Nance County, Nebraska
Comprehensive Development Plan
Adopted by Nance County, Nebraska 1999
PROJECT PARTICIPANTS Nance County Planning Commission Lynn Belitz Pat Connelly Fullerton, Nebraska Genoa, Nebraska
Annette Dubas Fullerton, Nebraska
Scott Frenzen Fullerton, Nebraska
Gene Lassek Fullerton, Nebraska
Thomas W. McIntyre Wolbach, Nebraska
Sandy Sack Fullerton, Nebraska
John Small Fullerton, Nebraska
Andy Prososki Silver Creek, Nebraska
Nance County Board of Supervisors Donna K. Hellbusch Walter D. Dubas, Jr. Belgrade, Nebraska Fullerton, Nebraska
Eugene Lassek Silver Creek, Nebraska
Dennis Jarecke Fullerton, Nebraska
Carl Newquist Cedar Rapids, Nebraska
Lawrence Klassen, Jr. Belgrade, Nebraska
Vernon S. Olson Fullerton, Nebraska Nance County Staff Assessor: Attorney: Clerk: Clerk of Dist. Court Election Comm. Reg. Of Deeds Emergency Mgr.: Highway Superintendent: Surveyor School Superintendent: Sheriff: Treasurer: Vet. Service Officer and Zoning Administrator: Weed Superintendent: State Senator:
Joyce Mason-Newquist John V. Morgan Dianne Hollman
Darvis Moore LeRoy Gerrard Lyle Casper Paul Kruse Ronda Malander Richard Steckel Gerald L. Imus Jennie Robak (22)
Planning Consultants JEO: Johnson-Erickson-O’Brien & Associates
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1: Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1 Location ........................................................................................................................................... 1 Historical & Cultural Background ................................................................................................... 1 Governmental & Jurisdictional Organization .................................................................................. 1 The Comprehensive Plan ................................................................................................................. 2 Land Use Planning.............................................................................................................. 2 Elements of the Comprehensive Plan ................................................................................. 3 The Comprehensive Plan and Zoning................................................................................. 3 The Planning Process.......................................................................................................... 4 Chapter 2: Goals and Objectives................................................................................................................... 5 Conservation & Environment .......................................................................................................... 6 Parks & Recreation .......................................................................................................................... 7 Facilities & Operations .................................................................................................................... 7 Economy & Economic Development .............................................................................................. 8 Education ......................................................................................................................................... 8 Health & Safety ............................................................................................................................... 9 Public Works.................................................................................................................................... 9 Land Use ........................................................................................................................................ 10 Transportation & Energy ............................................................................................................... 11 Chapter 3: Social Economic Profile............................................................................................................ 13 Introduction.................................................................................................................................... 13 County Assessment: Trends And Analysis.................................................................................... 14 Population ......................................................................................................................... 14 Population Trends and Analysis .......................................................................... 14 Migration Analysis .............................................................................................. 15 Age Structure Analysis ........................................................................................ 15 Population Projections ......................................................................................... 17 Housing............................................................................................................................. 20 Age of Existing Housing Stock ........................................................................... 20 Housing Stock...................................................................................................... 21 Specified Housing Values.................................................................................... 22 Economics and Employment ............................................................................................ 23 Income Statistics .................................................................................................. 23 Employment by Industry ..................................................................................... 26 Commuter Population .......................................................................................... 28 Agricultural Profile .............................................................................................. 31 Nance County: Regional Basic/Non-Basic Analysis ........................................... 32
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Chapter 4: County Facilities ....................................................................................................................... 35 Recreational Facilities.................................................................................................................... 35 Educational Facilities..................................................................................................................... 39 Fire and Police Protection.............................................................................................................. 42 County Buildings ........................................................................................................................... 44 Health Facilities ............................................................................................................................. 48 Energy and Communication Facilities........................................................................................... 51 Transportation Facilities ................................................................................................................ 52 Chapter 5: Land Use ................................................................................................................................... 53 Physical Characteristics ................................................................................................................. 53 Nance County Existing Land Use.................................................................................................. 61 Nance County Future Land Use..................................................................................................... 64 Development Criteria........................................................................................................ 64 Land Use Districts ............................................................................................................ 65 Land Use Transitions ........................................................................................................ 67 Chapter 6: Transportation Plan ................................................................................................................... 69 Classification Of Roads ................................................................................................................. 69 Existing Transportation.................................................................................................................. 73 Future Transportation Plan ............................................................................................................ 74 Chapter 7: Plan Implementation ................................................................................................................. 76 Action Agenda ............................................................................................................................... 76 Plan Maintenance........................................................................................................................... 77 Appendix 1: Nance County Sketch Plan..................................................................................................... 80 Appendix 2: Nance County Issues .............................................................................................................. 82 Appendix 3: Results from Special Public Meeting..................................................................................... 83 Appendix 4: Pesticides and Groundwater An Applicator’s Map and Guide to Prevent Groundwater Contamination............................ 88
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LIST OF TABLES Table 3.1: Population Trends of Nance County, Nebraska Communities, 1970 - 1996.......................................................................................................................... 14 Table 3.2: Migration Analysis, 1969-1996 Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 15 Table 3.3: Comparative Age-Sex Composition of the Population, 1980-1990 Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 16 Table 3.4: Community Housing Trends Nance County, 1980 - 1990 ........................................................................................................................ 21 Table 3.5: Specified Housing Values, 1980-1990 Nance County.............................................................................................................................................. 22 Table 3.6: Family Income Statistics Nance County, 1980 - 1990 ........................................................................................................................ 24 Table 3.7: Income Statistics Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 25 Table 3.8: Transfer Payments, 1970-1990 Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 26 Table 3.9: Employment by Industry, 1980-1990 Nance County.............................................................................................................................................. 27 Table 3.10: Out-Commuter Population, 1960-1990 Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 29
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LIST OF TABLES (cont.) Table 3.11: In-Commuter Population, 1960-1990 Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 30 Table 3.12: Travel Time To Work Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 31 Table 3.13: Agricultural Profile Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 32 Table 3.14: Basic / Non-Basic Employment - 1990 Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 33 Table 3.15: Regional and State Labor Force Comparisons - 1990 Nance County.............................................................................................................................................. 34 Table 4.1 Supply of Managed Rural Recreation Land and Water Nance County, 1998.................................................................................................................................... 38 Table 4.2 School Enrollment and Assessed Valuation Nance County 1997-98 ............................................................................................................................... 39 Table 7.1 Action Agenda Nance County, 1998.................................................................................................................................... 77
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LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1.1 Location of Nance County ............................................................................................................................ 1 Figure 3.1 Population Trends and Projection, 1930-2020 Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 19 Figure 3.2 Age of Existing Housing Stock Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 20 Figure 4.1 Fullerton City Park...................................................................................................................................... 36 Figure 4.2 Genoa South City Park................................................................................................................................ 36 Figure 4.3 Belgrade Elementary................................................................................................................................... 39 Figure 4.4 School Districts Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 41 Figure 4.5 Rural Fire Districts Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 43 Figure 4.6 Nance County Courthouse .......................................................................................................................... 45 Figure 4.7 County Highway Department Office .......................................................................................................... 45 Figure 4.8 U.S. Indian School ...................................................................................................................................... 48 Figure 4.9 Genoa Community Hospital........................................................................................................................ 49 Figure 4.10 Country View Care Village ........................................................................................................................ 49 Figure 4.11 Woodland Park............................................................................................................................................ 50
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LIST OF FIGURES (cont.) Figure 5.1 Principal Soils Map Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 57 Figure 5.2 Dryland Capability Classification Map Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 58 Figure 5.3 Prime Farmland Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 60 Figure 5.4 Existing Land Use Map Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 63 Figure 5.5 Future Land Use Map Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 68 Figure 6.1 Future Transportation Map Nance County, Nebraska ............................................................................................................................ 75
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Chapter 1 Introduction LOCATION Nance County is near the center of the eastern half of Nebraska. It is rectangular in shape and averages about fifteen (15) miles wide from north to south, and thirty (30) miles long from east to west. Nance County (Figure 1) has an area of approximately 281,235 acres. Fullerton, the County seat, is the largest community in Nance County. In 1990 Fullerton had a population of 1,452. The other communities in the County and their population in 1990 are Genoa, 1,090, and Belgrade, 157.
Figure 1.1 Location of Nance County
HISTORICAL & CULTURAL BACKGROUND According to the Nance County Soil Survey (1960), Nance County was an unorganized territory until 1857. During that year it was ceded to the Pawnee Indians for a reserve. In 1875 the Government moved the Indians to other territory, and settlers began arriving the following year. All land was sold for $2.50 to $5.00 an acre and the proceeds were given to the Indians. When settlers arrived, Nance County was mostly prairie, except where trees were dominant along the streams and waterways. The same native cover still grows in some small areas.
GOVERNMENTAL & JURISDICTIONAL ORGANIZATION The basic governmental functions of Nance County, Nebraska are controlled and coordinated by the County Board of Supervisors, presently comprised of seven elected members. These members are elected from voting districts to represent the entire county population. Standing committees for specific areas of special study and concern are appointed by the Nance County Board of Supervisors. Local affairs of each community may extend outside its Corporate Limits through the adoption of zoning and exercise of a extra-territorial jurisdiction as provided by State Statute. As the community grows and annexes land into their Corporate Limits, their extra-territorial jurisdictions will also grow. Although the
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City of Fullerton and the City of Genoa are currently zoned, they do not exercise a one-mile or extraterritorial jurisdiction. The Village of Belgrade in the northwestern part of the County does not have an adopted comprehensive plan or development regulations. Nance County’s jurisdiction, therefore, entails all of the unincorporated portions of the county, up to the Corporate Limits of all three Nance County communities.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Nance County has elected to develop its Comprehensive Plan and identify growth issues around the county and communities as they relate to continuation of agricultural activities. The county has decided to plan for urban development for the future in order to better anticipate future land use changes. The Plan product has resulted from approximately one year of meetings and discussion with staff and members of the Nance County. In addition, steering committee members from throughout the County and communities helped the Planning Commission formulate the goals and objectives that the County has adopted. The Comprehensive Plan for Nance County positions the County to better anticipate future growth in a changing world. To better understand the purpose of comprehensive planning, the following description has been provided.
Land Use Planning Land use planning is a means of preparing for the future. It is a process of thinking ahead and considering all aspects of life in the county, with intelligent forethought for solving county problems. It is a science and an art of promoting physical growth and development of the county in harmony with its social and economic needs. In short, planning is an instrument to achieve a better place in which to live, to work, to recreate, and to raise a family. It is essential that a county and citizens plan for the future if they intend to reach its full potential. The objective of planning is to provide a framework for guiding the county toward orderly growth and development. The plan helps the county relate and balance the physical, social, economic, and aesthetic features of its appropriate jurisdiction as it responds to private sector initiatives. Planned growth will make the county more effective, efficient, and pleasant; can improve property values and business climate; and can promote attractive housing and a reasonable tax base. It can also be a part of a comprehensive effort to attract new business and industry, and retain young people. Unplanned growth will result in poor and improper land use and less stable housing in neighborhoods. Moreover, unplanned growth does not attract additional investments in new industry, business, or housing. The Plan establishes county-wide policy and serves as the basis for making zoning decisions. No zoning laws or plan, however, can provide for the general public good and at the same time accommodate all individual interests so that everyone is satisfied. While there must be proper balance between the public good and individual interests, what is best for the county as a whole must prevail. Zoning amendments that are based on the benefits to the individual rather than the county as a whole have usually been declared invalid by the courts.
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Elements of the Comprehensive Plan Nebraska State Statutes require certain elements of a comprehensive plan, and generally define what a plan should be. The State laws provide that a “Comprehensive Development Plan” consists of both graphic and textual material, and is designed to accommodate anticipated long-range future growth. A Plan, according to State Statute, must include, among other elements, the following: • • •
A land use element; A general transportation element, focusing on major roads; and The general location, type, capacity and area served of present and projected community/county facilities.
A demographic profile of the county, historical aspects and a section on goals and objectives are also vital elements to a comprehensive plan and are included in the Nance County Plan.
The Comprehensive Plan and Zoning According to State Statutes, Nance County may not adopt or maintain zoning regulations without first drafting and adopting a Comprehensive Development Plan, and then keeping it up-to-date. Zoning decisions should include consideration of long-range county goals as well as short-range needs. The recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan should provide the public policy basis for zoning. Because of its importance in the zoning process, the Comprehensive Plan should be reviewed on a regular basis and amended as necessary to ensure that it remains current. It is important to zone for land, not people. An error frequently made is approval of a rezoning to accommodate an applicant’s personal circumstances without consideration of land use conditions and characteristics. Such rezoning is rarely in the public interest and, if challenged, can be held to be invalid. Instead, decisions should be based on whether the land proposed is in the zoning district. It is the county’s prerogative to set standards for how zoning amendment applications are considered. Suggested standards for consideration of rezoning application include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
The character of the neighborhood or area; The zoning and uses of properties nearby; The suitability of the subject property for the uses to which it has been restricted; The extent to which removal of the restrictions (or change of zone) will detrimentally affect nearby property; The relative gain to the public health, safety and welfare by not rezoning the property as compared to the hardship imposed on the property owner; The recommendation of staff; and Compliance with the Comprehensive Plan.
Standards should be adopted as part of the zoning regulation. It should also be pointed out that the entire class of uses which the zoning district permits should be considered rather than just the use the applicant proposes, since a change in ownership or in market conditions could easily result in a change of the proposed use. Standards for subdivision design are included in the subdivision regulations. These include street/road lay-out and design, compatibility with adjoining subdivisions, relationship to topographic conditions, efficiency of the utility layout, and general suitability of the lot and block design to the intended use of the land. These issues will have to be resolved by the County if urban/residential development begins to emerge in significant degrees in rural areas.
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The Planning Process Planning for land use development is a process through which a county evolves. Development techniques and public attitudes are continually changing, and the Plan must establish an evaluation process to consider new ideas and new concepts, or the Plan becomes unworkable and, therefore, unusable. The planning process provides the means for understanding existing conditions and accepted planning principles. It then permits an evaluation of these conditions with respect to the attitudes of the county (goals and objectives), the need for support facilities and long-range growth patterns. As each item of change is considered in the county, it should be carried through this process and the following questions asked:
• • • • •
What is the relationship of this proposed change to existing conditions? Would the change be in conformance with established principles or current county policies? Is the change in general agreement with the growth objectives as presented on the Future Land Use Plan? What will be the implications of this change to the major thoroughfares system? What will be the impact of this change to the capacity of the county to serve the development with public utilities and other public facilities?
As individual decisions are made, existing conditions change, and this may actually result in changes to goals, objectives and policies. The Plan must reflect these changes so that it is current and can be utilized to evaluate future proposals for change. Step by step, the County continues to grow in an efficient manner and the comprehensive plan remains a dynamic tool to guide this growth.
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Chapter 2 Goals and Objectives Planning for the future of counties is an ongoing process of goal-setting and problem-solving that aims to bring about livable places. Planning focuses on ways of solving existing problems facing Nance County, as well as providing a powerful tool people can use to achieve their vision for the future. Visioning is a process of examining issues. It is a way of evaluating present conditions, identifying problem areas, and bringing about a county-wide consensus on how to overcome existing problems and manage change. By learning about its strengths and weaknesses, a county can decide what it wants to be, and then develop a plan that will guide decisions toward that vision. Issues are therefore items or concerns, positive or negative, that affect the quality of life within Nance County and must be evaluated. Because change goes on all the time, a county must decide the specific criteria it will use to judge and manage that change. Instead of reacting after the fact to forces that alter their county, residents armed with a strategic vision can better reinforce the changes that they desire, and discourage changes that detract from the vision. Having a shared vision allows a county to focus its diverse energies and avoid conflicts in the present as well as the future. The foundation of a Comprehensive Development Plan is the section on goals and objectives. This is where citizen concerns and vision are translated into action statements that can be used to direct future growth and change. This is where a consensus on "What is good growth?" and "How to manage change in order to provide the greatest benefit to the county at-large." is formed. The following goals and objectives attempt to address the questions of “what” and “how” we plan. The Goal statement states a desired outcome while an Objective identifies a specific means for achieving that Goal. Goals are desires, necessities, and issues which should be attained in the future and be established in a manner that can be accomplished. Objectives must be measurable through both specific degree of achievement, and in terms of time. Objectives can be established in a way which assigns specific activities to specific individuals. Policies can also be a derivative of objectives. Policies may be a statement of desire or implemented through regulations providing action by the residents of the county and/or governing body. Goals and objectives are “measuring” tools for guiding growth and development issues. The goals and objectives of this Plan are sufficiently detailed to be referred to when considering individual zoning, subdivision, or public improvement matters. They provide specific direction to assist in making the daily, incremental decisions that ultimately lead to the full implementation of the Comprehensive Plan. The goals and objectives provide a second function beyond directing change. They assure that the Comprehensive Plan is accomplishing functions desired by the residents of Nance County. In this respect, this section of the Plan is a compilation of local attitudes generated through public meetings and workshops. If followed, development or improvements in the County will have a direct link to residents’ stated interests. Therefore, these goals and objectives should be referred to as diligently as the Future Land Use Map or any other part of the Comprehensive Plan. Likewise, they should be kept up to date to truly reflect the current attitudes of the County and its residents. As a way of identifying the issues, strengths and weaknesses of the County, a series of exercises were performed where participants with various backgrounds were asked to identify issues affecting Nance County, and rate them according to their perceived importance. Of those issues listed, livestock
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operations, water quality, population loss, and a lack of opportunities were of most concern. A similar exercise directed participants to list the strengths and weaknesses of the county and how they envision Nance County in the year 2010. The results of these exercises are listed in Appendices 1-3. It is from this public participation that various goals and objectives for Nance County could be developed. For Nance County, the goals and objectives were formulated under generalized categories. These categories are devised from the various county issues identified throughout the planning process and include the following: Conservation and Environment Parks and Recreation Facilities and Operations Economy and Economic Development Education Health and Safety Public Works Land Use Transportation and Energy
CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENT Goals The natural resources and environment of Nance County shall be protected and managed to insure long term quality and availability. The goal of this Plan is to guide growth in a manner that conserves resources within the county while allowing opportunities for development. Objectives • • • • • • •
•
Develop working relationship between County Engineering, NRDs and NRCS to address flood control and management, and conservation of precious land in Nance County. Map the county for flood plain, participate in the Flood Insurance Program, and avoid intensive development in flood plain areas. Continue working relationship with Loup Power Canal system and Twin-Loup Irrigation District addressing potential water resource developments in Nance County. Establish zoning and subdivision standards that support conservation of natural and recreational resources. Develop conservation dams and reservoirs for flood protection, conservation and recreation, and identify areas of road structure possibilities. Encourage additional watershed developments. Clean up stream channels, banks, and stream beds. Encourage programs or businesses to recycle materials that might otherwise go into the landfill. Educate and encourage county residents to properly dispose of unwanted materials (rural garbage services). Protect domestic water supplies and aquifers from development activities that could pollute or affect quality or quantity by forcing development to demonstrate a positive, or at least a neutral, impact on ground water supplies; identify with NRCS, NRDs and DEQ's sediment control regulations to minimize potential water quality and soil loss problems; and discourage development over, or adjacent to, water generating aquifers that could have a negative impact on water quality or quantity.
