A Showcase of Success
Stories and information on rural communities who have taken great initiative to cultivate and advance Nebraskan living.

Ideas inspire Bassett to action
Bassett, Population: 660

The people of Bassett are constantly bringing new ideas to the table.  Involved individuals present project ideas at City Council meetings to generate community support and approval.  In 2007, a community survey yielded numerous ideas, including developing planning studies focusing on annexation, a leadership program, a new recycling program, a campaign to encourage young families to move back to the community, and ways to increase youth participation in the area.  

To implement these projects, Bassett has used a number of local, state, and federal resources. For example, through the use of Nebraska Mainstreet’s Four-Point Approach, planning grants, Community Development Block Grant funding, State Revolving Loan and Grant funds, and the Nebraska Department of Roads TE-21, major improvements were made to the community’s infrastructure.  A revolving loan fund was started under the Chamber with start-up funds from U.S. Department of Agriculture RBEG funds, LB 144 funds, and a private donation.  An empty building downtown purchased with RBEG now serves as a business incubator.  During the past two years, Bassett has received four BECA grants for a variety of projects.  Funds from the Nebraska Community Enhancement Program have helped improve the high school’s entrance which faces Highway 20.  The community also has actively implemented environmental programs, such as a Tire Amnesty Day and a Household Hazardous day with funding from the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality.  Through the Nebraska Community Leadership Challenge, seven high school students participated in various community projects, learned about working with different personalities, and are now upgrading the playground equipment and renovating the band shell in city park as a capstone project.

Through the years, Bassett has also renovated Rock County Hospital, implemented an annual Farmers’ Market, designed and formatted a new website, and established a community recycling program.  In 2008, a Visitors Center was opened in downtown and a promotional tourism video was produced.  The community is in its third year of participating in the “Bargain Buyway” too.  Community volunteers have tremendously impacted the well-being of the City of Bassett.

Aspired citizens inspire Beatrice
Beatrice, Population: 12,769

In October 2001, the City of Beatrice created a Comprehensive Development Plan to provide a modern, unified, and compelling vision derived from its aspired citizens.  In 2004, the community joined the regional Lincoln Area Development group to expand its marketing presence.  An Economic Development Strategic Plan for Beatrice and Gage County was presented to stakeholders.  The plan identified key growth areas,  including business retention and expansion, infrastructure improvements, and development projects.  The Comprehensive Development Plan was updated in March 2006 to emphasize long-range transportation planning.  The Riverfront Development Committee created the Vision 2020 plan to develop the Big Blue Riverfront area.  In the summer of 2009, Beatrice was one of ten U.S. communities to receive a grant to work with the American Institute of Architects in bringing a Sustainable Design Assessment Team to the community.  The city is continuously striving to improve the community and residents’ way of life.

The City of Beatrice utilizes local, regional, state, federal, and private programs that enhance all aspects of community and economic development.  Community Development Block Grants, Tax Increment Financing, Industrial Revenue Bonds, and Nebraska Workforce Development Job Training Programs are just a few resources.  From 2000 to 2005 the Gage County Industrial Park experienced industrial expansions totaling more than 300,000 square feet.  More than $232 million in projects were announced in 2006 for Beatrice/Gage County, including expansions of existing industrial customers, construction of two renewable energy projects and several acquisition projects.  Northgate Crossing, a 155-acre mixed use development announced in 2008, will be home to the new Beatrice Community Hospital.  Transportation funds were secured to develop hike and bike trails, as well as the Homestead Trail connecting Lincoln to Beatrice.  In 2009, the City of Beatrice approved a $15,000 match to fund a business coach position to assist in entrepreneurial, business startups, and small business expansion.  CDBG funding was used in the Disaster Recovery Planning category to conduct a video analysis study of its storm sewer system.

Benkelman building future’s framework
Benkelman, Population: 1,006
   
Through the years, Benkelman has put together a plan for community and economic development and continues to lay the framework for further growth in the community.  In 2004, the Dundy County Hospital built a sizable addition on to the current facility to house a visiting doctor’s clinic and laboratory.  Surveys were conducted to determine the percentage of low-moderate income residents in Benkelman to receive CDBG funding.  In 2007, Benkelman participated in a Community Strategic Planning Process to identify the top priorities, including beautification, housing, and business expansion and development.  Recognizing a need for housing rehabilitation, Benkelman applied for and received funds to participate in an owner-occupied housing rehabilitation project to rehab 13 homes in the community.  In 2009 steps were taken to resolve the community’s water problems.  Benkelman also participated in a Comprehensive Planning Study as well as negotiated terms for fire protection and use of equipment by both the City and Rural Fire Districts.  Currently, the community is focusing on environmental clean-up projects and working with the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development to replace all water meters in the city.  Improvements to Dundy County Hospital are also being made. 

The City of Benkelman found funding for its projects through several avenues, including USDA loans, the Department of Economic Development, the hospital foundation, and city funds.  Completed projects have tremendously impacted the overall community.  Better housing, beautification, and opportunity for business expansion are among the foundations for thriving and vibrant Benkelman.

