Broken Bow council adopts ordinance clarifying oversight of Board of Public Works

The Broken Bow City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1223 on April 14, 2020, amending Section 32.06 related to the Board of Public Works. The public hearing on the ordinance opened at 6:58 p.m. and closed at 7:10 p.m.

City Attorney Jason White said the amendment "does not remove any power from the Board," and that the ordinance clarifies the City Council's role as the supervising body while the Board retains control over projects and the policies governing utilities. "The Board controls the projects and is the supervisor for the Electric and Water Commissioners as it relates to the operation of the utilities," White said, and the mayor retains responsibility for personnel matters.

Councilmember Holcomb introduced the ordinance and moved to suspend the statutory rule requiring three readings; Councilmember Miller seconded the procedural motion. Councilmember Miller moved for final passage, seconded by Councilmember Holcomb. Upon roll call the vote was Ayes: Miller, Holcomb, Schmidt, and Myers; Nays: None. The council declared Ordinance No. 1223 adopted.

The meeting record does not show any public objections or amendments to the ordinance during the hearing.