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• • •
Discourage designated prime agricultural land and soils from non-agricultural uses by targeting less productive agricultural soils (crops) for urban or non-farm uses. Develop and encourage education programs throughout the county concerned with conservation and the environment. Discourage roadside/right-of-way farming in environmentally sensitive areas.
PARKS & RECREATION Goals Support park and recreation projects that can further economic development, conserve natural resources, and preserve important environmental and/or historical features. Nance County shall utilize policies and capital improvement planning to maintain and preserve existing open space and provide areas for future parks, trails, recreation areas and open space activities. Objectives •
• • • • • • • •
Promote development of a county-wide trails system, incorporating recreation trails along public highways, roads, and recreational areas. Develop trails plan that links communities to recreational areas of Nance County as well as adjacent counties. Encourage recreational amenities that offer enjoyment throughout entire year, i.e., enclosed swimming pool, indoor fitness and recreation center. Continue working with Natural Resources District and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to increase and promote other recreational areas and opportunities throughout the county. Utilize agriculture conservation, such as retention control, as recreational areas. Promote public nature observation and hunting lands in the county. Exploit expansive river system bisecting the county from west to east, creating more fishing, swimming, canoeing, camping, and hunting areas, as well as passive recreational pursuits. Improve recreational access to Loup River and other potential recreational amenities. Renovate, repair, expand existing camping facilities; i.e., Quiet Oaks. Provide additional campgrounds with electrical hookups and services.
FACILITIES & OPERATIONS Goals The main priority is to provide the facilities and services to all residents by insuring cost-effective services and conscientious investment of public resources, as well as developing strategies and programs which will allow the Nance County governmental agencies to improve their service and accessibility to the residents of the county. Objectives • • •
Support area historical and cultural activities. Expand maintenance department and county road facilities where needed. Provide services to the public in an efficient and cost-effective manner by utilizing a benefit/cost ratio in evaluating whether to contract out for services, use county personnel (privatization versus in-house staff), or consolidate County Offices.
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• •
Improve communication and representation throughout Nance County by implementing a communications program, possibly through a web page on the Internet. Enhance community awareness among county communities. Establish inter-community projects to encourage county-wide cohesiveness.
ECONOMY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Goals Quality growth includes a healthy support for business and industry diversity and expansion. It also includes long-range development plans to insure that limited public resources are used to the greatest benefit. An economic goal for Nance County is to support growth of existing, and new and diverse, enterprises that will effectively utilize existing public investments, and further the quality of life available to residents. Nance County needs to focus marketing efforts towards programs which will enhance the county's economic well being. Objectives • •
• • • • • • • •
•
Expand and promote agriculture and agricultural employment opportunities in the county that are consistent with maintaining the health, safety and general welfare of the county residents. Use recreational and cultural amenities to promote tourism and economic development in Nance County. Capitalize on historic assets in the county. Guide development of a regional/county recreational trails system. Encourage motel development/construction. Identify possible commercial and industrial sites throughout Nance County. Promote small business and industry. Promote more sustainable and diversified agriculture-related entities, i.e., farmers markets, etc. Take maximum advantage of available federal, state, and local government, and private sector resources to promote business/industrial development in the county. Expand and promote new and expanded industrial activity and employment opportunities; i.e., tax incentives and improvements to county roads. Encourage new and diversified businesses and industries which work to meet the skills of the present work force, and will expand the tax base. Look to increase housing in the county with commercial and industrial development. Consult with, or create a position of, county-wide Economic Development Director to market Nance County and its amenities to potential businesses and industries. Encourage working relationship with local/area Chamber of Commerce. Equalize taxation.
EDUCATION Goals Quality education is a vital component of positive growth. Although the county's direct role is limited, policies will be followed in locating development to insure cost-effective uses of existing facilities. Also, the county will coordinate all school districts to insure adequate areas for future educational needs. Above all, the main goal is to encourage excellence in the public school curriculum and facilities.
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Objectives • • • •
Set development standards that preserve land for future educational needs. Cooperate with school systems in expanding public uses of educational facilities. Continue examination of school programs throughout Nance County. Develop education programs for parents and other adults in the county.
HEALTH & SAFETY Goals Nance County's goal is to continue to support health care, fire protection, and law enforcement programs by exploring programs and alternative services to insure optimum service levels and public costs. Objectives • • • • • •
Improve the quality of health care available in the county by researching various avenues of expansion. Improve hospital, and develop/expand medical clinics in Fullerton and Genoa. Regulate land use development and operations that affect the health, safety, and general welfare of the public. Clean and regulate nuisances and poorly maintained properties (such as abandoned and dilapidated homes/structures, junk cars, noxious weeds, trees along roadsides, etc.). Increase law enforcement throughout the county by adding personnel and proper equipment as Nance County continues to grow. Upgrade law enforcement, fire, and emergency vehicles/equipment when possible to maintain highest quality services possible. Encourage fire fighters and emergency medical personnel to continually upgrade EMT certifications.
PUBLIC WORKS Goals Nance County shall pursue programs and facilities to insure adequate cost-effective solid waste management. Other utilities will be considered where provisions will be compatible with the county's land use policies. Goals include protecting current and future water well fields and aquifers; promoting development that utilizes existing facilities and capacities; and developing new utility system facilities and capacities that support development goals. Objectives • • •
Adopt development design standards that protect the area around municipal well fields located in the county. Utilize soil suitability when evaluating development proposals proposing septic system or lagoons for sewage treatment. Discourage residential development proposals that would result in new long-term independent utility (water, sewer) systems.
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LAND USE Goals Nance County seeks to provide a wide variety of development opportunities that contribute to effective use of public resources and maintenance of natural resources. Future land use will be a key management issue in order to achieve a prosperous county. Nance County will need to coordinate future growth policies with agriculture and each of its communities. The land use goals of Nance County are to utilize a combination of development policy and regulations to manage future growth and development, and to guide growth in the most land use efficient and cost-effective manner possible. Objectives •
• • • • •
Develop a policy which requires the coordination and review of all planning and zoning activities as they relate to extraterritorial jurisdictions and the unincorporated portion of the county. This policy would require a joint review and comment on the proposed activity by the adjacent communities and/or the county before the activity proceeds to the next step. Consult specialized agencies in designation and approval of land use issues. Establish a series of land use development districts that will identify areas of the county best suited for specific uses. Establish regulations, and limit development along minimum maintenance roads. Encourage the planting or development of buffers between conflicting land uses in the county. Regulate the location of structures, tree plantings, and other possible obstructions along roadsides and near road intersections. Agriculture • •
•
• • •
•
Protect prime farmland and ground water while promoting agriculture as main industry in the county. Support livestock production and related agricultural businesses that are designed, operated, and located consistent with maintaining the health, safety and welfare of all county residents. Regulate livestock feeding operations and manure storage and application throughout the county consistent with the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality and/or other State Agencies, to insure proper construction, management, and compatible location. Regulate location of large-scale grain storage facilities. Regulate livestock waste runoff onto neighboring properties, and waste disposal through irrigation systems. Provide regulations for separation between livestock and non-farm residences or urban/community development. Avoid locating new livestock operations next to communities and/or residential developments. Work with livestock producers on a continual basis to evaluate regulations.
Residential •
•
Regulate acreage (non-farm) development throughout the county. Encourage new residential development of small acreages and subdivisions to locate near existing development and community centers, with direct access to existing, hard-surfaced roads or highways. Work with developers on a continual basis to evaluate regulations and to locate appropriate areas for development.
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• • •
• • • • •
Control and regulate housing around sandpits, by assuring they meet minimum standards. Develop regulations to review the process of preliminary and final plats, and site plans for subdivisions. Establish specific location, design and financial standards for acreage or Sanitary and Improvement Districts. Establish zoning and subdivision design standards that require buffer and screening standards for new developments. Promote low to no nonfarm densities in prime farm land areas and agricultural districts by providing proper distances between residential and agricultural uses. Regulate residential development by number of units per section and/or lot sizes. Consider soils, flood plain, and road and bridge development or maintenance when identifying areas for development. Apply development criteria along Loup River Corridor. Develop regulations regarding location of mobile homes throughout county.
Commercial • • •
Focus and identify potential areas for development along major highways and expressways (paved roads) with existing/provided services. Require frontage roads when locating along major roads/highways. Allow agriculture related businesses throughout agriculture areas by conditional uses (such as Christmas tree farms, nurseries, seed corn, large livestock operations, etc.).
Industrial • • • •
•
Promote industrial sites to locate with access to communities and highways. Use frontage roads when locating on major roads/highways. Regulate distances between industrial uses and residential units. Regulate industrial operations throughout the county that are consistent with the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality to insure proper construction, management and compatible location. Regulate unsightly conditions; ie., junk yards, cars, etc.
TRANSPORTATION & ENERGY Goals Development in Nance County shall be guided to safely utilize existing public investment in roads and programs to reduce road development, or maintenance will be investigated. The Transportation and Energy Goal of Nance County is to develop and support an efficient road system to serve current and future circulation and access needs. Objectives • • •
•
Continue updating county equipment and road programs as needed. Develop a plan of education/action to prevent, and clean up roadside dumping in the rural areas of the county. County enforcement of roadside maintenance (mowing, trees, etc.). Improve and develop well-traveled roads with hard surfacing (as identified in the county's Oneand Six-Year Plans), and lessen maintenance of less needed or traveled roads by studying traffic patterns. Gravel township roads. Improve county bridges needing repair.
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• • • • • •
Explore use of recreational tax to pave or maintain roads for county recreational areas. Continue working with State Department of Roads, via Highway Superintendent and public input, to upgrade access in and through the county by resurfacing or widening existing state highways. Utilize the Comprehensive Plan or other road planning documents to establish locations for reserving additional rights-of-way for future roads. Control waterways by working with landowners and other agencies in protecting present bridge system. Examine state or federal aid in development or improvements to road system. Commercialize/expand airport services.
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Chapter 3 Social Economic Profile
INTRODUCTION The characteristics, size and growth of the general population are primary factors influencing and influenced by the comprehensive planning process. The ability to provide adequate housing, infrastructure, employment, commercial enterprises, and services will determine the success residents will have in achieving a desired quality of life in Nance County. These GOALS must include the general ideas of residents for support. In order to provide for future needs of the county, past trends in population are examined and key factors identified. Past trends give a sense of what the population might be in the year 2000, 2010 and 2020, so changes and adaptations can be managed. The following data provides an overview of past socioeconomic trends in Nance County. This overview includes population, housing, employment, and economics, and is examined to identify recurring patterns which may effect change. By analyzing these patterns, projections of future population and economic conditions can be estimated. Population projections and forecasts are useful tools in examining the future; however, these tools are not exact and can change due to unforeseen factors. Also, the data contained in past trends can be skewed or inaccurate, creating a distorted picture of the past and future. Therefore, it is important for the county to carefully monitor population and other factors affecting the county. Through periodic monitoring, the county can adapt and adjust to changes. Adapting to changes allows the county to maintain an effective plan and to enhance the quality of life. The following graphic and data tables provide a basis for developing short- and long-range goals and objectives. These goals and objectives will be shaped into a Plan that can act as a road map, guiding the county through desired change. Population and Housing General population and housing trends are examined from 1980 to 1990. Population trends are investigated and used to project future needs. Employment and Economics Key factors of the local economy are examined, and employment analyzed to spot any positive or negative trends, as well as the makeup of the local education system.
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COUNTY ASSESSMENT: TRENDS AND ANALYSIS Population Population provides a special picture of the county. A county needs an understanding of where it has been and where it appears to be going. Population is the major force behind housing, the economy, employment, and fiscal stability of communities and counties. Historic population levels assist in projecting future levels, which in turn assist in determining the future need for housing, retail, medical, employment, and educational needs of the county. Projections do provide a logical, practical estimate for the county to base development decisions. Population projections are only estimates, and unforeseen factors can affect these projections significantly. Population Trends and Analysis Table 1 shows the population levels for Nance County by each incorporated community. Besides the incorporated communities, the total county population as well as the total population for the incorporated and the unincorporated areas are included in Table 1. The table is divided into 1970, 1980, 1990 and 1996 population levels, plus the percent change from each Census. This will give residents of Nance County a better understanding of recent trends regarding the population of all areas within Nance County.
TABLE 3.1: POPULATION TRENDS OF NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA COMMUNITIES 1970 -1996 Community Belgrade Genoa Fullerton Incorporated Areas Unincorporated Areas Nance County
1970 210 1,174 1,444 2,828 2,314 5,142
1980 195 1,115 1,506 2,816 1,924 4,740
% Chg 1970-1980 -7.1% -5.0% 4.3% -0.4% -16.9% -7.8%
1990 157 1,090 1,452 2,699 1,576 4,275
% Chg 1980-1990 -19.5% -2.2% -3.6% -4.2% -18.1% -9.8%
1996 160 1,069 1,439 2,668 1,625 4,293
% Chg 1990-1996
% Chg 1970-1996
1.9% -1.9% -0.9% -1.1% 3.1% 0.4%
-23.8% -8.9% -0.3% -5.7% -29.8% -16.5%
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population 1970, 1980, 1990 Nebraska State Data Center
Review of population trends for an area provides a historical perspective, and enables projections to be made about the future population. For instance, Nance County relies mainly on the agricultural economy for prosperity. The up and down swings within the agricultural economy will usually be reflected in the population figures, as well as economic indicators. Table 3.1 indicates that the population decreased throughout Nance County during the 1970's, however, Fullerton did indicate an increase during the 1970's. Other indicators that affect population are the size of farms and improved technology. Fewer individuals are now needed to farm, and therefore move on to other opportunities outside the county. Table 3.1 indicates the population of Nance County decreased by 402 persons or -7.8% between 1970 and 1980. Between 1980 and 1990, the population declined by 465 persons or -9.8%. The 1996 Census estimates indicate that the population did stabilize slightly and gained 18 persons or 0.4%. This growth was driven by the unincorporated areas which gained 49 persons or 3.1%, between 1990 and 1996.
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Migration Analysis Migration Analysis allows a county to understand some of the dynamics that have influenced the County’s population. The elements affecting population change are births, deaths, and people moving in or out of a county. Migration is the remaining portion of the population after the natural change (total births minus deaths) is subtracted from the total change in population. Table 3.2 shows the total change in population for Nance County from 1960-1970, 1970-1980, 1980-1990, and 1990-1996. The Table also indicates the natural change and the total migration. A negative number in the Total Migration column indicates population moving out and a positive number indicates population moving into the county.
TABLE 3.2: MIGRATION ANALYSIS 1960 - 1996 NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA Nance County
Total Change
Natural Change
Total Migration
(persons)
(persons)
(persons) 1960 - 1970
-493
235
-728
1970 - 1980
-402
65
-467
1980 - 1990
-465
30
-495
1990 - 1996
18
-23
41
-1,342
307
-1,649
Total 1960 - 1996
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population 1980, 1990, 1994 Nebraska Department of Health, Vital Statistics 1980 -1994
The Total Migration for the 36-year period was -1,649 persons, which indicates that all of Nance County's population declines have been driven by people moving away. This out migration equals just over 32% of the 1960's county population of 5,142. The Natural Change column has been on the positive side, (births exceeding deaths), for all years except 1990-1996, where there were more deaths than births. The out migration of Nance County has slowed down, and the population has begun to stabilize, with only 41 persons actually moving into Nance County between 1990 and 1996. Age Structure Analysis Age structure is an important component to population analysis. By analyzing age structure, Nance County can see if the population is increasing in the proper age cohorts which will sustain future growth. The age cohorts which tend to promote future growth are younger to teenage children, and adults of childbearing ages. A strong presence and growth in these age groups will provide a base for the county to grow and prosper. Table 3.3 breaks the 1980 and 1990 populations for Nance County into basic age groups (cohorts). This allows for an analysis to be performed to determine the impact of these age groups upon the two Census years. The best method of analyzing age cohorts is to project an age cohort in 1980 forward ten years to 1990; for example, review the population for the age cohort 0-4 in 1980, and then review the age cohort 10 to 14 in 1990. This type of analysis will indicate how well Nance County has been able to maintain critical age groups. Nance County Comprehensive Development Plan - 1999
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TABLE 3.3: COMPARATIVE AGE-SEX COMPOSITION OF THE POPULATION 1980 - 1990 NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA 1980 Age 0-4 5-9 10-14 15-19 20-24 25-29 30-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+ Total Population 1980
M&F
% of
1990 M&F % of
Total 399 326 359 423 334 330 248 424 501 510 471 415
Total 8.4% 6.9% 7.6% 8.9% 7.0% 7.0% 5.2% 8.9% 10.6% 10.8% 9.9% 8.8%
Total 335 345 364 252 125 254 382 530 381 468 399 440
4,740
100.0%
4,275
Change
Total Number 7.8% 335 8.1% 345 8.5% (35) 5.9% (74) 2.9% (234) 5.9% (169) 8.9% 48 12.4% (48) 8.9% (43) 10.9% (33) 9.3% (111) 10.3% (446)
Percent
-8.8% -22.7% -65.2% -40.0% 14.4% -8.3% -10.1% -6.6% -21.8% -50.3%
100.0%
1990
Total 18 years and Under - 1,463
Total 18 years and Under- 1,229
% of Population - 30.9%
% of Population - 28.7%
Total 65 years and Over - 886
Total 65 years and Over - 839
% of Population - 18.7%
% of Population - 19.6%
Median Age - 34.0
Median Age - 36.3
Total Female - 2,378
Total Female -2,165
Total Male -2,362
Total Male -2,110
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population 1980, 1990 Nebraska State Data Center
Table 3.3 also indicates that the overall percentage of persons 18 years and younger decreased from 30.9% in 1980, to 28.7% in 1990. In addition, the percentage of persons 65 years and over increased from 18.7% in 1980, to 19.6% in 1990. These two factors contributed to the Median Age in Nance County increasing from 34.0 years in 1980, to 36.3 years in 1990. Table 3.3 analyzes age cohorts as they moved from the 1980's U.S. Census to the 1990's U.S. Census. This analysis also helps in planning community facilities by looking at the cohorts that have a large number of persons, and projecting it 10 years ahead. This can indicate what facilities will be needed, depending on the numbers found. For example, if there are a large number of births in the county, schools will have to adapt to fulfill educational needs, and a larger number of elderly will demand an increase in community facilities which meet their needs. Nance County Comprehensive Development Plan - 1999
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All age cohort projections indicate losses, except the cohort 20-24 (1980) and 30-34 (1990), which increased by 48 persons or 14.4%. The largest losses were found in the age groups 10 - 14 (1980) to 20 24 (1990), which lost 234 persons. Analysis of this loss would indicate that 232 persons can be attributed to out-migration points toward these individuals moving away for post secondary education or other opportunities. Population Projections Population projections allow Nance County, if all things stay equal, to estimate what the population will be in specific future years. Projections are only estimates based upon present day and past circumstances. A number of factors (economic, social, etc.) can affect projections positively or negatively. At the present time, these projections are the best crystal ball Nance County has for predicting future population changes. In 1997, the Bureau of Business Research (BBR) published a listing of all Nebraska counties and population projections for each through 2010. According to this report, Nance County is expected to continue the past trend. This report indicates the following projections: 4,142 persons (2000) and 3,915 persons (2010). Indications are that these projections are in line with past trends. If projections are off, they will likely be lower than reality. The benefit to projecting population into the future is the ability to provide future services to the public, which include: water, sewer, electricity, and other services which residents, businesses, and industries demand. Population projections can be completed using a number of modeling techniques. The two techniques used most are: Cohort Survival and Trend Line Analysis. Cohort Survival analyzes the population by age cohorts and projects these cohorts into the future while assuming certain survival rates for each cohort (based upon mortality rates). This analysis technique also projects future births based upon female age cohorts and potential for child bearing. This technique, provided all economic and social conditions remain near the norm, is a good indicator of the future. There is one issue this model does not include, migration. Migration can and does create errors in the projections derived by this model. This may be very true in Nance County where migration has been the driving force in the population losses. Trend Line Analysis reviews the population changes of the past, and averages these changes out over a certain number of years. This average is then projected into the future. In some cases this technique is a good indicator; however, caution needs to be used since past external influences may not be present in 1990, or continue in the future. Cohort Survival Projections Population projections for Nance County using this technique indicate: · · ·
Year 2000 - 4,003 persons Year 2010 - 4,271 persons Year 2020 - 4,721 persons
This projection method indicates that the population will continue to drop through 2000 and then begin to increase in 2010 and 2020. However, as indicated previously, this model does not include migration factors.
