City Council set to name new president during upcoming meeting

The Columbus City Council will have a new president come Monday night.

The Council is expected to elect one of its own to take on the role of council president during its 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3, 2023, meeting in its Chamber on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St.

Either Charlie Bahr, Katherine Lope...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - JOINT COMMUNICATIONS CENTER

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

The Columbus-Platte County Join...

All of the lights – Parks and Rec gears up for massive downtown holiday parade

Move over, Rudolph. Plenty of bright lights will be on display this weekend as the City of Columbus’ Parks and Recreation Department hosts its second annual Holiday Parade.

Set to take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, the Holiday Parade is free to the community and will see far more than a dozen participants show off their rides throughout downtown Columbus. It all leads up to the grand finale of Santa Claus greeting ...

Property owners may be eligible for 23rd Street Beautification Grant funds

To assist property owners along the 23rd Street Corridor Redevelopment Area, the City of Columbus is bringing back its 23rd Street Neighborhood Beautification Grant Program.

The purpose of the program is to encourage and incentivize the enhancement and beautification of Area 6 located around the 23rd Street Corridor.

(ABOUT THE PHOTO: Here is a map that shows the different blighted areas in Columbus. Area 6 is eligibl...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - CITY CLERK'S OFFICE

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

DEPARTMENT: City Clerk...

FROM THE MAYOR: Thankful and blessed (November 2023)

It has been a month of great interaction with many individuals and events taking place within our community. And as I have said before, these type of events are what makes being mayor fun!

On Nov. 8th, I was a guest at the Sertoma Service Club Annual Service to Mankind Award Banquet. Annually, the Sertoma group recognizes someone who has truly served mankind and done so selflessly. This year’s winner: Donette Jablonski. It was an ...

City publishes new online budget guide for fiscal year 2023-2024

The City of Columbus recently released a new online booklet to give the public a snapshot of its fiscal budget.

Fittingly titled “Annual Budget: A Quick Guide Of Fiscal Year 2023-2024,” the 16-page document created by City of Columbus staff members is equipped with informative graphics and various breakdowns of topics related to the fiscal year budget in an effort ...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - FINANCE

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

DEPARTMENT: Finance

DEPARTMENT H...

Columbus City Council set to meet this upcoming Monday

Proclamations, appointments, public hearings and resolutions take up much of the Columbus City Council's agenda for its next meeting.

The Council is scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, in its Chamber/the Community Room on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St.

PROCLAMATIONS

Columbus Mayor Jim Bulkley is expected to sign a proclamation for Columbus...

Stachura resigns from BID Board; replacement sought to fill term

The Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) Board is seeking a new member as longtime local businessman and community advocate Bob Stachura has announced his resignation.

Stachura, of Columbus Tire & Service Center, in his resignation letter to BID Board President Joshua Johnson, Columbus Mayor Jim Bulkley and City Administrator Tara Vasicek said he feels it’s time, noting “a new, younger downtown b...

Columbus Fire Department makes strides, continues working toward staffing Charlie Louis

The Columbus Fire Department is currently staffed with 23 career personnel: 18 firefighters, three captains, one assistant chief and one chief.

“CFD headquarters requires a total of 18 personnel to be staffed with six individuals 24/7/365. This allows for one person to be off per day, leaving our minimum staffing level at five,” Columbus Fire Chief Ryan Gray said. “T...

NDOT provides update on 23rd Street construction project

The following is an update about the Nebraska Department of Transportation's 23rd Street construction project.

Work from Last Week

• Paving: Mainline paving from near 1st Ave to East 6th Ave; various paving from 16th Avenue and 3rd Avenue.

• Electrical: Various work on conduits and structures for signal and light poles from 14th to East 11th.

&b...

JOIN THE FORCE: Open house aims to attract new police officers

Many people have dreamed or thought about being a police officer without knowing all it entails, and now the Columbus Police Department is giving the public a chance to learn more about joining the force without making a commitment.

CPD is gearing up for an open house from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023, at its downtown headquarters, 2330 14th St. Attendees will be able to learn more about the job, the police academy, hiring process, pay scale and all other aspects of a c...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - WATER UTILITY SERVICE

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

The Water Utility Service Depar...

Columbus fire chief praises work and response at Superior Industries incident

Machinery caught fire late Monday night at Superior Industries, but Columbus Fire Department Chief Ryan Gray said the quick action of company employees and first responders prevented it from getting out of hand.

At about 9:45 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13, 2023, CFD was alerted to Superior Industries, 3330 E. 23rd St. in Columbus, for a report of a forklift and metal-cutting machine on fire inside of the building.

When fire crews arrived, according to Gray, they found smok...

Propane tank leak at Camaco leads to CFD response and evacuation

A propane tank leak early Monday at Camaco resulted in an evacuation and response from the Columbus Fire Department.

At about 2:18 a.m. Monday, Nov. 13, 2023, CFD was dispatched to Camaco, 1851 E. 32nd Ave., and discovered an 800-gallon propane tank was leaking liquid propane.

According to Columbus Assistant Fire Chief Nate Jones, the facility was evacuated and Sapp Bros...

City offices to be closed Friday for Veterans' Day

All City offices will be closed Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, in observance of Veterans Day on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023.

City Hall, located on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St., will reopen on Monday, Nov. 13, 2023.

Columbus Public Library will reopen at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023.

The solid waste/yard waste sites will be closed on Saturday...

WATCH & READ: 'Council Minute' recap highlights EMS, council appointment and more

Did you miss Monday night's Columbus City Council meeting but are in search of a quick rundown of what happened? Mayor Jim Bulkley has you covered.

Watch the 'Council Minute' recap video on the City's YouTube channel by clicking here. In the one-minute-and-23-seconds clip, the mayor provides a recap of the major points discussed during the council meeting that took place on Nov. 6, 2023. 

Wan...

Mayor seeking candidates to fill First Ward City Council seat

Columbus Mayor Jim Bulkley is now seeking applications from the public in hopes to appoint someone to a soon-to-be vacant Columbus City Council seat.

City Council President Beth Augustine Schulte, who represents the First Ward, announced on Nov. 6 her resignation from the City Council effective after the meeting on Nov. 20, 2023. She said she’s resigning because she will be relocating to an area home o...

14 YEARS STRONG - Augustine-Schulte announces resignation from Columbus City Council

Columbus City Council President Beth Augustine-Schulte was only in junior high when she got her introduction to city government by working as a public library page, preparing the organization for its big move into a new building in 1977.

“It was my very first job,” Augustine-Schulte recalled of the library’s move from a small space off 25th Avenue to a 14th Street location. “I was working there and helping move books and organizing things.&rdquo...

Columbus City Council meeting on tap Monday

The Columbus City Council is gearing up for its upcoming meeting at the start of next week.

The Council is scheduled to have its first regular meeting of the month at 6 p.m. Monday in the Council Chamber/Community Room on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St.

The Council will consider approving resolutions to OK interl...

Downtown BID Board set to meet Monday, Nov. 6

The Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) Board has its November meeting coming up next week.

The meeting is scheduled for noon on Monday, Nov. 6, in the Community Room on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St. in downtown Columbus.

The agenda for the meeting is as follows:

1. Statement of compliance with Open Meeting Act ...

Columbus' child care dilemma serves as focal point of United Way discussion

Ongoing local child care issues’ effects on area families, the local workforce, businesses and Columbus as a whole took center stage Wednesday at the Columbus Community Building.

The Columbus Area United Way hosted more than two dozen local leaders, including those from the City of Columbus, Platte County, Columbus Public Schools, Central Community College-Columbus, Centro Hispano, the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and other h...

HOMEGROWN LEADER - Johnson earns distinguished Columbus’ Volunteer Citizen of the Year' honor

When Columbus native Joshua Johnson moved back to town right as the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020, he only had one goal.

“I said I would get involved in as much as I can. I wouldn’t be the typical person who wants to complain about something and never take any action.” Johnson said. “I wanted to make Columbus better. I wanted to impro...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - ENGINEERING

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

DEPARTMENT: Engineering

DEPARTME...

