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1. Are regional airlines with propellers safe and modern?

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.

2. Are regional aircraft equipped to fly in bad weather?

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.

3. Are regional airline pilots experienced?

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.

4. Are regional airlines convenient?

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.

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.

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1. When are the City Council meetings?

Second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m.

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1. How long do I have to scoop my sidewalks after a snow storm?

Snow accumulated on any sidewalk needs to be removed twenty-four (24) hours after the cessation of a storm.

2. Is it okay to place snow from my driveway or sidewalk out into the street?

No. Snow removed from private property shall not be placed in or upon the public streets, alleys, sidewalks, or other public ways.

3. Is there a height regulation for grass in Kearney?

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) Kearney City Code

4. Can my neighbor leave junk in his yard?

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.

5. Can my neighbor leave his vehicle in his yard?

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.

6. My car is dismantled, but I am working on it. Will the City have it towed?

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.

7. Where can I legally park my vehicle?

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.

8. Whom should I contact about animal complaints?

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) 237-2104

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1. When do I need a building permit?

• 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.

2. How do I obtain a building permit?

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.  

3. Do I need a fence permit?

City Code requires all residential, commercial, and industrial zoned property have a permit before erecting or replacing a fence of any type.

4. Can four college students live next door?

A house built for a single family may have one family live in it OR a group of four people living together by joint agreement. A single-family dwelling does not allow five or more students to live in it.

5. Where is the City Limits line?

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. City Maps

6. I am outside of the City Limits; do I need a permit to build?

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. City Maps

7. Do I need a sign permit before displaying a sign?

All signs on the outside of the building, attached or detached, require a permit before being displayed.

8. Do I need a permit to replace a public sidewalk?

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.

9. Do I need a permit to construct a deck?

Yes, it is considered a part of the dwelling.

10. Do I need a permit to pour a concrete patio?

A permit is not required to pour concrete on private property. A building permit would be required to erect a roof over the patio.

11. Do I need a permit to add a curb cut or increase the size of my curb cut?

Yes, the City approves the location and width of the cut and inspects the approach before concrete can be poured.

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1. How do I schedule a tour?

Contact Fire Station 1 at (308) 233-3226 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

2. What smoke alarms do you recommend?

Any smoke alarm that has been tested and has a UL label.

3. How do I get a burn permit?

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.

4. When an emergency vehicle is approaching that is displaying flashing emergency lights and sirens, what should I do?

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.

5. I have seen emergency vehicles driving with lights and sirens, and then just turn them off. Why is that?

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.

6. I see vehicles with a flashing red light but no siren and they are not a fire truck, police car or an ambulance. Who are they and what should I do?

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.

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1. When can I purchase consumer fireworks in Kearney?

On June 28th and until July 4th.

2. May I go to Missouri or another state and buy fireworks and bring them back to Kearney?

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.

3. When can I discharge (shoot) consumer fireworks in the City of Kearney?

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.

4. What kind of fireworks can I purchase at a retail stand in Kearney?

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. website

5. Is there an age limit to purchase fireworks?

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.

6. What are the requirements to have a firework stand in Kearney?

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.

7. Do I need a license from the State of Nebraska?

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. website

8. Do I need a permit to sell fireworks?

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.

9. Is there a fee for having a fireworks stand?

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.

10. Where can I find more information on fireworks stands?

City of Kearney Code, Chapter 4 Article 6 and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal website at www.sfm.state.ne.

Code

11. Why can retail stores sell fireworks before June 28?

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.

12. Where can I find information on Fireworks safety?

Fireworks safety information can be found by clicking this link: Fireworks Safety

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1. How do I get a library card? What does it get me access to?

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 age 17 & 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 & reserve library materials, use the bookmobile, and use our interlibrary loan service!

Online Application

2. How many items am I allowed to check out?

You may have up to 99 items checked out at one time.

3. How long are loan periods?

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.

4. How do I renew my items?

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

5. How much are late fines?

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.

About Text Notifications

6. What if I lose or damage a book?

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.

7. Can I access the internet at the Library?

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.

8. What are my responsibilities as a borrower?

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.

9. How do I update my address and contact information?

You can easily update your account information by calling the library at 308-233-3282 or filling out this online form.

10. What COVID-19 related safety measures are in place?

Several restrictions have been put in place to help ensure the safety of patrons and staff and to comply with the Directed Health Measures issued by the Governor and the Two Rivers Health Department.

• Face masks are strongly recommended
• Social distance (6 feet)
• Hand sanitizer stations
• Plexiglass-protected service points
• The use of self-checkout machines is encouraged.

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1. Is everyone required to wear a face covering?

