Minutes-2026-8
The City of Oshkosh Council met for Special Meeting session August 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
In compliance with the Open Meetings Act of Nebraska, a current copy of the act is posted in the Council Chambers. Notice of this meeting was advertised in the Garden County News and posted at the Oshkosh Post Office, City Hall and Courthouse. The agenda for this meeting was kept current and available for inspection at City Hall.
Mayor Jeannie Schwartz called the meeting to order and read the Open Meetings Act, LV 898.
Present: Mayor Jeannie Schwartz, Council Members: Mike Piva, Gary DeCock, Matthew Krajewski, Connie Peterson. Also attending: City Attorney Rory Roundtree, City Administrator James Bondegard and Deputy Clerk Kim Martin, Emma Caster with WCNDD, Sheriff Randy Ross, Tina Sulliva, Tom Martin, Mike Noetzelmann, Ross Rocholitz, and Brittany Waltman.
Motion by Krajewski, seconded by DeCock to approve the consent agenda: agenda, minutes, claims, Treasurer’s Report. Motion carried unanimously.
Salaries-38,782.10, IRS-6,685.14 Taxes, NE Dept. of Revenue-1,339.29-TaxesAetna-9,444.84-Insurance,54.00 3D Lawn-Weed Spraying, Ameriprise Financial-1,908.72-Retirement, , Bank of America-1,470.57-Postage, Supplies, SubscriptionsBlack Hills-221.99-Heat, Bytes-209.41-Backup and Support, Cathy Blum 138.80 - Mileage Centurylink-114.02-Phone, Enviro Service-60.00-Water Testing, Garden Co News- 109.06-Publishing, Guardian Life-90.13-Insurance, Heartland Lumber -23.76-Supplies, Jerry Smith-894.00-Animal Control, League of Municipalities -2504.00 – Membership dues, Miller and Assoc.-300.00 ARPA -Compliance & Monitoring,NPPD-4695.38-Electricity, Oshkosh ACE-228.09-Supplies, Oshkosh Public Library 2500.00- Deposit Request, Oshkosh Superette-39.23-Supplies, Oshkosh Panhandle Area Development District -711.92-Annual Dues, PYE-Barker Fire Safety – 109.96- Backflow Inspection, Roundtree Law-447.35-Attorney Fee’s, Scott Smith-20.00-Reimbursement, Taylor Waltman-20.00- Reimbursement, US Bank-149-Equipment Dues, Valley Tire-802.31-Fuel, Viaero Wireless-131.71-Phones, Vistabeam -162.55-Fax/Phone Service, Waste Connections-12,206.44-Trash Contract, West Central Nebraska Development- 4150.00- Nuisance Officer/ Abatement, Wheat Belt-2,282.58-Electricity.
OLD BUSINESS:
Bondegard gave an update on the water main repair during the Morril wildfire and discussed possible reimbursement funds from FEMA that the city is applying for.
NEW BUSINESS:
Sheriff Randy Ross gave Sheriff’s Report.
The Animal Control Report was reviewed.
Emma Caster with WCNDD gave an update on potential properties that could be abated.
Motion by Krajewski, seconded by Peterson to approve Resolution NO. 21-26 Annual Certification for Street Superintendent, Motion carried unanimously.
Resolution 21-2026 Signing of the Municipal Annual Certification of Program Compliance 2026. Whereas: State of Nebraska Statute, sections 39-2115, 39-2119, 39-2120, 39-2121, and 39-2520(2), requires an annual certification of program compliance to the Nebraska Board of Public Roads Classifications and standards. Full resolution on file at city hall.
Motion by DeCock, seconded by Krajewski to amend Resolution NO. 22-26 Occupation/Food Truck prices, keeping the annual fee of $200.00 but to add a per day charge of $50.00 that will go towards annual fee. Voting AYE: DeCock, Krajewski, and Schwartz. Voting NAY: Piva. Abstain: Peterson. Motion carried. Full Resolution on file at city hall
Resolution No. 22-26 – Occupation Tax: Council adopted Resolution No. 22-26 establishing the following occupation taxes:
Alcoholic Beverage Retailers: Class A – $200; Class B – $200; Class C – $500; Class D – $400; Class I – $500; Special – $50.