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Adding the migration factor to the growth shown in the model, the following changes are made to the population projections for Nance County: · · ·
Year 2000 - 3,719 persons Year 2010 - 3,987 persons Year 2020 - 4,437 persons
These population projections indicate similar results, but the actual population projections are not as high as before. Trend line Projections Population projections using this method are useful for establishing past population trends during a specific time period. This analysis model reviews two different trends; 1970 to 1996, and 1960 to 1996. In addition, the change from 1990 to 1996 was reviewed to establish potential populations, provided this trend continues. The trend line for 1960 to 1996 indicates a decrease in Nance County’s population through the year 2020 of 534, while the trend line for 1970 to 1996 reveals a loss of 515. Using both trend lines, the population projections are as follows: · · ·
Nance County 1960 to 1996
1970 to 1996
Year 2000 Year 2010 Year 2020
4,184 persons 3,918 persons 3,669 persons
4,179 persons 3,903 persons 3,645 persons
Applying the same principals to the changes from 1990 to 1996, the Trend Line indicates the following population figures: Nance County 1990 to 1996 · · ·
Year 2000 Year 2010 Year 2020
4,305 persons 4,335 persons 4,366 persons
Population Projections Using the modeling techniques discussed in the previous paragraphs, the following is a summary of the population projections through the year 2020. A Low Series, Medium Series, and High Series projection has been established in order to indicate different growth patterns which may be encountered in the next 22 years. The following are the populations for each year, and included are the populations for 1990 and 1996. Figure 3.1, Population and Projection, illustrates graphically the projected population for Nance County based upon the Low, Medium and High Series and the populations of 1930 to the 1996 estimate. · · · · ·
Nance County
Low Series
Medium Series
High Series
Year 1990 Year 1996 Year 2000 Year 2010 Year 2020
4,275 persons 4,293 persons 4,179 persons 3,903 persons 3,645 persons
4,275 persons 4,293 persons 4,184 persons 3,918 persons 3,669 persons
4,275 persons 4,293 persons 4,305 persons 4,335 persons 4,366 persons
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As previously stated, these projections are only educated estimates based upon data from the past. There are a number of external and internal economic and social issues which could affect these projections in either a positive or negative fashion. Nance County residents must monitor the future population estimates and U.S. Census releases carefully in order to be educated on the growth of their County.
FIGURE 3.1: POPULATION TRENDS AND PROJECTION 1930-2020 NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA 8 ,7 1 8
9,000
7 ,6 5 3
8,000 7,000
6 ,5 1 2 5 ,6 3 5
6,000
5 ,1 4 2
4 ,7 4 0 4 ,2 7 5 4 ,2 9 3
5,000 4,000
4 ,3 4 ,1 8 40 5 4 ,3 3 5 4 ,3 6 6 4,179 3 ,9 1 8 3 ,6 6 9 3,903 3,645
3,000 2,000 1,000 0
Nance County
Low Series
Medium Series
High Series
Source: Bureau of Business Research
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Housing The Housing element of the Comprehensive Development Plan identifies existing housing characteristics and projected housing needs in Nance County. A primary goal of the county should be to provide safe, decent, and sanitary housing for every family and individual residing within Nance County. To project future housing needs, several factors must be considered. These factors include: population changes, family income, employment, land use, and residents' attitudes. Age of Existing Housing Stock The age of a county's housing stock can indicate a great deal about population and economic conditions of the past. The age of the housing stock may indicate potential repairs or needed replacements within the county. This category is important in understanding the overall quality of housing and the quality of life in the Nance County. Review of the Housing Stock Age from the 1990 U.S. Census as shown in Figure 3.2 indicates that 1,097 or 60.7% of the homes were built before 1939. As of March 1990, 80% of the homes were built prior to 1970, indicating that most of the homes are at least 30 years or older in Nance County. Depending on the maintenance and restoration program followed in the older homes, the age of the housing stock could create future problems for Nance County. The need to begin the replacement and/or restoration process on some homes will depend largely on the factor of population growth or decline in the future.
FIGURE 3.2: AGE OF EXISTING HOUSING STOCK NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA 1,200
1,097
1,000 800 600
294 9
2 1988-3/90
19801984
58 19701979
1939 or earlier
19401949
0
101
200 19601969
46
19501959
200
19851988
400
Source: 1990 U.S. Census Prepared By: JEO
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Housing Stock The housing stock of the county was analyzed by the makeup of owner-occupied, renter-occupied, and vacant units. These data provide a picture of the housing composition, and can be broken down in many additional ways. Besides these data, it is important to compare the data regarding median value of owner-occupied and median contract rent for the housing stock. Table 3.4 lists housing statistics for household population, persons per household, types of housing units, and housing makeup. Also included are vacancy rates and the median value of owner-occupied and median contract rent for housing units. These data are compared for 1980 and 1990.
TABLE 3.4 COMMUNITY HOUSING TRENDS NANCE COUNTY 1980 - 1990 1990
1980
County Population
4,275
4,740
Persons in Households
4,088
4,605
187
135
Persons in Group Quarters Persons per Household
2.58
2.69
Year-round Housing Units
1,807
1,955
Occupied Housing Units
1,585
1,712
Owner-Occupied
1,210
1,314
Renter-Occupied
375
398
Vacant Housing Units
222
243
1,598
1,752
79
106
130
98
Single Family Units Duplex/Multiple Family Mobile Home Owner Occupied Vacancy Rate Rental Vacancy Rate
2.1%
6.6%
13.9%
1.3%
Median Contract Rent - 1980 and 1990 Nance County
$93.00
$149.00
Nebraska
$170.00
$348.00
Median Values of Owner-Occupied Units - 1980 and 1990 Nance County
$21,400
$24,300
Nebraska
$38,000
$50,000
Source: Census of Housing 1980, 1990
Table 3.4 indicates that the household population of Nance County went from 4,740 in 1980, to 4,275 in 1990, a decrease of 465 persons or -9.8%. Persons living in group quarters increased by 52 or 38.5%. Along with these changes, the persons per household data also declined from 2.69 in 1980, to 2.58 in 1990; this decline is typical of Nebraska and the Midwest region.
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Owner-occupied housing units in Nance County decreased by 104 units or -7.9%. Renter-occupied units declined by 23 units or -5.8%. All housing unit types decreased except mobile homes, which had an increase of 32 units or 32.7% between 1980 and 1990. Another significant change was the increase of rental vacancies, from 1.3% in 1980 to 13.9% in 1990. However, the vacancy rate for Owner-Occupied housing declined from 6.6%, in 1980, to 2.1% in 1990. Table 3.4 contains data on the Median Contract Rent in Nance County and the State of Nebraska. The Median Contract Rent for Nance County increased from $93 per month in 1980, to $149 per month in 1990. This is an increase of $56 per month or 60.2%. The State of Nebraska had a Median Contract Rent of $170 per month in 1980, nearly double that of Nance County. The State’s median contract rent increased to $348 per month between 1980 and 1990 or 104.7%. Specified Housing Values Specified housing values are data supplied to the U.S. Census Bureau by home owners. These data reflect the owner's perception regarding the home's value. The totals listed do not match data found in other locations of this report as some residents did not supply data. However, these figures will give an indication of the average housing values within Nance County for 1980 and 1990. These figures will also indicate possible increases in the housing values from 1980 to 1990. These values can also be an indicator of how well a community is growing economically. The changes in these values can be compared to the Consumer Price Index1 for the same period. This comparison will indicate if the local housing values have been increasing similarly to the national average for all consumer goods.
TABLE 3.5: SPECIFIED HOUSING VALUES 1980-1990 NANCE COUNTY Nance County Housing Values 1980 1990 681 703 Less than $50,000 150 111 $50,000 to $99,999 3 $100,000 to $149,999 1 $150,000 to $199,999 1 $200,000 or more 831 819 Total Units $21,400 $24,300 Median Value Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing 1980 and 1990
Table 3.5 indicates that in 1980, Nance County had a total of 831 units specified, and in 1990, 819 units. During that period the specified housing values did increase. The median value went from $21,400 to $24,300, an increase of $2,900 or 13.6%. This increase was approximately one-half the growth rate seen in the State of Nebraska. Median value of Owner-Occupied housing, in Nebraska, increased from $38,000
1
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is the amount that all consumer items increase, on average, in U.S. cities. The CPI chart used in the analysis from 1965 to 1997, with the base period equal to 100 (1982 to 1984). This index is used as a base for determining if prices, incomes, etc. are keeping pace with the cost of living increase in the United States.
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in 1980, to $50,000 in 1990. This increase is equal to $12,000 or 31.6%. This increase of 13.6% for the county is considerably lower than the CPI’s increase of 60.7% for the same time period nationally. This indicates that housing values did not keep pace with the overall national changes when adjusted for inflation. Therefore, the average value of a home was less in 1990 than in 1980, based upon real dollars. The overall housing conditions and values within Nance County appear to be improving throughout the years. There has been growth in the values of Owner-Occupied units, as well as reasonable growth in perceived housing values. If Nance County's population does increase, it is felt that these housing issues will continue to improve. The CPI has slowed its annual increase in recent years. This may give some markets a chance to catch up with national levels. Economics and Employment Economic data are collected in order to better understand area markets, changes in economic activity, and employment needs and opportunities. In this section individual income statistics are reviewed for Nance County and Nebraska, as well as Employment by Industry, Location Quotients, Basic/Non-Basic Analysis, Primary Retail Trade Area, Net Taxable Sales, and Retail Trade Area. Income Statistics Income Statistics for Families are important in telling the earning power of the families in a county. These data indicate at what level families have/are earning, compared to the State. In addition, these data are reviewed for purposes of determining if the families are seeing income increases at a rate at least comparable to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Table 3.6 lists the Income Statistics for Nance County and compares them to the State of Nebraska. Included in the table are data pertaining to income levels, median income, the number of families included in the survey, as well as poverty levels. The data shown includes 1980 and 1990. Nance County and the State of Nebraska have seen strong increases in family income from the 1980 to the 1990 Censuses. In 1980, Nance County had 1,076 or nearly 85% of its 1,268 families earning less than $25,000 a year. In 1990, 601 or 51.6% of 1,166 families were earning less than $25,000 a year. This shows families, on average, have made an improvement in their incomes between 1980 and 1990. The Median Family Income rose from $13,504 in 1980, to $24,571 in 1990, an increase of $11,067 or 82%. This is a good increase when compared to the CPI’s increase of 60.7%, and indicates that families of Nance County had more buying power in 1990 than in 1980. In addition, the Median Family Income for Nebraska increased by $12,512 or 65.4%. There are a number of possible reasons for the rise in the Median Family Income for the county. Increases in family income during the 1980's, nationally and in Nebraska, can be attributed to an increase in the number of two-income families. Through either career decisions or economic necessity, more families are seeing both parents working outside the home. The family income statistics indicate good economic growth for families remaining and living in Nance County.
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TABLE 3.6: FAMILY INCOME STATISTICS NANCE COUNTY 1980-1990 1980
Family Income
Nance Co.
1990
(%)
State
(%)
Nance Co.
(%)
State
(%)
Less than $5,000
163
12.9%
27,188
6.6%
18
1.5%
11,794
2.8%
$5,000-$9,999
262
20.7%
52,984
12.8%
79
6.8%
21,616
5.2%
$10,000-$14,999
282
22.2%
67,769
16.3%
193
16.6%
33,491
8.0%
$15,000-$24,999
369
29.1%
137,124
33.1%
311
26.7%
83,885
20.0%
$25,000-$34,999
122
9.6%
75,516
18.2%
277
23.8%
85,580
20.5%
$35,000-$49,999
42
3.3%
35,773
8.6%
194
16.6%
92,981
22.2%
$50,000 & Up
28
2.2%
18,239
4.4%
94
8.1%
89,124
21.3%
No. of Families
1,268
414,593
1,166
418,471
Median Income
$13,504
$19,122
$24,571
$31,634
200
33,340
110
33,509
15.7%
8.0%
9.4%
8.0%
No. Below Poverty % Below Poverty
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census of Population and Housing 1980, 1990
Income levels for Nance County during the 25-year period from 1970 to 1995, as shown in Table 3.7, indicated strong increases in the overall personal income. Table 3.7 also breaks the personal income into two categories: Nonfarm Income, and Farm income. In 1970, nonfarm income accounted for $11,507,000 (74.9%) of the total personal payments for Nance County. By 1995, nonfarm income had increased by 476.45% to $66,331,000. The 1995 nonfarm income accounted for 91.8% of Nance County’s personal income. This indicates that nonfarm income was increasing at a greater rate than farm income. Nance County had a Per Capita Income of $3,009 in 1970, and in 1995 it increased to $17,033; an increase of 466.1%. This exceeded the increase in the CPI of 286.8%, for the same period. During the 25 years listed in Table 3.7, only Farm Income and the average wage per job failed to increase at a rate more than the CPI.
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TABLE 3.7: INCOME STATISTICS NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA 1970
1980
1990
1995
% Chg
% per year Chg
$15,364,000
$28,904,000
$67,788,000
$72,288,000
370.5%
14.8%
$11,507,000
$31,322,000
$49,905,000
$66,331,000
476.4%
19.1%
$3,857,000
$-2,428,000
$17,883,000
$5,957,000
54.4%
2.2%
Per Capita Income
$3,009
$6,106
$15,916,000
$17,033
466.1%
18.6%
Average wage per job
$4,070
$8,568
$12,776
$14,796
264.3%
10.6%
Total Personal Income Nonfarm Income Farm Income
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis - REIS report 1996
Table 3.8 contains information regarding Transfer Payments. Transfer Payments are monies sent to individuals by the federal government meeting certain criteria. These payments include: food stamps, medical payments, veterans' benefits, aid to families with dependent children, and more. This data has been reviewed for 1970, 1980 and 1990. Nance County has seen an overall increase in the amount of Transfer Payments entering the county's economy. This increase went from $1,986,000 in 1970, to $11,144,000 in 1990, an overall change of 461.1%. As mentioned previously, the CPI for this time period was 286.6%. Thus, the increase in Federal dollars grew approximately 1.6 times more than the national economy. The type of transfer payment that had the largest increase was Medical Payments. This increase was 827.4% over the 20-year period. Nance County did see an area decrease in Unemployment Insurance Benefits, which has not been standard in most counties. Between 1970 and 1990, Transfer Payments Per Capita have increased from $386 in 1970, to $2,607 in 1990; an increase of 575.4%. This increase of Transfer Payments Per Capita exceeded the growth in the CPI for the same period. Finally, the Transfer Payment Per Capita is compared to the overall per capita income of Nance County. In 1970, Transfer Payments Per Capita was approximately 12.8% of the total Per Capita Income. By 1990, this percentage grew to 16.4%. However, in 1980, the percentage peaked at 20.3%.
