Registered voters have until 8 p.m. Tuesday May 12 to turn their ballots into the Cedar County clerk’s office.

As of Monday afternoon, 1,326 ballots have already been returned to the county clerk’s office.

That is equivalent to 47 percent of the votes cast in the 2022 primary election — the last non-presidential primary.

Cedar County Clerk Jessica Schmit reminds voters they need to fill out the back of their envelope completely, including residential address and driver’s license number.

“If these haven’t been completed correctly, our office will be making several efforts to contact the voter to “cure” their ballot envelope,” she said.

The only contested local election in the primary is the election for the District III Cedar County Commission seat currently held by Dave McGregor. McGregor is not seeking re-election.

Kelly Hammer, Justin Heikes and Tim Burbach are all vying for that seat on the GOP ticket. No Democrats filed for the seat, so unless someone files as a write-in candidate, the winner of next week's election will be sworn into office in January.

Results from Tuesday's election will come in after the Cedar County News print deadline, so they will be published Tuesday evening on the Cedar County News website and Facebook page. A special E Edition will also be released with updated election results.

A newly signed state law will reshape how legal notices are published across the state, opening the door for online-only newspapers, expanding digital posting options for government entities and modernizing long-standing requirements that, until now, largely revolved around print publication.

“This legislation is long overdue. Newspapers have been modernizing how they distribute the news for quite some time, now. Modernizing how public notices are published helps our industry continue this modernization process,” said Nebraska Press Association Past President and current Legislative Committee Chairman Rob Dump.

The measure, LB596, was approved by the Nebraska Unicameral and signed into law in April by Gov. Jim Pillen. While the bill touches a number of administrative statutes, its most significant impact centers on public notices and how the public accesses government information.

One of the biggest changes is that Nebraska now recognizes digital-only newspapers as “legal newspapers,” meaning they can publish official notices. Under the law, those outlets must meet several requirements, including having a base of paid subscribers, publishing regularly and focusing on local news and government coverage.

Previously, only print newspapers qualified to publish legal notices.

The law also formally recognizes e-editions — digital replicas of printed newspapers — as valid publications.

That move reflects how many community newspapers already operate, offering both print and online versions of their product.

LB596 does not eliminate the requirement to publish notices in newspapers, but it does expand how those notices can be distributed.

In addition to newspaper publication, public bodies may now have notices posted on a statewide notice website.

The Nebraska Press Association developed the site — www.NePublicNotices.com — a few years ago. The site acts as a database for public notices from across the state and is free to access.

The measure also updates Nebraska’s Open Meetings Act, giving local governments more flexibility in how they notify the public about meetings.

Traditional notice requirements are not disappearing. For example, the State Treasurer must continue publishing lists of unclaimed property owners in legal newspapers, maintaining one of the most visible long-standing uses of public notices.

In addition to notice-related changes, LB596 includes provisions allowing more government records to be stored digitally and updates a variety of administrative processes involving county records and procedures.

For local communities, the impact will likely be a blend of continuity and change. Newspapers will remain a central part of the public notice system, but digital platforms will play a larger role moving forward.

The law reflects a broader shift already underway in the news industry — one that recognizes readers increasingly access information online while still relying on trusted local sources to keep them informed.

HARTINGTON — Several area high schools are planning graduation ceremonies for this weekend.

Cedar Catholic will hold commencement ceremonies at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Msgr. Werner Activity Center.

The last day of school for Cedar Catholic seniors was Tuesday. Tuesday was filled with activities as a special Mass, Senior Breakfast and a high school awards program were also held that day.

Wynot High School seniors will graduate Saturday night at the Wynot school gym.

Members of the Laurel-Concord-Coleridge, and Randolph High School Class of 2026 will also graduate on Saturday afternoon.

Hartington-Newcastle High School is holding its annual commencement ceremonies Saturday May 16.

Commissioners received f0ur bids for the payloader. The low bidder was Murphy Tractor and Equipment Company of Sioux City with a bid of $372,800.

Nebraska Machinery Company, which primarily deals in Caterpillar equipment, put in a bid of $398,500. Titan Machinery bid two different payloaders, a 821G for $347, 483, and a 921G for $369,208.

Commissioners will review the bids to see which piece of equipment might best fit their needs. A decision on the equipment is expected to be made at the May 12 meeting.

Three area landowners were present for a public hearing on the closure of 562 Avenue half a mile south of the 887 and 562 intersection .

County Highway Supt. Carla Schmidt said the road was originally established on Sept. 4, 1896. A portion of the road was officially closed in 1962, she said.

Adjacent property owners said they couldn't remember a time when a fence wasn't across the road, so they've always thought it wa s officially closed.

Schmidt said the road closure was basically a formality since the fence is currently keeping people from using the road.

'It hasn’t been a road for many, many years, but it has not officially been closed,' she said.

Schmidt said that by officially closing the road, the land goes back to the adjacent landowners. Closing the road also releases the county from any liability if someone were attempt to drive on it and get injure d, she said.

She noted she has been approached about closing more of the roa d, but by doing so some property owners would be landlocked. It has been the county's policy in the past not to landlock a property owner by closing a road, she said.

After the hearing, Schmidt told Commissioners the Neb. Dept. of Transportation is planning to do road work on Highway 57 between Belden and Coleridge. That project is expected to begin on June 1, she said. NDOT has future plans to put in a left turn lane at the south portion of the Highway 81-Highway 84 junction at Pleasant Valley.

Cedar County Clerk Jessica Schmit told commissioners she is investigating a more economical employee life and disability insurance plan. She feels their current policy could be improved upon for little or no additional cost.

