.
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Library FAQs
Most of our materials check out for a 28-day period. Magazines, Golden Sower nominees, and new books check out for 14 days. DVDs check out for 7 days. Downloadable books give you the option of a 7-, 14-, or 21-day checkout period.
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Library FAQs
You may renew any item twice, as long as another patron hasn’t requested the item. Items renew for the same loan period length. Items also renew from the date the renewal is requested, not from the original due date.
Items may be renewed by:
- calling the Library at 308-233-3282
- visiting our online catalog
- using the MyKPL mobile app
- signing up for text message notifications
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Library FAQs
The library does not charge late fines. Patrons who have overdue items may not check out until the overdue items are renewed or returned. Items may be renewed twice unless they are requested by another patron.
You will be given a receipt with a list of due dates when you check out. We offer pre-overdue notices via text message or e-mail, and overdue notices via text message, e-mail, or standard mail. These are courtesy notices and you are responsible for knowing when your materials are due. You can check the status of your account anytime by logging into the catalog with your library card number. Items returned on their due date after the library closes are considered returned on time.
If the charges on your library account are $25 or more, and there is no response to our overdue notices, your account may be sent to a collection service. A $10 fee will be assessed to your account if it is turned over to the collection service.
We will ask for replacement costs for any items that are lost or damaged while checked out. If you pay for a lost item, find it, and return it in good condition within six months, we will refund your payment. We do not accept replacement items.
We accept payment in the forms of cash, check, credit, or debit card. You may pay over the phone by calling the main desk at 308-233-3282 during library hours or you can pay online by signing into your account.
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Library FAQs
We do ask that if you lose a book or if a book is damaged beyond usual wear and tear, that you pay the replacement cost for the item. If you pay for a lost book and it's found in good condition within six months, the library will refund the price of the book to you. The library doesn't accept replacement materials. We accept cash, checks, credit, and debit cards for payment in the library or you can choose to pay online by signing into your account.
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Library FAQs
Yes. The library has many computers available to you with internet access. We also have Wi-Fi if you prefer to bring your laptop or device. You'll need your library card barcode number to access the internet from a library computer. Guest passes for the computers may be obtained in the library if you don't have a library card.
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Library FAQs
As a borrower, you are responsible for all materials checked out on your card. This includes payment of any charges on your account. Parents or guardians are responsible for materials checked on their child’s library card. If you are 16 and older you must present your library card or a photo ID in order to check out materials and in order to access our computers. You are also responsible for keeping your contact information with the library current. If you happen to lose or misplace your library card, please let us know as soon as possible. You also need to respect the rights of other people to use and enjoy the library.
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Library FAQs
You can easily update your account information by calling the library at 308-233-3282 or filling out this online form.
City Clerk
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Second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m.City Clerk
Stormwater FAQs
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Polluted stormwater runoff is a leading cause of impairment to the nearly 40 percent of surveyed U.S. water bodies which do not meet water quality standards. Over land or via storm sewer systems, polluted runoff is discharged, often untreated, directly into local water bodies. When left uncontrolled, this water pollution can result in the destruction of fish, wildlife, and aquatic life habitats; a loss in aesthetic value; and threats to public health due to contaminated food, drinking water supplies, and recreational waterways. Mandated by Congress under the Clean Water Act, the NPDES stormwater Program is a comprehensive two-phased national program for addressing the non-agricultural sources of stormwater discharges which adversely affect the quality of our nation's waters. The program uses the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting mechanism to require the implementation of controls designed to prevent harmful pollutants from being washed by stormwater runoff into local water bodies.Stormwater FAQs
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No, they are not the same thing. The two are totally separate systems from each other. A sanitary sewer system collects waste from your sinks, toilets, showers, and washing machines. The sewer system will then carry it to a treatment facility before being discharged. Stormwater is collected from our streets and then flows into a separated system. This system goes untreated and flows into local waterways, carrying all collected pollution with it.Stormwater FAQs
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• Don’t put anything in storm drains but rainwater. • Avoid throwing litter into the street. • Pick up after your pet. • Recycle your motor oil. • Bag, compost or recycle grass, tree limbs, leaves, and other yard waste. • Use yard waste as mulch, as natural fertilizer, or as ground cover. • Encourage local businesses to start a recycling program if they don’t already have one. • Don’t use harsh, abrasive or toxic chemicals around the house. • Recycle your grass, “Use a Mulching Mower” • Report illegal dumping. • Buy just what you need to do the job. • Be smart when you apply pesticides or fertilizers.Stormwater FAQs
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No! The only thing that should enter the storm drains is rainwater. Everything that goes down the drain will end up in our local rivers and lakes, Untreated.Stormwater FAQs
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Contact the Stormwater Pollution Hotline at (308) 233-3273 or report your concern through Access Kearney.Stormwater FAQs
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View information on NPDES FAQ's.Stormwater FAQs
Fire FAQs
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Contact Fire Station 1 at (308) 233-3226 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.Fire FAQs
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Any smoke alarm that has been tested and has a UL label.Fire FAQs
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Burn permits are issued at either Fire Station 1 or Fire Station 2 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Burn permits are only issued for locations outside of the city limits of Kearney.Fire FAQs