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TABLE 3.8: TRANSFER PAYMENTS 1970 - 1990 NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA 1970
Payment Type
1990
1980
% Chg
% per year Chg
Government Payments to Individuals
$1,853,000
$5,532,000
$10,648,000
474.6%
23.7%
Retirement and Disability Insurance Benefits
$1,202,000
$3,613,000
$6,435,000
435.4%
21.8%
$354,000
$1,184,000
$3,283,000
827.4%
41.4%
$65,000
$285,000
$476,000
632.3%
31.6%
D
$168,000
$80,000
-52.4%
*-5.2%
$192,000
$248,000
$315,000
64.1%
3.2%
D
D
$58,000
-
-
$94,000
$208,000
$266,000
183.0%
9.2%
D
$50,000
$82,000
64.0%
6.4%
$1,986,000
$5,863,000
$11,144,000
461.1%
23.1%
$386
$1,237
$2,607
575.4%
28.8%
$3,009
$6,106
$15,916
428.9%
21.4%
20.3%
16.4%
Medical Payments Income Maintenance Benefits (SSI, AFDC, Food Stamps, etc.) Unemployment Insurance Benefits Veterans’ Benefits Federal Education and Training Assistance Payments to Non Profit Institutions Business Payments Total Transfer Payments Per Capita Total Per Capita Income
Per Capita Transfer Payments to Total Per 12.8% Capita Income Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis * for 1980 to 1990 only D = Disclosure limitations
Employment by Industry Employment by Industry assists in painting a picture of Nance County's labor force. This topic will begin to indicate what types of jobs the local residents have, and will assist in identifying those jobs which may be attracting residents of Nance County to leave the county during work hours. Table 3.9 contains data on Employment by Industry for residents of Nance County. These data do not necessarily reflect the jobs within Nance County, but the number of residents 16 and over employed within and outside the county. In 1980, there were 1,722 persons employed in the county, and by 1990, it increased to 1,914 persons employed in the county. The following points indicate which industrial sectors employed the greatest percentage of the total employment in 1980:
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• • • • •
Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, and Mining Retail Trade Educational Services Manufacturing, durable goods Health Services
30.4% 9.5% 9.3% 8.6% 8.5%
TABLE 3.9: EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY - 1980 - 1990 NANCE COUNTY 1980
1990
1980
Nance County Employed persons 16 yrs. & Over
1,772
1990 Nebraska
1,914
702,595
Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and
772,813
77,086
11.0%
64,381
8.3%
Mining
538
30.4%
530
27.7%
1,754
0.2%
2,095
0.3%
Construction
107
6.0%
96
5.0%
43,296
6.2%
10,821
5.3%
28
1.6%
53
2.8%
45,269
6.4%
47,720
6.2%
153
8.6%
136
7.1%
53,777
7.7%
50,624
6.6%
Transportation
65
3.7%
82
4.3%
40,771
5.8%
37,478
4.8%
Communication & Other Public Utilities
56
3.2%
44
2.3%
26,063
3.7%
25,032
3.2%
Wholesale Trade
94
5.3%
59
3.1%
33,961
4.8%
35,726
4.6%
169
9.5%
221
11.5%
120,958
17.2%
138,179
17.9%
Finance, Insurance & Real Estate
72
4.1%
68
3.6%
44,014
6.3%
52,137
6.7%
Business & Repair Service
33
1.9%
41
2.1%
24,929
3.5%
35,089
4.5%
56
3.2%
63
3.3%
23,029
3.3%
30,928
4.0%
Health Services
151
8.5%
197
10.3%
58,363
9.0%
66,275
8.6%
Educational Services
165
9.3%
182
9.5%
63,328
2.5%
68,165
8.8%
Other Professional and Related Services
35
2.0%
73
3.8%
17,253
4.1%
48,154
6.2%
Public Administration
50
2.8%
69
3.6%
28,744
30,009
3.9%
Manufacturing, nondurable goods Manufacturing, durable goods
Retail Trade
Personal Services Entertainment & Recreational Services
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population 1980 and 1990
These five industries accounted for 66.3% of the total employment force for Nance County in 1980. However, nearly one-half of this was agriculture related. A majority of those individuals employed in Retail Trade worked in either Fullerton, Genoa or Columbus. Persons with jobs in Educational and Health Services were most likely employed in either Fullerton or Genoa.
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By 1990, the same five industries had maintained their employment force with 66.1%, but shifted slightly in order. • • • • •
Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, and Mining Retail Trade Health Services Educational Services Manufacturing, durable goods
27.7% 11.5% 10.3% 9.5% 7.1%
It is unlikely that the employed persons for Retail Trade have changed their primary location for employment (Fullerton, Genoa and Columbus). Those individuals employed in Educational and Health Services are most likely employed in Fullerton and Genoa. From 1980 to 1990, the industries that had the greatest increase in employment were: • • • • •
Other Professional and Related Services Manufacturing, nondurable goods Public Administration Retail Trade Health Services
108.6% 89.3% 38.0% 30.7% 30.5%
Commuter Population Data regarding out-commuter and the in-commuter population allows a county to identify several issues: 1. Where is the county's population employed, 2. What percent of the county's population is employed in an identified location, and 3. How has the county fared over a 30-year period compared to the other identified counties. These data assist in painting a more accurate picture of the economic forces at work in Nance County. Table 3.10 shows that between 1960 and 1990, Nance County saw an increase in the number of individuals commuting out of the county to nearby counties for employment. The majority of residents commuting were traveling to Platte County. In 1960, there were 43 residents commuting to Platte County; and by 1990, there were 217 more persons or 504.7% more commuters traveling to Platte County for employment. Between 1960 and 1990 Nance County lost 602 persons in its total work force within the county, a decrease of 19%. In 1960, the total number of workers commuting was 149 or 7.0%; however, by 1990, that had increased to 488 or 26.0%.
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TABLE 3.10: OUT-COMMUTER POPULATION 1960 - 1990 NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA Resident
Work
County
County
Nance
Total
1960
1970
1980
1990
# Chg
% of 1990
Total
Total
Boone
24
38
27
56
32
1.1%
3.0%
Colfax
0
13
0
0
0
0.0%
0.0%
Hall
12
32
36
27
15
0.6%
1.4%
Merrick
14
22
74
78
64
0.7%
4.2%
Nance
1,993
1,391
1,503
1,391
-602
93.0%
74.0%
Platte
43
74
171
260
217
2.0%
13.8%
Elsewhere
20
41
21
67
47
0.9%
3.6%
Not Reported
36
46
0
0
-36
1.7%
0.0%
2,142
1,657
1,832
1,879
-263
-22.6%
10.6%
2.6%
-12.3%
% Chg # Commuting
149
266
329
488
% Commuting
7.0%
16.1%
18.0%
26.0%
78.5%
23.7%
48.3%
% Chg
% of 1960
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis - REIS 1996
Table 3.11 shows the In-Commuter Population for 1960 to 1990. In 1960, Merrick County had the most individuals traveling to Nance County, 21 persons. By 1990 Merrick County had 53 persons commuting to Nance County, an increase of 32 persons from 1960. As of 1990, Nance County saw only 131 persons commuting into the county for employment. In addition to the 1990 in-commuter population from Merrick County, there were 30 persons commuting from Platte County. Boone and Buffalo Counties each had a total of 24 persons commuting into Nance County for employment. Comparing the out-commuter population to the in-commuter population, 1960 had a net out-commuter population of 96 persons. However, by 1990, the net difference was 357 out-commuters. This is a net of 261 (271.9%) additional persons leaving Nance County for employment.
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TABLE 3.11: IN-COMMUTER POPULATION 1960 - 1990 NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA Resident County Boone
Work County Nance
1960
1970
1980
1990
# Chg
% of 1960 Total
% of 1990 Total
12
26
7
24
12
0.6%
1.6%
Buffalo
0
0
0
24
24
0.0%
1.6%
Merrick
21
30
15
53
32
1.0%
3.5%
Nance
1,993
1,391
1,503
1,391
-602
97.4%
91.4%
Platte
20
12
29
30
10
1.0%
2.0%
Total
2,046
1,459
1,554
1,522
-524
-28.7%
6.5%
-2.1%
-25.6%
53
68
51
131
2.6%
4.7%
3.3%
8.6%
28.3%
-25.0%
156.9%
% Chg # Commuting % Commuting % Chg
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis - REIS 1996
Table 3.12 identifies travel times for commuters. This assists in confirming where people are traveling for employment opportunities. The mean travel time stayed the same for both the 1980 Census and the 1990 Census, 13.8 minutes. There was a 178.4% increase in the number (66) of commuters traveling 45 to 59 minutes. These numbers coincide with those travel times from Nance County to Platte County. From these data, there were fewer people traveling 60 minutes or more, a change of -32.9%, and fewer people working at home, a change of -49.4%. From the change in the Mean Travel Time, it appears that a majority of those traveling 60 minutes or more, or that worked at home, were now traveling between 45 and 59 minutes.
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TABLE 3.12: TRAVEL TIME TO WORK NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA Time
1980
% Chg
1990
Less than 5 minutes
259
492
90.0%
5 to 9 minutes
572
429
-25.0%
10 to 19 minutes
248
321
29.4%
20 to 29 minutes
125
165
32.0%
30 to 44 minutes
125
145
16.0%
45 to 59 minutes
37
103
178.4%
60 minutes or more Worked at Home Total Mean travel time Source: U.S. Census STF 3A 1980 and 1990
79
53
-32.9%
338
171
-49.4%
1,783
1,879
5.4%
13.8
13.8
0.0%
Agricultural Profile The agricultural profile enables a county to understand the influences of agriculture on the area economy. Since most Nebraska counties were formed around county seats and agriculture, the agricultural economy, historically, has been the center of the county. However, the U.S. Census Bureau has tracked agricultural statistics on different years than the decennial census. Because of this, it is difficult to compare the different census data. Table 3.13 examines agricultural indicators including: • • • • • •
number of farms, land in farms (acres), average size of farms (acres), percent of county land in farm production, total crop area versus harvested crop land (acres), and estimated market value of land and buildings.
Each data category is examined for Agricultural Census years of 1978, 1987, and 1992. From 1978 to 1992, Nance County lost 38 farms, or -7.9% of the total in 1978 and the total acres of land in farms decreased by 8,948 acres, or -3.6%. The same time period, however, saw the average size of farms increase by 25 acres or 4.9%. These changes in Nance County were similar to agriculture statistics at a Statewide level. The trend has been towards fewer farmers farming more acres. This trend is apparent in Nance County but not as pronounced as in adjacent counties. From 1978 to 1992 the total crop land in Nance County has decreased from 172,853 acres to 171,331 acres, a change of 1,522 acres or 0.9% less acres. Harvested crop land has also decreased to 120,832 acres in 1992 from 128,660 acres in 1978, a decrease of 7,828 acres or -6.1%.
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TABLE 3.13: AGRICULTURAL PROFILE NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA 1978 Number of Farms
1987
1992
% Chg
478
508
440
-7.9%
245,898
248,639
236,950
-3.6%
514
489
539
4.9%
Total land area for Nance County (acres)
281,235
281,235
281,235
----
Percentage of land in farm production
87.40%
88.40%
84.30%
----
Total crop land (acres)
172,853
180,312
171,331
-0.9%
Harvested crop land (acres)
128,660
107,256
120,832
-6.1%
Estimated market value of land and buildings (FARM)
$419,328
$232,130
$311,739
-25.7%
Estimated market value of land and buildings (ACRE)
$872.00
$525.00
$610.00
-30.0%
Land in Farms (acres) Average size of farms (acres)
Source: U.S. Census of Agriculture 1969, 1978, 1987, and 1992
Nance County: Regional Basic/Non-Basic Analysis The following data look at the six occupational areas that were established by the U.S. Census Bureau. These data are for analysis of the occupational areas, and determining which are considered Basic employment and which are Non-Basic employment. Basic employment and Non-Basic employment are defined by Edward J. Blakely in “Planning Local Economic Development: Theory and Practice" as follows: Basic Employment = “Associated with business activities that provide services primarily outside the area via sales of goods and services, but whose revenue is directed to local area in form of wages and payments to local suppliers.”2 Non-Basic employment is primarily the sale of goods and services within the local area, with the revenues recirculating in the form of wages and payments. This analysis is used to further understand which occupational areas may be supplying goods and services outside the study area; thus, importing dollars into the local economy. This analysis is performed for Nance County with a comparison to the surrounding entities. The six occupational areas according to the 1990 U.S. Census are listed below:
2
Blakley, p. 297
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Occup 1 = Managerial and Professional specialty occupations Occup 2 = Technical, sales and administrative support occupations Occup 3 = Service occupations Occup 4 = Farming, forestry, and fishing occupations Occup 5 = Precision production, craft and repair occupations Occup 6 = Operators, fabricators, and laborers The bolded occupations in Table 3.14 indicate areas which are apparently basic as opposed to non-basic. The economic base multiplier designates the number of non-basic jobs created by every basic job in the area. The occupational groups are based on the percentage of people employed as compared to the total Workforce. The basic employment figures are the percentage points left over after subtracting the nonbasic from the percent of State Workforce. If the study area is less than the State percentage, then the entire percentage for the study area is non-basic.
TABLE 3.14: BASIC / NON-BASIC EMPLOYMENT - 1990 NANCE COUNTY, NEBRASKA Work Sector
Basic
Non-Basic
% of Workforce
% of State Workforce
Occup 1
0.00%
15.10%
15.10%
23.10%
Occup 2
0.00%
23.90%
18.40%
30.60%
Occup 3
3.10%
14.50%
17.60%
14.50%
Occup 4
17.70%
5.00%
24.10%
7.40%
Occup 5
0.00%
10.30%
8.80%
10.30%
Occup 6
0.90%
14.10%
15.00%
14.10%
21.70%
82.90%
Totals
The economic base multiplier for this county is 4.61. Occup 1 = Managerial and Professional specialty occupations Occup 3 = Service occupations Occup 5 = Precision production, craft and repair occupations
Occup 2 = Technical, sales and administrative support occupations Occup 4 = Farming, forestry, and fishing occupations Occup 6 = Operators, fabricators, and laborers
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population 1990
Table 3.14 indicates that Nance County had three occupational areas with basic employment in 1990. The three areas with basic employment were: • Occupation 3 (Service occupations) • Occupation 4 (Farming, Forestry, and Fishing occupations) • Occupation 6 (Operators, fabricators, and laborers) These three areas indicate that 21.7% of the labor force of Nance County was connected to the export of goods and services. The highest level of basic employment was in Occupation 4 (Farming, Forestry, and
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Fishing Occupations), at 17.7% of the workforce. Farming occupations comprised approximately 81.6% of the total exports in Nance County. This indicates a strong reliance on Farming Occupations to import money into the county. Whenever a majority of the Basic Workforce is working in one or two industries, any major economic swings will have major implications on the economic and employment status of an area. Unfortunately, if the State of Nebraska or the Nation were to see another major farm crisis, the Nance County economy would be drastically affected. Since Nance County has 21.7% of the labor force tied to export/basic employment, then an economic base multiplier can be derived. The economic base multiplier is equal to the total workforce (100%) divided by the basic workforce (21.7%). The economic base multiplier for the county was 4.61. This indicates that for every job connected to exports there were 4.61 jobs locally in the non-basic workforce. Therefore, when Nance County losses one job tied to exports, approximately 4.61 additional persons will be affected. Table 3.15 is a comparison of the State of Nebraska, Nance County, and surrounding counties and communities. The bolded numbers indicate 1) the figures for the State of Nebraska; and 2) those sectors by county/community which have basic employment. This is provided as a comparison of Nance County and surrounding counties/communities.
TABLE 3.15: REGIONAL AND STATE LABOR FORCE COMPARISONS - 1990 NANCE COUNTY STUDY
OCCUP 1
OCCUP 2
OCCUP 3
OCCUP 4
OCCUP 5
OCCUP 6
Nebraska
23.10%
30.60%
14.50%
7.40%
10.30%
14.10%
NA
Nance Co.
15.10%
18.40%
17.60%
25.10%
8.80%
15.00%
4.61
Fullerton
21.90%
23.90%
19.20%
5.00%
11.90%
18.20%
9.66
Boone Co.
15.10%
20.00%
15.60%
25.30%
11.20%
12.90%
5.02
Albion
20.80%
28.50%
16.90%
7.60%
13.00%
13.20%
18.66
Norfolk
20.10%
29.20%
16.40%
1.80%
12.80%
19.70%
9.96
Madison Co.
18.40%
27.50%
15.50%
6.10%
13.00%
19.60%
10.91
Neligh
22.30%
33.30%
17.30%
4.50%
10.00%
12.60%
18.36
Antelope Co.
15.90%
22.40%
14.60%
26.90%
8.90%
11.30%
5.1
20.3%
17.1%
24.1%
5.7%
12.1%
20.7%
5.54
AREA
Genoa
Occup 1 = Managerial and Professional specialty occupations Occup 3 = Service occupations Occup 5 = Precision production, craft and repair occupations
Occup 2 = Technical, sales and administrative support occupations Occup 4 = Farming, forestry, and fishing occupations Occup 6 = Operators, fabricators, and laborers
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census of Population 1990
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BASE Multiplier
Chapter 4 County Facilities State and local governments provide many goods and services for their citizens. The people, buildings, equipment, and land used in the process of providing these goods and services are referred to as Public Facilities. Public Facilities represent a wide range of buildings, utilities, and services that are built and maintained by many government agencies. Such facilities are provided to insure the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of the residents of a jurisdiction, and in this case, Nance County. These facilities and services provide county residents with social, cultural, educational, law enforcement, fire protection, and recreational opportunities designed to meet area needs. It is important for all levels of government to anticipate the future demand for their goods and services if they are to remain strong and vital. The sequential step is to evaluate the ability of the county to meet that future demand, and determine at what level services will be provided. The analysis of existing facilities, and of future goods and services is known as the Facilities Plan. The Facilities section of the Nance County Comprehensive Plan will determine present capacities of all public facilities and services, evaluate these capacities with current demands and accepted standards to determine whether the capacity is adequate, determine future adequacy of these facilities and services to meet future demands within the planning period, and recommend improvements where public facilities are not considered adequate for present or future needs. The Facilities Plan for Nance County is divided into the following categories: Recreational Facilities Educational Facilities Fire and Police Protection County / Community Buildings Transportation Facilities Energy and Communication Facilities Health Facilities
RECREATIONAL FACILITIES Besides the State Wildlife Management Areas, most recreational facilities and amenities serving the residents of Nance County are located within, or are located in close proximity to, one of the county’s communities. Community Parks The Belgrade park has various playground equipment for youth. Belgrade’s ball park has a concession stand and is home to t-ball in the Summer and soccer in the Fall. The Fullerton City Park (Figure 4.1) cover three square blocks and has restrooms, a swimming pool, miniature golf, sand volleyball court, picnic area and grills, and playground equipment. Fullerton has two ball fields that serve area softball and Legion, midgets, pony, and little league baseball teams. The City and the Knights of Columbus are in charge of maintenance and concessions at the ball parks. Annual
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celebrations held in Fullerton include Twin River Cruisers, Alumni Reunion, Fourth of July, and Fall Fest. Other facilities in Fullerton and immediate area include a bowling alley, tennis courts, Whispering Cedar Bible Camp, and Power House Park. The Fullerton parks are maintained by the local Park, Tree and Recreation Board. Genoa is also home to two parks, Genoa City Park (Figure 4.2) and South Park. The Genoa City Park covers 32 acres and is located in the southwest corner of Genoa along Highways 39 and 22. The park is open year round with electrical plug-ins, hookups (3-day limit), dump station, toilets, pit toilets, fire grates, drinking water, showers, and LP gas facilities. The park offers fishing, swimming and such amenities as a tennis court, two lighted ball diamonds, bleachers, concession stand, football field, volleyball court, playground equipment and picnic shelters. The City Swimming Pool is located at the north end of the City Park at 310 South Park Street and is a 3,260 square foot structure with a capacity of 144,000 gallons. Public restrooms in the swimming pool facility were renovated in 1997. South Park in Genoa is located along the Loup River Canal and has a pit toilet, picnic shelter and fire grates. Activities include fishing and primitive camping. In addition to park land, the City of Genoa also has one skating rink and a bowling alley with six lanes. Recreation programs for youth include softball, baseball, tee ball, swimming, and swimming lessons. Pawnee Days is held annually in July. Activities include sand volleyball tournament, antique tractor pull, street dance, parade, barbeque, entertainment downtown, and demolition derby.
