2nd Reading Annexation: City Considers Animals, Equipment

The City of Neligh moved forward with possible annexation of two areas with approval of the second reading and also discussed grandfathering animals in those areas. 

Council member Leonard Miller said he felt the landowners should be grandfathered in an ordinance to allow animals on their land. 

“This is just discussion so the people here know what we’re thinking,” Miller said. “They also asked the question if the place would be grandfathered in if sold to somebody new, and maybe then that would have to be addressed as something different.”

Stephanie Wanek asked if the number of animals should be considered. Miller said he thought they could continue operations as not making changes, such as a feedlot.

Ted Hughes agreed, saying he does not want a great concentration of livestock.

Mayor Joe Hartz said a letter was received asking about equipment storage on the property being considered for annexation. Hughes said he has no issues as long as the the equipment is salvageable.

Hughes then made the motion while Wanek seconded both motions to adopt an ordinance 578 and 579 to annex Area #1 and Area #5 as recommended by the Neligh Planning Commission on its second reading. 

The City Council unanimously approved it on the second reading, 3-0. Dale Wilkinson was absent due to illness.

About 20 minutes after approving ordinance 579, city attorney Jim McNally told council members he was concerned about the order of approval, discussion and approval of the ordinance. McNally asked if the motion and such would be repeated in the proper order. 

Hughes then made the motion, Wanek seconded the ordinance once again. McNally then read the title once again.

The third reading and final approval will be at the July council meeting. 

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