Multiplying Investments

The Sidney City Council reviewed a proposal to possibly increase funds earmarked for trails improvements.

The City has about $700,000 in taxes collected by Cabala's for the purpose of trail projects within and adjacent to the dedicated Enhanced Employment Area, generally just north of the Cabela's retail and corporate complexes.

In the City Council's Sept. 28 meeting, the council was presented with the idea of using the funds to seek larger grants.

City Manager David Scott proposed the City partner with Jason Nelke of Keep Sidney Beautiful (KSB) to seek grants for trail improvements. Preliminary discussions on improvement projects include the addition of a multi-use path on the north side of Fort Sidney Road, possibly adding lighting to existing trails west of Cabela's.

No plans have been approved at this time.

The September 28 proposal is to seek grants, including grants that require matching funds, to increase the impact of the $700,000 fund.

Using the fund balance for matching funds could help the City expand trails throughout the city, Nelke said.

“It struck me that if we're going to spend this kind of money, why not seek more,” Scott said.

The proposal was tabled until the next meeting; councilman Joe Arterburn was absent for the meeting.

The council also held a public hearing on a proposed business unique western Nebraska: ax throwing, and beer. The public hearing was held for the liquor license.

Krista Pittam and Aaron Beyer appeared representing Chill Axe, LLC. Beyer said the business will be closely monitored with specific equipment and limited alcohol.

He said no one will be allowed into the facility who is intoxicated; only beer will be available at the facility.

The design of the business is compared to a bowling alley. Axes are made with wood handles to prevent bounce-back, and each lane has a single target.

Pittam and Beyer said Chill Axe is designed to be a bar. Hours of operation are planned to be noon to 10 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.

The council also approved Jody O'Connell as the new manager of Hillside Golf Course, noting that Patrick Kilbride resigned and his name is still on the liquor license.

The council also received the quarterly report from McKailie Carnahn-Kuhns, President and CEO of the Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce.

Carnahan-Kuhns highlighted the Chamber activities including the county survey resulting in four key industries the community would like to see.

She also talked about the Properties Tour, the 20-plus housing information packets distributed. Downtown Sounds was credited as a success this year, with an estimated double the attendance of the last Downtown Sounds series. Stronger Together was also a success with many businesses reporting higher than normal Saturday traffic and overall positive experience. The Chamber's Sports Calendar resulted in $3,000 donated to Sidney Public Schools to help with travel costs for athletes.