Commissioners were also informed by Zoning Administrator Tim Gobel of several building permits.

They included:

• Darvin Johnson for a 50x50 pole barn in the Brookey Bottom area.

• Roger Hahne for a 30x24 addition to a shed in Pct. 13.

• Todd Hahne for a 50x31 shop and 50x33 living space in Pct. 13.

• Haymaker Farms for a 48x24 horse barn and indoor feed area in northwest Cedar County.

• Robert Brummels to replace a grain bin damaged in a 2025 wind storm.

• Jason Harmalink for a 40x48 garage storage shed in Pct. 2.

Emergency Services Coordinator Kevin Garvin also met with Commissioners.

He said the county’s three communication towers need to be inspected every five years. Tower Systems of Rapid City, S.D. does the inspections. They will be in the area soon to inspect towers in Dixon County. He was informed Cedar County could get a cheapter rate if they got their inspections down at the same time.

He also noted battery updates will be needed at the county’s siren sites.

Commissioners also got an update on plans for the June bicycle ride through Cedar County.

One portion of the ride could be held on gravel roads. Garvin has been in conversations with organizers. No additional county support should be needed for the ride, he said.

Much of the discussion centered on a recent report from State Auditor Mike Foley, which was critical of the city’s management of the project.

Hartington resident Rich Pedersen addressed the council, saying his goal was to “settle the dust” surrounding the issue. He asked whether the city would consider hosting a town hall meeting to further discuss concerns raised in the auditor’s report.

Mayor Mark Becker said the council had already provided that opportunity.

“This has been a posted meeting,” Becker said. “I think the people who are interested in this issue are here tonight.”

Becker noted Pedersen had been placed on the agenda in advance, and the topic had been publicly advertised.

Councilman Colin Kathol agreed. “It was on our agenda,” Kathol said. “I would expect whoever had questions about the Skylon project would have been here tonight.”

Pedersen said he was speaking on behalf of residents who believe the city moved forward with relocating and renovating the Skylon Ballroom into a community center despite voters rejecting a $1.6 million bond issue for the project.

Kathol noted he also voted against that bond proposal.

“That didn’t mean I didn’t want a community center,” Kathol said. “I just didn’t want to see my taxes go up any more.”

Becker said the council interpreted the bond vote differently — as opposition to the proposed financing method, not the project itself.

He said the facility is largely being paid for with sales tax revenue and is already generating economic activity.

“Hartington needs a community center,” Becker said. “It’s a real economic benefit to have this facility here. It helps a lot of local businesses.”

Becker said the facility has already booked 18 or 19 weddings, along with several other events, over the next 16 months.

“That brings a lot of people to our town,” he said. 'It gives people another reason to want to move here.

Pedersen said he supports the concept of a community center, but questioned whether the current facility meets that goal.

“The state auditor’s report had a lot of things that seemed pre tty questionable,” he said. “I was not for moving the Skylon, but I was for a community center.”

He said he would have supported a larger, more versatile facility. “I would have been in favor of a $3 to $4 million community cen ter — one that served the community in many ways,” Pedersen said. “Instead of a dance hall — and that’s really what we got here. ”

Former City Clerk Natalie Schaecher also questioned the council, asking about how the facility was budgeted and if they were making any policy changes in light of the auditor’s report.

Several other people also addressed the Council during the onehour and 45 minute meeting. Most of them asking the same q uestions — why did the council push ahead with a project without fi rst getting community consensus.

Becker said the council had three choices — no community center at all; moving the Skylon and expanding it into a community center; or trying to pass a more expensive bond to build a new communit y center.

Becker said since the electorate turned down a $1.6 million bond it was the council’s feeling there was no appetite for an even more expensive project.

Pedersen said local residents are upset that the council pushed this down their throats without giving the public a chance to make their opinions known.

Kathol said the general public really has no idea how much time and effort went into this project.

“This isn’t something we just decided to do on a whim,” he said . “We all put a lot of thought — a lot of time into this. ”

Kathol said if people are dissastisfied with how the council has made the decisions, they should should make an effort and get in volved.

“We’re up here because we care for this community. We want to see it grow and improve,” he said. “I’m not up here to benefit Colin. I’m up here for the community.”

“If so many people are so against the decisions we make, how co me no one filed against me? There are three of us up for election this year, yet no one filed against any of us.”

The filing deadline for this year’s primary election was in March. Kathol, Cody Christensen and Mayor Mark Becker are all running unopposed for re-election this year.

HARTINGTON — Cedar County residents got the chance Thursday to learn more about the three men vying to become the next District 3 Cedar County commissioner.

About four dozen residents attended a candidate forum at the Hartington Public Library organized by the Farm Bureau.

The format allowed each candidate to answer the same questions, along with time for introductory remarks and closing statements. After the forum, candidates spoke one-on-one with voters.

Tim Burbach emphasized from the start that he is running to keep a lid on taxes.

“I’d like to find new ways to hold off this great big snowball of increased taxes, most of it through valuations where the state comes in and says, ‘this is the way it is,’” he said. “I’ve come up with some different ideas on how to offset that. I believe they will work. That is my main goal — to do everything in my power to at least hold the line on where we’re at today for as long as possible.”

Burbach, a former Hartington city councilman, said he reviewed county budgets and expenditures closely.

“My goal was to find at least 10 percent savings, but because my predecessors have done a fairly decent job of holding the line, I found about one percent that I thought was iffy,” he said. “For the most part, the commissioners have done a pretty good job with what they’ve had to work with.”

Kelly Hammer, a Wayne native now living in Coleridge, has worked for both the Wayne County and Cedar County road departments.

