American Meter, a manufacturer of gas meters, regulators and allied products, has been located in Nebraska City (pop. 6,639) for more than 50 years. In 2001, the company decided to expand its facilities by constructing a 40,000 sq.ft. manufacturing/assembly building. The land on which the new building was constructed is adjacent to the existing American Meter facility. The expansion created 30 full time positions.

As a recipient of previous Community Development Block Grants Nebraska City was well aware of the requirements involved. City officials believed that the American Meter expansion would qualify for funding assistance. With help from the River County Economic Development Corporation and the manager of American Meter, Nebraska City applied for and received a $500,000 CDBG. Other sources of funding included $1.7 million from American Meter Corporation and a $100,000 a revolving loan fund established through other economic development grants.

Nebraska City has reaped benefits from the expansion including, increased employment, a larger payroll, secondary sales and an expanded property tax base. Due to continued growth, more people have been hired at the facility. Not only does American Meter support the community, but it employs people from surrounding communities.

Nebraska City is an example of a community that has enjoyed ongoing success as a result of CDBG funding. Many projects such as economic development, housing, public works, tourism development and comprehensive planning studies have allowed constant growth and encouraged a deeper sense of pride in Nebraska City.