Lincoln City Council approves property purchase for new downtown library amid public concern

The Lincoln City Council convened on July 28, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including significant developments regarding the Downtown Central Library project and public comments on pressing humanitarian issues.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming the presence of all council members. The council swiftly moved through the agenda, beginning with the approval of a real estate purchase and sale agreement between Southeast Community College and the City of Lincoln. This agreement, introduced by Council Member Beckias, pertains to the acquisition of property located at 11110 Street for the new downtown central library. The motion received unanimous support, passing with a 6-0 vote.

Following this, the council addressed an amendment to the capital improvement program (CIP) for the Downtown Central Library project. This amendment aimed to decrease the funding amount and adjust the funding source. Again, the motion was introduced by Beckias and seconded by Washington, resulting in another unanimous vote of 6-0.

With these items concluded, the council moved on to the resolutions and ordinances section of the agenda, which included first readings of multiple items. The council also opened the floor for public comments, allowing individuals to address matters not on the agenda.

During the open microphone session, a speaker, Anastasia Finner, presented a statement regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Finner conveyed messages from a journalist on the ground in Gaza, highlighting the severe shortage of aid and the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by the population. The speaker emphasized the dire situation, citing claims of starvation and the inadequacy of aid being delivered compared to the needs of the people.

The meeting concluded after the public comment session, with the council members acknowledging the importance of community engagement and the pressing issues raised by constituents. The council's next steps will include further discussions on the library project and continued attention to public concerns.