He said he wants to ensure everything is done by the letter of the law. Hammer said he initiated a fraud investigation into a Wayne County commissioner that resulted in that official leaving office. He also reported concerns about former District 2 Commissioner Craig Bartels to State Auditor Mike Foley. The audit identified concerns but no unlawful activity. Hammer said he believes that process contributed to Bartels’ decision not to seek re-election.

“I’m all for any fraud that needs to be taken care of — it needs to be completely gone,” he said. “I’m out for the taxpayers 100 percent.”

Hammer added that his road department experience gives him a strong understanding of the commissioner’s role.

“I love working with the Cedar County crew,” he said. “Those guys are capable of getting a lot of work done, and I intend to utilize them to get a lot of roads built and projects completed.” Fellow candidate Heikes, a first-generation farmer who also serves as county weed superintendent, said he believes the current board is doing a strong job managing the budget.

“I don’t see much that could be trimmed,” he said. “The only thing I could see is utilizing things a little more efficiently to try to do more with what we have — just subtle changes like that. I’m not going to say those subtle changes are going to create massive amounts of money, but maybe we could get by with less.”

Hammer suggested one cost-saving measure would be reducing how often county crews mow ditches, noting state statute places that responsibility on landowners.

Burbach said he sees opportunities to generate new revenue, including the possibility of a county-owned gravel pit.

“Right now, we are on the demand side instead of the supply side,” he said. “We’re at the mercy of other suppliers. The prices go up and we say ‘how much? and OK.’ We have no control over that.”

He said owning a gravel source could provide long-term savings and additional revenue through sales to other counties.

“I do not see any reason not to have our own gravel pit,” he said. “The amount of savings over the course of 40 or 50 years cannot be discarded. You need another source of revenue to offset your expenditures.”

Hammer disagreed, saying the available material may not meet longterm needs.

“It might work short term, but not long term,” he said. “We do have issues with gravel prices and trucking costs, but I don’t think using lower-quality material is the solution.” Heikes also expressed concerns about the investment.

“Gravel is expensive. There is no doubt about that. We spend $1.67 million a year on gravel. That is trucking, that is everything all said and done from seven to eight different suppliers. That rock we’re bringing in, that’s washed rock. That’s high quality. If any of those providers we’re working with, start producing a rock that we’re not satisfied with, we have the ability and the right to turn around and drive away.”

Heikes said the county loses that ability if it operates a gravel pit that can’t produce high enough quality rock.

“If a county owns a gravel pit, there is no real way to say how long that lasts. We’re talking infrastructure that we’d have to invest in — conveyors, wash plant, most likely bulldozers and a payloader and most likely more manpower and other insurance. The cost would be pretty extreme to where $1.67 million sounds fairly cheap. With what we have now, we get to pick what we want and how we get it.”

Heikes said Hayes County and Thayer County have their own gravel pits. Hayes County hasn’t mined their gravel pit since 1950, Heikes said. Thayer County just closed theirs down eight months ago and are actively trying to lease it out.”

The candidates were also asked about rural economic development.

Burbach said agriculture remains the backbone of the county and emphasized helping young farmers get started.

“They need all the help they can get,” he said. “I want to make sure the county does everything it can to help them succeed.”

Heikes said while the idea is appealing, the county has limited ability to assist.

“Speaking as a first-generation farmer, it’s very difficult to start farming,” he said. “I don’t see much the county can realistically do, but I’m open to ideas.”

He added that hard work remains the key.

“The only thing you can really do is just work your butt off,” he said.

Heikes said he approaches decisions carefully.

“I’m a slow, methodical thinker,” he said. “I rely on weighing pros and cons.”

Burbach said he seeks input before making decisions, while Heikes noted he would lean on experienced officials for guidance.

When asked about challenges they expect to face as a Commissioner, Burbach pointed to state-level decisions.

“It seems like there’s a trickle-down effect, and rural communities often get the short end of the stick,” he said.

Hammer cited maintaining roads and equipment, along with adapting to state and federal changes.

“Mainly, what keeps things going is having a great crew,” he said.

Heikes said his biggest challenge would be learning the position.

“Quite frankly, none of us has any experience being a commissioner. That’s going to be a big challenge, just learning the job. I’d rely on Dave (McGregor) a lot for advice. All the other commissioners I’ve talked to in all the other counties said it takes one or two terms to really get a grasp on the job,” he said.

The service, which has been in operation here since the 1990s, has been in the news lately as commissioners openly questioned policies and expenses. Earlier this month long-time director Nikki Pinkelman resigned over the close scrutiny of her management.

All three candidates said they feel the Cedar County Transit is a vital service.

Justin Heikes said the Cedar County Transit system 'has gotten to be a useful tool in our area. I personally know a lot of people that rely on it. The Transit system is going to have my support. I think the county needs it.'

Tim Burbach said when it first started, he didn't believe it was a good idea. His opinion changed as he learned more about the program, though.

'As I see today, it is an absolute necessity for the elderly and people who can't drive or get to where they need to be. Every person I've met and talked to about it, they are all smiles. Yes. That place needs our support — 100 percent.'

Kelly Hammer said the Transit System is a good thing for the county, but it has needlessly become a political issue. He suggested that it might be better if someone other than the Cedar County Commissioners oversaw the operation.

RANDOLPH — Shovels will hit the dirt May 5, but for Randolph Public Schools, the groundbreaking ceremony marks far more than the start of construction — it’s the visible beginning of a project years in the making, shaped by voter input, trimmed by necessity and ultimately approved by a community ready to invest in its future.

