Council selects Confluence to update Beatrice comprehensive plan; contract approved

The Beatrice City Council on May 18 approved Resolution 7797 to contract with Confluence for an updated comprehensive plan. The contract was approved 8–0.

Staff said the city issued an RFP and received responses from Confluence, RDG and a third proposer; Confluence was recommended by a review committee. The estimated contract fee is $138,900; staff noted a $50,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) will help cover costs and that Confluence itemized anticipated reimbursable expenses (e.g., travel and lodging) that RDG did not list, which accounts for some of the difference in the proposals. The project is expected to take about 14 months and include multiple public meetings and advisory‑committee review of each section before final council approval.

During public comment, James Nelson said the administration’s packet materials lacked copies of competing proposals and asked why the city selected a higher dollar bid; staff reiterated the committee’s recommendation and the difference in how reimbursements were listed.

Council members said they favored a firm that would provide broad community involvement and easier-to-read materials. The approval authorizes staff to finalize the agreement and begin the public‑engagement phase.