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Safely pull over to the right and stop. Keep your foot on the brake to let emergency vehicles know you are stopped. This allows fire trucks and/or other emergency vehicles enough road space to safely and quickly continue its response to the emergency they were called for. Before moving on check your mirrors to be sure that no other emergency vehicle is coming behind them. Emergency vehicles with flashing lights and sirens always have the right-of-way at intersections.Fire FAQs
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Multiple emergency vehicles respond to the same emergency to ensure that enough personnel and equipment are available to handle the emergency. Many times after the emergency scene has been evaluated, they will cancel other responding units. Usually when you see emergency vehicles turn off their flashing emergency lights and sirens and turn around they are returning to their station.Fire FAQs
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These are volunteer firefighters that are responding to an emergency. Please move safely over to the right to let them through. Volunteer first responders have a special red light permit. They can only use it for responding to emergency calls.Fire FAQs
Police FAQs
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In an emergency, call 9-1-1. In a non-emergency situation, call (308) 237-2104.Police FAQs
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Yes, by using the City's "Access Kearney" system or by calling Crimestoppers at (308) 237-3424.Police FAQs
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Applications are accepted only when we begin the process to establish an eligibility list. For further information, go to the employment tab of this website to sign up for notifications of job postings or contact the Human Resource Department at 308-233-3215. Please note you CANNOT pick up an application at the Kearney Law Enforcement Center.Police FAQs
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Police FAQs
Tours, presentations and ride alongs can be requested through a form available at the Kearney Law Enforcement Center or by calling (308) 233-5241.
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Police FAQs
Information on how to report complaints and commendations is available under the Office of Professional Standards page. Forms are available online and can also be picked up at the Kearney Law Enforcement Center. For more information call (308) 237-2104.
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Criminal History background requests are not processed by the Kearney Law Enforcement Center unless a subpoena has been issued by the court system requesting this information. You may receive your Nebraska Criminal History background information by contacting the Nebraska State Patrol Criminal History Repository at 402-479-4971 and they will explain the procedure for obtaining the information you need.Police FAQs
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Police FAQs
Fingerprints are taken at the Buffalo County Jail located at 1512 Central Ave. Call (308) 233-5282 for more information. Appointment required.
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Police FAQs
Accident reports can be accessed online by clicking on the link "Accident Reports" below. Reports are also available at the Law Enforcement Center, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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Police FAQs
If an accident report is accessed online, there is no fee. Please note the Law Enforcement Center does accept debit or credit cards, excluding American Express. -
Police FAQs
Parking citations can be paid at the Kearney Law Enforcement Center. The office hours of the Records Office are 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. There is also a drop box located in the lobby if you are unable to come in during those hours. Please note the Law Enforcement Center does accept debit or credit cards.
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Uniform Traffic Citations must be taken care of at the Buffalo County Court. The phone number for Buffalo County Court is 308-236-1228 and they are located at the Buffalo County Courthouse, 1512 Central Avenue, Kearney, Nebraska.Police FAQs
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Police FAQs
You must purchase a handgun permit from the county in which you reside. A form can be obtained from the Kearney Law Enforcement Center Records Office, Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There is a fee of $5.00 due at the time of application and one form of identification, with address and date of birth, must also be presented at the time of application. The process does take three full working days and it is required that you return to the Law Enforcement Center to sign the permit once it has been approved. Please note the Law Enforcement Center does accept debit or credit cards.
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Police FAQs
An application can be picked up at the Kearney Law Enforcement Center, Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or the application can also be downloaded from the City of Kearney website. In order to receive a permit a person must have an Identification Card/Driver’s License, Federal ID number, State Sales Tax Permit (depending on product) and a State Food Permit (if food is the product). The fee for the permit is $25/day or $250/annual. The annual permit will always run from January 1-December 31. The application process can take up to three working days. Please note the Law Enforcement Center does accept debit or credit cards.
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When property is seized for evidence, it is held through the court process and the County Attorney's Office controls when the item can be released. Once the Kearney Police Department is notified that the property can be released, a certified letter will be sent to the owner advising that the property can be picked up at the Law Enforcement Center during business hours. Questions regarding the release of property held as evidence should be addressed through the County Attorney's Office. The phone number is (308) 236-1222 and they are located at the Buffalo County Courthouse, 1512 Central Ave., Kearney, Nebraska.Police FAQs
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Once the Records Office has been notified that a vehicle in our impound lot can be released (either by the County Attorney's Office or by the officer who impounded the vehicle), the registered owner can come to the Kearney Law Enforcement Center and pick up the vehicle. All fees, if applicable, must be paid and anyone driving a vehicle out of the impound lot must have a valid driver's license. If the registered owner is not able to pick up the vehicle, a notarized letter needs to be shown with the registered owner advising who can pick up the vehicle. Please note the Law Enforcement Center does not accept debit or credit cards.Police FAQs
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There is a packet of forms you will need to complete and file with the Buffalo District/County Court Clerk. The protection order packet is available at the Courthouse, Kearney Police Department Victim/Witness Unit or the SAFE Center. You can complete these forms with or without the help of an attorney. You will be asked to provide information on your application regarding the abusive events such as dates, times and locations, past or current court cases and custody issues. There is no cost involved in filing a protection order.Police FAQs
Park & Recreation FAQs
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Park & Recreation FAQs
Kearney has over 27 miles of trails. A Kearney Trails Map is available free at the Park & Recreation Office, or can be viewed on this website.
