What Comes Next?
The question of “what’s next” holds significant weight in Gretna, a designated site within Nebraska’s Good Life Districts. Property owners situated within the district express apprehension regarding the trajectory of a new amendment introduced by State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan (District 39) on Monday, which appears to align with their concerns.
Explore further for an in-depth look at the unfolding narrative:
@ Mayor Mike Evans // Gretna
@ Drew Snyder // President, Woodsonia
@ Angie Lauritsen // Former Gretna City Council Member, Community Advocate
There is a palpable sense that the current juncture is a defining moment for Gretna’s future.
Drew Snyder, the president of Woodsonia, articulates, “It’s exciting. It’s significant. It’s a great area in our state so I think there’s tremendous opportunity there. Now, it just comes down to executing.”
Woodsonia, owning 140 acres near I-80 and Highway 31, falls within the boundaries sought after by Rod Rates, the owner of nearby Nebraska Crossing, for the Good Life District designation.
In correspondence shared with KMTV, a coalition of property owners representing approximately half of the district expresses partial support for a new bill, LB 1374. While the bill addresses certain specifics concerning the tourism initiative, it also raises some reservations.
Snyder, representing the landowners, emphasizes, “Our concern lies with the delineation of the map. Transparency regarding the designation on others’ properties is imperative for public awareness, ensuring the preservation of all property rights and related matters.”
A proposal has been put forth for an impartial entity to oversee decision-making processes, contrasting with involvement from a private entity.
In communication, Yates stated, “A neutral party will be making the decisions – the Department of Economic Development.”
Upon inquiry by 3 News Now’s Mary Nelson regarding the Department’s role and Yates’ involvement, a spokesperson clarified that the Department’s sole responsibility is approving the district and its boundaries, remaining detached from interactions between applicants and property owners.
However, transparency is not the sole murky aspect.
Snyder advocates for active participation from cities in the process, emphasizing the necessity of their endorsement.
Mayor Mike Evans of Gretna, also engaged in commercial real estate, echoes the sentiment for increased city involvement.
Expressing concerns about legislators and LB1374, which allocates a portion of the state’s sales tax from a Good Life District to developers for cost offsets, Mayor Evans voices apprehension about potential revenue implications and legal repercussions.
Moreover, zoning and platting issues are raised, suggesting that these matters are best handled locally through hearings and due process as opposed to at a state level. Despite this, the City remains unaware of the planned land developments, as the details are confidential by statute.
Yates recently outlined his vision to expand the Good Life District from 2,000 to 3,000 acres at an estimated cost of $5 billion.
Angie Lauritsen, a former Gretna City Council member and community advocate, underscores the necessity for a comprehensive plan that aligns with ongoing developments and garners community support.
The underlying aspiration across perspectives is a shared desire for the District’s success, benefiting both Gretna and the State.