CFD puts out morning fire at Frontier Cooperative

A spontaneous combustion of livestock feed was determined to be the cause of a Monday morning fire that occurred at Frontier Cooperative.

About 7:26 a.m. Monday, Oct. 30, 2023, the Columbus Fire Department was dispatched to Frontier Cooperative, 1854 14^th Ave. in Columbus, for a report of smoke in the building.

“Upon arrival smoke was seen exiting a large steel storage building,&am...

MONSTER MASH – City + Friends Trunk-or-Treat sparks massive community Halloween party

Columbus came, it saw and it conquered the quest for Halloween fun on Thursday night, as more than 1,500 people showed up for the first-ever City of Columbus + Friends Trunk-or-Treat extravaganza.

Pirates, Pokémon, the “Mario Kart” collective, Ghostbusters, Sesame Street’s “Oscar the Grouch,” “Gru” and his “Minions,” “Cruella de Vil&rd...

Make Art Come Alive: How Columbus Arts Council’s interactive display came together

Art was alive and well on Thursday in downtown Columbus.

The more than 1,500 people who came through downtown for the first-ever City of Columbus + Friends Trunk-or-Treat extravaganza were abuzz with curiosity and excitement thanks in part to the Columbus Arts Council’s show-stopping trunk that was th...

Police arrest suspect in officer-involved shooting at mobile home

The Columbus Police Department has arrested a suspect following an officer-involved shooting that took place on Oct. 20, 2023.

The suspect, 32-year-old Caleb J. Urban, has been arrested on the charges of attempted first-degree assault on an officer (a Class II felony), terroristic threats (a Class IIIA felony), child abuse (a Class II felony) and use of a weapon to commit a felon...

Public Works urges road caution ahead of predicted winter weather

In loom of predicted wintery weather this weekend, the City of Columbus Public Works Department is reminding the public to use caution on the roads.

Rain and snow showers with the potential for strong winds are predicted to begin on Saturday morning throughout Northeast Nebraska, according to the National Weather Service based out of Omaha/Valley. It also could result in freezing drizzle.

Please be adv...

Free City + Friends Trunk-or-Treat extravaganza happens today!

It's the final countdown!

The first-ever City of Columbus + Friends Trunk-or-Treat takes place from 5-7 p.m. today, Oct. 26, outside the Columbus Community Building.

“We are excited to have people come out on Oct. 26. This will be a great way for people to come together in a fun environment that also engages the community all around,” City Parks and Recreation Director Betsy Eckhardt said, noting t...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - MUNCIPAL AIRPORT

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

DEPARTMENT: Municipal Airport

DE...

Illegal dumping results in Sock Pond’s closure

Sock Pond has been known as a popular fishing spot for the community for years, but lately, it has become a hub for garbage, yard waste and trashy furniture.

“Repetitively throughout the summer, we’ve encountered all kinds of illegal dumping. Up to this point it was yard clippings and branches, but now we’ve found couches, furniture and all kinds of stuff,” City Parks an...

Columbus represents at national Fire Administrator’s Summit

Columbus Fire Chief Ryan Gray and Capt. Eric Kluever were among those who recently got to hear from the president, U.S. secretary of Homeland Security and other high-ranking officials about their field.

The Columbus firefighters earlier this month took part in the “U.S. Fire Administrator’s Summit on Fire Prevention and Control: State of Science,” in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The summit, which kicked off the 100th anniversary of...

City Engineering Department welcomes Columbus High senior for job shadowing

Columbus High Senior Kaden Brownlow spent the last few weeks learning firsthand what a career in civil engineering looks like at the City of Columbus as part of his school’s career services program.

“It has been pretty fun. I’ve been able to learn a little bit of just about everything,” Brownlow said on Oct. 20.

Labenz on Oct. 20 took Brownlow down to the parking lot being built east of the Columbus Community Building to ...

25 YEARS STRONG: Columbus Police's Wangler retires after fruitful career in law enforcement

Columbus native Brad Wangler can still vividly recall one frosty winter night as a boy in the 1970s when his mother called his Dad at the Platte County Sheriff’s Office with an urgent request.

“We’re in the middle of a snowstorm happening and my Mom called the sheriff’s office after realizing we were out of milk and asked them to tell my Dad to bring milk back to the house when he got off duty. She said within an h...

Columbus Police identify suspects in recent robbery

The Columbus Police Department has announced the people it arrested on Oct. 17 and what they were charged with after responding to a reported robbery.

CPD announced it arrested 59-year-old John M. Olsan; 33-year-old Jazmaine M. McManigal; and 22-year-old Dylan M. White. 

Olsan was jailed for robbery, use of deadly weapon to commit a felony, possession of an exceptionally hazardous controlled sub...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - STREETS

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024). The Street Department falls un...

WATCH & READ: Columbus Police bolster their vehicle fleet

When it comes to the Columbus Police Department’s fleet of vehicles, there’s really no such thing as rest. The department’s Ford Explorer Police Interceptor fleets are constantly on the move.

“Our primary fleet vehicles run 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, so we put a lot of miles and hours on our vehicles,” Columbus Police Capt. Doug Molczyk said. “The amount of time the vehicle is idling is just as important to ...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - GOLF COURSES

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

City golf courses fall under th...

City honors staff with recognition awards

The City of Columbus recently celebrated the 2022-2023 fiscal year by honoring its staff members.

Staff members were saluted during an awards recognition banquet on Oct. 13 at American Legion.

"This is just another example of the great employees we have," Mayor Jim Bulkley said. "They are here when we need them and are not afraid to go a...

COUNCIL PREVIEW: City Council to consider several reappointments and more

The Columbus City Council has several items to address when it next meets at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16.

The agenda includes several reappointments:

-Larry O’Neill to the Library Board for a four-year term

-Chuck Whitney to the Nebraska Cooperative Government Commission as a delegate for a one-year term

-Adam Urkoski, Ron Schilling and Charlie Bahr to...

Your Tax Dollars At Work: Van Berg’s growing popularity fuels need for purchase of 10 new golf carts

One good thing that came out of 2019’s historic flooding and the COVID-19 pandemic back in 2020 was the resurgence of interest in Van Berg Golf Course.

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NOTE TO READERS: “Your Tax Dollars At Work” is a new ongoing series exploring how sales tax revenue helps the City of Columbus fund a variety of services, programs and projects to benefit the com...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024). The planning and economic deve...

Downtown B.I.D. Board chooses Vector Crush for marketing strategy

After months of discussion, the Downtown Business Improvement District Board has selected Vector Crush to help it with marketing downtown.

Vector Crush, founded in 2020 and based out of Stanton, Nebraska, is “dedicated to providing our clients all the print and digital communication assets they need to help their business, event, or organization achieve success and look absolutely ...

‘Pumpkin’ for everyone: City gears up for free community Trunk-or-Treat and more this Halloween

It’s almost scary how much fun is on tap for downtown Columbus this month.

The first-ever City of Columbus + Friends Trunk-or-Treat extravaganza is set to take place from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, outside the Columbus Community Building, and there promises to be plenty of treats and excitement for all attendees.

“We a...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - PARKS & RECREATION

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreatio...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - HUMAN RESOURCES

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

DEPARTMENT: Human Resources

DEPA...

Big Idea Columbus aims to help and inspire entrepreneurship

You don’t have to swim with sharks to get your dream of entrepreneurship in Columbus off the ground.

The Central Community College Entrepreneurship Center has officially launched “Big Idea Columbus.” Based on the hit ABC TV show “Shark Tank,” up to 10 area residents will be asked to make a two-minute pitch for a pr...

Mayor Bulkley visits with West Park third-grade students

Mayor Jim Bulkley had no idea what a room full of third-grade boys and girls would ask when they eagerly raised their hands on Wednesday morning, but the first one may have been his favorite.

“How old are you?” one child said.

“Well,” the mayor replied. “How old do you think I am?”

“59,” the student said.

The mayor looked back and smiled.

“God love ya,&rd...