Auctioneer/Auctions: $25 per day; $50 for 6 months; $100 per year.
Concessions: $50 per day.
Fruits, Vegetables, or Commodities Sold from Truck: $50 per year.
Retail Sellers of Meat, Goods, and Wares Sold from Truck: $50 for 30 days.
Food Trucks: $200 per year or $50 per day.
Wholesale Dealers from Vehicle, Truck, Telephone, or Internet for Resale: $50 per year.
Gas Fitter: $50 original registration; $25 annual renewal.
Electrician: $50 original registration; $25 annual renewal.
Plumber: $50 original registration; $25 annual renewal.
Roofers: $25 per day or $50 per year.
Itinerant Merchant: $50 for 30 days.
All occupation taxes are due on or before September 1 of each year, or upon beginning business within the City, and are payable to the City Clerk. Resolution No. 22-26 was adopted August 13, 2026.
Motion by Piva, seconded by DeCock to approve the Planning & Zoning Recommendation to Replat of Tax Lot 11 and South 75 Feet of Tax Lot 8. Motion carried unanimously.
Mike Noetzelmann addressed the council requesting Speed Bumps in the Alley between Ave B and Highway 26.
Motion by Piva, seconded by DeCock to move forward with the next steps for Speed Bumps in the Alley between Ave B and Highway26. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Piva, Seconded by Krajewski to move forward on stop signs at Ave B and West 3rd St. Motion carried unanimously.
Council discussed concerns and safety issues with E-bikes and Electric Scooter. No action taken.
Bondegard updated council on the Main Water Leak North of town.
Council discussed the process of Employee Evaluations, and the time frame they are given. No action taken
Bondegard briefly discussed The Budget and updated council on the upcoming Budget Workshop on August 24th at 4:00 P.M.
Motion by DeCock, seconded by Peterson to adjourn the meeting at 5:56 P.M. Motion carried unanimously.
__________________________________
Jeannie Schwartz Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
James Bondegard City Administrator/Clerk
The City of Oshkosh Council met for Special Meeting session August 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
In compliance with the Open Meetings Act of Nebraska, a current copy of the act is posted in the Council Chambers. Notice of this meeting was advertised in the Garden County News and posted at the Oshkosh Post Office, City Hall and Courthouse. The agenda for this meeting was kept current and available for inspection at City Hall.
Mayor Jeannie Schwartz called the meeting to order and read the Open Meetings Act, LV 898.
Present: Mayor Jeannie Schwartz, Council Members: Mike Piva, Gary DeCock, Matthew Krajewski, Connie Peterson. Also attending: City Administrator James Bondegard and Deputy Clerk Kim Martin, and Trevor Schuessler with Rauner & Associates.
Trevor with Rauner and Associates addressed the council with budget goals and discussed the importance of the Levy and future budget constraints and State regulations.
He went over the general account and discussed that last years budget came right at what was budgeted.
He also asked the council where they would like to set the Property Tax. After discussion council decided to leave the Property Request the same as prior year.
The Public Hearing to formally adopt 2026/2027 Budget is set for September 10th, 2026 at 5:00 P.M. at city hall.
Motion by DeCock, seconded by Peterson to adjourn the meeting at 5:56 P.M. Motion carried unanimously.
__________________________________
Jeannie Schwartz Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
James Bondegard City Administrator/Clerk
The City of Oshkosh Council met for Public Hearing for Applications for the Community Development Block Grant Program August 27, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. for a Public Works Grant Application and 5:15 P.M. for a Downtown Revitalization Grant Application.
In compliance with the Open Meetings Act of Nebraska, a current copy of the act is posted in the Council Chambers. Notice of this meeting was advertised in the Garden County News and posted at the Oshkosh Post Office, City Hall and Courthouse. The agenda for this meeting was kept current and available for inspection at City Hall.