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Park & Recreation FAQs
KPR employs approximately 300 seasonals annually. Some of the positions include: Recreation Seasonal Positions: youth sport coaches/officials, day camp instructors, adult sport officials, lifeguards, pool cashiers, marina staff, concession attendants; Park Seasonal Positions: grounds maintenance, park ambassadors, nature barn attendants, Rock Garden Rangers, horticulture staff; Golf Seasonal Positions: golf course maintenance, pro shop, snack bar/beverage cart, cart attendant. Applications for these positions can be submitted at various times throughout the year. Age requirements for each position vary. Please call the KPR Office at (308) 237-4644 for more information.
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Park & Recreation FAQs
There are multiple ways to register for our recreation programs.. We accept registration online at kprreg.org, in person at our office at 1930 University Drive, Monday - Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., or over the phone with a Visa/MasterCard by calling 237-4644,
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Park & Recreation FAQs
Rentals of all buildings, shelters, pool and fields/tennis courts are taken at the main Park and Recreation Office. The Kearney Park and Recreation Office is located at 1930 University Drive, in the Ernest Grundy Tennis Center.
Utilities FAQs
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Utilities FAQs
The hardness of the municipal water supply requires that most softeners be set at 19 grains per gallon.
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Call the Utilities Department Water Division at (308) 233-3242.Utilities FAQs
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It is legal for households to dispose of the waste mentioned above in the refuse collection container. However, commercial businesses, and other non-households must follow the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality regulations in Title 128 of the Nebraska Administrative Code for disposing of hazardous waste, see Title 128 – Nebraska Hazardous Waste Regulations on NDEQ web site www-deq.state.ne.us. Disposal requirements depend on whether the business is a Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG), a Small Quantity Generator (SQG), or a Large Quantity Generator (LQG) of Hazardous Waste. Questions can be answered by Erik Waiss, Environmental Assistance Coordinator, at NDEQ call 1-402-471-8308. The City of Kearney does offer drop-off sites for residential recyclables including rechargeable batteries and cell phones at the Public Works Building drop-off site at 1919 15th Avenue or at the Recycling Center at 3007 East 39th Street. If residents want to recycle their used electronic devices they should ask the retailer selling the new product. Some retailers offer recycling of electronics for a fee.Utilities FAQs
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The telephone number for Diggers Hot Line of Nebraska is 811. Diggers Hot Line is the State of Nebraska One Call System provider. It is free to call and can save you liability for damaged utilities if you don’t call.Utilities FAQs
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The City has three water towers with a total of 3,750,000 gallons.Utilities FAQs
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Approximately 5.4 million gallons per day.Utilities FAQs
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Utilities FAQs
No, there are brown containers for yard waste. Yard waste containers are emptied once a week, April through the third week of November.
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Yes, it can be normal for water meter pits to contain water. The source of the water is usually rain water, irrigation water, or melting snow. Residents can bail the water out using a cup or can. If you notice water leaking from a pipe or the meter, please call the Utilities Department Water Distribution Division at (308) 233-3242 and ask that the meter pit be inspected for a possible leak.Utilities FAQs
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No, it is not allowed. Section 5-211 of the Kearney City Code Collection Regulations: Use of Assigned Property. “It shall be unlawful for any person to place, or permit another to place, any garbage or trash in any receptacle, at any refuse collection point or in any garbage container used in the city container collection service, unless the garbage, trash, or refuse is from the premises served by the container or from the premises at which the container or collection point is located.” Extra trash should be carefully transported to the Landfill and disposed of there for the appropriate fee. Residents who observe unlawful use of the refuse collection containers should call the Police Department at 233-5250 with the description of the person using the refuse container unlawfully and that person’s vehicle description.Utilities FAQs
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Utilities FAQs
The following holidays affect the residential Sanitation/Refuse Collection Schedule by delaying the refuse/trash collection one day. Example, residents normally scheduled for a Monday trash collection will have their trash collected on Tuesday: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans’ Day, Thanksgiving, both Thursday and Friday Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Please notice that the City does not take off for Columbus Day OR Arbor Day and the Sanitation/Refuse collection schedule is not changed for these holidays.
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Utilities FAQs
Please call the City of Kearney Public Works Department at (308) 233-3218 to report an issue with a street light.