City announces free dumping of storm-related trees, branches

In the aftermath of Tuesday night’s severe weather that ravaged much of the area, the City of Columbus’ Public Works Department is announcing times and dates for free dumping of damaged trees and branches as a result of the storm.

You will not need to scale in or out with tree branches.

1 p.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4

1 p.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5

1 p.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6

8 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

1 p.m.- 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9

Please note:

• No contractors or commercial haulers
• Use...

Severe thunderstorm leads to building, parks and road damage

The cleanup is underway after Tuesday night’s thunderstorm caused some damage to Columbus parks, buildings and roadways.

Two trees went down in Frankfort Square; a tree fell down on a light pole and took down some powerlines by the west shelter in Pawnee Park and roadways throughout town were closed as a result of tree branches falling down, among other things.

According to ...

Library drive-thru window now open at Columbus Community Building

Patrons don’t even have to get out of their cars to return and pick up library books during the week anymore.

Columbus Public Library’s drive-thru window is officially open. The drive-thru lane is located on the backside of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St. It can be accessed by taking 15th Street, then turning onto 25th Avenue and into the...

WATCH AND READ: Mayor heaps praise on ADM, community for water trail collaboration

There were no Taylor Swift sightings at Monday’s Columbus City Council meeting, but the first meeting of the new era – or fiscal year – saw collaboration serve as the focal point.

The Council on Oct. 2 unanimously signed off on a resolution approving a recreational area lease agreement with Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM) Company for river access in the general area south of Southeast 9th Street and abutting the Loup River, establishi...

City Council’s direct input helped determine spending for discretionary projects in new fiscal year

Sales Tax funds are used to fund discretionary projects in the budget, so who better to determine how they’re used than those representing the public?

Historically, City department heads always assessed and determined projects to address with discretionary funds before getting final approval from the Columbus City Council. But always looking to improve the annual budget process, City Administrator Tara ...

Columbus City Council meets this upcoming Monday!

The Columbus City Council will have its next meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2, in the Columbus Community Building.

The agenda includes hearing an update on the Nebraska Department of Transportation Reconstruction Project; reviewing a quote from Nebraska Golf and Turf in the amount of $60,000 for 10 golf carts for Van Berg Golf Course and considering the purchase of th...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

E...

Sweet deal – Columbus Senior Center fired up for October bake sale

The Columbus Senior Center is hoping the community is feeling sweet.

Senior Center Manager Patty Laska has announced the center, 3111 19th St., will host a bake sale beginning at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 19. Funds raised will go to help the center offset home-delivered meal supplies and other miscellaneous supplies needed....

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW - FIRE

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 and highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates.

Every City of Columbus department head was recently asked some questions in regard to their department, the current fiscal year budget and plans for their department in the upcoming fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024).

DEPARTMENT: FIRE

DEPARTMENT HEAD...

New state director working to push Nebraska forward in face of economic development hurdles

It’s about a 72-mile or a 1-hour-and-15-minute drive from the heart of Columbus to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development office in Lincoln for Columbus native K.C. Belitz. He should know, he does it quite often.

Belitz took over as director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development on July 5, 2023, after being appointed by Gov. Jim Pillen on June 6. He is charged with leading a team of about 100 in addressing the needs of rural and urban Nebraskan commun...

FROM THE MAYOR: Welcoming Week, City budget and moving forward

I have said it many times that the best part of being Mayor of Columbus is when I get to participate in some really special events.

 I was able to do just this when I was asked to give the opening remarks at the recent Naturalization Ceremony that was held at Central Community College-Columbus. It was truly a humbling experience to welcome these individuals as new citizens to...

Code Enforcement offers residents reminder about proper lawn care

The City Code Enforcement team is reminding residents they’re responsible for mowing along the curb and alleyway surrounding their homes.

As City Code states: “The maintaining or permitting to be or remain on any public or private property of any of the following conditions is hereby declared to be and constitute a nuisance; provided, however, this enumeration shall not be deemed or constru...

National Suicide Prevention Month highlighted during Council meeting

City Councilwoman Hope Freshour during Monday night’s Columbus City Council meeting urged everyone to be aware September is National Suicide Prevention Month and of resources available.

“Mental health is something that we all have. It is how we feel and respond to stress and emotions …” Freshour said, noting she has lost family and friends to suicide. “We need to reduce that stigma and bring aware...

WATCH AND READ: City budget for fiscal year 2023-2024 passes

After a public hearing to review the City of Columbus’ annual budget for fiscal year 2023-2024, the Columbus City Council subsequently and unanimously passed it.

“This year’s budget of $89,958,549.00 represents the things we expect to happen in our upcoming fiscal year, Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024. This budget covers our full-time 192 employees, along with numerous part-time and city seasonal employees,” Columbus ...

COUNCIL MINUTE VIDEO AVAILABLE TO WATCH ON CITY'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Want to know what happened at the Sept. 18 Columbus City Council meeting?

You can watch the latest episode of the City's 'Council Minute' video series with Mayor Jim Bulkley on our YouTube channel by clicking here.

You can also watch the full City Council meeting on our YouTube channel by clicking here...

Fall hydrant flushing coming up next week

The Columbus Water Utility Division will begin its Fall Hydrant Flushing & Flow Testing on Monday, Sept. 25, 2023.

Residents may notice discolored water and low pressure as crews pass through their areas. The flushing and flow testing may last up to three weeks.

For an interactive map with the timetable of when crews will be in the different areas of Columbus, click he...

Important facts about recent pink slip mailed from Platte County Assessor

Have you received your pink slip sent out by the Platte County Assessor regarding the 2023 Notice of Proposed Tax Increase?

Some important facts to note:

- The City of Columbus is set to lower its property tax levy by over 7% for the fiscal year 2023-2024 when it begins Oct. 1, 2023.

- As the pink note sent out by the assessor’s office states, only entities seeking to ...

American pride: Community celebrates new citizens during naturalization ceremony

Tears were shed, cheers were loud and even one little girl gleefully shouted “Yay Daddy!” as 14 people from all over the world officially became U.S. citizens on Thursday during a naturalization ceremony at Central Community College-Columbus.

The honorees ranged in age from young adult to seniors and hailed from more than a dozen different countries, including Guatemala, Iraq, Libya, the Philippines, Mexico, Nigeria, Vietnam and Ethiopia.

But on this day, officials from the federal office of Un...

City to make adjustments outside Community Building

Although the parking outside the Columbus Community Building is Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant, the City is taking steps to address some residents’ concerns by adding more handicapped spots right outside the entrance.

During the Traffic Control Device Committee meeting held Monday, Sept. 11, in the Columbus Public Library, City Administrator Tara Vasicek suggested to the committee that two parking stalls just south of the building entrance be transformed into handicapp...

Pets saved, numerous injuries reported in late-night house fire

Two firefighters, two civilians and two pets suffered injuries in a Wednesday night house fire that is under investigation as of Thursday morning, Sept. 14, 2023.

Columbus Fire Chief Ryan Gray said the department was dispatched to a report of a residential structure fire in the 1300 block of 1^st Street about 10:27 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13. Upon arrival, crews found a single-family residence with smoke showing from ...

Downtown BID Board weighs options for potential marketing strategy

Downtown Business Improvement District Board (BID) members are wanting to have conversations with two marketing companies they said they feel can help them better promote historic downtown Columbus and drive more people to it.

The Board, which met at noon on Sept. 11 in the Columbus Community Building, opted to have City Planning and Economic Development Coordinator Jean Van Iperen reach out to two firms they said they felt presented the best and most comprehensive marketing pl...

Frankfort Square band shell spray painted

City crews spent time Tuesday cleaning up the Frankfort Square band shell in downtown Columbus after the stage backdrop facing east was found spray painted.

Unsolicited spray paint was applied to the wall behind the stage showing a heart with an arrow through it, a name and some numbers, according to City Parks and Recreation Director Betsy Eckhardt. The Parks and Recreation director said City staff on Tuesda...

Columbus Police leaders reflect on 9/11/2001

Columbus Police Chief Charles Sherer still vividly remembers the morning of Sept. 11, 2001.

