Madison Garey
October 15, 2024
The regular meeting of the Village of Manley Board of Trustees convened on October 10, 2024. This document serves not as the official minutes of the meeting but rather as a summary of the key discussion points from those in attendance. Several topics were discussed, including the delay in the publication of meeting minutes. One citizen expressed concern that residents of Manley are often left uninformed about the matters discussed in meetings until the minutes have been officially approved and posted online, which typically occurs nearly two months post-meeting. Furthermore, it was noted that those who do not attend meetings remain unaware of ordinances being enacted or alterations to daily life, such as the transition from Papillion Sanitation for refuse services. It is important to clarify that meeting minutes are available for public inspection no later than ten days following the meeting, during the regular office hours of the village clerk. The list below outlines the topics that were discussed during the meeting.
Unfinished Business
Nuisance Violations
Over the last several months the village board has been working to update Nuisance Ordinance 90.5. The changes shorten the reactionary time of the citizens in violation and requirements fo the board in upholding the ordinance. Previously, it would take up to 90 days for enforcement to occur. The updated ordinance shortens that time to about two weeks. Once notified by certified mail, citizens will have 5 days to appeal, the board being required to publish in a news paper for two consecutive weeks of the hearing, then 5 additional days for the violations to be remedied. If no action is taken to correct violation, the board will hire out the abatement at the cost of the property owners or occupants. If correction is not made, parties in violation can be charged with a misdemeanor and fined $100 each day the nuisance has not been resolved. The most significant nuisances discussed were those of abandoned automobiles/tractors, over grown yards, dead trees, and dilapidated out buildings. New drafts for certified letters of nuisance violations were reviewed by the board members.
Building Permits
Several building permits were requested in the month of October. New fences, demolition of broken down garages and a zoning change from agricultural to agricultural residential to include construction of a house, garage, and shed. All permits were approved by the board.
Pillage the Village Committee
A survey has been sent to all Manley residents regarding the continuation of the annual Pillage the Village celebration. While the event does bring income to the community, it is tragically understaffed. Most volunteer positions are filled by board members and people not residing in Manley. Please make sure to fill out the survey prior to October 15. If you would like to fill out the survey, but are unable to sign in with a google account, go to the village clerk for a hard copy. The next committee meeting will be held October 21 at 6:30 PM to discuss the survey findings and decide whether Pillage the Village is an event that will continue in Manley.
Community Center Projects
The board is excited to invite local artists to showcase their talents by painting the picnic shelter at the park! Any enthusiastic artists are encouraged to reach out to Denise at 402.677.2587. We are also thrilled to accept quotes for updates to the women’s bathroom on the second floor of the community center, enhancing the space for women. In celebration of community spirit, a large shadow box has been generously gifted to the Village of Manley as an Eagle Scout project. This beautiful box will be hung in the community center, proudly displaying Manley artifacts and historical items for all to enjoy!
Main and Locust Road Patch
Due to the substantial size of trucks maneuvering out of the co-op, a significant section of asphalt in front of the post office has sustained cracks and damage. The village is presently in the process of soliciting quotes to repair the deteriorating roadway. It is anticipated that a concrete patch will be installed in the affected area following the removal of all damaged asphalt. Before the village can proceed with a vote on the contractor responsible for the roadway repair, at least one additional bid is required.
Christmas Lights
A committee is being formed to bring new Christmas lights to the light poles in Manley! With the current decorations being quite outdated and limited, this is a fantastic opportunity for Manley to uplift and rejuvenate the holiday spirit in the village. The committee will thoughtfully select the perfect lights, and exciting news from the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) indicates that they will install the fixtures for the lights at no cost, as long as the village provides the materials. The discussion about which poles will receive plugs and new decorations is sure to spark joy and enthusiasm among everyone involved!
Zoning Regualtion Change
The board is considering the removal of the Special Use Permit granted in the Comprehensive Master Plan, a decision that brings with it significant implications for the community. The Special Use Permit, as it currently stands, “allows for commercial property to be used as storage, multi-family residence, and single-family residence,” all of which the Chairman has indicated are proposed for removal. When concerns arose regarding the potential targeting of specific property owners, formerly a bar, the statement made was that this step is simply aimed at “preserving commercial property” within our village, highlighting an important aspect of community growth and stability. The Chairman also acknowledged that “taking us to court inspired us to change the ordinance,” reflecting a responsive attitude to the concerns expressed.
In addition to the new ordinance looking to supersede the comprehensive master plan is the addition of a Vacant Property Ordinance. If passed, this ordinance would require property owners of vacant homes and commercial property without businesses to be put on a registry of vacancy as well as assessed fines every six months. Though not being proposed until November 2024, the rough draft showed fees between $250 and $1,000 for both home and commercial property owners to be assessed every 180 days the building is without occupancy. This potential change is again “to preserve commercial property” according the the Chairman and Co-Chairman. These fees are allowed, not required, to be accessed according the Nebraska Statue 19-5401 through 10-5408 otherwise known as the Vacant Property Registration Act.
Keep Cass County Beautiful
Once again Keep Cass County Beautiful is sponsoring a clean up day for the village of Manley October 26 beginning at 10:00 AM. The more people that show up to clean the spurs the faster it will go. With 12 or more people the clean up will likely last about half an hour. Please volunteer to help keep Manley looking beautiful!
Semiannual Audit
Twice annually, the accounting records are subject to review by members of the board alongside a designated citizen volunteer. This year, the audit is scheduled for October 15. Such audits serve to guarantee that all financial resources are allocated appropriately, with no indications of fraudulent activity. Between 2012 and 2022, instances of fraud were identified in 17 towns and villages across Nebraska, amounting to over $1.7 million, as documented by the Flatwater Free Press. The implementation of semiannual audits ensures the responsible utilization of taxpayer funds.
Colbert Property Zoning
Justin and Riley Colbert are excited to announce their plans to change the zoning on a three-acre plot of land just east of Manley from agricultural to agricultural residential. Manley’s Planning Commission Board has enthusiastically approved their request, paving the way for their dream project. The couple looks forward to breaking ground on their beautiful new ranch-style home very soon. Wishing the Colberts all the best as they embark on this exciting journey!
New Business
Snow Removal
Manley is seeking to employ an individual for snow removal services. The compensation is set at $30 per hour, and the selected candidate will utilize the village’s snow removal machinery. Working hours will vary based on the days and the quantity of snowfall within the jurisdiction of Manley. For further inquiries, please contact Denise Swenson at 402.677.2587.
Port-a-potty
The port-a-potty at the park will be removed soon for the season. Make sure to go at home before going to the park!
A&F Welding with Papillion Sanitation
Due to an individualized contract with Papillion Sanitation, A&F Welding is obligated to continue utilizing the services of Papillion Sanitation as their refuse provider. Should the contract be breached, any payments made will be forfeited to the company. Consequently, A&F Welding will be permitted to continue employing the services of Papillion Sanitation until the conclusion of their contract in March 2025.
Vote on Claims
The board was required to conduct a revote regarding the authorization for the clerk to endorse her own check, as the Chair was absent from the previous board meeting due to an emergency. Unfortunately, since the matter was not included in the agenda disseminated prior to the previous meeting of the board of trustees, it could not be lawfully voted upon. In light of the significant instances of fraud detected within the state of Nebraska, particularly in smaller municipalities, the prohibition against signing one’s own check is clearly justified.
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