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Council approves memorandum with Nebraska Game and Parks to transition Camp Augustine to state stewardship
Summary
Council approved Resolution 2025-422 authorizing a memorandum of understanding with the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation to prepare Camp Augustine (156 acres) for transfer to the state park system; officials emphasized conservation, education and limited development to finance operations.
The Grand Island City Council on Dec. 9 approved a memorandum of understanding with the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation to prepare Camp Augustine for eventual stewardship by the Nebraska State Parks system.
City staff described the city's 2023 purchase of the Boy Scouts' Camp Augustine — 156 acres bought for roughly $2 million — and explained the MOU establishes cooperation to complete appraisals and other preparatory steps before the state finalizes any purchase.
Jim Swinson, deputy director with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, told the council the agency is committed to preserving much of the property for conservation and nature education while also providing some developed amenities to make operations financially sustainable. "We have definitely had discussions during the initial design phases of preserving as much of that area as we can for good conservation and education purposes as well as a development enough to allow us to finance the operation as well," Swinson said.
Several council members praised the agreement as a "win‑win," noting the site's potential for hiking, biking, education and youth programming. Council member Doug (referenced in the transcript as Mr. Lanfir/Lanir) cautioned that state development should be sensitive to the existing natural character and cabins on the site: "I do not want to see them go in and destroy it."
Council member Mr. Shear moved the resolution; the motion was seconded and adopted without further amendment.
