County officials resolve radio tower issues following lightning strike incidents

During the Scotts Bluff County Commissioners Meeting held on April 22, 2025, several key updates and discussions highlighted ongoing infrastructure improvements and community safety measures. The meeting, attended by various staff members and commissioners, focused on recent challenges and developments within the county.

One significant topic was the recent malfunction of two radio towers that serve as critical communication links for emergency services. Troy, a staff member, reported that the Lake Minitori Tower experienced issues after a mutual aid fire response, leading to troubleshooting efforts. Technicians discovered that a lightning arrestor had failed, which is designed to protect the tower's electronics from lightning strikes. Fortunately, the problem was resolved quickly, allowing communication systems to return to normal functionality.

In addition to the radio tower updates, discussions included the construction of a new hangar at the local airport. This project, initiated by a county resident, will be added to the county's insurance policy, with the resident responsible for their own insurance costs through a triple net lease agreement. This development reflects ongoing efforts to enhance local infrastructure and support community needs.

The meeting also touched on road improvements, with updates on the completion of the last two miles of Veil and Overlay on Stegall Road, as well as progress on the River Bridal project. These enhancements are part of the county's commitment to maintaining and improving transportation infrastructure.

Furthermore, the commissioners discussed the upcoming Operation Clean Sweep initiative, aimed at community cleanup efforts, and the establishment of a permanent Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in the basement of the new Scottsbluff Schools building. This center will enhance the county's preparedness for emergencies and improve coordination among local agencies.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's proactive approach to addressing infrastructure challenges and enhancing community safety. As these projects move forward, they are expected to have a positive impact on the residents of Scotts Bluff County. The next steps include continued monitoring of the radio tower systems and further discussions on the airport hangar and road projects in future meetings.