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Yard waste collection generally begins about the first week of April each year, weather permitting. Yard waste collection generally ends the week prior to Thanksgiving, weather permitting. Weather permitting means that if it is unusually cold or if the City receives a late snow in March or April, yard waste collection may begin later than the first week of April. OR if the City receives an early snow in October or early November yard waste collection may end sooner than the week before Thanksgiving. WATCH FOR NEWS RELEASES announcing the beginning and end dates for yard waste collection. Container storage: Residents are encouraged to store their yard waste container over the winter months in order to save the Sanitation Division the time consuming task of hauling the containers in to the storage yard. Yard waste billing: The City does not charge the monthly bill for yard waste collection over the winter months of November, December, January, February or March.Utilities FAQs
Development Services FAQs
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• All new construction, including additions, decks, garages, accessory buildings, enclosing a porch, patio covers, carports, and fences. • Repair when structural members are involved, or changing or enlarging an opening. • Interior remodeling when alterations require removal of a wall or when adding new rooms, such as finishing a basement. • Installation of fire places or other wood burning appliances. • Accessory buildings containing more than 120 square feet of floor area. • Signs moved, altered, or newly installed. • Moving or demolishing buildings.Development Services FAQs
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Development Services FAQs
Please create an account at https://www2.citizenserve.com/kearneyne
Through this portal, you have access to all of our online services for permitting. If you have any questions or need assistance, please call Lisa at 308-233-3234 or Jamie at 308-233-3235.
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Development Services FAQs
City Code requires all residential, commercial, and industrial zoned property have a permit before erecting or replacing a fence of any type.
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Development Services FAQs
A house built for a single family may have one family, related by blood or marriage, live in it OR a group of four unrelated persons living together. A single-family structure does not allow for more than four unrelated persons.
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Development Services FAQs
The City grows as land is subdivided and annexed so the City Limit Line is very jagged and constantly changing. There is a map displayed on our webpage or in the Building/Zoning Office that delineates the City Limits.
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Development Services FAQs
Kearney has a 2-mile extra territorial jurisdiction that extends beyond the City Limit and the City governs all zoning, land development and building construction within that area. There is a map showing this boundary on our webpage or in the Building/Zoning Office.
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All signs on the outside of the building, attached or detached, require a permit before being displayed.Development Services FAQs
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Public sidewalks do not require a permit, but the City does inspect the location of the sidewalk and the forms prior to pouring concrete ensuring that the walk will comply with sidewalk standards.Development Services FAQs
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Yes, it is considered a part of the dwelling.Development Services FAQs
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A permit is not required to pour concrete on private property. A building permit would be required to erect a roof over the patio.Development Services FAQs
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Yes, the City approves the location and width of the cut and inspects the approach before concrete can be poured.Development Services FAQs
Fireworks FAQs
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On June 28th and until July 4th.Fireworks FAQs
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No. It is illegal to transport fireworks across the state line as stated in Nebraska State Statue 28-1248. Only a licensed distributor or jobber may bring fireworks into the State.Fireworks FAQs
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June 28 to July 2 - 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; July 3 and July 4 - 8:00 a.m. to midnight.Fireworks FAQs
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Fireworks that are classified as Consumer Fireworks or novelties may be sold at retail stands. The following items are not classified as consumer fireworks and therefore are illegal: • Rockets that are mounted on a stick or wire and project in the air when ignited, with or without report. • All wire sparklers are illegal. • Nighttime parachutes. • Fireworks that are shot into the air and after coming to the ground cause automatic ignition due to sufficient temperature. • Firecrackers that contain more that fifty milligrams of explosive composition. • Fireworks that have been tested by the State Fire Marshal as a response to complaints and have been deemed to be unsafe. For more information on consumer fireworks, please visit the Nebraska State Fire Marshal website.Fireworks FAQs
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No. Only in the selling of fireworks. A person employed by another to sell consumer fireworks must be at least 18 years of age. Persons age 14 through 18 may sell fireworks when working in the direct presence and supervision of an adult 21 years of age or older.Fireworks FAQs
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Stands must be located within the city limits and in an area of the city zoned for business or manufacturing. Stands must be a temporary structure used only for the purpose for selling consumer fireworks. Purchase consumer fireworks from a distributor or a jobber who holds a current license with the State of Nebraska.Fireworks FAQs
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Yes. Before applying for a permit from the City Fire Administrator you must have a license from the Nebraska Fire Marshal. You may apply on line by going to their website and follow the menu.Fireworks FAQs
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Yes. Any person selling or offering for sale consumer fireworks in the City of Kearney shall first have made application for and receive a permit from the City Fire Administrator. Application forms are available at Fire Station 1, 2211 Avenue A.Fireworks FAQs
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Yes. There is a fireworks occupation tax fee of $150 and a permit to sell fireworks fee of $250. There is also a deposit of $100 per stand. This deposit is refundable if the stand is removed in accordance with city code.Fireworks FAQs
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Fireworks FAQs
City of Kearney Code, Chapter 4 Article 6 and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal website at www.sfm.state.ne.
