Broken Bow council adopts ordinance vacating alley at 1000 South 3rd Avenue

The Broken Bow City Council unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 1222 on April 14, 2020, to vacate 129.2 feet by 12 feet of platted alley lying between Block 3 and Lot 6 in Pleasant Hill 2nd Subdivision. The public hearing on the proposal opened at 6:50 p.m. and was closed at 6:55 p.m.

Zoning Administrator Stephanie Wright said the alley vacation was prompted by a request from the Methodist Church to build a shed at the parsonage. "The alley is not vacated," Wright said, "and the parsonage is built all the way across the alley so the alley can't be used right now." The Planning Commission recommended approval of the vacation, and the alley property will become part of the adjoining church property on both sides of the alley.

Councilmember Miller introduced the ordinance and moved to suspend the statutory rule requiring reading on three different days; Councilmember Schmidt seconded that motion and the council approved the suspension. Councilmember Holcomb moved for final passage, seconded by Councilmember Miller. Upon roll call the vote was Ayes: Holcomb, Schmidt, Miller and Myers; Nays: None. The mayor declared Ordinance No. 1222 adopted.

The ordinance text states the manner for ascertaining damages to citizens or property owners and prescribes notice and hearing procedures for claims of damages caused by the vacation. The council record does not show any claims of damages at the hearing.

The council adjourned at 7:14 p.m. following the evening's other business.