“I recall that I was up getting ready for work that morning, putting my uniform on, watching the morning news when the national broadcast turned to the plane impacting the first tower. I sat watching, mesmerized, thinking, ‘This couldn...

Downtown Business Improvement District Board set to meet Sept. 11

The Downtown Business Improvement District Board has its next meeting coming up soon.

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that the Business Improvement District Board of the City of Columbus will meet at  noon, Sept. 11, 2023, in the City Council Chamber on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St. The meeting is open t...

City, Centro Hispano excited for for 'Welcoming Week'

Pop singer Taylor Swift is on “The Eras Tour,” but local nonprofit Centro Hispano and the City of Columbus are gearing up for “The Welcoming Tour.”

In collaboration with Welcoming America, a nonprofit dedicated to creating inclusivity in communities throughout the United States, Centro Hispano is hoping to focus its efforts over the next seven days working to unite the community.

“We’re so excited,” C...

Freshour addresses her vote at recent Council meeting

City Councilwoman Hope Freshour acknowledged she wishes she could have done one thing differently during the Columbus City Council meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 5.

During the meeting, the City Council voted 7-1 in favor of a City pay plan for fiscal year 2023-2024 that gives all city employees a 3% cost-of-living raise (all City employees for years have received an annual cost-of-living raise). You can look at the p...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: How The City of Columbus' Budget Process Works

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 that highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates....

Columbus earns special Creative Arts District designation

Downtown Columbus has earned a special Certified Creative District designation from the Nebraska Arts Council that comes with a $250,000 grant to help promote the arts in the area.

Creative Districts are “designated cultural and economic areas where innovation flourishes and neighborhoods come together in the name of art. They provide significant economic impact by creating purposeful spaces like art galleries, theatres, a...

Columbus City Council meets on Tuesday due to Labor Day holiday

The Columbus City Council meeting will take place next week, but on a different day due to an upcoming holiday.

Overnight 911 service issue in Nebraska did not impact local JCC

The Columbus-Platte County Joint Communications Center (JCC) is not aware of 911 service being an issue in Platte or Polk counties overnight Thursday, according to JCC Director Rachel Pensick.

Several counties in Nebraska did lose 911 service on Thursday night, Aug. 31, 2023, according to various reports. Among them included some of the state’s largest counties, including Douglas, Sarpy, Hall, Buffalo and Dodge.

“But we were ...

New episode of "Just FYI" with "Stormwater Dave" now available

The City's newest web series, "Just FYI with 'Stormwater Dave,'" is available to watch now.

In this episode, Dave Boswell, the City's engineering project manager and stormwater expert, talks about the importance of picking up your grass clippings after mowing your lawn. You can check out the video on our YouTube channel by clicking here...

Columbus Destination Business Recruitment Fund available to help entrepreneurs

When discussing gaps in Columbus offerings, community members have expressed their desire to see more retail, entertainment and dining options open in the community. There is aid available to help entrepreneurs make that happen.

 “Along with the efforts in the downtown and with the development and growth being experienced in the community, more restaurants, entertainment venues and retail stores are needed,” City Planning and Economic Development Coor...

CITY ADMINISTRATOR, PART 2: Leading in Columbus

The following chronicles Columbus City Administrator Tara Vasicek's tenure in Columbus as its city administrator so far.

NOTE TO READERS: As city administrator, Tara Vasicek oversees activities in the city office and the departments that are in charge of utilities and services; as well as the day-to-day operations of the City while implementing all plans and policies under t...

State Fire Marshal’s Office to investigate Ag Park barn fire

A stable barn at Ag Park in Columbus was destroyed in a fire on Wednesday morning and is now pending a Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office investigation.

“At this time, we have not made a determination as to the cause of the blaze,” Columbus Fire Department Chief Ryan Gray said, noting the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office was contacted to investigate and help determine the...

Columbus teen group aiming to build and open drive-in movie theater

A group of Columbus teens is hoping to help make the community’s future bright by potentially launching a drive-in movie theater in town and more.

Legacy is a collective made of students from Columbus High, Lakeview and Scotus Central Catholic high schools.

“Our main push is to look at what we can do to make Columbus a place people want to come back and raise their families; live and work h...

ONE MORE REMINDER: Public open house for potential downtown viaduct project happens today

Following presentations made in Frankfort Square during Columbus Days and at a gathering of downtown stakeholders earlier this month regarding a potential downtown viaduct, the City of Columbus will host a public open house from 4-7 p.m. today.

The meeting, which was previously announced, will take place in the Community Room/Council Chamber on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14^th St. It will begin with a brief presentation and then transition to an open house format.

Thi...

FROM THE MAYOR: Summer activities, City budget and looking ahead

Columbus continues to be alive with activity.

It seems that everywhere you look there is something happening and people out and about. Enjoying an evening at the ballfields, a round of golf, a day at the Plunge, or an evening enjoying the entertainment in Frankfort Square.

Drive around Columbus and se...

CITY ADMINISTRATOR, PART 1: What actually happened in York?

The following chronicles Columbus City Administrator Tara Vasicek's tenure in York as its city administrator.

NOTE TO READERS: As city administrator, Tara Vasicek oversees activities in the city office and the departments that are in charge of utilities and services; as well as the day-to-day operations of the City while implementing all plans and policies under t...

WATCH AND READ: Congressman Flood visits Columbus Community Building

Congressman Mike Flood back in July bragged about the Columbus Community Building while on the House of Representatives floor in Washington, and on Aug. 24, he brought a memento from the nation’s capital to the City of Power and Progress.

On Thursday, Flood stopped by the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St., for an extensive tour of the building that houses City Hall, Columbus Public Library, the Columbus Arts Council, an in-the-works children’s museum and more. He also ca...

Columbus Police arrest man following firearm-related incident at The Flats at 5th

The Columbus Police Department recently arrested a man following an incident at The Flats at 5th apartment complex 2576 E. 5th St.

About 11:06 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023, Columbus Police officers responded to The Flats at 5^th regarding a report of threats involving firearms. CPD Capt. Doug Molczyk said officers were able to make contact with two male subjects involved. The guns ha...

City’s property tax levy to be reduced to lowest in 32 years

The City of Columbus is poised to lower its property tax levy by 7% for the fiscal year 2023-2024 when it begins Oct. 1, 2023.

City Administrator Tara Vasicek shared during Monday night’s Columbus City Council meeting that in all, the proposed 7-percent decrease will bring down the City’s levy by 2.26 cents. The proposed rate would be the lowest since 1991.

Vasicek said the decisi...

Columbus Fire Department celebrates 150th anniversary in style

The late-summer heat couldn’t stop the party on Saturday at the Columbus Fire Department.

Hundreds of area residents packed the department, 4630 Howard Blvd., to help it celebrate 150 years of service.

“This gives us a chance to reflect on where we came from and where we are,” Assistant Chief Nate Jones said while manning the grill.

Columbus sta...

Columbus Senior Center garage sale on tap this week

The Columbus Senior Center will hold a garage sale later this week.

The sale will take place from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24, and 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25, in the air-conditioned Community Room at the Center, 3111 19th St. Items for sale will include home décor, glassware and books, as well as many ot...

Your Tax Dollars At Work: Public golf courses benefit from sales tax revenue

For years, the two municipal golf courses in town have not only provided a chance to enjoy physical activity but served as social hubs bursting with opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Quail Run and Van Berg golf courses have bred countless youth athletes while also providing outdoor recreation for local and visiting golfers of all sorts of skill levels and ages. They’re the two public courses available in town, complementing ...

City ready to dig in to help Columbus’ housing dilemma

The local housing crisis has stifled the community in many ways for years, but the City of Columbus is pushing to help lead efforts in working toward a solution.

The City, with the approval of the City Council, will take $1 million out of its discretionary funds in the fiscal year 2023-2024 budget to put toward a city workforce/affordable housing subdivision. The City is aiming to develop a vibrant housing communi...

Men's restroom at Glur Park savagely vandalized

Some people appear to be upset school has started back up and took it out on Glur Park’s men’s public restroom.