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These are called Novelty Fireworks and are not regulated. They contain small amounts of explosive composition but do not fall under the category of Consumer Fireworks. Such devices produce limited visible or audible effects. Examples are snakes, novelty snappers, smoke items, Champagne Party Poppers, 8” or less gold or silver wire or wooden sparklers, etc.Fireworks FAQs
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Fireworks safety information can be found by clicking this link:Fireworks FAQs
Peterson Senior Activity Center FAQ's
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At this time, we do not rent the Peterson Senior Activity Center for private parties.Peterson Senior Activity Center FAQ's
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No, there is no membership fee. The building, programs, and activities are open to all persons 50 and older.Peterson Senior Activity Center FAQ's
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The PSAC is located on the north end of the park. Enter at the main entrance to Yanney Park on 11th Street.Peterson Senior Activity Center FAQ's
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Peterson Senior Activity Center FAQ's
We offer meals for dine in or take out, reservations are required 24 in advance. Rates: Dine-In - the suggested donation for persons age 60 and over is $5.50, for persons under 60 the set rate is $7.50. Take Out- the suggested donation for persons age 60 and over is $6.00, set rate of $8.00 for persons under 60. Menus are available online at www.cityofkearney.org. Weekly menus are published in the Kearney Daily Hub every Monday.
Reservations can be made by calling 233-3278, or emailing psac@kearney.gov and can be made up to 30 days in advance.
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Peterson Senior Activity Center FAQ's
We publish a monthly newsletter with all activities, programs, and menus. The newsletter is available online at www.cityofkearney.org. Newsletters are available at the center for pickup, or the newsletter can be mailed or e-mailed to you upon request. Weekly activities and menus are published in the Kearney Daily Hub every Monday.
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Peterson Senior Activity Center FAQ's
Trips are published in the monthly newsletter. We also announce trips with an automated phone call to persons in our travel database. If you would like to have your name added to this database, call (308) 233-3290 and request to be added to the travel database. This will ensure that you will receive up-to-date information on upcoming trips.
Park Facilities
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Park Facilities
If you are interested in information regarding how to reserve a facility in one of the parks or checking a date for one of the facilities please call our office at (308) 233-3231. Reservations are not accepted over the phone. If you would like to reserve a facility, we can email the Rental Application to you or it can be downloaded. Please email rental form to rleach@kearneygov.org. We will call to collect payment and we can secure the location for you. You can stop by our office at 1930 University Drive if you prefer to pay with a check or cash.
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Park Facilities
No, alcohol is not allowed in any City park or facility except for the Gail and Michael Yanney Pavilion and Burlington Green Courtyard. Please visit our Rental Facilities to learn about special provisions and the Alcohol Addendum Form that must be completed for approval. Vendor must provide an SDL issued by the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. A uniformed off-duty office must be hired, by the expense of the renter, to be present the entire rental alcohol is present. Absolutely no alcohol can be brought in by the renter or their guests.
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Park Facilities
No, the splash pads are free to the public.
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Park Facilities
The splash pads generally open for the season on the Friday before Memorial Weekend and close on the second Sunday in September.
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Park Facilities
Harmon Pool and Centennial traditionally open the Tuesday after Kearney Public Schools is released. Harmon traditionally closes the third Sunday in August. Centennial Pool traditionally closes the Tuesday before Kearney Public Schools resumes. All open and closing dates are subject to change based of the school calendar year.
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Yes, anyone can request the use of public tennis courts, ball fields, and trails. There are fees associated with the renting of these facilities. Please call the KPR office at (308) 237-4644 for more information.Park Facilities
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Park Facilities
Yes, people can bring in a Jump-a-Roo for a private party or public event. A Rental Application needs to be submitted and approved so that park staff is aware that it will be in the park. If the jump-a-roo is being placed in a public park without renting a facility, there is a $25 fee. If the event is open to the public, the group making the request is required to have a $1,000,000 liability policy and name the City of Kearney as an additional insured on that policy. All groups are required to meet with staff to review where you can put the Jump-a-Roo without damaging underground irrigation. We do not allow any jump-a-roo with water features.
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No, overnight camping is not allowed at Cottonmill Park or at any other City park.Park Facilities
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Park Facilities
No, park restrooms close October 31, with the exception of the ERC Building at Yanney, Cottonmill Lodge and the Harmon Park Activity Center restrooms which will remain open throughout the winter months. Restrooms reopen in the spring based on the weather.
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Yes, State of Nebraska fishing regulations are followed at both lakes. People, 16 years of age or older, are required to have a State of Nebraska Fishing License.Park Facilities
Recreation
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Recreation
Registration can be completed on our website at kprreg.org, over the phone by calling us at 237-4644 with a Visa/Mastercard or by mailing in the registration form.