Figure 4.1: Fullerton City Park
Figure 4.2: Genoa City Park
Golf Courses Pawnee Hills was constructed in 1994 is a private 9-hole course with grass greens located northeast of Fullerton along State Highway 22. Kemp Country Club is a privately owned 9-hole course with sand greens constructed in 1930 located approximately 1 ½ miles south of Fullerton. A third course, called Cow Patty Golf Course, is a private rural 9-hole course located west of Fullerton and used by many local residents.
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State Parks & Wildlife Management Areas The Nebraska State Park Program continues to make use of the opportunity for interpretation of Nebraska's history and development where the opportunity exists. Visitors will find the various interpretive centers rewarding, educational additions at all the state historical parks.
Nance County makes home to four Wildlife Management Areas managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. These areas offer many recreational opportunities for various users. Council Creek WMA The Council Creek Wildlife Management Area is located approximately 6 ½ miles west and 1 mile south of Genoa. The 160 acres of rolling hills and steep drainages is approximately one-half wooded and onehalf crop land. Wooded species include Burr Oak, Cedar, Ash and Cottonwood, while wildlife species include deer, turkey, pheasant, quail, rabbit, squirrel and furbearers. Management Area activities include hunting, trapping, and hiking, with no facilities. Sunny Hollow WMA The Sunny Hollow Wildlife Management Area is located approximately 4 miles south and 1 mile west of Genoa. The 160-acre site is a mixed upland and marsh environment, including a small dugout. The Management Area is home to pheasant, waterfowl, prairie chicken, dove, and furbearers, and offers hunting and limited trapping, with no facilities. Prairie Wolf WMA The Prairie Wolf Wildlife Management Area is located approximately 1 ¼ miles south of Genoa on Nebraska Highway 39. The 154-acre site of bottomland and wetlands borders the Loup River. The Area varies in cover from stands of cottonwoods and willows to open grassland and marsh making it prime for hunting, fishing, and trapping. The WMA has public no facilities. Loup Lands WMA The Loup Lands Wildlife Management Area is located along the Loup River near the Loup Power Canal Headgates south to southwest of Genoa. The 485 acres is home to various wildlife species including deer, dove, pheasant, quail, rabbit, squirrel, turkey and waterfowl. Hunting is open to the public, however use of rifles or handguns is prohibited. Other Recreational Areas Other areas in Nance County offering recreational activities include the Loup River, Cedar River, Loup River Canal and the Genoa Headworks Park. The Loup Headworks Park is a 10-acre recreational area located six miles west of Genoa on State Highway 22. Camping and picnicking areas, with picnic tables and grills, have been constructed adjacent to the entrance of the Loup Power District headworks, the beginning of the Loup Canal. Playground equipment, restroom facilities, drinking water, and electrical hookups are available. Fishing can be enjoyed at a small lake or in the Loup Canal nearby. Anglers fishing in the Loup River, Cedar River, and Loup Canal can try for many species including carp, drum, and channel and flathead catfish. The Nance County Fairgrounds located in Fullerton offers annual recreational opportunities and events to Nance County residents. Quiet Oaks, a Nebraska Baptist Camp located just outside the corporate limits northwest of Fullerton, has provided many recreational activities to local and regional youths. The privately owned, 95-acre Quiet Oaks Camp is available to large and small groups on a reservation basis.
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General Recommendations The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission further recommends the following for nonurban park and recreation areas: 1990 - 35 acres per 1000 population 2000 - 40 acres per 1000 population 2010*- 45 acres per 1000 population *adjusted to the year 2010 by JEO
Table 4.1 shows the supply of recreation areas owned/managed by the State Game and Parks Commission in Nance County, Nebraska. Nance County currently has approximately 969 acres of nonurban recreational space. Based upon the 1990 Census, current park space, and the Game and Parks Commission standards for nonurban park acreage needs, Nance County has sufficient outdoor recreational areas with approximately 819 acres in excess. With a projected population of 3,903 (low series) by the year 2010, Nance County, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s recommendations, will need approximately 175 acres of nonurban park and recreational areas. This future demand of recreational area is still far below the current supply in Nance County.
Table 4.1 Supply of Managed Rural Recreation Land and Water Nance County 1998 Land (acres)
Water (acres)
Marsh (acres)
Total
160.00
0.00
0.00
160.00
Prairie Wolf WMA
124.00
22.00
8.00
154.00
Sunny Hollow WMA
148.00 435.00 7.50
0.00 20.00 2.50
12.00 30.00 0.00
160.00 485.00 10.00
874.50
44.50
50.00
969.00
Recreation/Wildlife Areas Council Creek WMA
Loup Lands WMA Genoa Headworks Park Totals Source:
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 1991-1995
Specific Recommendations Based on the information presented above, Nance County has an adequate amount of recreation lands. Efforts should be made to continually promote and maintain Nance County recreation and wildlife areas. Consideration of a County-wide Trails System connecting various recreational areas in the county to adjacent communities is recommended.
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EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES The following school districts serve the residents of Nance County: Fullerton Public (District 1); Shady Nook Public (District 2); Genoa Public (District 3); Belgrade Public (District 8); Pleasant Valley Public (District 11); and Kremer Public (District 23). The collective facilities include six elementary schools, two junior high and middle schools, and two high schools. The school buildings are situated primarily in the communities of Fullerton and Genoa with a few rural school houses and one in Belgrade (Figure 4.3). The facilities are all reported to be adequate for the current and projected needs. Recent studies include a Facilities Needs Study and an ADA Study, both completed in 1992. Future facility plans include the construction of an all-weather track and sports complex.
Figure 4.3: Belgrade Elementary
All Nance County area school districts utilize Educational Service Unit #7 in Columbus for the provision of special services to students and faculty. The Fall 1997 student enrollment in Nance County Schools is illustrated in Table 4.2.
Table 4.2 School Enrollment and Assessed Valuation Nance County 1997-98 District Name
District Number
K-6
7-8
9-12
Total Enrollment
Assessed Valuation
Fullerton
1
225
70
135
430
82,017,091
Shady Nook
2
8
2
0
10
18,749,508
Genoa
3
169
61
119
349
82,443,113
Belgrade
8
34
14
0
48
31,952,690
Pleasant Valley
11
0
1
0
1
14,579,416
Kremer
23
7
4
0
11
25,089,398
443
152
254
849
Totals
Source: Nebraska Education Directory 1997-98, JEO.
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Other bordering school districts which extend into Nance County include Wolbach District G-43, Cedar Rapids District B-6, Palmer District M-49, Clarks District M-11, Silver Creek District M-6 and St. Edward District B-17. Figure 4.4 illustrates the various school districts across the county. Post-secondary schools in close proximity to Nance County include the Grand Island campus of Central Community College, the Platte campus of Central Community College in Columbus; the Norfolk campus of Northeast Community College; Norfolk Christian College in Norfolk; Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska; and the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
Recommendations • • •
Continue providing services. Make needed changes or expansions as changes in programs and services occur, and funding and budget monies allow. Continue the proactive position, in terms of technology, for each district. Continue to contract with ESU #7 for special services as they are very beneficial, and should continue to be very important in future plans.
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Figure 4.4 Nance County School Districts 1997-1998
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FIRE AND POLICE PROTECTION Fire Departments Fire Protection in Nance County is provided by a total of seven fire districts which are served by departments within Nance County, as well as surrounding counties. Fire protection is assumed by the volunteer fire fighters, and historically they have fulfilled that capacity exceptionally well. Each district provides regular training for fire fighters and continues to add certified Emergency Medical Technicians as needed. Rural Fire Districts serving Nance County include Fullerton, Genoa, Belgrade, Palmer, Silver Creek, St. Edward and Wolbach. Figure 4.5 illustrates the coverage of the rural fire districts protecting Nance County. Genoa Fire District The Genoa Fire Hall, located on Willard Avenue, was first constructed in 1898. A later addition was constructed in 1991. The Fire Hall is adequate for current equipment and the 30 volunteer firemen. The Genoa Fire Department participates in an annual Civil Defense Coordination in Fullerton and holds an annual Firemen’s Ball. The Genoa Fire District has 30 volunteer certified Emergency Medical Technicians that operate an oncall, 24-hour coverage with seven- to eight-member teams. Emergencies are dispatched by a countrywide 911 system operated through the Nance County Sheriff’s Department in Fullerton. One fully equipped ambulance is available for calls. Fullerton Fire District The Fullerton Fire Hall, constructed in 1971, is located at 205 Fuller Street and is adequate for current equipment. The Department is served by a 911 system installed in 1993 and is dispatched through the Nance County Sheriff’s Department. Currently the Fullerton Fire Department has 30 volunteer firemen and 16 Emergency Medical Technicians. Department meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month.
General Recommendations The location and type of fire station in a community is based primarily upon the character of the area to be served, and the need for speed and dependability in answering alarms. Further standards depend on the population density of the area served, types of land uses in the district, and the topographic characteristics of the land itself. Maximum distances between fire stations and area served are recommended by the National Board of Fire Underwriters, as follows: Maximum Distance from Fire Station
Type of Area Served Major industrial and commercial concentrations (five or more structures) Build-up residential areas (three or more dwelling units per acre) Schools, hospitals, churches and other places of public assembly Rural homes and farms or low density urban areas
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3/4 mile 1-1/4 miles 2 miles 4 miles
Figure 4.5 Rural Fire Districts Nance County
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Further standards pertaining to the location of municipal fire stations include: • • •
•
Fire stations should be within the center (time of travel) of the districts which they serve. Movement of fire fighting equipment from fire stations should not be impaired by physical or topographic barriers. Fire stations should be located with direct access for fire fighting equipment and to the thoroughfare networks of the City. Movement of equipment must not be impaired by, or be a danger to, other traffic. Fire station design should recognize the surrounding area so that buildings fit into the character of the neighborhood. Space should be provided on station sites for adequate parking, landscaping, and maneuvering.
Law Enforcement The Sheriff’s Office is located in the Nance County Courthouse at 209 Esther Street, and is considered adequate for present needs. The County Sheriff’s Office consists of the sheriff and five sworn full-time deputies. The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for law enforcement throughout the county, as well as in all communities, with exception to Genoa, which has its own police force. The Nebraska State Patrol offers further assistance in investigative matters. The nearest detention centers are located in Wayne, Columbus, Albion and Central City. The Sheriff’s Office also operates a 24-hour dispatch center. Nance County has “basic” 911 services in limited parts of the county. Basic 911 provides the residents of selected telephone exchange areas with the ability to dial 911 and reach the Sheriff’s Office dispatcher. The dispatcher is not provided with information pertaining to the location of the call, or the name and phone number of the caller.
Recommendations • •
•
Continue to promote and provide for fire fighter and EMT training, and also the periodic upgrade and replacement of equipment, as finances permit. Begin to study the costs associated with, and feasibility of, implementing county-wide Enhanced 911 service. The options related to a regional 911 system with an adjoining county could also be evaluated. Continue efforts to assess the costs and benefits of utilizing regional services related to housing prisoners.
COUNTY BUILDINGS County Court House The Nance County Courthouse (Figure 4.6) is located at 209 Esther Street in Fullerton. The courthouse was constructed in 1975, and is currently in excellent condition, meeting all ADA compliance standards. The facility is adequate for current and future needs, and also has space for expansion, if desired and/or needed. Currently there are no future plans for the courthouse that would involve relocation or construction. Nance County employs 47 persons conducting various functions of the county. Offices located in the courthouse include the County Clerk, Treasurer, Assessor, School Superintendent, Sheriff, County and District Courts, Veterans Service Office, Planning Commission Office, and Extension Office.
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Figure 4.6: Nance County Courthouse
County Road Department / Maintenance Shop(s) The Nance County Highway Department Offices (Figure 4.7) are located at 309 Esther Street in Fullerton. The facilities are considered adequate for current and future needs of the county. Additional space is available if expansion is necessary.
Figure 4.7: County Highway Department Office
Public Libraries Fullerton's library, located at 903 Broadway, measures 5,200 square feet, and is considered adequately sized for present and future library needs. The building was built in the mid 1960s, meets ADA requirements, and is in good condition. The library is open 29 hours a week and operated by two part-time employees who circulate approximately 7,980 volumes annually. There are 12,000 volumes in the facility, of which 7,980 volumes are circulated annually, and approximately 665 volumes of reading material are purchased each year. Library activities include a story hour, summer reading programs, and Friends of the library. The Genoa Public Library, located at 421 Willard Avenue, was built in the 1800s, and is one of the oldest buildings in town. The building is 2,200 square feet, and is considered less than adequate as far as meeting the present and futures needs of the citizens of Genoa. The library which is open 20 hours a week
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contains videos, large print books and approximately 11,300 volumes with an annual circulation of 12,313 volumes. The two part-time staff members purchases about 290 pieces of reading material each year and conduct activities including story time, summer reading program, and seasonal art displays.
County Historical Museum / Historical Resources The Nance County Museum is located in Fullerton, and is operated by the Nance County Historical Society. The museum has a variety of displays, and is open by appointment. The Museum building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Pawnee Museum in Genoa contains one of the largest collections of Pawnee weapons, tools, relics, artifacts of Nance County, and many antiques from the early days of Genoa. The Nance County Historical Society has a board of seven members who are responsible for the growth, care, and maintenance of the museum and the Indian Industrial School Visitor’s Center. The Nance County Arts Council was started in 1985 to provide cultural activities for the residents. Nance County has a wealth of historical resources, including historic structures and sites, located throughout the county, and in the various cities and villages. Specific sites and buildings are listed below: Burkett Site Situated on a prominent natural terrace near the Loup River valley, the Burkett Site is comprised of numerous earthlodge ruins covering an area of over 100 acres. The site is attributed to the Lower Loup Phase, protohistoric ancestors of the historic Pawnee. The village is believed to have been occupied by the Skidi band of the Pawnee during the early seventeenth century. Fifteen lodge sites and five trash heaps, or middens, were excavated, yielding an enormous artifact collection including over 20,000 pieces of pottery. The Burkett Site, located southwest of Genoa, was placed on the National Register in July, 1974. Cottonwood Creek Site Members of the 1820 Stephen Long expedition were the first Americans to visit this fortified Pawnee village near the Loup River. Edwin James, and other members of the Long party, describe the village as containing about fifty lodges occupied by over 1,000 Republican and Tappage Pawnee under the leadership of Fool Robe. The village was probably abandoned prior to 1845. The site is located northeast of Palmer, and was placed on the National Register in October, 1974. Cunningham Site The Cunningham Site may represent one of the more unusual elements of Pawnee culture. In 1914, a Skidi Pawnee named White Eagle identified the site as the location of the 1830 Skidi "Ancient Village," and also as the spot where the final human sacrifice in the Morning Star Ceremony occurred. Archeological investigations uncovered a patch of fired earth and two post holes, possibly the remains of a Morning Star scaffold. Additional excavations exposed several earthlodge floors, dating at least four centuries prior to the emergence of the historic Pawnee. This site, located southeast of Fullerton, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in February, 1975. Fullerton Site Constructed by the Skidi band of the Pawnee in 1842, the Fullerton earthlodge village was also home to other bands until it was burned by the Sioux in 1846. William Clayton described the abandoned village in 1847, noting that all but one of the approximately 200 lodge sites were in ruins. He also described a fortification ditch and embankment constructed by the Pawnee to discourage Sioux
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raiding parties, an undertaking which was evidently unsuccessful. This site is located east of Fullerton, and was placed on the National Register in November, 1974. Genoa Site After nearly three decades of Sioux harassment and epidemic diseases, all four bands of the Pawnee Confederation agreed by an 1857 treaty to congregate at a single village near their agency on Beaver Creek. Genoa was the final village of the Pawnee in Nebraska, and was continuously occupied from 1847 to 1876, when the tribe was transferred to a reservation in Oklahoma. The site, south of Genoa, included the village, an earthen fortification, agency, buildings, cemeteries, and trading posts. This site was placed on the National Register in October, 1970. Horse Creek Site The Horse Creek Pawnee village was originally constructed by the Grand and Republican bands in 1809, who then occupied it until about 1820 when the Republican left. Shortly afterwards, the Grand moved elsewhere, probably to the Clarks Site, and the Republican band re-established residence at Horse Creek with the Tappage band. The site, southwest of Fullerton, was finally abandoned in 1842. The village reached maximum size in the early 1820s when it was reported to consist of 180 earthlodges accommodating 900 families, with a total population of over 3,500. The site was placed on the National Register in July, 1974. Pawnee Mission and Burnt Village Site In the spring of 1841, Presbyterian missionary, John Dunbar, left Bellevue with the intention of establishing a permanent mission in the heart of Pawnee country. A site was selected on Plum Creek, and several log buildings were erected. Encouraged by Dunbar, many members of the Grand, Tappage, and Republican bands of the Pawnee constructed a village near the mission in the spring of 1842. Dunbar's effort to covert the Pawnee met with only marginal success. The final blow came in the early summer of 1843 when a Sioux war party attacked the Pawnee village, burning twenty lodges and killing nearly seventy residents. The Pawnee moved following the attack, and the mission ceased operation several years later. This site was placed on the National Register in August, 1974. Wright Site Sometime between A.D. 1600 and 1750, the ancestors of the Skidi Pawnee occupied this immense village on a prominent terrace overlooking Beaver Creek and the Loup River. Archeological research at the site, located southwest of Genoa, included excavation of ten earthlodge ruins. Over fifty human skeletons were discovered on the floor of one lodge, apparently the victims of a massacre. The site has been on the National Register since August, 1973. U.S. Indian Industrial School Founded in 1884, the U.S. Indian Industrial School (Figure 4.8) was located on 320 acres in the town of Genoa. Opening with only one building, the school grew to include thirty-nine structures, and a maximum student population of 600 children. The two-story brick shop building was constructed in 1907, with an addition in 1911, and housed the blacksmithing, carpentry, tailoring, and harnessmaking shops. The harness shop contains wall murals which depict horse teams and harness ware, providing visual instructions for the students in harness-making. Other buildings which still remain include the 1910 horse barn, the 1917 dairy barn, a cattle barn, the blacksmith shop constructed about 1922, the machine shed built in the 1920s, and several cottages, which served as residences for school employees. The school was one of twenty-five bonded, non-reservation boarding schools
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operated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to provide academic and vocational training to Indian children. It was one of the first non-reservation schools, and the only one in Nebraska, to give instruction for grades one through twelve. The school closed in 1934. The shop building, located on Cottonwood Street and Webster Avenue, is presently owned by the City of Genoa, and is used as a museum. This facility was placed on the National Register in May, 1978.
Figure 4.8: U.S. Indian School
Recommendations The Genoa Public library should accommodate its present and future needs by relocating to another available structure or consider construction of a new facility.