Mayor Jeannie Schwartz called the meeting to order and read the Open Meetings Act, LV 898.
Present: Mayor Jeannie Schwartz, Council Members: Mike Piva, Gary DeCock, Matthew Krajewski, Connie Peterson. Also attending: City Administrator James Bondegard and Deputy Clerk Kim Martin, Bryan Venable and David Welanko with Panhandle Area Development District (PADD).
Bryan with PADD discussed that the proposed project will replace approximately 2,578 linear feet of existing 8-inch sanitary sewer main with new PVC sewer pipe installed with gravel bedding to provide a durable, long-term solution. The project also includes the reconnection of 55 existing sewer services, replacement of 15 sanitary sewer manholes of varying depths, rehabilitation of 10 existing manholes to improve flow characteristics and provide future maintenance access, installation of manhole adjustment rings and centered rings and covers, and the repair of five localized sewer main failures where existing infrastructure has experienced significant deterioration. Following construction, all disturbed streets and surfaces will be restored, including replacement of concrete pavement, gravel surfacing, and disturbed turf areas. Construction staking, material testing, engineering, design, and construction administration are also included as part of the project.
The total estimated project cost is $799,440 with total CDBG funding in the amount of $630,000. The CDBG total includes $25,000 for General Administration; $5,000 for Construction Management costs; and 20% matched funding of $169,400 the city intends to provide this match in the form of city funds on hand. The project activities include:
All funds will be utilized for the National Objective of LMI to benefit low to moderate income individuals. There will be no persons displaced as a result of CDBG activities.
Bryan discussed the application process and steps that the city had to take to submit an application for the CDBG Grant.
Bondegard discussed the process and that the city is needing letters of support to strengthen our application for scoring purposes.
Motion by Piva, seconded by Krajewski to approve a Resolution authorizing the Chief Elected Official to sign and submit an application for CDBG funds for Sanitary Sewer Project. Motion carried unanimously.
The public hearing concerning the sanitary sewer project and CDBG application was closed at 5:08 P.M.
The public hearing concerning the City’s application for CDBG funds for a Downtown Revitalization Project was open at 5:15 P.M.
Piva addressed that he signed a potential conflict of interest disclosure and assentation statement for the DTR CDBG Program.
David Welkanko with PADD gave a presentation of the proposed Downtown Revitalization project. David stated: The City of Oshkosh, Garden County, Nebraska is preparing to implement commercial rehabilitation activities to address slum and blight conditions within the downtown business district through a Downtown Revitalization Project. The Project Area extends from the intersection of Ave A and West 1st Street east to East 1st Street and north to Ave H, encompassing approximately 49 acres (.08 square miles) All eligible properties within the Project Area are commercially zoned, privately owned.
The project will be eligible to rehabilitate 5-10 potential businesses in Oshkosh's business district/historic downtown. Activities may include Restoration, renovation, replacement, or reconstruction of siding, signage, awnings, windows, permanent lighting, or doors. Brick, stucco, masonry and exterior surface repair or restoration for the purpose of historic preservation. Repair, restoration, or installation of historic decorative details and other design features such as pediments, cornices, lintels, and bulkheads. Correction of municipal code violations, tree removal, painting when combined with window replacement or the repair or restoration of brick, stucco, or other exterior surfaces and other similar facade improvements.
Project costs are estimated at $285,000, including $25,000 for general administration and $10,000 for construction management. Funding sources include a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for $250,000 from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development with matching funds from participating businesses in the amount of $83,333.33.
Welanko talked about the feedback from the businesses that could be applying for the grant and how it was positive. He discussed the process for the application and timeline.
Motion by Krajewski, seconded by DeCock to approve Resolution authorizing the Chief Elected Official to sign and submit an application for CDBG funds for the Downtown Revitalization project. Voting AYE: Krajewski, DeCock, and Peterson. Abstain: Piva. Motion carried.
Motion by Krajewski, seconded by Peterson to adjourn the meeting at 5:21 P.M. Motion carried unanimously.
