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March 5, 2025
HARTINGTON — Plans for an ownership change at a local nursing home became public in early March as city officials announced discussions aimed at securing the facility’s longterm future.
The move was framed as an effort to stabilize operations, protect resident care and ensure continued access to long-term care services here.
Officials emphasized that while no final agreements had been reached, the process reflected growing challenges facing rural nursing homes and the need to explore new management or ownership models to keep essential services in place.
March 5, 2025
HARTINGTON — Cedar County Commissioners approved the 2025–26 Cedar County Transit budget, giving the green light for continued operation of the county’s public transportation system while keeping local costs relatively stable.
Transit Director Nikki Pinkelman told the board the budget reflects rising expenses tied to vehicle maintenance, fuel and insurance, while still relying heavily on state and federal funding to offset operating costs.
Commissioners emphasized the importance of the transit system for seniors, residents without transportation and those needing access to medical care, reaffirming county support for a service viewed as essential to rural mobility and quality of life.
March 12, 2025
HARTINGTON — Hartington-Newcastle Public Schools completed an upgrade of its school van fleet to comply with updated federal transportation regulations, replacing all existing vans with new 10-passenger vehicles.
The move ensured the district met safety requirements while improving reliability for student transportation, including the purchase of an all-wheel-drive van for use on rural routes.
School officials said the investment addressed long-term compliance needs and enhanced safety for students traveling to activities and events.
March 19, 2025
LAUREL — The Laurel City Council voted unanimously to close Hillcrest Care Center, bringing an end to the city-owned nursing home after months of financial strain, staffing challenges and growing public concern.
Council members cited the unsustainable financial burden on the city as the primary reason for the decision.
The closure, effective May 13, impacted residents who were forced to relocate and approximately 50 employees, and marked one of the most emotional and consequential local government actions of the year.
The decision followed weeks of tense meetings, staff resignations and community efforts to save the facility, underscoring the broader challenges facing rural nursing homes.
March 26, 2025
HARTINGTON — The Hartington-Newcastle speech team dominated district competition to qualify 13 entries for the Class C2 State Speech Meet, earning the district championship and advancing with an opportunity to defend its state title.
The Wildcats captured top honors in nine of 10 events, scoring 294 team points and finishing well ahead of the competition. Coaches credited the team’s preparation, poise and depth, particularly after weather delays pushed the meet back two days, as HNS set its sights on another strong showing at state in Kearney.