Hickman heads for more growth
Hickman, Population: 1,850

During the past decade, Hickman residents have been busy making community and economic development improvements.  A Comprehensive Development Plan was rewritten in 2007 to last through 2030.  A city website was designed and completed through a partnership with the University of Nebraska and community residents.  Several studies and surveys have been conducted on water supplies, sewer and drainage basins, and water treatment.  Partnerships with the Norris Schools system has allowed for the formation of new high school baseball and tennis programs.  A new municipal water well now accommodates the city’s future development needs.  Wellness-fitness events have also been promoted throughout the area, as well as continued residential and business promotion assistance for the Annual Hickman Hay Day Events.  Recently, Hickman was awarded a CDBG for commissioning a storm water drainage master plan.

The City of Hickman has successfully leveraged its local, state, and multiple federal resources during the past five years to build exceptional relationships that have helped it achieve many of its community development goals.  Through partnerships with several other organizations, the community has initiated and completed many projects.  Key partnering organizations include: the Hickman Area Economic Development Association, Norris Schools, the University of Nebraska, and the Railroad Transportation Safety District among others.

Hickman has strategically embraced growth and demonstrated the ability to successfully achieve numerous community development goals and projects.  Resident’s quality of life has been positively impacted by these projects.  Hickman will continue to strive for community growth in years to come.

Enhancing quality of life in Minden
Minden, Population: 2,802

The City of Minden offers a variety of services that enhance its quality of life.  Nine years ago, the city created a Comprehensive Plan to further develop community goals.  Infrastructure improvements to the water/wastewater systems and upgrades to parks are among the many projects identified and completed through the years.  A city-wide “green” effort has pushed for continued resident recycling and a community wide cleanup.  The Kearney County Economic Development Agency was founded to loan small businesses funding to achieve their goals. The PK Partnership, formed in 2006, provides a variety of workshops, trainings and resources to area businesses.  In 2002, the Community Redevelopment Authority reorganized and began undertaking business and residential housing development.  Pioneer Village, a popular tourist attraction, recently updated its website and has begun developing a new event called “Inventor’s Expo”.  

The community has taken advantage of several federal, state, and local funding resources to help finance the community projects.  The City of Minden has been awarded five CDBGs totaling  $1.6 million since 2000.  Funding for a hike and bike trail was approved through the Transportation Enhancement Program.  Several surveys and studies have been implemented to keep city projects on track toward meeting objectives.  In 2000 and 2001, Plains Produce Inc., a hydroponic greenhouse, and KAAPA Ethanol, the only farmer-owned ethanol plant in Nebraska, used Tax Increment Financing to cover the public costs associated with their development projects.  With its high community spirit and pride, the City of Minden will continue to prosper for years to come.

North Platte tackles progress, projects
North Platte, Population: 24,107

North Platte prides itself on being progressive and accomplishing many goals through its community-wide partnerships.  During the past ten years, numerous projects and programs have been created and completed.  In 2000, the city updated its Comprehensive Plan and began conducting surveys and studies to identify priority needs.  

Local, state, and federal resources were identified to aid the community development process.  The North Platte Regional Airport has used a combination of funds to make significant equipment purchases and structural improvements.  Several projects have received support from the Quality Growth Fund, CDBG Reuse Funds, and Tax Increment Financing.  In 2005, the city received a CDBG Comprehensive Revitalization grant, followed by a CDBG Planning grant and a Historic Preservation grant in 2009.  Since 2000, the Lincoln County Community Development Corporation has leveraged $10.9 million in private investment with $1.5 million HOME and HOME CHDO funds, $2.4 million trust funds, and $10,000 CDBG funds to complete projects.  Grants from the Nebraska Division of Travel and Tourism also have been used to market the area.  

Since 2000, the Lincoln County Community Development Corporation has completed 131 housing projects in North Platte.  Construction is now underway for the Buffalo Bill Avenue $14 million extension project.  Major public works projects include the $14 million Lincoln County Jail currently under construction, and a Water Treatment Plant completed in 2007 at a cost of $16.6 million.  Improvements have been made to North Platte Community College.  The medical community has also seen significant expansion during the past ten years.  The City of North Platte has a “can-do” reputation throughout the state thanks to its cooperation, dedication, and hard work from individuals in the sectors of government, education, health care, non-profit organizations, and businesses, resulting in a remarkable record of achievement.

When Sidney residents talk, City listens
Sidney, Population: 6,499

Sidney, Nebraska was named one of the Top 100 Rural Communities in America this decade by national economist Jack Schultz, founder and CEO of Agracel Inc., an industrial development firm majoring in rural America!  Sidney recognizes the importance of listening to its people and has conducted several surveys to uncover community needs.  Currently, the community is updating its Comprehensive Plan and seeking input to develop a “road map” for future city operations, services and programs. 