The men’s and women’s restrooms at Glur Park were cleaned like normal and looking good on Tuesday, Aug. 15. But shortly after 9 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 16, City officials discovered the men’s restroom at Glur Park, near the intersection of 26th Avenue and 28...

Downtown viaduct project public open house set; your input sought

Area residents will soon have another chance to hear more about the potential for a downtown Columbus viaduct and can share their input now via an online survey.

Following presentations made in Frankfort Square during Columbus Days and at a gathering of downtown stakeholders earlier this month regarding a potential downtown viaduct, the City of Columbus will host a public open house from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29^t...

Fired up for fun – CFD gearing up for 150th anniversary celebration

Don’t worry if you see smoke and flames on Saturday outside the Columbus Fire Department. Members will be grilling hot dogs as part of the organization’s 150th anniversary celebration.

“It’s a big milestone. A century-and-a-half of the department,” Assistant Fire Chief Nate Jones said. “Technology and everything have changed so much, even how we approach the job has changed compared to 150 years a...

WATCH AND READ: City mapping out upgraded pedestrian crosswalks near schools

A City of Columbus initiative is aiming to help keep kids heading to and from school, as well as all pedestrians, a little safer in town.

The City recently installed the first Rapid Flash High Visibility Crosswalk at the intersection of 27th Street and 18th Avenue, just in time for the start of the new school year. The flashers at that crosswalk, fairly close to Columbus Middle School, Nort...

Council signs off on Columbus Police getting ballistic helmets and rifle-rated shields

The Columbus Police Department is adding to its toolbox once again to help keep officers and the community safe.

The Columbus City Council during its regular Aug. 7 meeting approved the purchase of ballistic helmets and rife-rated shields for $21,715 for Columbus PD. The purchase was made possible thanks to a generous donation from the Myrtle Forsberg Trust.

&ldq...

33rd Avenue viaduct lights have become popular attraction

The 33rd Avenue viaduct will be giving off Hollywood vibes this week with red, gold and white lighting in honor of the Columbus Days 2023 theme of “Lights, Camera, Action!”

“We thought it would be nice for Columbus Days,” Public Works Director Chuck Sliva said, noting the movie-inspired theme for the community celebration this week.

For a little more than a year, the 33rd Avenue viaduct uplighting feature has become a popular...

Overnight storm damages tree in Frankfort Square

Strong winds during the overnight thunderstorm damaged a hackberry tree in Frankfort Square, putting City of Columbus crews to work early on Wednesday morning.

City Public Works Director Chuck Sliva said the winds ended up snapping a branch on the tree located in close proximity to 26^th Avenue, splitting the whole tree in half and making it unstable while tearing down a nearby powerline.

Clint Aegerter, a meteoro...

BID Board forming subcommittees to assist with ongoing efforts

Downtown property and business owners have another chance to get involved with improvements being made to the heart of the city.

The Downtown Business Improvement District Board (BID) at its Aug. 7 meeting announced plans to create four subcommittees to help the volunteer collective stay on track and tackle its to-do list.

The subcommittees have been broken into four categories: Mar...

Your Tax Dollars At Work: Memorial Stadium gets new artificial turf

The new artificial turf field at Pawnee Park's Memorial Stadium will be ready to go just in time for prep football and soccer seasons.

City officials, including City Administrator Tara Vasicek, Public Property Director Doug Moore, Parks and Recreation Director Betsy Eckhardt and City Engineer Rick Bogus, on Monday morning walked through the field to get a final look as crews handled the ...

COUNCIL PREVIEW: City Council to meet at new time on Monday night

The Columbus City Council is back in action next week, though will begin its regular meeting at a new time.

The Council is set to meet at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 7th, 2023, in the Chamber on the third floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St. The idea to move the meetings up one hour first came about in June 2023 during a Committee of the Whole meetin...

Exploring options for potential downtown viaduct and pedestrian crossings

More than 130 area stakeholders recently got the chance to learn about options for a potential downtown viaduct along 23rd Avenue.

A representative from engineering firm Wilson and Company and architecture organization Confluence led three separate meetings (noon and 5 p.m. Aug. 2nd and 9 a.m. Aug. 3rd) in the Community Room of the Columbus Community Building to give the invited down...

CFD saves 15 baby turkeys in structure fire; teenage boy unharmed

Fifteen poults (baby turkeys) and a teenage boy are safe after Columbus firefighters extinguished a structure fire on Wednesday afternoon.

The Columbus Fire Department was dispatched to the 9600 block of 11th Avenue a little before 4:20 p.m. Aug. 2, 2023, for smoke in a structure. Columbus Assistant Fire Chief Nate Jones said once apparatus went en route, dispatch advised an occupant could s...

Columbus' National Night Out sparks fun and unity with first responders

Sirens flashed, hot dogs hit the grill, a steady mix of ’80s music pumped through the speakers and plenty of people smiled during Tuesday's National Night Out.

The event, which took place outside the Columbus Community Building, is a community-police awareness-raising gathering held throughout the United States on the first Tuesday in August. The COVID-19 pandemic had put a damper on the local National Night Out...

New episode of "Just FYI with Stormwater Dave" out now

The City's newest web series, "Just FYI with 'Stormwater Dave'" is available to watch now.

In this episode, Dave Boswell, the City's engineering project manager and stormwater expert, talks about best practices for washing your car without hurting the environment. You can check out the episode on the City's YouTube channel by clicking here.

Mayor and City Administrator meet with Columbus summer interns

Columbus Mayor Jim Bulkley and City Administrator Tara Vasicek were recently ready to answer plenty of rapid-fire questions from more than 30 area interns, with only one really catching them by surprise: “What’s a Runza?”

“What’s a Runza? It’s a sandwich made with homemade bread that is enclosed with hamburger and cabbage,” Bulkley told the interns. “It’s delicious … You’ve got to try it.&...

'Itty Bitty Camp' and 'Pop-Up Rec' providing area kids chance to flourish outdoors

Columbus youth will soon have the chance to earn “G.O.A.T. status” like Michael Jordan and Tom Brady. Well, in a way.

The City of Columbus Parks and Recreation Department is gearing up for the grand finale of its all-summer-long Itty Bitty Camp with next week’s “G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time) theme, four days of fun featuring some of the most well-rec...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: What does the City Clerk's Office do?

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 that highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates....

FROM THE MAYOR: A grand summer so far (July 2023)

Did you make it downtown on July 8th for the ribbon cutting and open house of our Community Building? Wow, what an exciting day.

]Wow, what an exciting day. You might think that I am getting tired of talking about this - not! What a day. It began with us highlighting the accomplishments that went into bringing this awesome facility together. We thanked all of the people that played...

Better together: Columbus Police, Fire and other first responders gearing up for National Night Out

National Night Out is making its triumphant return to Columbus after a two-year absence with a massive Aug. 1st block party downtown.

Set to take place from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. this upcoming Tuesday outside the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St., National Night Out is a community-police awareness-raising event held throughout the United States on the first Tuesday of August. Columb...

WATCH (IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH): Where's the new water utility office?

Yes, the water utility office is open in the new Columbus Community Building. No, you don't have to travel up to City Hall on level three to pay your bill.

Watch the video of Public Works Director Chuck Sliva and Senior Office Associate Vanessa Adame on our YouTube channel. They'll show you how to find the office with ease. You can watch it by clicking here.

Strength in numbers – Back to School Bash brings out big crowd

Organizers of the recent Back to School Bash knew based on atmosphere alone the event was a success, but the proof was in the pudding.

There were nearly 700 attendees, 344 backpacks handed out, 570 hamburgers and hot served, 19 community booths on hand and 54 volunteers.

The community showed up in grand fashion on Sunday afternoon for the Centro Hispano and Platte County T4C (Time for Cha...

Mexican and Guatemalan consulates’ Columbus visit inspires hope for future

Power and Progress were on full display recently as community leaders worked together to dazzle the visiting Mexico and Guatemala consulates.

