At the city council meeting on April 11, 2023, members appointed Phil Green as the new city administrator. The decision saw two dissenting votes among council members. Additionally, an annual audit of the city’s financial records revealed a strong fiscal position, leading to the council’s approval.
Angie Schroder proposed a mural project for Washington Street, which will be forwarded to the finance committee for further evaluation. Edward Matthews presented information on the 2018 International Code Council (ICC), but the technical discussion proved challenging for the uninitiated.
Residents Dale and Jennifer Hansen requested a rezoning of their Rockhaven subdivision from General Agriculture District to Rural Residential Estates. In other zoning news, Von Loh received a conditional use permit (CUP) for his 1626 Washington Street property, allowing the upper story to be used as a residence. Von Loh also updated the council on changes to his Elk Ridge Subdivision, reducing the number of plots from 38 to 30.
The council reviewed a resurfacing bid from Cather and Son Construction that exceeded the budget by $17,000. They also approved a $21,850 contract with Olsen for asphalt overlay testing. Lighting along the southern bypass was discussed and will be managed by the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD). Additionally, the council considered the River Road Project, aimed at improving walkability in Blair by focusing on areas without existing sidewalks.
The meeting concluded with an executive session, the details of which remain undisclosed.
From original audio by Aimee Cothran. Transcribed and edited by Don Harrold for BlairToday. Email blairtoday@mail.com for corrections, additions, or questions.