HEALTH FACILITIES Medical Clinics There are presently three medical clinics serving the residents of Nance County, and are located in the communities of Fullerton and Genoa. The Lone Tree Medical Clinic, located at 901 Broadway Street in Fullerton, is staffed daily by three physicians and two physician’s assistants. The Lone Tree Clinic has a full laboratory and x-ray, and provides for all medical services. The Nance County Medical Clinic, located at 209 Broadway Street in Fullerton, is staffed daily by a physician and a physician’s assistant, who commute from the Boone County Health Center in Albion. Fullerton has one dentist serving the area with an office located at 502 Fourth Street. Park Street Medical Clinic, 505 S. Park Street in Genoa, was built in 1988. This combination clinic / nursing home employs 140 people, 80 of which are full-time. There are two medical doctors, one physician's assistant, one nurse practitioner on staff. Specialized services include, but are not limited to orthopedics, cardiology, mammographies, physical therapy, on an as needed basis. The City of Genoa also has a dentist serving the area with an office at 423 Willard Avenue. The nearest pharmacies are located in Columbus, Fullerton and St. Edward.
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Hospitals Nance County is served by the Genoa Community Hospital (Figure 4.9) located at 605 Ewing Avenue in Genoa. There is a staff of 80 full-time and 60 part-time employees, of which 43 are in nursing. Hospital constulting specialists and special programs include radiologists, orthopedics, cardiologists, mammography, physical therapy, etc. on an as-needed basis. The Genoa Community Hospital, built in 1988, has 20 beds and has adequate staff and facilities for most health treatments. Other area hospitals include the Litzenberg Memorial Hospital in Central City, Nebraska and the Boone County Health Center in Albion, Nebraska.
Figure 4.9: Genoa Community Hospital
Nursing Home Facilities There are several nursing homes in Nance County. Fullerton Manor, a 90-bed facility located at 202 North Ester Street, was constructed in 1966, with an addition constructed in 1970 and recent renovations in Spring of 1998. Fullerton Manor is Medicare/Medicaid certified and offers physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy. The facility has 55 full-time and 40 part-time employees. Activities include visits to shut-ins, dances for youths, etc. Future plans include a Special Transitional Care Unit for behaviors. Genoa Community Hospital / Long Term Care (Figure 4.10) is a 59-bed facility adjoining the Genoa Community Hospital. This city-owned and operated facility is located at 606 Ewing Avenue. The hospital and nursing home have fully staffed activities, social services, housekeeping, dietary, laundry, and maintenance departments. A special care wing in the long-term care unit meets the needs of demential and Alzheimer residents. Sunday church services are provided weekly by the local churches, restorative therapy programs are offered seven days a week, transportation is provided to the residents by utility van, and residents have an in-house beauty salon.
Figure 4.10: Country View Care Village
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Two smaller nursing homes in Genoa include the Genoa Haven Home and the Hoffmeister Homes, Inc. The Genoa Haven Home opened in 1953 and has a capacity for 32 beds. The home is a state licensed domiciliary home with 24-hour supervision. Hoffimeister Homes is a state licensed dommiciliary home with 24-hour supervision. A new one-story building was built in 1965 with a capacity for 24 beds.
Retirement Housing Woodland Park housing complex (Figure 4.11) in Fullerton, was constructed in 1980, and offers 32 units for the elderly, handicapped and disabled. Rents are based on occupants' incomes. Sunrise Villa located on the Indian grounds in Genoa is a 20-unit apartment complex built in 1968.
Figure 4.11: Woodland Park
Senior Centers Fullerton Area Senior Center is located at 327 Broadway Street. The Senior Center is in good condition and meets all ADA requirements. The center offers meals on wheels, van service, and home meal programs to area residents. Pawnee Senior Center, located north of Main Street in Genoa, was built in 1982 and is owned by Pawnee Senior Center, Inc. The Pawnee Senior Center provides recreational programs for the senior citizens. Various activities at the center include crafts, cards, pool, bingo, exercise program, nutrition clinic and guest speakers. The center features a guest day and monthly birthday and anniversary celebrations. Fund raising projects are sponsored throughout the year. Noon meals are provided four days a week and an evening meal once a week.
Recommendations As the elderly population continues to increase in rural Nebraska, the demand for elderly and retirement housing is anticipated to increase. Nance County should study this demand in an effort to assure that an adequate supply of this type of housing exists for future needs.
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ENERGY AND COMMUNICATION FACILITIES Electric Power and Natural Gas Service Loup Power District, a wholesale power customer of Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), provides retail electric service to communities in a four-county area of Nance, Boone, Colfax and Patte Counties and wholesale service to Cornhusker Public Power District, which serves the rural areas. County residents utilizing natural gas are provided and serviced by K-N Energy, Inc. Other energy fuels include propane, oil and diesel distributed by various businesses/companies in or adjacent to Nance County. Telephone Services Telephone service in Nance County is provided by U.S. West Communications, GTE, Clarks Telephone, and Great Plains Communications. U.S. West provides service to the Fullerton exchange, and GTE provides service to the Genoa exchange. The remaining areas of the county are served by exchanges which originate outside Nance County. These exchanges include the St. Paul GTE exchange, the Clarks Telephone exchange, the Silver Creek U.S. West exchange, and the St. Edward and Greeley Great Plains exchanges. Local installation and maintenance personnel are available for all area service providers. The telecommunications services are considered adequate for the current and future needs of the county. A Local Access Telecommunications Area (LATA) boundary passes through the northeast corner of Nance County, in the Genoa area. The north and east portion of Nance County, including the City of Genoa, is in the Northeast Nebraska 402 LATA and area code, while the south and west portion of Nance County is in the Western Nebraska 308 LATA and area code.
Radio and Television Two television stations, KOLN/KGIN in Lincoln/Grand Island, and KHAS-TV in Hastings, carry local and regional news, and network programming. The communities in the county are provided with a much broader selection of channels and programming via cable television service. Radio stations carrying local news include KZEN in Central City, and KLIR in Columbus. There are presently no television or radio stations in Nance County.
Newspapers The Nance County Journal, Genoa Leader Times, Columbus Telegram, Grand Island Daily Independent, and Omaha World Herald are the daily and weekly newspapers with subscribers in Nance County.
Recommendations There are no specific recommendations for county communications at this time.
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TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES Highways/Streets Nance County is served by Nebraska Highways 14 and 22 which account for nearly 60 miles of major arterial roads. The County maintains approximately 97 miles of roads classified as other arterial, approximately 72 miles of collector roads, and approximately 307 miles of local roads. There are approximately 93 miles of State classified minimum maintenance roads and approximately 16 miles of dirt roads or trails. Of the 97 miles of Other Arterial roads maintained by the County, approximately 4 ½ miles are asphalt roads. Interstate 80 is the nearest Interstate Highway, and is located approximately 40 miles south.
Truck Line Service A total of 14 commercial truck lines serve the area, with both interstate and intrastate service.
Railroad Service Railroad service is currently provided by Nebraska Central Railroad via a track from Columbus dividing Genoa with one branch extending to Albion and a second branch continuing on to Fullerton and Belgrade and terminating at Spalding. Nebraska Central connects to both Union Pacific and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroads. Amtrak passenger service is offered in Hastings approximately 65 miles south of Fullerton.
Bus Service The nearest bus terminals and services are located in Grand Island and Columbus.
Airports The Genoa Municipal Airport is owned and operated by the Genoa Airport Authority. The airport site comprises approximately 77 acres and is located 3 miles south of the City of Genoa along State Highway 39. The airport is a public facility that focuses on providing services that meet community and area needs. The Genoa Municipal Airport has one sod runway with a physical length of 2,500 feet by 80 feet in width. Located at the airport are a Fixed Base Operator/Pilots lounge, aviation fuel and one t-hangar. There is a total of four based aircraft at the airport, which comprises of four single-engine type aircraft. An aerial applicator also operates and bases at the field during the spraying season. Operations at the airport are approximately 950, and are anticipated to increase when improvements are made to the airport, ie. runway, paving and lighting. The CAMP Private Airport is located two miles northeast of Fullerton. The facility is equipped with two 2,300 foot turf runways, a hangar and aviation fuel. The nearest commercial passenger and freight service is available at the Central Nebraska Regional Airport in Grand Island, Nebraska. Airlines serving the Central Nebraska Regional Airport include United Express and Continental Connection/GP Express.
Recommendations To adequately serve existing and future industry and medical services for the City of Genoa, Nance County and the surrounding area, improvements to the Genoa Municipal Airport are recommended. Future improvements for the Genoa Municipal Airport will include runway/taxiway paving, lighting, hangars and automobile parking.
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Chapter 5 Land Use The term "land use" refers to the activity for which a particular tract or parcel of land is being utilized. These are normally categorized as agricultural, residential, public, commercial, and industrial land uses. Associated with land use is classification of soils and other natural resources which encourages or limits certain types of development.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS The inventory and analysis of the physical characteristics of Nance County is essential to the county's planning program. Knowledge of the existing physical characteristics assists in determining development areas, areas of preservation, assuring that development occurs within the parameters established by existing conditions, and providing a sound basis for prevention of non-beneficial or undesirable development.
Climate According to the Nance County Soil Survey (1960) the County has a subhumid climate marked by extremes of summer and winter temperatures. The average annual precipitation is 26.08 inches, and the average annual temperature is 49.6 degrees Fahrenheit. July is the warmest month and has an average temperature of 76.2 degrees Fahrenheit. January is the coldest month and has an average temperature of 21.6 degrees. Temperature extremes have ranged from 116 degrees to 32 degrees below zero. The prevailing winds in the growing season are from the southwest. During the rest of the year the prevailing winds are from the northwest.
Soils The soils of Nance County have developed from three kinds of parent material: loess, alluvium and eolian sands. The Principal Soils Map (Figure 5.1) identifies different associations that have a distinct pattern of soils, relief and drainage within Nance County. Typically, a map unit consists of one or more soils. The soils making up one series can occur in other series, but in a different pattern. The principal soils map provides a broad perspective of the soils and landscape in Nance County. It provides a basis for comparing the potential of large areas for general kinds of land use. Areas that are, for the most part, suited to certain kinds of farming or to other land uses can be identified on the map. Likewise, areas of soils having properties that are distinctly unfavorable for certain land uses can be located. Because of its small scale, the principal soils map does not show the kind of soil at a specific site. Thus, a soil sample may be needed when dealing with management and construction issues in specific locations. The kinds of soil in any one association differ from place to place in slope, depth, stoniness, drainage, or other characteristics that affect their management. The Principal Soils Map of Nance County includes the following series:
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Belfore Series: The deep soils of the Belfore Series occur on nearly level (1-3 percent slopes) upland in the northern part of the county. They are well drained and have a medium-textured surface soil, and a moderately fine textured subsoil that has developed from Peorian loess. Cass Series: The Cass Series consists of deep and moderately deep alluvial soils with moderately sandy subsoils. They occur on nearly level food plains along streams flowing from the sandy uplands. The Cass soils differ from the Wann soils in being better drained and noncalcareous. Crofton Series: The Crofton are thinly developed silty soils over calcareous, silty Peorian loess. They occur on narrow, rounded ridgetops and the steeper side slopes. The surface soils are dark in uneroded areas and lighter colored in eroded areas. These soils have a weakly developed subsoil that is highly calcareous. Slopes are rolling to very steep, and range from 7 to 30 percent. Fillmore Series: The Fillmore Series consists of deep, dark soils with a clay subsoil that are on nearly level (0-1 percent slopes) uplands. They have developed in Peorian loess in the poorly drained upland depressions. They remain wet for some time after rains. The Fillmore soils are associated with those of the Belfore series, which occur around the depressional areas. Hall Series: The Hall Series consists of deep, well-drained soils on terraces just north of the Loup River, and along the drainageways in the northern part of the county. They are on nearly level to gently sloping relief. A few small areas have slopes as steep as 6 percent. Hall-Exline Complex: Hall-Exline silt loams, 0 to 1 percent slopes, are composed of areas of Hall silt loam that contain spots of Exline silt loams. Alkaline-saline soil covers from 10 to 35 percent of the total area of the complex. Hord Series: The Hord Series consists of deep, medium-textured soils on terraces that are mostly south of the Loup River. They are easily worked, and are on nearly level areas and gentle slopes that reach a maximum of 6 percent. Judson Series: The Judson Series consists of deep silty soils at the base of slopes or on the lower ends of long slopes. Many areas are on colluvial slopes between the terraces and the rolling uplands. These soils are very productive and are suitable for all the crops grown in the county, and have slopes ranging from 1 to 7 percent. Lamoure Series: The Lamoure Series consists of deep and moderately deep bottom land soils with a silty clay loam or silty clay subsoil. These soils are imperfectly drained, and normally have a water table that is from 2 to 5 feet below the surface. They have developed from moderately fine textured calcareous clayey alluvium. Leshara Series: The Leshara Series consists of deep, imperfectly drained, medium-textured soils on flood plains along streams. They are associated with the Wann and Lamoure soils. All three are imperfectly drained bottom land soils. Loess Hills and Bluffs: The Loess Hills and Bluffs make up a land type that consists mostly of very steep, rough, broken topography on Peorian loess soil material. About half of the areas have canyons and bluffs, as well as large gullies or deep drainageways. The remaining areas have smoother rolling to steeply rolling slopes. Loup Series: The Loup Series consists of soils on very wet and low flood plains. They have a sandy to very sandy subsoil and substrata. They are fairly common along the major streams that originate in the sandy uplands. The water table is generally less than 24 inches below the surface of these soils, and at times it is at or near the surface. McPaul Series: This series consists of deep, silty, bottom land soils that are sometimes flooded. They occur chiefly along the smaller drainageways that flow from the loessal uplands of the county. The soils are composed of recent deposits of moderately dark, silty alluvium that comes from the eroding uplands.
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Meadin Series: The soils of the Meadin Series are shallow terrace soils that are 10 to 20 inches deep over gravel. They have a loam to coarse sand subsoil. They are not extensive in the county, and occur on nearly level (0 to 1 percent slopes) stream terraces. Moody-Anselmo Complex: The Moody-Anselmo Complex occurs in depressional areas and on nearly level to gentle slopes that reach a maximum of 7 percent. Moody-Nora Complex: The soils of the Moody-Nora Complex occur on the gently sloping uplands in the northern part of the county. The complex is composed of the deep Moody soil and the moderately deep Nora soil, and range in slope from 3 to 7 percent. Newman Series: The Newman Series consists of deep, sandy soils. They occur on terraces along the Loup River. They have developed on alluvial sands that have been partly reworked by wind. Most areas are nearly level, although some hummocky areas have slopes ranging up to 7 percent. Nora Series: The Nora series consists of moderately deep soils on rolling slopes ranging from 7 to 12 percent slopes. The depth to lime ranges from about 10 inches on severely eroded slopes to 20 inches in uneroded areas. The subsoil ranges in texture from heavy silt loam to silty clay loam. Nora-Anselmo Complex: The silty to moderately sandy soils of the Nora-Anselmo Complex occur on rolling slopes of 7 to 17 percent. In some areas they developed on mixed silt and sand deposited by wind, but in most areas they consist of silty loess mantled with sand. The sand mantle in most places ranges from 6 to about 20 inches in thickness. Nuckolls Series: The Nuckolls soils have developed from Loveland loess, which is exposed on some of the lower slopes between the Peorian loess uplands and the terraces north of the Loup River. They have a clayey surface soil and subsoil. The Loveland loess parent material appears to be mostly silty clay loam. Slopes in this series range from 7 to 12 percent. O’Neill Series: The O’Neill Series consists of moderately deep soils on the stream terraces. They have a fine sandy loam subsoil and gravelly substrata. The depth to gravel ranges from 20 to 36 inches. These soils occur on slopes of 1 to 3 percent. Ortello Series: The deep, moderately sandy soils of the Ortello Series occur mainly on high terraces south of the Loup River. Most areas are nearly level, although some have slopes ranging up to 7 percent. Rauville Series: The Rauville Series consists of poorly drained silty clay loam and silt loam soils of the bottom lands. They have a water table that is at or near the surface part of the time. Riverwash: Riverwash occurs along the Loup and Cedar Rivers, and consists primarily of sandbars which are often flooded and unstable. It is the first to be covered by water when the streams overflow. Rokeby Series: This series consists of deep soils on nearly level (0 to 1 percent slope) stream terraces, and have a silt loam surface soil and a clay subsoil. Although these soils are not extensive, there are some areas along every major drainageway. Sandy Alluvial Land: These soils occur along streams that frequently flood. This land type is adjacent to river and stream channels, and in places occurs along swales and deeply entrenched creek channels. Sarpy Series: This series consists of sandy to very sandy alluvial soils that range from well drained to imperfectly drained. They flood occasionally. These soils are developing in fairly recent flood deposits. Silty Alluvial Land: Silty Alluvial Land consists of frequently flooded silty soils along stream channels that are deeply entrenched in places. The texture of these soils is dominantly silt loam or very fine sandy loam. Thurman Series: The soils of the Thurman Series are deep upland soils that have a loamy fine sand surface soil over a sand subsoil. Many of the areas of Thurman soil have a wavelike or low dune topography, and range in slope from 1 to 7 percent.
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Thurman-Anselmo Complex: This complex consists of intermixed sandy and moderately sandy soils on the uplands. It occurs on nearly level to gently rolling (1 to 12 percent slopes) low hummocky or low dune-like areas. These soils have developed from sandy and moderately sandy eolian material. Valentine Series: The Valentine Series consists of soils on deep upland sands that have little or no profile development. Areas have low hummocks or dunes and slopes of 3 to 17 percent. Very Sandy Alluvial Land: This land occurs on low flood plains along the Loup and Cedar Rivers and Prairie Creek. It is in overflow areas where mixed loamy fine sand and very sandy material have been deposited by floods. Wann Series: The Wann series consists of soils on the flood plains that have a moderately sandy subsoil and a moderately high water table. The water table ranges from 2 to 5 feet below the surface of the soil. Dryland Capability Dryland capability classification, Figure 5.2, shows, in a general way, the suitability of soils for most kinds of field crops. Crops that require special management are excluded. The soils are grouped according to their limitations for field crops, the risk of damage if they are used for crops, and the way they respond to management. Capability classification is not a substitute for interpretations designed to show suitability and limitations of groups of soils for rangeland, for woodland, and for engineering purposes. Capability classes, the broadest groups, are designated by Roman numerals I through VIII. The numerals indicate progressively greater limitations and narrower choices for practical use. The classes are defined as follows: Class I soils have slight limitations that restrict their use. Class II soils have moderate limitations that reduce the choice of plants, or that require moderate conservation practices. Class III soils have severe limitations that reduce the choice of plants, or that require special conservation practices, or both. Class IV soils have very severe limitations that restrict the choice of plants, or that require very careful management, or both. Class V soils have little or no hazard of erosion but have other limitations, impractical to remove, that limit their use mainly to pasture, range, forest land, or wildlife food and cover. Class VI soils have severe limitations that make them generally unsuitable for cultivation, and that limit their use mainly to pasture, range, forest land, or wildlife food and cover. Class VII soils have very severe limitations that make them unsuitable for cultivation, and that restrict their use mainly to grazing, forest land, or wildlife. Class VIII soils and miscellaneous areas have limitations that nearly preclude their use for commercial plant production, and limit their use to recreation, wildlife, or water supply or for esthetic purposes.