Consul of Mexico Jorge Ernesto Espejel Montes and Consul of Guatemala Billy Muñoz, along with representatives of the Nebraska Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, were given a whirlwind glimpse into what the community has to offer its residents and th...

Columbus Police seize more than 3 pounds of meth in massive drug bust at hotel

The good and swift work of the Columbus Police Department has resulted in two arrests and a large number of drugs getting off the streets.

A search warrant executed about 11:48 a.m. on July 16, 2023, at Sleep Inn, 303 23^rd St., resulted in officers recovering more than 3 pounds of methamphetamine, 200 pills of suspected fentanyl, drug paraphilia and various prescription drugs, along with a f...

WATCH AND READ: Community Building's cornerstone ceremony proves special

Men and women from throughout the state applauded grandly on Saturday from inside the Community Room to commemorate a historical occasion for the Columbus Community Building.

Mayor Jim Bulkley, Councilman Charlie Bahr, Police Chief Charles Sherer, Police Capt. Doug Molczyk, Sgt. Jaymee Levander, Fire Chief Ryan Gray and Assistant Fire Chief Nate Jones, along with many residents and visitors, watched as The Most Worship Grand L...

City proud to offer Columbus teens experience serving as lifeguards

Columbus knows them for carrying around whistles and wearing their red bathing suits, but the teens who make up the Pawnee Plunge’s lifeguard collective don’t take it lightly. Like “Spider-Man,” they know great power comes with great responsibility.

These teens have to be physically and mentally sharp at all times, going through the proper channels to earn American Red Cross certification that includes swimming 300 yards continuously using various strokes, First Aid, CPR/AED and more.

The City of Colu...

Wall of Heroes, Part II: Community celebrates memorial's debut

As longtime Columbus resident Ken Robinson looked out at the many U.S. veterans from all military branches on Wednesday, he couldn’t help but get a little choked up. His mind raced back to June 6th, 2013.

On that day 10 years ago, Robinson was on Omaha Beach in Normandy, France, for the 69th anniversary of D-Day.

Considered the largest seaborne invasion in history, D-Day was the June 6, 1944, invasion of the beaches at Normandy in northern France by troops ...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101 - What is Code Enforcement?

“City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 that highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Columbus operates....

Your Tax Dollars At Work: 48th Avenue undergoes massive improvements

Once considered one of the worst stretches of road in Columbus by many, drivers are now noticing cruising along 48th Avenue from 38th Street to Howard Boulevard is smooth sailing.

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NOTE TO READERS: “Your Tax Dollars At Work” is a new ongoing series exploring how sales tax revenue helps the City of Columbus fund a variety of services, programs and projects to benefit the com...

Encore! Columbus Community Building celebration to continue with cornerstone ceremony

Two weeks after the City hosted a grand opening of the Columbus Community Building, a special cornerstone ceremony will take place this weekend thanks to The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Nebraska and its grand officers.

The ceremony, which commences at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 22nd, 2023, on the third level of the building in the Community Room, is being coordinated by Grand Marshal Eric BenSalah with the help of the local lodge, Lebanon Lodge No. 323, and in particular, l...

WATCH AND READ: Council OK's police chief's plan to recruit part-time officers

Back in 1978, the Bee Gees revolutionized the disco explosion thanks to the success of the John Travolta movie “Saturday Night Fever” and their accompanying soundtrack; “The Carol Burnett Show” aired its series fina...

Council reaffirms its support for 30/64 Corridor Project

The Columbus City Council has once again officially endorsed the much-talked-about Highway 30/64 Corridor Project.

The Council during its July 5th meeting reviewed and accepted a new resolution to reaffirm its support of the project, which aims to connect U.S. Highway 30 on the Platte County/Colfax County line by heading south and end on U.S. Highway 64 in Butler Coun...

COUNCIL PREVIEW: City Council to consider enabling police to hire part-time officers

The Columbus City Council has plenty to discuss when it next meets at 7 p.m. Monday, July 17th.

Among the highlights is deciding to amend City Code by eliminating the reserve police force and establishing a part-time officer unit. Members of the Public Finance, Judiciary and Personnel Committee (Council President Beth Augustine-Schulte, Councilman T...

Red-hot summer - Columbus Fire Department attending workshops to network and grow

Many people use summer as a time to unwind and take vacations, but Columbus Fire Department officials have recharged their batteries by meeting with colleagues from around the country and letting valuable knowledge soak in.

Chief Ryan Gray and Assistant Chief Nate Jones back in May 2023 traveled to Marion, Iowa, to attend the Chief Officer Field Training Academy organized by well-known fire officials in Chief Rick Lasky and Chief John Salka. The two men have more than 80 yea...

Reeder, Downtown BID Board talk untapped potential of 11th Street

Cory Reeder has never given less than his best effort to anything he’s involved in.

The Columbus High School alumnus was a prolific youth athlete who became a standout two-sport (baseball and football) athlete at Wayne State College from 1989-1994, which cemented his place in the institution’s Athletics Hall of Fame in 2014.

He and his wi...

WATCH AND READ: Balesteri looks to fulfill lifelong dream by joining Columbus Police as new officer

Throughout his childhood, Dustin Balesteri lived in Northern California, Missouri Texas and even Las Vegas. But Columbus, Nebraska, has been different.

“It’s the first place I’ve ever lived where I can see myself being here for a long time,” Balesteri said. “There is a lot of opportunity in Columbus. The longer we’re here, the more we like it he...

BID Board to explore branding downtown Columbus

The Downtown Business Improvement District Board is going to consider the idea of hiring an outside marketing agency to help it develop a name for the area as part of a branding strategy.

The volunteer board, made of property and business owners within the downtown district, met on July 10th in a conference room at City Hall on the third level of the Columbus Community Building. Much of the meeting was spent combing over the near-200 name ...

El nuevo buzón de servicios de agua y la ventana de autoservicio ya están abiertos

El nuevo buzón de entrega de servicios públicos de agua y la ventanilla para vehículos en el Edificio Comunitario de Columbus ya están en servicio.

El buzón de entrega y la ventanilla para vehículos están ubicados en el lado norte del nuevo edificio, 2500 14th St. en el centro de Columbus, en el callejón.

Tenga en cuenta que el callejón es de un-s...

New Water Utilities drop-box and drive-up window now open!

The new Water Utilities drop-box and drive-up window at the Columbus Community Building is now in service.

The drop-box and drive-up window are located on the north side of the new building, 2500 14th St. in downtown Columbus, in the alley.

Please be advised the alley is a one-way only.

"You must enter off 15th Street and go south on 25th Avenue, west into ...

New mural in Columbus Community Building aims to highlight diversity

An 8-by-12 mural featured prominently on the second level of the new Columbus Public Library has been turning plenty of heads and receiving lots of positive feedback.

The work, by Columbus-based artist Yaramis “Yara” Ramos Hernandez, was installed just in time for the grand opening of the voter-approved Columbus Community Building. Ramos Hernandez was on hand in early July with City Planning and Eco...

City gets good feedback from independent auditor

The City of Columbus was recently reassured its in financially sound position after receiving the results of an independent audit.

FORVIS, LLP is a professional services firm providing assurance, tax and advisory services, conducted the City’s 20...

Gerrard Park scoreboards get much-needed tune-up thanks to volunteer effort

The collaborative effort among several entities and the determination of one local man fueled the complete overhaul of the Gerrard Park scoreboards.

Columbus’ own Sean Martys spearheaded the efforts to get all of the scoreboards and controllers at the park fully operational once again after years of them being in dire need of some care.

“Some would work and some wouldn’t. ...

WATCH: Thank you for coming out to see the Columbus Community Building!

City leaders and staff members were excited to see so many area residents attend the July 8th grand opening of the Columbus Community Building.

Watch the video of a special message from Mayor Jim Bulkley, City Administrator Tara Vasicek and other members of the City of Columbus staff on our YouTube channel by clicking here.

Learn more about the event by reading the story, here.

'Where collaboration lives': Columbus celebrates grand opening of Community Building

Thunderous applause could be heard early on July 8th, 2023, along 14th Street as hundreds of residents packed outside the Columbus Community Building for its grand opening.

