News

The Merrick County Board of Supervisors spent the past week addressing the upcoming budget amid growing conversations surrounding rising property taxes. On Monday night, a special budget meeting was held, drawing significant attendance after many local residents received postcards notifying them of estimated changes in their property taxes. The postcards indicated changes to property tax levies, sparking widespread interest and concern among homeowners.

High Plains Community Schools is excited to announce the candidates for the 2024 Homecoming Court. Six students have been selected to represent their school during this annual tradition.

On September 13th Linda Jensen of Central City ended her career of nearly 42 years serving as Billing Clerk and City Clerk/Treasurer. Linda was first hired full-time as a data processing and billing clerk in December 1982. During this time Linda fully automated the city office, including the utility bills. In 2009 her title changed to City Clerk/Treasurer. In the early years Linda worked with the Department Heads who ran their own departments. Since then, she has worked with five City Administrators. She has had the pleasure of working for six Mayors and numerous Council Members.

Last Friday the Central City Elementary School celebrated grandparents day. To the left Harper Burdick and her grandma share their smiles on this joyous day.

Merrick County’s commitment to hands-on learning came to life on September 5, 2024, as 132 students, teachers, and volunteers gathered at Bader Park for a day of environmental exploration and education. Sponsored by Farm Credit Services of America and the Merrick Foundation, this Environmental Education Day offered fourth and fifth graders from Central City, High Plains, Nebraska Christian, and Palmer schools the opportunity to engage with Nebraska’s natural beauty and ecosystem.

Under a golden 5 p.m. sun that bathed Central City in warm light, something extraordinary happened. This wasn’t just any gathering—it was the kind of event that cements itself in the hearts and minds of a community. The crowd stood in awe as the beautiful bronze sculpture “Robins & Ribbons,” created by renowned artist George Lundeen, was unveiled. But this wasn’t simply a tribute to art. It was a celebration of the life and legacy of one of Central City’s own: Patricia Campbell, affectionately known as Miss Pat.

Last week, we spotlighted Katie Benner, the write-in candidate challenging for the District 4 seat on the Merrick County Board of Supervisors. This week, we turn our attention to the incumbent, Carolyn Kucera, who is seeking her fourth term on the board. With 12 years of experience under her belt, Kucera has been a steady and reliable presence in county governance.