District officials will host a public groundbreaking ceremony at 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, at the elementary school courtyard — the future site of a new warming and serving kitchen that stands at the center of the scaled-down bond project.

The ceremony follows a successful special election in which Randolph voters approved an $8.75 million bond issue, giving the district the green light to move forward with a carefully revised plan for facility improvements.

Originally proposed as a $9.75 million project, the bond package was reduced after school board members revisited the scope, trimming costs while still addressing key needs across the district. The final plan focuses heavily on improving safety, updating aging infrastructure and enhancing student spaces — particularly at the elementary level.

Superintendent Daryl Schrunk said the process involved multiple revisions.

“We went back to the drawing table several times,” Schrunk said in earlier discussions. “In the end, we believe this project meets the needs of our students and community while staying financially responsible.”

Jackie Loberg | Randolph Times At the heart of the project is the new elementary kitchen addition, which will serve as a modern warming and serving space — replacing outdated facilities and improving efficiency for school meals.

The location of the May 5 ceremony underscores the importance of that addition, which also ties into broader improvements throughout the building.

In addition to the kitchen project, the bond includes HVAC system upgrades, electrical and lighting improvements, enhanced building security, renovated restrooms and updated classroom spaces.

Some originally proposed elements — including additional square footage at the Career Technical Education (CTE) and Ag building — were removed in an effort to reduce costs.

The district also leveraged approximately $1 million in special building fund reserves to offset the total bond amount, helping bring the project within reach for voters.

That balance appeared to resonate at the ballot box.

The bond issue passed by a 429291 margin, reflecting strong support from Randolph-area residents who viewed the project as a long-term investment in both education and the community itself.

“This is a great opportunity for the future of Randolph Public Schools,” Schrunk said following the vote. “We have a lot of work to still do, but I’m excited to be leading the next steps.”

The approval also positions Randolph alongside neighboring districts that have recently undertaken major facility improvements, part of a broader regional push to modernize school infrastructure and remain competitive in attracting and retaining students and staff.

While the construction phase now begins, district officials have emphasized that careful financial planning remains a priority. The bond structure allows for flexibility, including the option to refinance should interest rates improve — a safeguard designed to protect taxpayers over the life of the project.

Community members are encouraged to attend the May 5 ceremony, which will include brief remarks and an opportunity to view project plans. The event serves not only as a ceremonial kickoff, but also as a chance for residents to see firsthand how their vote is being put into action.

“I know those are harsh words, but I think it drives home a point,” the Hartington man said. “If we want to have a successful agriculture system, we need farmer input to inform our arena of work.”

Lammers has been at the table for nearly two decades, with work on both state and national soybean boards, the Northeast Nebraska Corn Growers, and numerous other local and regional committees and organizations.

It’s from that work that he was recently recognized and inducted into the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Nebraska Hall of Agriculture Achievement.

The honor was both surprising and humbling, Lammers said.

“Just to be recognized, number one, for my commitment and then to be recognized with the caliber of people that are in the Hall, it’s nothing that I anticipated,” he said.

The annual recognition banquet, held at the Nebraska East Union, recognized a total of 12 new members whose leadership spans production agriculture, extension, agribusiness and natural resources, and spans a broad cross section of Nebraska agriculture.

“The Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement exists to recognize individuals whose outstanding leadership and dedication have advanced agriculture for the benefit of our state and beyond,” said Mark Gustafson, president of the organization. Charles Wortmann, a Hartington native, was also recognized as a 2026 Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement honoree. He is an emeritus professor of agronomy and horticulture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His research includes improved nitrogen and phosphorus management for improved nutrient use efficiency, water quality protection, and reduced nitrous oxide emissions in Nebraska's agriculture; and improving soil and water management for crop production in sub-Saharan Africa.

Other honorees include Gina Hudson, Belvidere; Kevin Hall and Tom Hayden, Bridgeport; Jim Girardin Jr., Broken Bow; Galen Frenzen, Fullerton; Melody Benjamin, Lakeside; Royce Schaneman, Lincoln; Duane Kristensen, Minden; Peggy Wells, Mitchell; and Jenny (Rees) Brhel, York.

Lammers said being involved in state and national agricultural organizations helped him learn and grow and gave new opportunities to him along the way. It’s been exciting to see changes in technology, new products and new markets emerge over the course of his farming career. Now, he’s focused on transitioning the family farm west of Hartington to his son, Kyle.

But he’s not done learning, growing and taking an active role in agricultural leadership, saying he’d like to get more involved in local agricultural organizations moving forward.

“I’m a firm believer in having a new set of eyes, a different perspective on things. I feel there’s a trend of people not really participating, or volunteering and it’s a concern of mine,” Lammers said. “It’s not all give, give, give, you have the opportunity to grow and learn. That’s what we need to do every day of our lives.”

The announcement was made through a joint press release from First State Bancorp, Inc., the holding company of First State Bank, and C.S.B. Co., the holding company of Homestead Bank in Cozad. The full statement appears on Page 6 of this week’s Randolph Times.

Under the agreement, First State Bank will be merged into Homestead Bank, with Homestead Bank serving as the surviving entity.

The transaction has been approved by the board of directors of both companies and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending customary closing conditions, including shareholder and regulatory approval.

First State Bank Chairman and President Mark Linville said the move is expected to benefit the Randolph community.

“We are very excited about the growth opportunities that the proposed merger with Homestead Bank brings to the table,” Linville said. “Our two organizations share strong cultural and business ethics. We are both committed to our customers and our communities, and this partnership will only serve to enhance our commitment to the communities we serve.”