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Figure 5.1 Principal Soils Map Nance County, Nebraska
Source: Nance County Soil Survey (1960)
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Figure 5.2 Dryland Capability Classification Map Nance County, Nebraska
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Prime Farmland Prime farmland is land that has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, fiber and oilseed crops, and is also available for these uses (the land could be cropland, pastureland, rangeland, forestland or other land, but not urban built-up land or water). It has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to economically produce sustained high yields of crops when treated and managed, including water management, according to acceptable farming methods. In general, prime farmlands have an adequate and dependable water supply from precipitation or irrigation, a favorable temperature and growing season, acceptable acidity or alkalinity, acceptable salt and sodium content, and few or no rocks. They are permeable to water and air. Prime farmlands are not excessively erodible or saturated with water for a long period of time, and they either do not flood frequently or are protected from flooding. The areas identified in Figure 5.3 meet the soil requirements for prime farmland in Nance County. Soils that have limitations, such as a high water table or flooding, may qualify as prime farmland if these limitations are overcome by such measures as drainage or flood control.
Physiography According to the Nance County Soil Survey (1960), the average elevation in the county is about 1,780 feet above sea level. The lowest elevation (about 1,540 feet) in Nance County is where the Loup River crosses the eastern boundary. The highest point in the county is about 2,020 feet, and occurs along the western boundary. The elevations of the communities are: Fullerton, 1,630 feet; Belgrade, 1,707 feet; and Genoa, 1,580 feet. The county slopes mostly to the southeast.
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Figure 5.3 Prime Farmland Nance County, Nebraska
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NANCE COUNTY EXISTING LAND USE The use of land including the location, size, and characteristics of the uses is an important ingredient of a future land use plan. All services such as utilities, transportation, parks, and schools are affected and should be designed to serve the uses of land. In order to realistically plan for the future growth and development of Nance County, the starting point is the existing shape, form, and amount of land presently used to provide for the county functions. An evaluation of existing use of land will aid in preparing for the growth of Nance County, and subsequently the location and size of future utilities. To evaluate these land use circumstances, a land use survey was completed by which the type and location of the uses was determined. The location of each specific use of land is shown graphically on the existing land use map (Figure 5.4). The existing land uses of Nance County were classified under the following categories: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Production Agriculture Industrial Agriculture Agriculture Storage Farmstead Rural Residential Commercial Light Industrial Heavy Industrial Public Quasi-Public Transportation and Utilities Recreation /Parks
Production Agriculture. Row crop, alfalfa, pasture land and all grain crops are considered production agriculture land uses. Nance County is largely an agricultural based county, and the existing land use map verifies this. The county, as a whole, appears to have excellent soils for agriculture production. Industrial Agriculture. Feedlots, confinements of higher production densities, and agricultural industries such as seed plants comprise the uses in this particular district. These uses may be large or small, corporate or family owned. The size of block shown graphically on the existing land use map is somewhat indicative to the size of the confined area. Also included in this category are commercial kennels and facilitated hog/cattle confinements, or feedlots that are no longer in operation. Agriculture Storage. This category consists of abandoned farmsteads and uses related to agriculture storage, including grain, livestock, and mechanical. Storage of this type can range from grain bins to abandoned buildings, but no human occupancy. These particular uses are scattered throughout the entire county. Farmsteads. Uses in this particular category are those residential units that have adjacent agricultural buildings, feedlots, and/or are situated on land directly linked to agriculture. Residential units of this type in the County are usually at a smaller density (unit per acre) than the non-farm residential type, and are evenly distributed throughout the County.
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Rural Residential. Residential units that did not have agriculture buildings or feedlots were classified as rural residential. Units in this category also consisted of lake/river-front developments, seasonal homes, trailer courts, and subdivisions. Commercial. Uses in the commercial category consist of convenience stores; entertainment facilities; feed, seed and machinery sales; petroleum sales; large home businesses such as mechanical and welding shops; etc. Uses of the commercial nature tend to be located near communities on or close to highways for accessibility. Light Industrial. Land uses of this nature may include communication plants, light manufacturing, commercial storage, industrial parks, etc. These uses also tend to be located near municipalities and major transportation routes for accessibility purposes. Heavy Industrial. This existing land use category contains those industrial uses in the county that have outside storage, producing odors, and contribute to heavy transportation use. Heavy industrial uses may include large junk yards, factories, land fills, and mining operations. Public. This category comprises all the historical markers, rural school houses, etc. scattered throughout Nance County. Many rural school houses are abandoned or have other uses. Some of these current uses have been illustrated, while others have not. Quasi-Public. The quasi-public classification includes the rural churches and cemeteries located in the county. Cemeteries near churches, or along roadsides range in size from an acre or so to just a few graves. Transportation and Utilities. Electrical power stations, utility towers, roads/highways and airports located outside corporate limits are included in this category. Although few in numbers, these uses can be rather noticeable. Recreation/Parks. This category includes camping, boating, and general recreational areas along the Loup River. Other areas falling in land use category include state recreational areas, camping areas throughout the county, and private hunting/recreational areas or camps owned and operated by clubs or organizations. By examining existing uses, maps, and other resources that indicate slope, water quality, wetlands, prime farmland, and soils, we can analyze where uses are located, how these uses are working in relationship to each other, and how future uses can be improved or directed to yield appropriate impacts on the County and its resources.
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Figure 5.4 Existing Land Use Map Nance County, Nebraska
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NANCE COUNTY FUTURE LAND USE Although unique to communities in many ways, counties have similarities common to their establishment and development. The most basic functions of a county are to provide space and land for agriculture, commerce, industry, living (residential) areas, public, recreation, and the transportation facilities necessary to move between the uses of land. The Land Use Plan for Nance County is built upon substantial physical and environmental data. However, the true importance of this information results when county residents add their hopes and visions. The combination and balancing of public input with the physical and environmental data base is the path toward a preferred quality of life. This report and the accompanying Generalized Future Land Use Map are the initial steps in Nance County's goal to establish a growth management plan and policies. Based upon reports that have been previously examined, including population, housing, economy, and public services and public facilities, this document attempts to provide recommendations on the type of uses that the county will promote in concert with private property owners and developers. The plan identifies areas for intensive, urban-like development in the county. Conversely, the plan identifies areas in which agriculture will be considered primary, and all other uses must accommodate agricultural activity. To be successful in these objectives, it will be important to have clear statements of policy and regulation to support a sound decision making system.
Development Criteria The information which is provided in the Future Development Criteria will assist in establishing legitimate locations throughout the county where development is more suitable. Suitability towards development will be driven by factors such as: environment and natural resources, infrastructure/roads, etc. In addition to weighing the issues previously mentioned, preservation of prime farmland is considered to be a priority. The need to establish development criteria is based upon the county’s desire for orderly development. By establishing a policy on orderly development, the county can strive for a balance between the natural environment and fiscal responsibility. Unregulated growth and development will result in residential, commercial, and industrial development which is scattered throughout the county. This unregulated growth will further result in the county spending tax dollars in an inefficient manner, damage to certain environmentally sensitive areas, and unnecessary pressure upon the infrastructure/roads. The Development Criteria used in this analysis were based upon the following issues: • • • • • • • • • • • •
General Soil Survey Dryland Capability of Soils Soil Suitability for Prime Farmland Vulnerability of Groundwater Contamination Slope National Wetlands Inventory Public Input Major Transportation Routes Current uses of Land Community Centers and Established Residential Subdivisions Central Platte NRD Erosion & Sediment Control Program Lower Loup NRD Ground Water Management Plan
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Additional Criteria and Future Land Use Additional criteria utilized in developing the county’s Future Land Use Plan are the future land use plans of those communities in Nance County which currently have a Comprehensive Development Plan, and Zoning Regulations. Efforts should be made to create a smooth transition between the municipal jurisdictions and Nance County’s jurisdiction. Where these jurisdictions meet, the type of land uses should be similar in intent and requirements (as much as possible), as well as the actual uses allowed.
Land Use Districts Land use districts are areas with common features or conditions (i.e., slope, soils, roads, water). They are intended to provide guidance for future growth and investment by setting land use objectives, permitted land use types, development standards, and location or site design criteria. The generalized future land use plan and map (Figure 5.5) identify six (6) primary land use districts. These districts include a Primary Agriculture District A, Primary Agriculture District B, Secondary Agriculture District, Transitional Agriculture District, Commercial District, and a Public/Semi-Public Use District. These land use districts outline the type and intensity of uses that would be encouraged by the county, and eventually authorized through zoning and subdivision regulations. The land use districts are not zoning districts. They do, however, set guidelines and limits under which zoning districts may be established. It is expected that the overall framework of the generalized land use plan substantially reflects and meets the opportunities and strengths identified in previous plan studies. Land Use Plan Objectives 1. 2. 3.
Identify past trends in demand for various land use categories (agricultural, residential, commercial, industrial, etc.). Determine which are working, and which may need modification. Combine county goals with estimated future demands to project future land use needs. Establish policies and land use suitability standards to: a. Protect and enhance current and future building/land use; b. Provide reasonable alternatives and locations for various land uses; and c. Promote efficient use of public facilities and utilities
Primary Agriculture District A This particular land use district provides for all agriculture practices. In this "agriculture first" district, agriculture activities would be given primary consideration where conditions prove favorable. This is the district in Nance County where grain and livestock production and feeding operations are permitted, and nonfarm residential development would be discouraged. When developing the county's zoning regulations, it is suggested that larger livestock feeding operations be regulated through a conditional use permit process in order to help minimize the effect on the environment, other natural resources, and the health, safety and general welfare of the public. A conditional use permit of such operations must consider ground water management areas, slope, soils, and other natural or cultural resources as required by the county, or any other state or federal agency. Furthermore, in discouraging nonfarm residential development, such residences would require a conditional use permit, and the minimum lot sizes and/or density in this Primary Agriculture District would be regulated to preserve prime farmland and deter nonfarm developments.
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Primary Agriculture District B This land use district lies primarily south of the base of the first ridge on the north side of the Loup River, and will provide for all agriculture practices and uses as in Primary Agriculture District A. This land use district, however, will have the environmental objective of protecting water supplies, and have a limited number of permitted uses. Preserving water quality, and minimizing flood hazards are the leading priorities in considering any type of land use in this district. Grain and livestock production, mining operations, and recreation will be the primary uses. Livestock Feeding Operations, residential development and other specified uses may be developed by a conditional use application and permit in order to help minimize the effect on the environment, other natural resources, and the health, safety and general welfare of the public. A conditional use permit of such operations must consider ground water management areas, slope, soils, and other natural or cultural resources as required by the county, or any other state or federal agency. Minimum lot sizes and/or density in this Primary Agriculture District will also be regulated to preserve prime farmland and deter nonfarm development. It is suggested that if these areas are further developed, trails and designated open spaces shall be considered to provide for increased recreational opportunities in the county. Such open spaces should be provided to protect major recreational and natural areas, and historic sites from adverse effects of major development activity.
Secondary Agriculture District The Secondary Agriculture District will provide for all agriculture practices, but will be more prone to nonfarm development, provided conditions prove favorable. Livestock feeding operations and nonfarm residential development are permitted by conditional use permit in order to help minimize the effect on the environment, other natural resources, and the health, safety and general welfare of the public. The minimum lot sizes, and/or density in this agriculture district would be regulated in such a manner as to provide more opportunities for nonfarm development compared to the Prime Agriculture Districts, but be more restrictive than the Transitional Agriculture District. Where the district borders the zoning jurisdiction of community centers (or corporate limits), the minimum lot sizes and/or restrictions shall be comparable, or slightly greater than those zoning districts of the adjacent communities.
Transitional Agriculture District The Transitional Agriculture District represents a transitional area in the county where agricultural functions are protected, but limited. The location of these districts will be near jurisdictional intersections of the larger communities of Nance County. The district would generally be located one mile around the corporate limits of Fullerton, one-half (½) mile around the corporate limits of Belgrade, and an area east to northeast of Genoa where residential development has occurred. The Transitional Agriculture District is intended to provide a location where agriculture can continue to thrive, but may at some point in the future be influenced by growth in the municipalities of Nance County. This land use district provides an agriculture buffer between more intensive agricultural activities and the growth areas of the communities. Livestock feeding operations are highly discouraged to locate or expand in this district; and the minimum lot requirements would be less than those required in the Secondary Agriculture District, but comparable or slightly larger than those zoning districts of adjacent municipalities.
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Commercial District The Commercial District provides for larger commercial and light industrial development where transportation routes and other conditions prove favorable. This district is to promote the agricultural industry of Nance County and to provide services and development opportunities at key locations within the County. Public/Semi-Public Use District The Public Use District designates areas of the County where a large amount of land is required for public uses. Such areas may include continuation and/or development of recreational areas, Federal Lands, wildlife management areas, youth camps, golf courses, etc. It is recommended that specified land uses within these public land use areas or adjacent to these areas be permitted by conditional use to assure compatibility with existing and proposed uses. Land Use Transitions New development should provide, if needed, any screening, buffers, or extra setback (specified distances) when located next to existing uses. Screening or buffers can be plant material, low earthen berms, solid fences, or any combination thereof. Boundaries between different land use districts are designated along roads, highways, sections, and/or natural features (streams, topography, etc.) whenever possible. New development should, to the greatest extent possible, be contiguous to existing development or services. Such contiguous development would allow for logical and cost effective maintenance of roads, highways and services.
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Figure 5.5 Future Land Use Map Nance County, Nebraska
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Chapter 6 Transportation Plan "Build a road, and they will come," is more than a passing literary reference. To a significant extent, the location of roads, their condition, and capacity to carry traffic safely will define future land use. The transportation element of the Comprehensive Plan is a key component of the Plan's foundation for success. Traffic and pedestrian circulation plans will be one of the largest capital investments for the county over the life of the Plan. The Transportation Plan contains a basic plan for providing transportation improvements based on the proposed land use plan and projected transportation needs of the County. The major transportation network in the County is the highway network. This network is an extensive system designed to provide accessibility throughout the entire County. Nance County and its communities are faced with a growing need to coordinate road development. Because land use is integrally tied to access, and because some of the county's proposed road activity flows through the zoning jurisdictions of many communities, a county-wide road planning process is essential. Annually the county reviews its "One- and Six-Year Plan" for streets and highways. This is both a planning and budget tool. Nance County will need to establish a policy of either maintaining the existing road system or constructing new and expanded roadways. The Transportation Plan utilizes the highway plans and the one- and six-year street and highway program of the county, as prepared by the Nebraska Department of Roads (NDOR). Also, NDOR provided Average Daily Traffic (ADT) data for all major highways through Nance County. This major road system plan is based upon the methodology utilized by NDOR, as well as locally available criteria.
CLASSIFICATION OF ROADS Land derives significant value from access. The public dollars spent to build streets, roads, and highways increase each property owner's ability to use and sell land. Therefore, what type of streets, roads, and highways, and where they are built will directly influence a community and county's growth. When planning for the future of Nance County, it is essential that the network of streets, roads, and highways accomplish the following: 1. 2. 3.
Provide a network to integrate places of work, commerce, residence, and public services; Insure safe and adequate design to allow for regular and emergency access; and Coordinate with land use objectives to support levels of activity and expected traffic volumes.
For planning purposes, a functional classification system is used to group streets, roads, and highways into classes or systems according to the character of service they provide to users. The functional classification of roads applies to both rural and urban settings. Nance County follows the NDOR's Functional Classification System.
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Rural Highways Rural highways are hereby divided into eight functional classifications as follows: 1. Interstate, which shall consist of the federally designated National System of Interstate and Defense Highways; 2. Expressway, which shall consist of a group of highways following major traffic desires in Nebraska, which rank next in importance to the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways. The expressway system is one which ultimately should be developed to multi-lane divided highway standards; 3. Major arterial, which shall consist of the balance of routes which serve major statewide interests for highway transportation. This system is characterized by high-speed, relatively long-distance travel patterns; 4. Scenic-Recreation, which shall consist of highways or roads located within, or which provide access to or through state parks, recreation or wilderness areas, other areas of geographical, historical, geological, recreational, biological, or archaeological significance, or areas of scenic beauty; 5. Other arterial, which shall consist of a group of highways of less importance as through-travel routes which would serve places of smaller population and smaller recreation areas not served by the higher system. 6. Collector, which shall consist of a group of highways which pick up traffic from many local or land-service roads, and carry it to community centers or to the arterial systems. They are the main school bus routes, mail routes, and farm-to-market routes; 7. Local, which shall consist of all remaining rural roads, except minimum maintenance roads; and 8. Minimum maintenance, which shall consist of (a) roads used occasionally by a limited number of people as alternative access roads for areas served primarily by local, collector, or arterial roads, or (b) roads which are the principal access roads to agricultural lands for farm machinery, and which are not primarily used by passenger or commercial vehicles. The rural highways classified under numbers (1) to (3) of the rural highway classification should, combined, serve every incorporated municipality having a minimum population of one hundred inhabitants or sufficient commerce, a part of which will be served by stubs or spurs, and along with rural highways classified under number (4), should serve the major recreational areas of the state.