__________________________________
Jeannie Schwartz Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
James Bondegard City Administrator/Clerk
In compliance with the Open Meetings Act of Nebraska, a current copy of the act is posted in the Council Chambers. Notice of this meeting was advertised in the Garden County News and posted at the Oshkosh Post Office, City Hall and Courthouse. The agenda for this meeting was kept current and available for inspection at City Hall.
Mayor Jeannie Schwartz called the meeting to order and read the Open Meetings Act, LV 898.
Present: Mayor Jeannie Schwartz, Council Members: Mike Piva, Gary DeCock, Matthew Krajewski, Connie Peterson. Also attending: City Attorney Rory Roundtree, City Administrator James Bondegard and Deputy Clerk Kim Martin, Emma Caster with WCNDD, Sheriff Randy Ross, Tina Sulliva, Tom Martin, Mike Noetzelmann, Ross Rocholitz, and Brittany Waltman.
Motion by Krajewski, seconded by DeCock to approve the consent agenda: agenda, minutes, claims, Treasurer’s Report. Motion carried unanimously.
Salaries-38,782.10, IRS-6,685.14 Taxes, NE Dept. of Revenue-1,339.29-TaxesAetna-9,444.84-Insurance,54.00 3D Lawn-Weed Spraying, Ameriprise Financial-1,908.72-Retirement, , Bank of America-1,470.57-Postage, Supplies, SubscriptionsBlack Hills-221.99-Heat, Bytes-209.41-Backup and Support, Cathy Blum 138.80 - Mileage Centurylink-114.02-Phone, Enviro Service-60.00-Water Testing, Garden Co News- 109.06-Publishing, Guardian Life-90.13-Insurance, Heartland Lumber -23.76-Supplies, Jerry Smith-894.00-Animal Control, League of Municipalities -2504.00 – Membership dues, Miller and Assoc.-300.00 ARPA -Compliance & Monitoring,NPPD-4695.38-Electricity, Oshkosh ACE-228.09-Supplies, Oshkosh Public Library 2500.00- Deposit Request, Oshkosh Superette-39.23-Supplies, Oshkosh Panhandle Area Development District -711.92-Annual Dues, PYE-Barker Fire Safety – 109.96- Backflow Inspection, Roundtree Law-447.35-Attorney Fee’s, Scott Smith-20.00-Reimbursement, Taylor Waltman-20.00- Reimbursement, US Bank-149-Equipment Dues, Valley Tire-802.31-Fuel, Viaero Wireless-131.71-Phones, Vistabeam -162.55-Fax/Phone Service, Waste Connections-12,206.44-Trash Contract, West Central Nebraska Development- 4150.00- Nuisance Officer/ Abatement, Wheat Belt-2,282.58-Electricity.
OLD BUSINESS:
Bondegard gave an update on the water main repair during the Morril wildfire and discussed possible reimbursement funds from FEMA that the city is applying for.
NEW BUSINESS:
Sheriff Randy Ross gave Sheriff’s Report.
The Animal Control Report was reviewed.
Emma Caster with WCNDD gave an update on potential properties that could be abated.
Motion by Krajewski, seconded by Peterson to approve Resolution NO. 21-26 Annual Certification for Street Superintendent, Motion carried unanimously.
Resolution 21-2026 Signing of the Municipal Annual Certification of Program Compliance 2026. Whereas: State of Nebraska Statute, sections 39-2115, 39-2119, 39-2120, 39-2121, and 39-2520(2), requires an annual certification of program compliance to the Nebraska Board of Public Roads Classifications and standards. Full resolution on file at city hall.
Motion by DeCock, seconded by Krajewski to amend Resolution NO. 22-26 Occupation/Food Truck prices, keeping the annual fee of $200.00 but to add a per day charge of $50.00 that will go towards annual fee. Voting AYE: DeCock, Krajewski, and Schwartz. Voting NAY: Piva. Abstain: Peterson. Motion carried. Full Resolution on file at city hall
Resolution No. 22-26 – Occupation Tax: Council adopted Resolution No. 22-26 establishing the following occupation taxes:
Alcoholic Beverage Retailers: Class A – $200; Class B – $200; Class C – $500; Class D – $400; Class I – $500; Special – $50.
