The Custer County Board of Supervisors met on Tuesday, May 26, with Supervisor Anne Gibbons absent.
Supervisors approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Supervisor James Markham abstained from the vote.
Committee reports highlighted several county projects and meetings.
Multiple supervisors discussed attending a recent informational meeting regarding data centers, saying the session provided valuable information as county officials continue studying possible zoning considerations and impacts involving utility usage, noise, and infrastructure.
Tammy Kleeb reported attending a Region III Behavioral Health meeting, where grant opportunities and school wraparound programs were discussed.
Charles Blowers said Paulsen Road improvements have been completed, while work on Anselmo Road continues.
Sara Parliament reported on a county safety meeting held at the county highway shop, where safety concerns were reviewed and documented for required state reporting. Parliament also said extension officials are preparing for the upcoming county fair.
James Markham reported ongoing courthouse issues involving shingles.
Supervisors unanimously approved an updated communications interlocal agreement between Custer County and the City of Broken Bow.
The agreement removes previous long-term language and establishes a three-year review process. The city’s communication funding contribution will decrease from 45 percent to 35 percent beginning with the 2027-2028 budget cycle. Clay Govier made the motion to approve the agreement with Sara Parliament, providing the second.
The board also approved signing the 2027 Community-Based Juvenile Services Aid Enhancement Grant Award.
During a quarterly recycling update, Recycling Coordinator Kelly Flynn reported stronger recycling commodity pricing, including increases in cardboard value. Discussion also took place regarding increasing trailer disposal rates. Flynn said conversations with officials in St. Paul and Burwell indicated proposed adjustments appeared “workable.” Flynn also said assistance is being provided to pursue grant opportunities.
County Surveyor Shawn Boyd addressed concerns regarding public access to survey records after an incident involving a surveyor attempting to obtain records while county survey staff were working in the field. Officials discussed securing records, fixing office access issues, and long-term plans to digitize files through the Nebraska State Surveyor’s Office. Missing files and record security were among the concerns discussed.
The board later held a public hearing before unanimously approving a conditional use permit allowing Vertical Bridge and Verizon Wireless to construct a 255-foot cell tower northeast of Mason City.
Officials said the tower will improve wireless service coverage and emergency communications in the area. Plans also include dedicated capacity for 911 and emergency management services.
David Schmidt, City Administrator, was the lone member of the public to speak at the end of the meeting. Schmidt emphasized the importance of the data center’s discussion, noting the Facebook comments. “Your comments and concerns are seen and heard,” stated David Schmidt. The Board of Supervisors will continue to get educated and learn about data centers before coming to a decision at a future board meeting.
The Custer County Board of Supervisors will next meet on June 9th, at 9:00 AM on the top floor of the Custer County Courthouse. The public is invited to attend.