Not everyone is required to wear a face covering. Some people with disabilities, physical or mental health conditions, and very young people (under 5) are not required to wear face coverings because doing so may cause harm to that person. Although the DHM requiring face masks has a broad exemption for people with disabilities, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) allows for businesses to provide reasonable accommodations in the form of alternate services (e.g., curbside pickup or delivery instead of in person shopping) for a person who cannot wear a face covering because of a disability.

Masks are also not required for those:

• Seated at a bar or restaurant while consuming food or beverages
• Engaged in exercise
• Engaged in an occupation that prevents the wearing of a mask
• Purchasing goods or services that require a mask be temporarily removed
• Speaking to an audience where six feet of distance is maintained
• Seeking state or county government services

2. Why is a face covering important?

Face coverings help prevent the spread of the virus.

• Your face covering protects me, and my face covering protects you. Wearing a cloth face covering will help protect people around you, including those at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and workers who frequently come into close contact with other people (e.g., in stores and restaurants).
• Face coverings work best when we all wear them. Face coverings are most likely to reduce the spread of COVID-19 when they are widely used by people in public settings. The spread of COVID-19 can be reduced when face coverings are used along with other preventive measures, including physical distancing, frequent handwashing, and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
  
  
  

3. How should I care for my cloth face covering?

Wash your cloth face covering frequently, ideally after each use, or at least daily. Keep cloth face coverings in a separate paper bag or bin until they can be laundered with detergent and hot water and dried on a hot cycle. If you must re-wear your cloth face covering before washing, wash your hands immediately after putting it back on and avoid touching your face.

4. How long can I use a paper face covering?

If you use a paper face covering that is not for health care workers, it is recommended that you use a new one every day. Used paper face coverings should be thrown out at the end of the day.

5. I'm not able to wear a face covering for medical condition, mental health reason, or disability. Do I need documentation about why I can't wear a face covering?

No.

6. Does the mask requirement apply to businesses that see customers by appointment only?

If the staff of the business and the customer can maintain 6 feet of distancing at all times, they would not need face coverings.

7. Do individuals that have already tested positive for COVID-19 still have to wear a face covering?

Yes.

8. Are face coverings required inside gyms and yoga studios?

Yes, when you are going into and out of the gym. However, you may remove your face covering when you are engaged in exercise.

9. What do I do if I see someone not wearing a face covering, even though they should be?

Nothing. Some people have conditions or circumstances that would make wearing a cloth face covering difficult or dangerous. Just wear your face covering and stay six feet away.

10. Is there a penalty for not wearing a face covering in public?

Any individual or person who is found to have violated any of the provisions of the ordinance shall be guilty of an infraction as defined in section 1-112 of City code for each offense and shall be subjected to a fine of $25 for the initial offense. Each instance of violation may be considered to be a separate offense.

11. As a valid Concealed Handgun Permit Holder, am I required to wear a mask or face covering?

Yes. Nothing in the Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 69-2427 – 69-2449, prohibits the permit holder from wearing a face mask or face covering as described in the City of Kearney Temporary Mask ordinance. Permit holders may be asked to briefly remove the mask for proper identification by Law Enforcement. Permit holders shall comply with duties; contact with a peace officer, as described in Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2440.

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1. What is the total number of miles of the hike/bike trails?

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.

Kearney Trails Information

2. What type of seasonal employment is available at the Park and Recreation Department?

KPR employs approximately 250 seasonals annually. Some of the positions include: youth sport coaches/officials, day camp instructors, adult sport officials, lifeguards, pool cashiers, park ambassadors, marina staff, nature barn attendants, concession attendants,  park maintenance, golf course maintenance, and golf services. 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.

3. How do I register for a recreation program?

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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1. Who should a person call if interested in getting information on renting a facility?

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.

2. Is alcohol allowed when renting a City facility?

No, alcohol is not allowed in any City park or facility.

3. Is there a fee to use the splash pads?

No, the splash pads are free to the public.

4. When do the Park Splash Pads open and close for the season?

The splash pads generally open for the season on the Friday before Memorial Weekend and close on the second Sunday in September.

5. When do the swimming pools open and close for the season?

Harmon Pool traditionally opens on the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend and closes for the season on the Sunday before Labor Day Weekend. Centennial Pool opens on the Tuesday after Memorial Day and closes on the Saturday before school begins.

6. Can anyone reserve tennis courts, ball fields, or trails?

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.

7. Can people bring a Jump-a-Roo into the park for a public event, birthday or celebration?

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, if possible, name the City 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.

8. Are people allowed to overnight camp at Cottonmill Park?

No, overnight camping is not allowed at Cottonmill Park or at any other City park.

9. Are park restrooms open year round?

No, park restrooms close October 31, with the exception of the Cottonmill Lodge and E.R.C. building at Yanney Park restrooms which will remain open throughout the winter months. Restrooms reopen in the spring based on the weather.