Auctioneer/Auctions: $25 per day; $50 for 6 months; $100 per year.
Concessions: $50 per day.
Fruits, Vegetables, or Commodities Sold from Truck: $50 per year.
Retail Sellers of Meat, Goods, and Wares Sold from Truck: $50 for 30 days.
Food Trucks: $200 per year or $50 per day.
Wholesale Dealers from Vehicle, Truck, Telephone, or Internet for Resale: $50 per year.
Gas Fitter: $50 original registration; $25 annual renewal.
Electrician: $50 original registration; $25 annual renewal.
Plumber: $50 original registration; $25 annual renewal.
Roofers: $25 per day or $50 per year.
Itinerant Merchant: $50 for 30 days.
All occupation taxes are due on or before September 1 of each year, or upon beginning business within the City, and are payable to the City Clerk. Resolution No. 22-26 was adopted August 13, 2026.
Motion by Piva, seconded by DeCock to approve the Planning & Zoning Recommendation to Replat of Tax Lot 11 and South 75 Feet of Tax Lot 8. Motion carried unanimously.
Mike Noetzelmann addressed the council requesting Speed Bumps in the Alley between Ave B and Highway 26.
Motion by Piva, seconded by DeCock to move forward with the next steps for Speed Bumps in the Alley between Ave B and Highway26. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Piva, Seconded by Krajewski to move forward on stop signs at Ave B and West 3rd St. Motion carried unanimously.
Council discussed concerns and safety issues with E-bikes and Electric Scooter. No action taken.
Bondegard updated council on the Main Water Leak North of town.
Council discussed the process of Employee Evaluations, and the time frame they are given. No action taken
Bondegard briefly discussed The Budget and updated council on the upcoming Budget Workshop on August 24th at 4:00 P.M.
Motion by DeCock, seconded by Peterson to adjourn the meeting at 5:56 P.M. Motion carried unanimously.
__________________________________
Jeannie Schwartz Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
James Bondegard City Administrator/Clerk
The City of Oshkosh Council met for Special Meeting session August 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
In compliance with the Open Meetings Act of Nebraska, a current copy of the act is posted in the Council Chambers. Notice of this meeting was advertised in the Garden County News and posted at the Oshkosh Post Office, City Hall and Courthouse. The agenda for this meeting was kept current and available for inspection at City Hall.
Mayor Jeannie Schwartz called the meeting to order and read the Open Meetings Act, LV 898.
Present: Mayor Jeannie Schwartz, Council Members: Mike Piva, Gary DeCock, Matthew Krajewski, Connie Peterson. Also attending: City Administrator James Bondegard and Deputy Clerk Kim Martin, and Trevor Schuessler with Rauner & Associates.
Trevor with Rauner and Associates addressed the council with budget goals and discussed the importance of the Levy and future budget constraints and State regulations.
He went over the general account and discussed that last years budget came right at what was budgeted.
He also asked the council where they would like to set the Property Tax. After discussion council decided to leave the Property Request the same as prior year.
The Public Hearing to formally adopt 2026/2027 Budget is set for September 10th, 2026 at 5:00 P.M. at city hall.
Motion by DeCock, seconded by Peterson to adjourn the meeting at 5:56 P.M. Motion carried unanimously.
__________________________________
Jeannie Schwartz Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
James Bondegard City Administrator/Clerk
The City of Oshkosh Council met for Public Hearing for Applications for the Community Development Block Grant Program August 27, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. for a Public Works Grant Application and 5:15 P.M. for a Downtown Revitalization Grant Application.
In compliance with the Open Meetings Act of Nebraska, a current copy of the act is posted in the Council Chambers. Notice of this meeting was advertised in the Garden County News and posted at the Oshkosh Post Office, City Hall and Courthouse. The agenda for this meeting was kept current and available for inspection at City Hall.
Mayor Jeannie Schwartz called the meeting to order and read the Open Meetings Act, LV 898.
