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After debate, board adopts resolution 24‑11 setting levy authority; raises for Ag and Historical Societies proposed but fail in amendment
Summary
The board debated increases for the Agricultural Society and Historical Society while setting final levy authority (resolution 24‑11). An amendment to raise only the Historical Society failed on a tie; subsequent motions tied and the board ultimately approved resolution 24‑11 as originally presented. Supervisors discussed state caps (LB 34) and prioritized infrastructure and public safety in their remarks.
Gage County supervisors debated final levy authorities and special‑purpose levies during discussion and votes on resolution 24‑11, which sets final allocations for townships, rural fire districts, the Gage County Historical Society and the Gage County Agricultural Society.
Supervisor Haxby proposed increasing the Ag Society levy authority from $135,000 to $175,000 and raising the Historical Society from $31,000 to $41,000, arguing the fairgrounds and exhibitor facilities need upgrades. Several supervisors urged that organizations present concrete plans before additional levy authority is granted. An amendment to raise only the Historical Society failed on a tied vote; a subsequent main motion also resulted in a tie at one point and failed. After additional discussion the board ultimately adopted the resolution as originally presented (the clerk recorded the final tally and the motion carried).
The debate also included extended remarks about LB 34, the recent state legislation imposing property‑tax caps on counties and cities, and the practical effect of caps on planning for infrastructure repairs (bridges and roads). Several supervisors said caps would make it harder for rural counties to respond to large, unforeseen infrastructure needs.
With the resolution adopted, county staff will process levy authority as recorded; supervisors emphasized that increases to special levies should be tied to specific plans and grant strategies before future changes.