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Recreation
The KPR cancellations can be heard by calling the 4-INFO line at (308) 234-4636, Selection 4113 (programs and leagues) or 4114 (swim lessons). Announcements are generally posted on the KPR Facebook page as well on the KPR Weather Cancellations Button on the City of Kearney Homepage. Most field cancellations are made by 3:00 p.m. Other program cancellations are made at least an hour prior to the programs start. Please keep in mind that youth sport programs, not coordinated by KPR, will have their own method of announcing cancellations.
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Recreation
KPR does offer the following organized youth sports: Ponytail Softball, Kearney Team Tennis, Tiny Kickers’ Soccer, and in cooperation with the Kearney Soccer League offer the U11-14 Boys & Girls Recreational Soccer League. All other organized youth sports can be located by going to the following web sites: Little League baseball - www.kearneylittleleague.com Legion baseball - www.baseballkearney.com Girls’ competitive softball - www.kearneycompetitivesoftball.com Girls’ recreation softball - email: contactkgsa@gmail.com - Soccer - www.kearneysoccer.org
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Recreation
The Play Kearney Play Book is printed two times a year, April-September and October-March. Play Kearney is distributed in the Kearney Hub newspaper, available at the KPR Office, City Hall, Kearney Public Library, and online at www.kprreg.org or www.cityofkearney.org.
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Recreation
If you have never purchased a season pass, you are encouraged to purchase early because photos of each family member will be required, and each person will receive a FOB. This will need to be done at the Kearney Park and Recreation Office as first time season pass purchases cannot be done online (only renewal can be done online).
Season passes (except babysitter passes) can be renewed online or by phone.
Don’t forget to bring your FOB to the pool with you, as it is needed to get into the pool.
Please make sure to keep your FOB as it will be used for next year too.
Lost FOBs will cost $5.00 to replace.
Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
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Stormwater is rain or melting snow that runs over the land. In nature, most stormwater soaks into the ground where it falls. Excess stormwater moves its way to the nearest river, lake, or wetland. These natural systems provide water storage and prevent flooding. The amount of stormwater increases with more urbanization.Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
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Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
It’s a monthly fee that is charged to persons connected to either municipal water or sanitary systems or both. The owner, occupant, or person who is responsible for the payment of water and/or sewer service shall be jointly and severally responsible for the payment of this surcharge fee. It pays for the City’s current stormwater system and annual maintenance costs. This helps to prevent and correct runoff problems in Kearney. The fee is $2.00 per month for residential properties and $6.00 per month for non-residential properties.
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The City of Kearney is required by state and federal regulations to maintain a Stormwater Management Plan that meets parameters of a federal permit system. This Stormwater Management Plan has multiple programs within it, each covering a form of stormwater pollution prevention. Each of these programs requires time, effort, and funding to be kept active and productive.Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
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The money will be used to help manage and upgrade the municipal separate storm sewer system infrastructure, such as curb inlets and storm pipe, so that it continues to meet current regulations. It will be used to cover some of the expenses associated with incorporating the Stormwater Management Plan and its permit required programs. The first few years of the program will center on the following activities: • Design and construction of stormwater capital projects including retrofits. This includes projects on City owned properties. • Coordination of pollution reduction efforts including staff training, pollution prevention and good housekeeping practices for municipal operations, illicit discharge detection and elimination program, and public education and outreach. • Maintenance and operation of City-owned stormwater drainage and stormwater treatment facilities. There are other expenses this fee does not yet cover, such as street sweeping activities (last year our 3 street sweepers removed over 3,000 cubic yards of debris from the streets) and VacCon activities (for ensuring the 4,000 curb inlets and 100 miles of pipe are free of obstruction).Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
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Until this fee, the City did not have dedicated funding for stormwater management and its stormwater infrastructure. Prior to this fee the funds were being used from the General Fund and the Transportation Fund.Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
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No. The Stormwater Utility Fee provides dedicated revenue for the City stormwater management program.Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
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The Stormwater Management Plan is implemented city-wide. The revenue will be used exclusively for stormwater system services within the City of Kearney.Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
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Everyone in the city benefits from the Stormwater Management Plan. If stormwater runs off your property, the City must have a program and funding to manage the increase in runoff and pollutants.Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
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Emails can be sent to stormwater@kearneygov.org. Also, feel free to call 308-233-3273 if you have any questions. City ordinance No. 8127 has a lot of good information about the stormwater surcharge. You can find the Municipal Code at www.cityofkearney.org. The City of Kearney has more information in the Stormwater Management section of the Public Works Department located at www.cityofkearney.org.Stormwater Utility Fee FAQs
Lead Service Line Replacement
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Lead Service Line Replacement
The City has created a map for residents to look up their address to determine if they have been identified as having a lead service line, a galvanized steel service, or is of unknown material according to City records. The map can be found under Address Look-Up.