Municipal Streets Municipal streets are divided into six functional classifications as follows: 1. Interstate, which shall consist of the federally designated National System of Interstate and Defense Highways; 2. Expressway, which shall consist of two categories: Extensions of rural expressways, and some additional routes which serve very high volumes of local traffic within urban areas; 3. Major arterial, which shall generally consist of extensions of the rural major arterials which provide continuous service through municipalities for long-distance rural travel. They are the arterial streets used to transport products into and out of municipalities; 4. Other arterial, which shall consist of two categories: Municipal extensions of rural other arterials, and arterial movements peculiar to a municipality's own complex (i.e., streets which interconnect major areas of activity within a municipality, such as shopping centers, the central business district, manufacturing centers, and industrial parks);
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5. Collector, which shall consist of a group of streets which collect traffic from residential streets and move it to smaller commercial centers or to higher arterial systems; and 6. Local, which shall consist of the balance of streets in each municipality, principally residential access service streets and local business streets. They are characterized by very short trip lengths, almost exclusively limited to vehicles desiring to go to or from an adjacent property. Source: Laws 1969, c. 312 § 4. Effective date August 4, 1969
Jurisdictional Responsibility The Board of Public Roads Classifications and Standards also developed specific criteria for each functional classification. State functional classification determines the jurisdictional responsibility for a road or street. 1. The state shall have the responsibility for the design, construction, reconstruction, maintenance, and operation of all roads classified under the category of rural highways as interstate, expressway, and major arterial, and the municipal extensions thereof, except that the state shall not be responsible for that portion of a municipal extension which exceeds the design of the rural highway leading into the municipality. When the design of a rural highway differs at the different points where it leads into the municipality, the state's responsibility for the municipal extension thereof shall be limited to the lesser of the two designs. The state shall be responsible for the entire interstate system under either the rural or municipal category, and for connecting links between the interstate and the nearest existing state highway system in rural areas; provided, if such connecting link has not been improved, and sufficient study by the Department of Roads results in the determination that a link to an alternate state highway would provide better service for the area involved, the department shall have the option of providing the alternate route, subject to satisfactory local participation in the additional cost of the alternate route; 2. The various counties shall have the responsibility for the design, construction, reconstruction, maintenance, and operation of all roads classified as other arterial, collector, local, and minimum maintenance under the rural highway category; 3. The various incorporated municipalities shall have the responsibility for the design, construction, reconstruction, maintenance, and operation of all streets classified as expressway which are of a purely local nature, that portion of municipal extensions of rural expressway and major arterials which exceeds the design of the rural portions of such systems, and responsibility for those streets classified as other arterial, collector, and local within their Corporate Limits; and 4. Jurisdictional responsibility for all scenic-recreation roads and highways shall remain with the governmental subdivision which had jurisdictional responsibility for such road or highways prior to its change in classification to scenic-recreation made pursuant to sections 39-2103, 39-2105, 39-2109, and 39-2113. Source: Laws 1983, LB 10, § 4. Effective date August 26,1983.
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Minimum Design Standards In addition, the Board of Public Roads Classifications and Standards has developed minimum standards of design, construction, and maintenance for each functional classification. Such standards are for the purpose of assuring that each segment of highway, road, or street will satisfactorily meet the requirements of the area it serves, and the traffic patterns and volumes which it may reasonably be expected to bear. · Interstate. This classification includes the federally designated national system of interstate and defense highways. This system was established to connect most cities with a population of 50,000 or more. The interstate facility has full access control and a minimum of four lanes, twelve feet in width. Rural interstate facilities require a 36-foot median, while interstate facilities in municipal areas have a variable median width. · Expressway. Expressways are major traffic routes which will ultimately develop to multi-lane divided highway standards with partial or full access control. These routes serve urban centers with populations of 15,000 or more. Expressway standards are similar to interstate standards with the exception that some at-grade intersections are permitted. · Major Arterial. Major Arterial classifications are further divided into Principal, Continuous, and Non-Continuous. These sub-classifications are based on design traffic volumes with standards becoming less strenuous as traffic volumes decrease. The three sub-classifications of Major Arterial systems are described as follows: 1. Major Arterial--Principal. These road types are other routes which serve major statewide interests, and are characterized by high speed, long-distance travel patterns. The term "principal" defines high volume routes. 2. Major Arterial--Continuous. Continuous Arterials are other routes which provide an integrated continuous highway network to all areas of the state with regional or local travel patterns. These routes provide relatively high overall speeds with minimum interference to through movement. 3. Non-Continuous--Stubs and Spurs. These routes provide a connection for all towns of more than 100 population and major recreational areas not otherwise served by the State Highway System, and are characterized by travel patterns primarily of a local nature. It should be noted that factors such as design speed, number, and width of lanes, percent grade, and median width vary depending upon whether the facility is a rural state highway or a municipal highway. Design standards for municipal highways vary depending upon whether or not the facility is located in a downtown area or suburban area. The highest level rural major arterial is a four-lane, divided facility. All other rural arterials are two-lane facilities. Lane widths vary from eleven to twelve feet, with shoulders ranging from four to twelve feet in width. Design speed on rural arterials varies from 40 to 65 mph, depending upon design and traffic volumes to be carried. Municipal major arterial design speeds are 35 mph in downtown areas and 50 mph in suburban areas. At least two lanes, twelve feet in width, are required. Eight-foot wide shoulders are provided, while a median may or may not be required. · Scenic-Recreation. The design standards for this classification of roads are nearly the same as for Arterial, Collector, and Local depending upon the volume of traffic. However, there are also roadways in this category which are for scenic, aesthetic, or historic reasons, and cannot be built to minimum standards. · Other Arterials. Other Arterial routes consists of two categories: 1) Municipal extensions of rural "Other Arterials;" and 2) Those streets with arterial movements peculiar to a municipality's own
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complex. The latter are streets which interconnect major areas of activity within a municipality, such as shopping centers, the Central Business District, manufacturing centers, and industrial parks. (Note: for rural highways, "Other Arterial" shall consist of a group of highways of less importance as through-travel routes which would serve places of smaller population and smaller recreation areas not served by the higher systems.) The standards for "Other Arterial" streets vary depending upon whether the street is municipal or rural. Design speeds vary from 30 to 60 mph, and lane width varies from 10 to 11 feet. At least two lanes are required. · Collector Streets. These streets collect traffic from local streets or roads and move it to traffic generation centers or to higher arterial systems. Collector roads include main school bus routes, mail routes and farm-to-market routes. Municipal collector streets maintain a design speed of 25 mph utilizing two 11 feet wide lanes. No median is required. Rural collector roads maintain design speeds ranging from 40 to 55 mph, utilizing two 10-11 feet wide lanes. · Local. Local roads and/or streets include all remaining roads and streets, except minimum maintenance roads, providing principally residential access service to other streets, local businesses, cemeteries, parks, and school bus and mail routes not served by a higher system. The design speed of local streets in municipal areas is 25 mph, utilizing two, 11 feet wide lanes. The design speed of rural local roads varies from 30 to 50 mph, utilizing two 10 feet wide lanes. · Minimum Maintenance. These roads are used occasionally by a limited number of people as alternative access roads which are the principal access to agricultural lands, not primarily used by passenger or commercial vehicles. No design standards are in effect for these routes. Each is reviewed by the Board of Classifications and Standards.
EXISTING TRANSPORTATION One or more State Highways pass through every community in the county. County roads are along most of the section lines except in the river valleys. State Highways 39 and 14 provide north-south routes along the eastern boundary through Genoa, and across the center of the County through Fullerton, respectively. Nebraska Highway 22 provides the east-west route through the middle of the county, connecting Fullerton and Genoa to Platte, Greeley, Merrick, and Howard Counties. The Village of Belgrade is accessed by Nebraska Highway 52 to the east where it intersects Highway 14, and to the north where it extends into Boone County. There are approximately 60 miles of State maintained Major Arterial roads in Nance County. The County maintains approximately 97 miles of roads classified as other arterial, approximately 72 miles of collector roads, and close to 307 miles of local roads. There are nearly 93 miles of State classified minimum maintenance roads and approximately 16 miles of dirt roads or trails. Of the 97 miles of Other Arterial roads maintained by the County, approximately 4 ½ miles are asphalt roads.
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FUTURE TRANSPORTATION PLAN The Future Transportation Plan of Nance County provides a circulation system to provide safe, efficient access, and is emphasized as a major component in promoting and implementing the plan. The Future Transportation Map (Figure 6.1) is based on several key policies. These policies include: • •
• • • •
Location of communities on a highway to provide efficient and safe access. Providing a series of major and secondary arterials that provide interconnection among communities and regional markets. These paved roads provide all weather travel surfaces, and receive priority for maintenance on a year round basis. The Collector system, while important, will not be a paved system unless there are economic or land use objectives that serve the county's long range plans. The County will not participate in the cost of developing roads that serve development that is located in areas not consistent with the Land Use Plan. The County will prioritize its road and bridge expenditures to maintain the Highway and Arterial systems. The County will encourage natural resource and flood mitigation efforts that reduce bridge and drainage structure maintenance requirements.
Each year the Planning and Zoning Commission may want to include recommendations on roadways during the annual plan review process. This would give the Commission an opportunity to assess the changes in growth that have taken place during the previous year, and to assess impacts on the Transportation Plan. This would also give the Planning Commission an opportunity to submit comments to the County Supervisors and County Highway Superintendent prior to updating the county's One- and Six-Year Road program.
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Figure 6.1 Future Transportation Map Nance County, Nebraska
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Chapter 7 Plan Implementation Successful Comprehensive Plans have the same key ingredients: "2% inspiration and 98% perspiration." This section of the Plan contains the inspiration of county residents who have participated in the planning process. However, the ultimate success of this Plan remains in the dedication offered by each and every resident. There are numerous goals and objectives in this Plan. We recommend reviewing the relevant goals during annual planning and budget setting sessions. However, we also recommend that the county select elements of the Plan for immediate action; the goals of highest priority. This is the Action Plan -- a list of "must do" projects. This chapter also discusses the importance of supporting the Plan with an annual county budget, land use regulations, and annual review of the Plan. Each of these support activities should be viewed as proactive steps toward achieving the county's long-range vision.
ACTION AGENDA Table 7.1 summarizes the Action Agenda for Nance County. It will be critical to earmark the specific funds to be used, and the individuals primarily responsible for implementing these goals. The Action Agenda represents "day one" activities for implementing the Plan -- who will be doing what, by when, and how.
Support Programs for the Action Agenda Four programs will play a vital role in the success of the Comprehensive Plan for Nance County. These programs are: 1. Capital Improvements Financing--an annual, predictable investment plan that uses a six-year planning horizon to schedule and fund projects integral to the Plan's Action Agenda. 2. Zoning Regulations--land use districts can allow the county to provide direction for future growth. 3. Subdivision Regulations--establish criteria for dividing land into building areas, utility easements, and streets. Implementing the Transportation Plan is a primary function of subdivision regulations. 4. Plan Maintenance--an annual and five year review program will allow the county flexibility in responding to growth and a continuous program of maintaining the Plan's viability.
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Table 7.1 Action Agenda Nance County, 1998 Goal 1. Promote efficient use of land.
Action • Support preservation of productive ag land.
Results
Financing
• Annual Budget • Non-conflicting land developments. • Development fees
• Developers, land owners, County Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, County Staff, NRD, specialized agencies.
• Increased effectiveness in managing growth.
• Residents, Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission and staff.
• Encourage infill and contiguous land development patterns.
2. Adopt County Development Regulations.
• Develop zoning regulations. • Develop subdivision regulations.
Participants
• Planning contract
PLAN MAINTENANCE Annual Review of the Plan A relevant, up-to-date plan is critical to the on-going planning success. To maintain both public and private sector confidence, evaluate the effectiveness of planning activities, and, most importantly, make mid-plan corrections on the use of county resources, the Plan must be current. After adoption of the Comprehensive Plan, opportunities should be provided to identify any changes in conditions that would impact elements or policies of the Plan. At the beginning of each year a report should be prepared by the Planning Commission which provides information and recommendations on: · whether the Plan is current in respect to population and economic changes; and · the recommended policies still valid for the county and its long-term growth. The Planning Commission should hold a public hearing on this report in order to: 1. 2. 3.
Provide citizens or developers with an opportunity to present possible changes to the Plan; Identify any changes in the status of projects called for in the Plan; and Bring forth any issues, or identify any changes in conditions which may impact the validity of the Plan.
If the Commission finds that major policy issues or major changes in basic assumptions or conditions have arisen which could necessitate revisions to the Plan, they should recommend changes or further study of those changes. This process may lead to identification of amendments to the Comprehensive Plan.
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Plan Amendment Procedures It is anticipated that each year individuals and groups may come forward with proposals to amend the Plan. We would recommend that those proposals be compiled and reviewed once a year at the annual review. By reviewing all proposed amendments at one time, the effects of each proposal can be evaluated for impacts on other proposals, and all proposals can be reviewed for their net impact on Nance County’s Comprehensive Plan.
Unanticipated Opportunity If major new and innovative development opportunities arise which impact several elements of the Comprehensive Plan, and which are determined to be of importance, a plan amendment may be proposed and considered separate from the annual review of other proposed plan amendments. County staff shall compile a list of proposed amendments received during a year, prepare a report providing pertinent information on each proposal, and recommend action on the proposed amendments. The comprehensive plan amendment process should adhere to the adoption process specified by Nebraska law, and should provide for organized participation and involvement of interested citizens.
Methods for Evaluating Development Proposals Interpretation of the Plan should not be based on a series of excerpted analyses. The interpretation should be composed of a continuous and related series of analyses, with references to the goals and policies, the overall land use plan, and specific land use policies. Moreover, when considering specific proposed developments, interpretations of the Plan should include a thorough review of all sections of the Plan. If a development proposal is not consistently supported by the Plan, serious consideration should be given to making modifications to the proposal, or the following criteria should be used to determine if a comprehensive plan amendment would be justified: -
the character of the adjacent neighborhood the zoning and uses on nearby properties the suitability of the property for the uses allowed under the current zoning designation the type and extent of positive or detrimental impact that may affect adjacent properties, or the county at large, if the request is approved the impact of the proposal on public utilities and facilities the length of time that the subject and adjacent properties have been utilized for their current uses the benefits of the proposal to the public health, safety, and welfare compared to the hardship imposed on the applicant if the request is not approved comparison between the existing land use plan and the proposed change regarding the relative conformance to the goals and policies consideration of professional staff recommendations
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Plan Update The next Comprehensive Plan update should be initiated after the current plan has been in use for five years. The update process could include forecasts to a new target year, analysis of alternate land use plans, and possible evaluation of alternate formats for the Plan. The annual review of the Plan, specified above, will accommodate any necessary revisions to the Plan which may arise during the years prior to the next update.
Zoning and the Land Use Plan It is recommended that the goals and objectives of this Plan be implemented over time. It is not desirable to attempt to achieve all of the land use objectives proposed in the Plan within the first years after its adoption. This applies to improvements and developments made by both the public and private sectors. By spreading growth and development proposals throughout the planning period, public and private investors maximize benefits. Zoning changes should be made in a phased manner throughout the planning period to achieve the overall goals of the land use plan. All zone change requests should be evaluated thoroughly, similar to the process for evaluating proposals which may require a Comprehensive Plan amendment, as identified above. In some instances, certain conditions must be created before it would be wise to use land as indicated in the Plan. For example, higher density housing should not be located in certain existing neighborhoods until land parcels of adequate size have been assembled and until suitable provisions for orderly redevelopment have been made. Similarly, development should not be initiated in certain areas designated for eventual commercial or industrial use until the market for that type of use has matured. Nebraska State Statutes specifically state that zoning regulations shall be designed not only for the purpose of promoting health, safety, morals, convenience, order, prosperity and welfare of present and future inhabitants, but also for such specific purposes as: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
Developing both urban and non-urban areas; Lessening congestion in the streets or roads; Reducing the waste of excessive amounts of roads; Securing safety from fire and other dangers; Lessening or avoiding the hazards to persons and damage to property resulting from the accumulation or runoff of storm or flood waters; Providing adequate light and air; Preventing excessive concentration of population and excessive and wasteful scattering of population or settlement; Promoting such distribution of population, such classification of land uses, and such distribution of land development as will assure adequate provisions for transportation, water flowage, water supply, drainage, sanitation, recreation, soil fertility, food supply, and other public requirements; Protecting the tax base; Protecting property against blight and depreciation; Securing economy in governmental expenditures; Fostering the state's agriculture, recreation, and other industries; Encouraging the most appropriate use of land in the county; and Preserving, protecting, and enhancing historic buildings, places, and districts.
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Appendix 1 Nance County Sketch Plan January 26, 1998 - Results
How do you see Nance County in the year 2010? · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ·
With zoning, would hope to see some industry move into county. Moving more to recreation (fishing, hunting, camping). Rural and urban residential area mostly as "bedroom" areas supporting nearby cities and industries. Agriculture will remain very strong particularly livestock because of favorable grazing and crop feed production. Fewer people with less individual opportunities. Less diversity Water use regulations Less businesses Consolidations Fewer farms See the population decreasing because of the lack of opportunity for young people to remain in Nance County and make a living. Low or no industry if things or people's attitudes don't change. No new businesses, I would hope we could have but I haven't heard - but only refusals. More cattle and hogs in some areas. Still having a strong agricultural background. Preserving the family farmer so future generations can enjoy the life of the family farmer. The towns also need more farmers to contribute to their economic base and human base. pursuit of environmentally sound industry. Hopefully we'll be moving progressively into the future with more jobs and more opportunities. Opportunities for growth Dependent on agriculture. I'm not really sure. Nance County is at a crossroads right now. We need to be open minded and not afraid of change.
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Strong (Positive) Points about Nance County: · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ·
(4) Strong farming community, good markets, fair roads. Small communities where everyone knows each other, friendly people. Two strong school systems (Fullerton & Genoa). (4) The extensive river system bisecting the County from West to East allowing for recreational developments also bluffs and wet life. The Loup Power Canal system and the Twin-Loup Irrigation District again for potential water resource developments. (2) Hunting places & fishing areas (3) Strong family farms. (3) People have strong commitment to help one another. Golf course Post office ASCS office Two banks Two large cattle feedlots. We have an airport - but we do need to be able to commercialize it. It was tried but the owner didn't want to. Have a new school building Good education requirements at the school. Independent minded citizens Good highway system and county roads.
What areas need to be improved in the County? · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ·
(2) Would like to see more population. (5) Would like to see some industry to keep young people here, more community development. Improvement in community awareness. Some area contentious irritations are present, especially between the Fullerton and Genoa communities. More recreational areas. Equalize taxation. Airport needs to be more commercialized. (2) Roads improved, township roads possibly graveled. Need a hospital again. Need more agricultural buyers for grain purchasing. More Chamber support. Stop of large livestock operations displacing smaller operations. Some definition of where animal waste should be spread on the land. Good comprehensive plan for future growth. Encouragement for continuation of family farms. Better communication between different areas of county.
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Appendix 2 Nance County Issues As discussed at April 20 meeting •
Successive ownership of operations
•
Livestock feeding operations
•
Houses (around sand pit)
•
County roads and bridges
•
Hospital and nursing home (city)
•
Recreation - Promote and preserve (wildlife)
•
Surface water and ground water (water quality)
•
Waste control/trash (dumping in county)
•
Taxes
•
Schools and education
•
Consolidation of County Offices
•
Storage of chemicals
•
Stockpiling
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Appendix 3 Results from Special Public Meeting The following pages are responses or results from a Special Public Meeting in Fullerton. Planning Commissioners, Board Members and members of the public were placed in groups to brainstorm, answer questions, identify issues, and rank their responses by using a dot technique. Those responses are as follows and reflect the categories of 1) Issues in the County, 2) Negatives in Nance County, 3) Positives, and 4) Potential projects or activities that may or may not affect economic development, respectively. (The chart is available in the office of the Nance County Zoning Administrator.)
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Pesticides and Groundwater Nance County, Nebraska
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