“This is such an exciting event for us and all of you. This voter-approved, $32-million project was completed on time and on budget,” Columbus Mayor Jim Bulkley said to the crowd, moments before cutting the ribbon, to many cheers. “We figured out that wor...

WATCH: Local leaders cut ribbon on Columbus Community Building

Far more than 1,000 people packed the voter-approved Columbus Community Building on Saturday morning for the facility's grand opening celebration.

Watch the video of Columbus Mayor Jim Bulkley, the Columbus City Council, City Administrator Tara Vasicek and other community leaders gather to cut the ribbon kicking off the festivities on our YouTube channel by clicking here.

The City will publish plenty...

WATCH: Director of Nebraska Department of Economic Development talks Columbus Community Building

Check out this video of K.C. Belitz, director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) talking about the voter-approved Columbus Community Building.

In this video, Belitz also reflects on early efforts to create a community center and all the ongoing efforts in Columbus to grow the community.

Watch the video on our YouTube channel here.

You can learn more about the July 8th Columbus Community Building G...

City Council hosts first meeting in new downtown chamber

The old Columbus City Council Chamber at 1369 25th Ave. served its purpose for many years, but oftentimes wasn’t the easiest for meetings. That was even more obvious when hot-topics were discussed.

“The old chamber was crowded,” Second Ward City Councilman Troy Hiemer recalled “It felt like we were on top of each other.”

Third Ward City Councilman Ron Schilling echoed that sentiment, noting how things always fe...

Changing of the guard: City Parks and Rec becomes its own department under Eckhardt's leadership

Public Property Director Doug Moore can still remember his humble beginnings with the City of Columbus when he was just a teenager.

“I was picking up garbage in Gerrard Park when it was brand new,” Moore recalled. “I picked up garbage all over for a summer job as a kid.”

In 1979, Moore took on a full-time City staff role as a park maintenance wor...

Singing with pride: Columbus City Council proud to start meetings with tribute to USA

No matter what’s on the agenda, the Columbus City Council has historically taken pride in starting all of its meetings one specific way: A prayer to God, the singing of the national anthem and reciting “The Pledge of Allegiance.”

Despite this tradition, the routine has been slightly modified in more recent years. Before mid-2009, the City Council meetings would commence with someone pressing play on an old tape recorder of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

“It served its purpose, but it ...

Construction on Gerrard Park tennis courts set to start July 3rd

The process of improving the tennis courts at Gerrard Park will soon begin.

Construction crews are scheduled to start tearing down the existing courts on Monday, July 3^rd, 2023, to prepare for the construction of four new dual-purpose courts for tennis and pickleball. The current tennis courts are a bit weathered and have been so...

Downtown BID Board prioritizing efficiency

The Downtown Business Improvement District Board is looking to gather ideas for renaming the district.

The BID Board has released a free online survey to gather ideas for potentially renaming the downtown as part of its initial marketing efforts to help make it more appealing and a distinct personality. Options that have been floated around include "M...

Columbus Police and Fire departments remind residents to be safe and mindful using fireworks

The Columbus Police and Fire departments are urging residents to use caution and be mindful of others when using fireworks throughout the next week while celebrating the July 4th holiday.

“We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun, but it’s paramount people follow City ordinance and be considerate of their neighbors,” Columbus Police Capt. Doug Molczyk said. “It’s important to...

City readies for fun-filled open house for new Columbus Community Building

The City of Columbus is planning for a public open house of the voter-approved Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St. The public is invited.

The celebration will take place from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, July 8^th, 2023. It will commence with a brief ribbon-cutting event at 9 a.m. outside the front entrance along 14^th Street, with Mayor Jim Bulkley, City Engineer Rick Bogus and City Administrato...

American Red Cross bestows award on Columbus Fire Department

The Central and Western Nebraska Board of Directors for the American Red Cross has honored the Columbus Fire Department for its proactive efforts in keeping the community safe.

Columbus Fire Chief Ryan Gray accepted the board’s Community Preparedness Award on the department’s behalf Friday, June 23rd, during a ceremony in Grand Island. The award stems from a partnership between CFD and the American Red Cross ...

Police arrest minor for alleged involvement in February armed robbery

The Columbus Police Department arrested a 16-year-old male on June 23rd, 2023, for an armed robbery that occurred Feb. 5, 2023, at Corner Stop, 220 23rd St. in Columbus.

The name of the suspect will not be released at this time because the suspect is a minor, according to Columbus Police Capt. Doug Molczyk. It is CPD’s policy to not release the name of suspects who are minors unless convicted of a crime.

The inci...

Making waves - Krepel relishes working with youth at pools in aquatics coordinator role

The Pawnee Plunge and Aquatic Center are essentially homes away from home for Joe Krepel. His life has been tied to Columbus pools in many ways for decades.

“It’s hard not to love pools. They’re full of life; they’re exciting,” said Krepel, the City’s aquatics coordinator.

On a June 2023 afternoon, Krepel made his way around the Plunge greeting his li...

Family business: Father and son appreciate working alongside one another at City of Columbus

Longtime City of Columbus employees Shawn and Tommie Riedmiller always hoped to earn promotions, they just didn’t anticipate they would come at almost the same time and end up working so closely together.

In March, Shawn was promoted to City golf course superintendent after predecessor Keith Kline announced his retirement. In April, one of his sons, Tommie, was promoted to cemetery supervisor after Steve Wortman announced he was retiring. The father and so...

Columbus Police remind public to be safe while driving through town

Columbus Police Department Capt. Todd Thalken is urging residents to be safe driving through town and to follow the law as road construction continues on 23rd Street.

The CPD is fully aware of the driving inconveniences the Nebraska Department of Transportation’s complete reconstruction of 23^rd Street has caused. But Thalken said it's important people exercise good judgment while on the road.

Columbus...

South portion of 48th Avenue reconstruction project progressing ahead of schedule

The road in and out of Bradshaw Park is new, improved and once again open to the public.

A complete reconstruction of 48th Avenue south of 23rd Street down to the entrance of Bradshaw Park began in March 2023 and has progressed ahead of schedule so much so that officials were recently able to open it back up for public use earlier than antici...

Cutsor hopes to inspire others to serve on committees following switch to Planning Commission

Longtime Columbus resident Robbin Cutsor was recently appointed to the Planning Commission, which brings an end to her nine-year run on the parks board.

Columbus Mayor Jim Bulkley announced Cutsor’s most recent appointment during the June 5th City Council meeting, noting she’s filling the unexpired term of Kimberly Hoefer. With permission from Council, the two-week waiting period was w...

Community's free recycling program plagued by contamination issues

Imagine emptying community recycling containers Christmas morning only to be greeted by a bag of human feces and a bunch of glass that pops up unexpectedly and cuts your face near your eye.

 Yeah, that happened to a Keep Columbus Beautiful employee on Dec. 25, 2022.

“There was a bag of poop in there,” Keep Columbus Beautiful Executive Director Vanessa Oceguera said, confirming that it was not animal waste. &ld...

Downtown BID approved; board ready to push forward

The Downtown Business Improvement District Board is free to proceed after the district was formally approved on June 5th by the Columbus City Council.

After an extensive conversation, the Council voted 6-1 in favor of approving the ordinance that allows for the formal creation of the Downtown Business Improvement District and the ability to raise funds to be used for the purposes of providing and mainta...

Columbus Public Library's move to new building underway

Don’t be surprised to see people wheeling carts of books across 14th Street throughout June.

The Columbus Public Library is technically currently closed, but staff members are hard at work as they prepare to relocate into the entity’s new home in the voter-approved Columbus Community Building.

“Even though the library building ...

City's commitment to its taxpayers focus of rural EMS discussion

The City of Columbus hopes to soon free its taxpayers from paying for the cost of emergency medical services (EMS) for two rural protection districts outside of town.

On June 5th, extensive conversation was had on the subject during the Committee of the Whole session and subsequent City Council meeting.

There has been no documentation found as to why the City has provided EMS to districts outside of the city limits for ...