In August 2009, a new high school was constructed with a brand new fine arts center that offered community access.  With a focus on Main Street, the heart of the community, the Historic Downtown Sidney organization, in cooperation with the Nebraska Main Street Program, conducted a visioning session to revitalize the downtown.  Investigation into public transportation has led to a two-phase plan for proposed transportation services.  A new city pond was developed in the park for family entertainment and recreation. 

Community development has been funded through various local, state, and federal sources.  School bonds, public and private funds, and state funding including BECA and Nebraska Arboretum grants are among the resources utilized.  With the financial support, Sidney has been able to initiate and complete many of its community priorities.  Sidney makes it easy to take advantage of small town living without sacrificing big community opportunities.

S. Sioux City creating value-added Mecca
South Sioux City, Population: 12,500

The South Sioux City CDA and the City of South Sioux City recognized a need for additional quality jobs and an expanded tax base for the community.  Development of a 600-acre plat into Roth Industrial Park would help fill the bill. However, the city first needed to expand infrastructure leading into the Park, including water, sewer, electric, and fiber optics to fully service any interested future industries All were in agreement that the site would be excellent for creating a regional food cluster, through the attraction of value-added agriculture industries to the area. 

Within a couple of years, Roth Industrial Park was bringing in new businesses.  In December 2006, Beef Products Incorporated announced plans for the first project, an unprecedented $400 million expansion, creating 350 new jobs.  Later that month Green Planet Farms announced plans to develop a new $30 million facility and create 60 new jobs.  In 2008, Peerless Energy, Omega Industries, Midco, Natural Innovative Renewable Energy, and 21st Century Grain all announced plans to locate facilities in Roth Industrial Park, attracting more than $150 million in private sector investments and creating more than 70 new jobs. 

In September 2009, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke awarded the City of South Sioux City $2 million EDA funding for water/wastewater and street improvements for the Roth Industrial Park.  Additional funding  came from Tax Increment Financing, CDA, CDBG, State Revolving Funds, and the City of South Sioux City.  With a portion of land located in Dakota County, South Sioux City partnered with Dakota City to ensure future development. Roth Industrial Park will continue to provide widespread economic and business growth for South Sioux City residents with its unlimited potential  for additional quality jobs and expanding tax base.

Progressing with Pride in Stuart
Stuart, Population: 625

In 2005, Stuart joined the Home Town Competitiveness Program to ensure continuing community progress as well as strong, accountable leadership.  Every three to four years, residents are assessed to record their input about the most pressing community needs including housing, infrastructure improvements, recreation, visual improvements, and services. Stuart’s citizens also recognize the importance of partnerships and have signed an inter-local agreement to work with all communities in Holt County on economic development issues.

Stuart has applied for and received loans and grants from a variety of sources to assist in funding the many projects accomplished in the last ten years, touching every aspect of community growth, life, and progress.  For example, CDBG funds were used to promote business development and rehabilitate new residential housing needs.  Other CDBG funds were used to renovate and broaden the community’s  auditorium into a more useful event facility.  Niobrara Valley Electric Grants were utilized for six down-payment assistance loans.  Funding was also sought for the development of Parkside Manor Assisted Living Center.  The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission provided financial support for park playground equipment and a walking path.  The local Volunteer Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services organization was awarded total grant funds of $160,502.  DED’s Nebraska Division of Travel and Tourism awarded an  80/20 Grant to move two historic structures to museum grounds.  Overall, Stuart has leveraged more than $1.2 million in projects that have addressed economic development, housing, emergency management, community beautification, and recreation needs.

Stuart continues to strive to retain youth and attract new residents.  Its progressive attitude and ambition sparked numerous growth opportunities.  Stuart continues to “Progress with Pride”.

Weeping Water eyes long-term goals
Weeping Water, Population: 1,107

The community of Weeping Water is dedicated to promoting long-term growth and improvement.  Every three years, the City Council consults with Southeast Nebraska Development District (SENDD) to update its Community Attitude Survey.  The results are then prioritized for future projects.  Various boards, committees, and organizations have been instrumental in the planning process.  

Continued capital improvements would not have been possible without financial support from the CDBG program.  Among Weeping Water’s projects accomplished with these funds are: development of a comprehensive plan, completion of a water system study, replacement of undersized water mains and deteriorated service lines, participation in local multi-county housing rehabilitation, development of a business incentive loan program, completion of a “Downtown Revitalization Project”, and provision of a new multi-purpose community center.  Weeping Water also has taken advantage of other funding resources, including the Nebraska Department of Roads Transportation Enhancement Program, renovations to City Lake with funding from the CLEAR Program, private foundations, and the Nebraska Library Accreditation Funds supported resource additions to the City Library.  

Weeping Water increased its capacity to provide emergency services by updating vehicles and equipment vital to the efficient operation of the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Departments.  Based on recommendations from the Water System Study, numerous undersized, aged water mains and service lines were replaced, and “dead end” lines were looped to improve water quality and pressure.  The creation of 21 business loans for new or expanding businesses also have added jobs.  All of these actions have enhanced the overall appearance and sustainability of Weeping Water.