HARTINGTON — Cedar County residents should be able to start marking their primary election ballots this week.

Cedar County Clerk Jessica Schmit mailed 5,606 ballots out to Cedar County registered voters on April 14. The mailing cost is $4,100, Schmit said.

The county went to a mail-only process for elections more than a decade ago.

Voters have until 8 p.m., on Election Day, May 12 to return ballots. All the ballots come with paid postage to return or voters can drop them off at the drop box on the north side of the Cedar County Courthouse. Completed ballots can also be handed off at the County Clerk’s Office.

Once received, the ballot’s barcode is scanned and then put into a secure box by voter precinct.

Schmit said anyone that is not registered to vote, but still wants to vote in the May 12 primary election, still has a little time to register. People can register online or change their party affiliation online until midnight on April 27. Anyone that goes to a county election office has until May 1 to either change their party affiliation or register to vote If a Cedar County resident wants to change their voter registration they must now request a replacement ballot before doing so. This must be done in person, Schmit said.

HARTINGTON — Cedar County residents should begin receiving ballots this week for the upcoming primary election.

Cedar County Clerk Jessica Schmit said 5,606 ballots were mailed to registered voters on April 14 at a cost of approximately $4,100.

Cedar County has used a mail-only voting system for more than a decade.

Voters have until 8 p.m., on Election Day, May 12, to return their ballots. Ballots include prepaid postage, or they may be returned to the drop box on the north side of the Cedar County Courthouse. Completed ballots may also be delivered in person to the County Clerk’s Office.

Once received, each ballot is scanned and placed into a secure box organized by voter precinct.

Schmit said residents who are not yet registered still have time to participate in the May 12 primary election.

Voters may register or change their party affiliation online until midnight on April 27. Those who prefer to register in person at the county election office have until May 1 to complete the process.

Schmit noted that voters who wish to change their registration after receiving a ballot must first request a replacement ballot before making any changes.

Long-time director Nikki Pinkelman resigned earlier this month. At their April 14 meeting, Cedar County Commissioners hired Ashley Gowery after Pinkelman tendered her resignation. Gowery started working for the Transit Service in 2001, but then moved into the scheduling role.

Katie Pinkelman will replace Gowery as the scheduling director. Pinkelman had been working as a full-time driver.

Cedar County Commission Chairman Richard Donner said Pinkelman's resignation was a bit of a surprise.

'We had some questions about a few things,' Donner said. 'We’ve just been concerned about some of the things that were being done, so we wanted to talk to her about it.”

Donner said Pinkelman resigned during an executive session after Commissioners began questioning her about some of the policies and expenditures of the transit system.

Donner said he believes the transit system serves an important purpose, but was concerned about some of the past expenditures in the department.

In past meetings, Donner had questioned some of the travel expenses the Transit Department was racking up, such as travel to conferences in Florida and Atlanta.

In other action at last Tuesday's meeting, Commissioners also discussed some road closures and the possibility of working with the village of Wynot on another road.

A county resident approached the commissioners about the possibility of closing a road north of Hartington. Cedar County Highway Supt. Carla Schmidt said after researching what might have to be done, she discovered if a resident would like to have a road closed, they must first present a petition to the county board signed by at least 10 people in a 10-mile radius of the property concerned.

The petition triggers the process to see if the road can be closed. That includes having the County Highway Superintendent compile a study of the road within 10 days. It is then up to the County Board to decide if they want to hold a hearing to close the road.

• Best Community Promotion ad for an ad designed by Peggy Year which promoted the Hartington Chamber of Commerce’s annual Candlelight Christmas event.

• Best Ag ad for a bull sale ad designed by Year.

• Best Classified ad for a help wanted ad for Laurel-Concord-Coleridge school.

• Best headline writing.

• The News’ annual Memorial Day section was honored as the best special section.

• Cedar County News intern Hannah Ryun earned a first-place award for her Memorial Day video.

The News also earned second-place plaques for:

• Editorial of the Year for an editorial congratulating local residents for fighting back against a big corporation that was trying to force changes here.

• The annual student awards section, which honors area students for their scholastic, extra curricular and athletic accomplishments.

• The Cedar County News website — www.hartington.net

• Online breaking news coverage of the Carrie Jones trial.

• Social media coverage of area Memorial Day celebrations.

• Digital advertising design

• Typography and design of the Memorial Day articles.

The Advocate earned a third-place award for a breaking news photo of a car fire by Sandra Cross. Advocate intern Hannah Ryun earned a second-place plaque for her video report on the annual Ag Days celebration.

The Cedar County News was also honored as one of the top weekly newspapers in Nebraska, earning 25 awards at the Nebraska Press Association’s annual convention.

The Hartington-based newspaper also claimed the top weekly digital news producer award, marking the third time in the seven-year history of the category that the News has earned the weekly sweepstakes honor for its work in video, social media and web content.

In addition, the News captured the digital sweepstakes award in its circulation class for the sixth time.

Former Northeast Nebraska News Company publisher Rob Dump was also recognized, earning runner-up honors in the Editorial of the Year contest for an editorial focusing on the role of small towns in standing up to large corporations.

The recognition continues a strong run for Northeast Nebraska News Company publications. This marks the third consecutive year one of its newspapers has placed either first or second in the statewide editorial contest. A Cedar County News editorial won the award in 2024, followed by a Randolph Times editorial in 2025.

The Cedar County News was also recognized for its overall editorial page and editorial writing.

Awards were presented Saturday night during the association’s banquet at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel in Lincoln.

A total of 2,051 entries were judged this year by members of the North Dakota Newspaper Association.