City Council meetings slated to start earlier beginning in August

Columbus City Council meetings will start an hour earlier by the end of the summer.

The Council, which currently meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of the month, will shift to a 6 p.m. start time beginning Monday, Aug. 7th. It comes after City Council rules were reviewed during the June 5th Committee of the Whole meeting and ...

City's engineering project manager returns from DC after marching in National Memorial Day Parade

City of Columbus Engineering Project Manager Dave Boswell is back from Washington D.C. after being one of the hundreds of U.S. veterans to march in the National Memorial Day Parade.

“It was definitely worth the trip. Not just for me, but for all the men and women who were out there,” said Boswell, a veteran of the U.S. Navy. 

Boswell was one of more than 350 veterans from around the country who was invited...

Columbus Police’s stop at youth car wash may help get local boy to Packers’ home game

Two Columbus Police officers were looking to support local youth when they popped by a neighborhood car wash last weekend, but they also ended up helping a local boy get closer to seeing the famous “Lambeau Leap” in person.

Columbus Police Department School Resource Officer Josh Loontjer and officer-in-training Jayden French were on patrol one day in late May when they saw signs along 38th Street promoting a neighborhood car wash approximately two blocks away from Lost Creek...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101 - Appointments and how YOU can get involved

Your neighbor Nick serves on the park commission board; Robert, the businessman you know, is on the board of airport commissioners; your friend’s friend Erin is on the tree board – “wait, Columbus has a tree board?!” you question out-loud.

NOTE TO READERS: “City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 that highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Co...

Columbus Police add Pepperball launchers to their arsenal

Columbus Police officers have another non-lethal way to deal with suspects who are acting aggressively or armed and dangerous.

Recently, members of the Columbus Police Department underwent rigorous PepperBall certification training. PepperBall launchers fire pepper irritant powder projectiles that break on impact and can disable a threat from up to 150 feet away. According to the...

Columbus Fire Department debuts new incident command vehicle

The Columbus Fire Department has recently put into service a new fire apparatus that will improve operational readiness and response safety, but don’t go looking for a new fire engine just yet.

This new vehicle is of the smaller sort. The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado that was approved by City Council in the 2022-2023 fiscal budget will be used by Fire Chief Ryan Gray and other command-level officers from the department to provide incident command an...

FROM THE MAYOR: Graduations, park survey and more community happenings (May 2023)

There are so many events that have taken place around our community it is hard to acknowledge all of them. As mayor, I am often asked to attend and sometimes participate in some of these events. And I can tell you that being a part of some of these events...

Float your boat – Community collaboration powers Loup River Water Trail creation

Teamwork among numerous area organizations and one state agency has resulted in a new outdoor destination just in time for summer.

Recently, community leaders gathered to celebrate the official grand opening of the new Loup River Water Trail in Platte County which will give people a chance to enjoy an extensive float using boats or kayaks while taking in the views the local area has ...

Councilman Jablonski defends BID, pushes for more community engagement

City Councilman Rich Jablonski isn’t shy in sharing his love for volunteerism, as he has always taken pride in serving his community in many ways.

In addition to representing the Third Ward on the Columbus City Council since first being elected in 2010 (he was reelected in 2014 and 2018), throughout the years Jablonski has helped Columbus by taking on numerous volunteer roles.

His years of service in...

'Wall of Heroes' aims to honor military and late beloved coach at Pawnee Park Baseball Field

A beloved longtime Columbus coach and educator will forever be memorialized as part of a new veterans’ shrine when the Pawnee Park Baseball Field’s ‘Wall of Heroes’ debuts later this summer.

The American Legion Athletic Committee, of American Legion Hartman Post 84, is proceeding with its plan to have the sign spread beneath flagpoles inside the park field after some bleachers were removed, receiving a $3,000 donation from the family of late ...

Making the mural sing - Columbus designer bringing new life to Frankfort Square bandshell

Columbus artist Yaramis “Yara” Ramos Hernandez has been all smiles this week as she’s spent hours each day under the hot sun finishing a music-inspired mural on the bandshell along 27th Avenue in Frankfort Square.

Residents have likely noticed the mural coming to life in downtown Columbus thanks to its bright pops of color and painting of musical instruments such as a guitar that has been incorporated into the handrail. All said and done, the work will also feature...

Mayor details growing concerns over rural EMS to Platte County Board of Supervisors

On June 5th, the Committee of the Whole will consider making a recommendation to the Columbus City Council about a proposal from Platte County regarding help covering the cost of rural Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

The County Board of Supervisors at its May 23rd meeting proposed $300,000 annually over two conditional years be paid to help cover the expenses of providing EMS services to Columbus Rural and Duncan rural protection districts, a responsibility that has f...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101: How does the Columbus City Council work? [REVISITED]

We've decided to revisit the topic of the Columbus City Council as part of our series to help keep the public informed about how things in local government work and general interest in the topic.

NOTE TO READERS: “City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in April 2023 that highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Co...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101- How does the Columbus City Council work?

All of the governmental powers of the City of Columbus shall be vested in the City Council. But what does that mean?

NOTE TO READERS: “City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in May 2023 that highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the City of Colu...

Inspirando el cambio – Administrador de la ciudad, Centro Hispano reflexionan sobre el viaje

Intercambio de ComunidadesCuando la administradora municipal, Tara Vasicek, y la directora de Bienvenida y Pertenencia del Centro Hispano, Liz Rodríguez, llegaron a la séptima planta del rascacielos de 18 pisos de Adobe en San José, California, se quedaro...

Inspiring change – City administrator, Centro Hispano reflect on Communities Exchange Program trip

By the time City Administrator Tara Vasicek and Centro Hispano Welcoming and Belonging Director Liz Rodriguez reached the seventh floor of Adobe’s 18-story high-rise in San Jose, California, they were blown away.

In front of them was a 50,000-square-foot café boasting an array of cuisines from around the world so that employees and members of the public from all backgrounds have at least one food option they’re familiar with and can enjoy.

&...

CITY GOVERNMENT 101 - What is the role of the mayor in Columbus, Nebraska?

When the public hears the term “mayor,” people often think of an individual who is paid handsomely for serving, the head of local government who makes all final decisions.

NOTE TO READERS: “City Government 101” is an ongoing series that debuted in May 2023 that highlights different aspects of municipal government as it pertains to Columbus, Nebraska, in hopes to provide information on how the Ci...

Council aims to push soccer organizations toward ‘more formal’ agreement on Wilderness Park use

The Columbus City Council has given a trio of local organizations about nine months to work together on creating a new formal agreement for the future collective use of Wilderness Park Soccer Complex.

Many residents and several people representing Columbus Soccer Club and American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) addressed the Council during its April 17th regular meeting to lament their frustrations and concerns, which seemed to equate to a desire for...

Aquatic Center’s open hours temporarily changing April 22nd for prom

So that its staff members can prepare for and enjoy the Columbus High School prom, the City Parks and Recreation Department has decided to close the Aquatic Center during regular hours (noon-4 p.m.) on Saturday, April 22nd, 2023.

“We wish all our staff and Columbus youth a safe and happy prom,” Parks and Recreation Manager Betsy Eckhardt said.

The Aquatic Center, 1783 10^th Ave. in Columbus, will still be open from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. April 22^nd for the “D...

Columbus' golf's ‘Iron Man’ – Kline retiring as City’s golf course superintendent

After an illustrious decades-long career in the City of Columbus’ golf department, Superintendent Keith Kline is officially retiring on top May 1, 2023.

Kline, who was named Superintendent of the Year of the Nebraska Chapter Golf Course Superintendents Association of America last December, said it has been a wild ride that he has most enjoyed.

“It has been fun,” Kline said. “I need to thank everyone for al...

Pawnee Park baseball field lights to be on tonight

Don’t be surprised to drive by Pawnee Park tonight and see the baseball field lights on.

City of Columbus Public Property Director Doug Moore said the company that installed the lights late last year, Musco Sports Lighting LLC out of Iowa, will be in town to test out the lights and see how they work.

Moore said the lights will be on starting a...

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