Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper
Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper
The city of Sidney is in a dilemma, a conundrum if you will.
When Bass Pro purchased Cabela's, real estate became a buyer's market. In many instances there was a house or more on nearly every block with a for sale sign.
That was then. Since that time, the housing market has tightened and prices have increased. The dilemma is the city is also seeking economic development, which is a challenge without housing for the potential workers, and the existing residents of the Sidney area.
In the April 26 meeting of the Sidney City Council, City Manager David Scott presented a grant application for construction of single family homes in Sidney.
The Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund (NAHTF), established in 1996 Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Act,
In Scott's presentation to the council, he said the City completed an updated housing study in August 2021. The study was done to assist in assessing current housing in the city, and housing needs.
The housing study was used to complete the NAHTF application. The City is applying for funds in the “Homebuyer” category. The grant would fund construction of new single-family homes. The grant is for $500,000 with a $100,000 match from the City. With the City acting as Developer, the $25,000 Developer Fee is included in the application, which will be repaid to the City.
The about $600,000 is expected to finance construction of two single-family homes. Funds from the sale of the homes will be returned to the NAHTF. Scott said the grant is written with specific parameters.
Scott said the City is also watching carefully a grant opportunity later this year that could develop a revolving fund for more housing development.
The City Council also approved Ted Sintler to the Planning Commission, and reappointment of John Glenn, Caleb Sweetser and Matt Benzel to the Planning Commission. Steve Waller was appointed to the Tree Board and Don Ogle and Tas Uhrig was reappointed to the board.
The council also approved second reading of Ordinance 1835, application for rezoning on behalf of Alexander and Melissa Ramirez, and third reading of Ordinances 1832 on Water Debt Rate Assessment, Ordinance 1833 on Wastewater Treatment Facility Debt Rate Assessment, and Ordinance 1834 on Sewer Rate Assessment.
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