The Cedar County News also earned a bronze award in the overall sweepstakes competition for newspapers in its circulation category.

That category includes entries from both daily and weekly newspapers statewide.

The Randolph Times received a first-place award for a community promotion advertisement created ahead of a school bond election.

The Times also earned first place for a series of articles by Rob Dump highlighting the 90th anniversary of First State Bank. A feature story by former editor Trisha Benton — a Valentine’s Day profile of Don and Ann Marie Thies — also received first-place honors.

Benton added a third-place award for reporting on the dismissal of Randolph’s former city clerk.

In the statewide print sweepstakes competition, the Knox County News was named the top weekly newspaper, while the Hastings Tribune earned top honors among daily newspapers.

The Knox County News finished with 18 firstplace awards, 12 second-place awards and seven third-place awards to claim the weekly title.

The Hastings Tribune totaled 12 first-place, 11 second-place and four third-place awards for 240 points to win the daily division.

Flatwater Free Press won the inaugural Class C Digital Sweepstakes Award, recognizing larger print and digital newsrooms.

Contest categories included writing, photography, advertising, digital media, design and overall creativity.

In total, the Cedar County News earned eight first-place awards, seven second-place awards and nine third-place awards.

Cedar County News first-place awards included:

• Digital sweepstakes award for best overall digital presence, including social media, website, video and digital advertising

• News photographer Jeremy Buss for a firstplace image featuring Cedar Catholic wrestling coaches leaping into celebration

• Best Classified ad for a help wanted ad for Laurel-Concord-Coleridge school.

City Administrator Dan Kuhlman said Miller Painting is continuing work under a five-year contract the city approved in 2022 to handle ongoing pool maintenance and restoration.

“This year was a bigger project than years past,” Kuhlman said. “They were tasked with sandblasting the whole interior and repainting, along with removing the old tiles which had shown signs of wear and tear and filling those gaps.”

In addition to the more extensive work, the company also completed its routine maintenance duties, including inspecting the pool for cracks and sealing any that developed during the offseason. Crews also repainted solid lines throughout the pool.

Kuhlman said the improvements are part of the city’s effort to keep the facility in good condition through regular upkeep rather than large-scale replacement projects.

The pool is scheduled to open for the season May 26, weather permitting. The Laurel splash pad is also expected to be ready for use at that time.

Kuhlman said Lainey Folkers will serve as pool manager this summer after working as co-manager during the 2025 season.

“She will be taking on the role on her own this year,” Kuhlman said. City officials said they are hopeful the upgrades and routine maintenance will provide a safe and enjoyable environment for swimmers throughout the summer.

The Hartington-based newspaper also claimed the top weekly digital news producer award, marking the third time in the seven-year history of the category that the News has earned the weekly sweepstakes honor for its work in video, social media and web content.

In addition, the News captured the digital sweepstakes award in its circulation class for the sixth time.

The Cedar County News also earned a bronze award in the overall sweepstakes competition for newspapers in its circulation category.

A total of 2,051 entries were judged this year by members of the North Dakota Newspaper Association.

Former Cedar County News publisher Rob Dump was also recognized, earning runner-up honors in the Editorial of the Year contest for an editorial focusing on the role of small towns in standing up to large corporations.

That category includes entries from both daily and weekly newspapers statewide.

The recognition continues a strong run for Northeast Nebraska News Company publications. This marks the third consecutive year one of its newspapers has placed either first or second in the statewide editorial contest. A Cedar County News editorial won the award in 2024, followed by a Randolph Times editorial in 2025.

The Cedar County News was also recognized for its overall editorial page and editorial writing.

Awards were presented Saturday night during the association’s banquet at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel in Lincoln.

Two other Northeast Nebraska News Company publications also earned honors.

The Randolph Times received a first-place award for a community promotion advertisement created ahead of a school bond election.

The Times also earned first place for a series of articles by Rob Dump highlighting the 90th anniversary of First State Bank. A feature story by former editor Trisha Benton — a Valentine’s Day profile of Don and Ann Marie Thies — also received first-place honors.

Benton added a third-place award for reporting on the dismissal of Randolph’s former city clerk.

The Laurel Advocate earned a third-place award for a breaking news photo of a car fire by Sandra Cross. Advocate intern Hannah Ryun earned a second-place plaque for her video report on the annual Ag Days celebration.

In the statewide print sweepstakes competition, the Knox County News was named the top weekly newspaper, while the Hastings Tribune earned top honors among daily newspapers.

The Knox County News finished with 18 first-place awards, 12 second-place awards and seven third-place awards to claim the weekly title for the fourth time.

The Hastings Tribune totaled 12 first-place, 11 second- place and four third-place awards for 240 points to win the daily division.

Flatwater Free Press won the inaugural Class C Digital Sweepstakes Award, recognizing larger print and digital newsrooms.

Contest categories included writing, photography, advertising, digital media, design and overall creativity.

In total, the Cedar County News earned eight firstplace awards, seven second-place awards and nine third-place awards.

First-place honors for the Cedar County News included:

• Digital sweepstakes award for best overall digital presence, including social media, website, video and digital advertising

• News photographer Jeremy Buss for a first-place image featuring Cedar Catholic wrestling coaches leaping in celebration

• Best use of computer graphics for the weather graphic which accompanied the News' annual weather in review article.

Two Wynot area roads also drew quite a bit of attention at Tuesday’s meeting. Wynot Village board member Terry Pinkelman addressed the board about a road heading out of Wynot that is in bad shape and in need of repair. Pinkelman said the village was aware of an agreement put together in the early 2000s which stated the village and county would work together to get the road armor coated and then share maintenance expenses. Pinkelman said he would like to see that happen again in this case.