Present: Mayor Jeannie Schwartz, Council Members: Mike Piva, Gary DeCock, Matthew Krajewski, Connie Peterson. Also attending: City Administrator James Bondegard and Deputy Clerk Kim Martin, Bryan Venable and David Welanko with Panhandle Area Development District (PADD).
Bryan with PADD discussed that the proposed project will replace approximately 2,578 linear feet of existing 8-inch sanitary sewer main with new PVC sewer pipe installed with gravel bedding to provide a durable, long-term solution. The project also includes the reconnection of 55 existing sewer services, replacement of 15 sanitary sewer manholes of varying depths, rehabilitation of 10 existing manholes to improve flow characteristics and provide future maintenance access, installation of manhole adjustment rings and centered rings and covers, and the repair of five localized sewer main failures where existing infrastructure has experienced significant deterioration. Following construction, all disturbed streets and surfaces will be restored, including replacement of concrete pavement, gravel surfacing, and disturbed turf areas. Construction staking, material testing, engineering, design, and construction administration are also included as part of the project.
The total estimated project cost is $799,440 with total CDBG funding in the amount of $630,000. The CDBG total includes $25,000 for General Administration; $5,000 for Construction Management costs; and 20% matched funding of $169,400 the city intends to provide this match in the form of city funds on hand. The project activities include:
All funds will be utilized for the National Objective of LMI to benefit low to moderate income individuals. There will be no persons displaced as a result of CDBG activities.
Bryan discussed the application process and steps that the city had to take to submit an application for the CDBG Grant.
Bondegard discussed the process and that the city is needing letters of support to strengthen our application for scoring purposes.
Motion by Piva, seconded by Krajewski to approve a Resolution authorizing the Chief Elected Official to sign and submit an application for CDBG funds for Sanitary Sewer Project. Motion carried unanimously.
The public hearing concerning the sanitary sewer project and CDBG application was closed at 5:08 P.M.
The public hearing concerning the City’s application for CDBG funds for a Downtown Revitalization Project was open at 5:15 P.M.
Piva addressed that he signed a potential conflict of interest disclosure and assentation statement for the DTR CDBG Program.
David Welkanko with PADD gave a presentation of the proposed Downtown Revitalization project. David stated: The City of Oshkosh, Garden County, Nebraska is preparing to implement commercial rehabilitation activities to address slum and blight conditions within the downtown business district through a Downtown Revitalization Project. The Project Area extends from the intersection of Ave A and West 1st Street east to East 1st Street and north to Ave H, encompassing approximately 49 acres (.08 square miles) All eligible properties within the Project Area are commercially zoned, privately owned.
The project will be eligible to rehabilitate 5-10 potential businesses in Oshkosh's business district/historic downtown. Activities may include Restoration, renovation, replacement, or reconstruction of siding, signage, awnings, windows, permanent lighting, or doors. Brick, stucco, masonry and exterior surface repair or restoration for the purpose of historic preservation. Repair, restoration, or installation of historic decorative details and other design features such as pediments, cornices, lintels, and bulkheads. Correction of municipal code violations, tree removal, painting when combined with window replacement or the repair or restoration of brick, stucco, or other exterior surfaces and other similar facade improvements.
Project costs are estimated at $285,000, including $25,000 for general administration and $10,000 for construction management. Funding sources include a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for $250,000 from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development with matching funds from participating businesses in the amount of $83,333.33.
Welanko talked about the feedback from the businesses that could be applying for the grant and how it was positive. He discussed the process for the application and timeline.
Motion by Krajewski, seconded by DeCock to approve Resolution authorizing the Chief Elected Official to sign and submit an application for CDBG funds for the Downtown Revitalization project. Voting AYE: Krajewski, DeCock, and Peterson. Abstain: Piva. Motion carried.
Motion by Krajewski, seconded by Peterson to adjourn the meeting at 5:21 P.M. Motion carried unanimously.
__________________________________
Jeannie Schwartz Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
James Bondegard City Administrator/Clerk