The North Platte Planning Commission voted Nov. 25 to recommend that the city annex 11 government-owned parcels contiguous to city limits, a staff memo said, describing roughly 51.97 acres. Planning staff told commissioners the parcels are mostly city-owned and that bringing them inside the corporate limits will simplify planning, clarify service areas and help respond to issues such as camping along the river.

Planning staff (Judy) told the commission the parcels were urban in character and abut existing city limits; staff recommended the annexation. The staff memo included parcel identifiers recorded by the Lincoln County Register of Deeds and maps showing the properties’ proximity to existing city boundaries.

The public hearing on the annexation closed with no public testimony recorded during the meeting. Commissioner Jett moved to recommend annexation and Commissioner Davies seconded; the chair recorded the motion as approved with the tally reported in the meeting record as yes 8, no 0, and Wuerl abstaining. The commission’s role was to recommend annexation; the council will take final action.

Why it matters: Planning staff said annexing city-owned parcels reduces jurisdictional confusion in areas such as Centennial Park and along the river, where enforcement and emergency-response questions have arisen when land is outside city limits. The staff presentation also cited potential benefits for long-term development, road funding and municipal planning.

Next steps: The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final consideration.