However, another document was discovered that specifically said the county would not assist the village with maintenance on another village road.

Pinkelman said it is estimated to cost $20,000 for armor coating, some patching on that road.

Something does have to be done with that road, Donner said, adding they will have to look at it before making any decisions.

“Whatever you decide, we need to make it official and write it down — put it into an interlocal agreement,” Schmidt told Commissioners.

Also at the April 14 meeting, Commissioners heard a report from Cedar County Assessor Janelle Heikes. Heikes said 16 changes had to be made on property taxes concerning the Homestead Exemption.

Commissioners also approved a Special Designated Liquor License for Nissen Wine for a wine tasting event June 23 at the Cedar County Fairgrounds. The wine tasting is part of the welcoming event community organizers are planning for the statewide bike ride which will come through here this summer.

Also at last Tuesday’s meeting, Commissioners officially rejected all chip seal bids that were tabled at the last meeting.

Commissioners also passed a resolution to close a County line road on the Dixon County line in southern Cedar County. The south half mile of 576 Avenue road in pct 21 will be closed. Dixon County had already voted to close that portion of the road.

Cedar County Zoning Administrator Tim Gobel also presented several building permits for Commissioner’s review.

They were:

• Matt Lundahl, Pct. 21, for a 167,500 bushel grain bin

• Duane Schantz, Pct. 1, for a 40x60 pole barn

• Troy young, Pct. 21, for a 40x100 pole barn

• Scott Becker, Pct. 4, for a 1,500 sq. foot house

• Mathew Pinkelman, Pct. 6, for a 30x40 steel frame shop

• Tim Bearnes, Pct. 15, for a 10x21 canopy Commissioners also approved four conditional use permits.

The Skylon, a longtime community landmark dating back to 1952, reopened in August 2025 after being moved a quarter mile to the west into Hartington's new business park. It is currently being operated as an event center under a lease agreement between the city and a private company headed by Hartington resident, Corey Kramer.

In a March 31 letter to city officials, Nebraska Auditor of Public Accounts Mike Foley said a full audit is not necessary at this time, but identified issues that “merit corrective action.”

Foley said his office was made aware of public concerns about the project through a tipline on the Auditor's website.

Each week that tip line provides the Auditor's office with several tips about the possible use of public funds, said Craig Kubicek, a Division Manager with the State Auditor's office.

At the center of the issue is the cost of moving and renovating the historic ballroom.

According to the Auditor's report, the city made 74 payments totaling $965,960.98 tied to renovation work on the Skylon.

That spending, the report said, appears to conflict with the September 2024 purchase agreement, which stated renovations were to be completed “by and at the expense of the seller,” Roger Wortmann.

The auditor also noted more than $198,000 of those payments went to Plumbing & Electric Service, Inc., a company established by Wortmann, meaning the city both covered renovation costs and paid the seller’s business directly for work on the project.

The report further questions the handling of a $50,000 LB 840 economic development grant used to purchase the land where the Skylon now sits.

Because state law prohibits cities from awarding LB 840 funds to themselves, the money was granted to Wortmann, who purchased the property and later transferred it to the city at no cost. The auditor said if the arrangement was used to work around that restriction, the grant could be considered legally suspect.

The auditor also found the city took ownership of the building too early — before key contract conditions were met.

The agreement required the Skylon to pass final building inspections after renovations before transfer. However, the report says those inspections were not adequately completed before the city took possession on June 3, 2025, nor before the building opened to the public on Aug. 9, 2025.

As of late February 2026, a final inspection confirming full compliance had still not been completed, the report said.

Engineering reviews cited in the report also identified concerns. A 2025 site visit noted the structure had not been evaluated for current code compliance, and a January 2026 review identified several structural issues that may require further work.

City officials, in a written response included in the report, said some of the expenses paid by the city were outside the original agreement, including parking lot construction, landscaping and additional project upgrades. They also noted the building passed electrical and fire inspections needed to host events and that fundraising efforts have exceeded $200,000.

The auditor acknowledged that response but maintained the contract language clearly placed renovation costs on the seller and that a final inspection following completion of all work still appears outstanding.

The city held a bond election in May 2024 to buy, move and renovate the historic facility. Voters rejected that plan, however, so the city decided to work with Wortmann to move and renovate the facility with the understanding he would then sell it to the city.

The city agreed to purchase the Skylon for $1.05 million plus interest. By the time the property was transferred in June 2025, the city had paid $100,000 under that agreement.

The auditor's report stops short of alleging wrongdoing, but warns that without stronger controls, there is an increased risk of misuse of public funds.

Kubicek said now that the report has been filed, it is up to another entity such as the County Attorney, or Attorney General to decide if other action is needed.

'What the public does with it now, is up to them,' he said.

Foley said reports like this are designed to draw attention to potential misuse of public funds.

'If it is an impropriety, then the county attorney could step in. I don’t think this falls into that category,” Foley said. “I think this is more a question of pointing out the problem and then expecting them to take some action to make some corrections. I don’t see any legal repercussions against the city.”

Foley said his office works as a watchdog to make sure public funds are used correctly.

'We point out the problem and leave it to their discretion as to how to handle it,' he said. 'It is hoped that they will take the recommendations to heart and implement the changes we are suggesting,' Foley said.

State auditors recommended the city improve procedures to ensure compliance with contracts and LB 840 requirements, and to seek legal guidance on whether it can recover funds spent on renovations that should have been paid by the seller.