Additionally, the City has the Lead Service Line Homeowner Flyer, which will assist in helping you determine your service material.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
Yes, the City is sending letters to notify residents, including landlords (when applicable), in phases. The letter will be sent to any residential property that has been identified as having a lead service line, a galvanized steel service, or is of unknown material according to City records. The City’s Phasing Plan map shows Phases 1 through 5, with Phase 1 on the west side of town.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
This project will be completed in five phases over a multi-year period. Each phase is designed and anticipated to take a year, with work beginning in spring of each respective year. Please refer to the phase map to see what phase your home will be completed in. The City will be sending informational letters prior to any phase starting, giving general information and next steps.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
The City of Kearney will send an initial letter to inform you that your property has been identified for an upcoming lead service line replacement.
After we receive the signed Service Agreement, an onsite visit/inspection will be scheduled for you, City of Kearney and the contractor to review the replacement process in detail and set a date and time for the work to take place. Most service lines can be replaced within four to eight hours. An adult over the age of 18 must be present during the replacement work, since crews will need to inspect the service line connection inside your home.
Following replacement, City of Kearney will restore the landscaping exterior to a level surface and provide reseeding of grass, generally within a four-month time frame.
The City of Kearney will provide a Brita water pitcher and filter certified to remove lead to use until six months after your service line is replaced and flush your water (run cold water from the kitchen or bathroom faucet for five minutes after not using water in the home for a few hours).
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Lead Service Line Replacement
The City of Kearney is replacing lead service lines on a neighborhood-by-neighborhood basis. To view when your neighborhood is scheduled for replacement, refer to the phase map. Phase 1 is starting in spring 2024 and each phase is designed to take one year, so Phase 2 will start in 2025.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
To minimize disturbances as much as possible, the City of Kearney's contractors and crews are deploying a trenchless technology to replace lead service lines wherever this method is feasible. This method only requires two excavations; one at the City of Kearney watermain, typically near the street, and a second around your curb stop and/or water meter pit. Water meters may be located inside or outside of your residence. Both excavation sites will be restored upon completion of the lead service line replacement. During the onsite visit/inspection at your home, the team will walk through the specific plan for your property and any associated impacts.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
Currently, there is no method to reimburse a property owner who wishes to replace their own service line. The State Revolving Loan funds that the City of Kearney is utilizing for this project has very strict guidelines on how the funds can be used and how they are dispensed. The City’s Utilities Department will work with property owners to affirm that work is completed according to the current plumbing standards.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
Prior to construction the City or any contractor uses the Nebraska 811 system to have other buried utilities located in and around the construction area. This allows those digging to know where buried infrastructure is located. Nebraska 811 does not locate private lines such as underground sprinklers or buried fences for dogs or mowers. These lines will need to be located by the resident, prior to construction.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
Yes, an adult over the age of 18 must be present during the replacement work, since crews will need to inspect the service line connection inside your home. Most service lines will be replaced within four to eight hours.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
The service line replacement will be of no cost to the owner/tenant. Any additional work, beyond the scope of the replacement program, will be cost to the owner/tenant.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
Property owners must provide safe, lighted and unencumbered access to the water meter and to the service line inside the property, including access to basement, crawlspace, wall or floor area where the service line enters the building, and move any items blocking access such as boxes, furniture, washer and dryers etc.
Any Landscaping such as lawn edging, bushes, flower planters etc. that home owner wishes to save need to be removed before the scheduled service line replacement start date.
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Lead Service Line Replacement
We ask the home owner to let us know, during the onsite visit/inspection, if you have an underground lawn sprinkler system, buried dog fence, buried robot lawn mower boundary wire, or anything similar. Additionally, we ask that these lines are located in and around the construction area, prior to the scheduled service line replacement start date.
Kearney Good Life District FAQs
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
A Good Life District is a special economic development tool that was created by the Nebraska Legislature in 2023 through the passage of the Good Life Transformational Projects Act. The Good Life Transformational Act has been amended since 2023, with recent changes made in the 2025 Legislative Session by LB 707. In summary, these districts provide targeted incentives to encourage business growth, attract new visitors, and enhance infrastructure investment in designated communities.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
In order to utilize the rebated State sales tax dollars generated from the Good Life District, State Statute requires the City Council to adopt a Good Life District Economic Development Program. The Program is essentially a plan detailing what the revenue can be used for within the District. State Statute outlines the eligible expenses; therefore, the Program would need to align with those eligible expenses.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
"Shall the City of Kearney be authorized to establish a good life district economic development program for any area within the City which is included in a good life district established pursuant to the Good Life Transformational Projects Act, and shall the City be authorized to appropriate the local sources of revenue collected within such good life district program area, which may include local option sales and use taxes and occupation taxes, established pursuant to and as permitted by the Good Life District Economic Development Act; provided that the City shall not use any property tax dollars for such program, but may appropriate sales tax receipts collected within the Good Life District and remitted by the State of Nebraska for such program?"
VOTE FOR or AGAINST
I vote FOR authorizing the City to establish a good life district economic development program.
