Hometown Heroes is planning an expansion of placing banners honoring veterans on utility poles, (Carol Bryant, Central Nebraska Today)
GRAND ISLAND – Grand Island’s Hometown Heroes program plans to expand its veterans banner project by adding banners to an additional 77 poles along North Broadwell between Airport Road and Five Points, and along Webb Road between Capital Avenue and Island Circle (just south of Highway 30).
Hollie Klimek with Hometown Heroes gave a slide presentation to City Council Oct. 22. She noted that the group had to buy brackets that attach to light poles to display the banners, and that the project quickly received funding from local businesses.
“We have a tremendous list of people who want banners,” Klimek said. She noted that being a veteran and being a family of a veteran is something that just doesn’t go away.
Council member Chuck Haase said, “I’m grateful for the people who are working on this project.”
Council member Mitch Nickerson said the banner display will draw many people to look at them.
Council member Jack Sheard said, “I think it’s awesome we’re going to extend the area.
Council members voted 8-0 to approve the pole attachment agreement with Hometown Heroes. Council members Maggie Mendoza and Jason Conley were not present at the Oct. 22 meeting.
In another issue, the City Council voted 6-2 to vacate the right-of-way on Pine Street from First Street to Court Street, which will mean the closure of Pine Street between First and Court Streets for the Hall County Courthouse expansion project. The county plans to put a parking lot in the area. A gate on one side of the parking lot will prevent people from driving all the way through the parking lot. Council members Bethany Guzinski and Michelle Fitzke said they would be voting against the motion because of complaints they’ve received from constituents.
In other business:
*The City Council voted 8-0 to approve transferring 720 square feet of city property to SNH Holdings, which owns the former Elks Building at 205 W. First St. SNH Holdings needs the property to install a handicap ramp and elevator at the site. The city is the owner of the parking lot adjacent to the building.
*The City Council approved a zoning change in an area bounded by Fonner Park Road, Nebraska Avenue, Pleasant View Drive, and Sun Valley Drive for residential construction.
*The City Council approved Motorola Solutions proposal for a P25 Radio System.
*The City Council approved a municipal advisory services agreement with Janney Montgomery Scott.