10. Is a fishing license required to fish at the lakes at Yanney Park and Cottonmill Park?

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.

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1. Who should a person call if interested in renting the Peterson Senior Activity Center?

At this time, we do not rent the Peterson Senior Activity Center for private parties.

2. Is there a membership fee to a participate in the programs and activities at the Peterson Senior Activity Center?

No, there is no membership fee. The building, programs, and activities are open to all persons 50 and older.

3. Where in Yanney Park is the Peterson Center located?

The PSAC is located on the north end of the park. Enter at the main entrance to Yanney Park on 11th Street.

4. How much does it cost to eat at the PSAC and can people under 60 eat there?

The suggested donation for persons age 60 and over is $4.00. For persons under 60 the set rate is $5.00.

5. Where can I find what program and activities are offered at the PSAC?

We publish a bi-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.

6. How do I find out about the trips that offered?

Trips are published in the bi-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.

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1. How do I contact the Police Department?

In an emergency, call 9-1-1. In a non-emergency situation, call (308) 237-2104.

2. Can I report issues anonymously?

Yes, by using the City's "Access Kearney" system or by calling Crimestoppers at (308) 237-3424.

3. Where do I pick up an application for a police officer position?

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.

4. Where do I obtain a copy of my police background report?

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.

5. How can I obtain an accident report?

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.

Accident Reports

6. Is there a charge for a copy of a report?

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.

7. Where do I pay a parking ticket?

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.

8. Where do I pay a traffic citation that was issued in Buffalo County?

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.

9. How can I obtain a Handgun Purchase Permit?

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.

10. How can I obtain an Itinerant Merchant Permit?

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.

11. When can I get my property back that was taken as evidence?

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.

12. How do I get my vehicle back that has been impounded?

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.

13. How can I apply for a Protection Order?

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.

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1. How do I register for Recreation Programs?

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.

2. How can a person learn if a KPR program has been cancelled due to inclement weather?

The KPR cancellations can be heard by calling the 4-INFO line at (308) 234-4636, Ext. 4113 (programs and leagues) or 4114 (swim lessons). Announcements are generally posted on the KPR Facebook page as well. 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.

3. Does KPR offer youth league sports?

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

4. What are the best ways to find out about Park and Recreation programs?

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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1. What is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Stormwater Program?

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.

2. Are sewers and storm drains the same thing?

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.

3. What can I do to prevent stormwater pollution?

• 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.

4. Can any products be safely poured down the storm drains?

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.

5. How do I report illegal dumping or suspicious discharges?

Contact the Stormwater Pollution Hotline at (308) 233-3273 or report your concern through Access Kearney.

6. NPDES FAQ's

View information on NPDES FAQ's. NPDES FAQ's

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1. What is stormwater?

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.

2. What is the stormwater surcharge fee on my bill?

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.

3. Why does the City of Kearney have this fee?

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.

4. What will the stormwater surcharge fee be used for?

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).

5. Why are we being charged this fee now?

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.

6. Can the fee be used to fund other City programs like Social Services or the Public Library?

No. The Stormwater Utility Fee provides dedicated revenue for the City stormwater management program.

7. Will revenues be spent throughout the City of Kearney?

The Stormwater Management Plan is implemented city-wide. The revenue will be used exclusively for stormwater system services within the City of Kearney.

8. Why do I have to pay when I do not have any drainage problems?

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.

9. Who can I contact about stormwater issues?

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 Management

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1. How should I set my water softener?

The hardness of the municipal water supply requires that most softeners be set at 19 grains per gallon.

2. Whom do I call if my sewer is backing up?

Call the Utilities Department Water Division at (308) 233-3242.

3. How do I dispose of old computers, televisions, batteries, and cell phones?

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.

4. What is the number that I am supposed to call before I dig?

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.

5. What is the capacity of the City's water towers?

The City has three water towers with a total of 3,750,000 gallons.

6. What is the average daily water consumption?

Approximately 5.4 million gallons per day.

7. Can yard waste be put in trash containers?

No, there are brown containers for yard waste. Yard waste containers are emptied once a week, April through the third week of November, for a fee of $14.07 per month per container.

8. Is it normal for the water meter pit at my home to be full of water?

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.

9. If I have extra trash, is it okay for me to take it Downtown and place it in one of the trash dumpsters in the alley?

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.

10. What Holidays affect the residential Sanitation/Refuse Collection Schedule?

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
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.

11. Who do I call when my street light is out?

Please call Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) at 1-877-275-6773 to report a street light being out or off. The City leases the electric distribution system to NPPD and they are responsible for all repairs, maintenance and extensions to the system.

12. When does yard waste collection begin and end?

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.