I vote AGAINST authorizing the City to establish a good life district economic development program.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
- If the vote does not pass, the City will still receive the rebated state sales tax funds; however, the City would have very little flexibility to reinvest the funds back into Kearney’s priority needs.
- In addition, the City would be forced to act as the developer—competing directly with the private sector and taking on all upfront costs for public infrastructure. The City would then have to wait for future development to generate enough sales tax revenue to reimburse itself. This shifts the financial risk from private developers onto local taxpayers.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
The Kearney Good Life District will be located on a 200-acre tract of vacant land surrounding the City’s SportsPlex.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
- The Developer will privately finance the majority of the development of the Kearney Good Life District.
- Once businesses are open and generating sales tax, the City will receive 50% of the State sales tax collected on transactions occurring in the Kearney Good Life District for the duration of the District (30 years).
- The rebated sales tax dollars will be used to reimburse eligible project costs as outlined in State statute.
- The Kearney City Council will consider scheduling an election to ask Kearney voters to authorize a Good Life District Economic Development Program. If approved, the program will shape how the Kearney Good Life District will function. The program will include the appropriate uses of the funding including reimbursement for costs of constructing public streets, signage, lighting, water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
The State and Local Sales Tax rates will NOT change. The State will remit 50% of the State sales taxes collected on transactions in the Kearney Good Life District to the City. The State sales tax rate will remain at 5.5%, while the City’s voter-approved local option sales tax rate will remain at 1.5%. Half of the State’s sales tax rate (2.75%) will be rebated back to the City to fund eligible project costs.
Example Customer Bill — Retail Purchase in Kearney Good Life District
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
- Keeps State sales tax dollars in Kearney to invest in Kearney
- No increase in sales tax, sales tax rates remain the same
- Expands the tax base (property and local option sales tax) to help ALL of Kearney
- Provides more shopping, eating, and entertainment options for residents
- Increases the speed of development around I-80 and the City’s SportsPlex
- Increases the opportunities to attract visitors and stimulate tourism
- Allows Kearney to compete with other large communities in the state and region to attract large-scale economic development
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
No changes will be made to the existing trail. In fact, the vision for the Kearney Good Life District includes expanding the trail network throughout the area, creating more opportunities for recreation, connection, and safe mobility.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
The area is located within both the 1.0% and 0.2% annual chance floodplains. All development within the floodplain is required to be built a minimum of 1-foot above the base flood elevation. Additionally, the Central Platte Natural Resource District has formally approved the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Operation (WFPO) Plan for Elm-Turkey Creeks. Once constructed, this project will intercept floodwaters west of Kearney and divert them south under I-80 to the Platte River. This project is expected to significantly mitigate flooding in southern Kearney, similar to what was experienced in 2019. The following link provides more information about Central Platte NRD’s plan: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/5a104fadbc674bda9d8f85d9c1458582.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
The original development plan included several multi-story apartment buildings to be constructed along the north and west side of the Good Life District. The increased retailers, restaurants, etc. will require more employees and bring more people to the community; therefore, the overall plan accounts for market-rate housing to expand residential options in the community as well.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
The Good Life District will support all of Kearney by expanding the city’s sales tax base and adding new amenities that draw more people to shop, dine, work, and spend time here. That increased activity helps fund citywide services, infrastructure, and future improvements.
A stronger mix of amenities also makes Kearney more attractive to families, young professionals, and businesses—benefiting the whole community. Other areas are already seeing this momentum: North Kearney has experienced reinvestment, and Downtown continues to grow with new businesses, enhanced lighting on The Bricks, and a planned Art Alley through Kearney Cultural Partners. Together, these efforts strengthen every district and support a more vibrant, connected Kearney.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
Kearney has two State sales‑tax programs that apply in parts of the same general area:
- Good Life District only:
The City receives 50% of the State sales tax to support Good Life District eligible expenses such as public infrastructure.
- SportsPlex Turnback District only:
The City receives 70% of the State sales tax to pay off SportsPlex bonds.
This program ends once $17 million is collected.- Overlap areas (both programs):
The City receives 50% for the Good Life District, and 35% for the SportsPlex Turnback for a total of 85% of the State sales tax.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
The two districts were created at different times, under different laws, for different goals, so their boundaries do not line up.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
No. The effective sales tax rate of 7.0% stays the same: state sales tax rate of 5.5% and local option sales tax rate of 1.5%. This program simply redirects half of the existing State sales tax back to the City for specific purposes.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
Businesses in the Good Life District are selected and recruited by private developers, not the City.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
The City receives the funds, and they can be used to reimburse either the City or a private developer — but only for eligible expenses under the Good Life District program, such as public infrastructure within the district.
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Kearney Good Life District FAQs
Increased development will attract more traffic. The City is currently conducting a traffic impact study to better determine roadway and intersection improvements within the district and the surrounding region, including evaluating improvement options for the Talmadge Street and 2nd Avenue intersection. Dollars from the Good Life District revenue can then be utilized to fund necessary roadway improvements.