HARTINGTON — A three-judge panel ruled Friday afternoon that Jason Jones deserves the death penalty for the August 2022 killings of four Laurel residents.

On Aug. 4, 2022, Jones shot Gene Twiford, his wife, Janet Twiford, their daughter, Dana Twiford, and neighbor, Michele Ebeling.

After the killings, he set fire to both homes in an attempt to destroy evidence. He also accidentally set himself on fire while lighting the houses ablaze.

Cedar County District Court Judge Bryan Meismer read the unanimous decision he rendered with judges Patrick Heng and Timothy Burns.

The panel concluded the aggravating circumstances in the case far outweighed any mitigating factors, resulting in a death sentence on each of the four murder convictions. Under Nebraska law, the panel must be unanimous to impose the death penalty.

“These were terrible, despicable and unforgiving murders,” Judge Meismer said as he read the panel's decision. “The fact four people lost their lives at the hands of the defendant on the night in question — and that a jury found two of the victims were killed in an attempt to conceal the commission of a crime, or to conceal the identity of the defendant as the perpetrator of the crime — was given great weight by this panel.”

Jones appeared in person for the 29-minute hearing in a packed Cedar County courtroom.

This marked the first time the 46-year-old Laurel man had appeared in person in the court room. Lawyers successfully kept him out of past court proceedings as he healed from the third-degree burns he sustained at the time of the crimes.

In September 2024, a jury convicted Jones on 10 counts, including four counts of first-degree murder, two counts of arson and four counts of use of a firearm to commit a felony.

After listing those convictions, Meismer outlined the panel’s reasoning, emphasizing the weight of the aggravating factors compared to those presented by the defense.

Meismer imposed the death penalty on each of the four murder counts. Additional sentencing on the remaining felony convictions was also ordered.

Last August his wife, Carrie Jones, was convicted of murder charges in the death of Gene Twiford. Prosecutors successfully argued that she urged Jason Jones to kill Twiford.

As with any death sentence ruling, the case will now be scheduled for an appeal in front of the Nebraska Supreme Court, Lancaster said. He expects that to be at least a year away, though, he said.

Family members, who sat through every court proceeding in the past threeand- a-half years, said they were relieved the case was over and the harshest sentence possible was issued. Jones will now become the 12th person on Nebraska's death row. After the ruling, representatives from the Twiford and Ebbeling families gathered on the main floor of the courthouse to read prepared statements.

Gene and Janet Twiford's daughter, Gail Curry, said the sentencing brings some legal closure, but does not bring back the people the family loves, nor take away the grief they will forever carry.

“Our loved ones — Gene, Jan and Dana Twiford — were so much more than victims,” Curry said. “They were deeply loved, kind, and the heart of our family. Their absence is felt every single day. They mattered, and they still matter.'

Multiple construction projects are set to begin after the Randolph City Council approved several building permits during its April 8 meeting.

Permits were approved for Scott Bowers, 526 W. Wayne St.; Derek Naslund, 411 W. Wayne St.; Randolph Farm Supply, 86592 558 Ave.; and Randolph Public Schools, 309 N. Bridge St. and 207 N. Pierce St.

Bowers plans to expand his home, a project that also required floodplain and variance permits due to updated floodplain maps.

Naslund received approval to construct a 24-by-4--foot shed. Because his property is located within the floodplain, the project will require installation of a flood gate.

Randolph Farm Supply’s permit was approved with conditions. The project remains contingent on combining two parcels of land and annexing the property into city limits. City officials said early approval could help expedite construction once those steps are completed.

Once the lots are combined, the company plans to move forward with construction without further delay.

Randolph Public Schools also received permits tied to its recently approved bond issue. Projects include an addition to the elementary kitchen and construction of a new 110-by-88-foot building.

In other business, the council approved upgrades to the city pool house, including plumbing work, interior and exterior painting, and epoxy flooring.

Plumbing work will be completed by Scott Wattier and Kendall Kuhl, with flooring and painting by Erikson Floors. Funding will come from existing city funds.

Council members also discussed a citywide cleanup event, though no dates were set. Details will be announced at a later time when all details have first been worked out.

The council entered executive session to discuss legal matters before adjourning.

The next Randolph City Council meeting is scheduled to be held May 13, at 6:30 p.m., at Randolph City Hall.

This year's primary election is May 12. Schmit said she is expecting to mail out 5,752 ballots to registered voters next week. That number could change slightly, though, as Nebraskans have until April 27 to register online or by mail. The voter registration deadline for people wanting to register in person at the county election office is May 1.

Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen said he believes any kinks in the system from the recently adopted voter ID law, have been worked out.

“We are expecting a smooth election process this year considering the highly successful rollout of Nebraska’s voter ID law in 2024,” said Secretary Evnen. “Nebraskans are prepared to cast their votes and county election officials do a very effective job working with voters to ensure that our elections run properly. I have every confidence in their ability to do their jobs well.”

Ballots must be received by the county election office no later than 8 p.m. Central Time in order to be counted.

Sample ballots for the primary election can be found inside this week's Cedar County News.

The March 29–31 conference in Lincoln brought together FCCLA members from across the state to compete in STAR events and leadership activities.

HNS students captured several state titles and runner-up finishes, highlighting the strength and depth of the program.

Leading the way, the Chapter in Review Portfolio team of Stella Sudbeck, Londynn Morten, and Abrie Humphries earned a gold medal and state championship in Level 1, while Ziva Stratman and Katelyn Uldrich claimed a gold medal and state title in Level 2. Both teams qualified for nationals. In Interpersonal Communication, Brooke Kalin, Lauren Uldrich, and Quinn Stratman earned gold medals and a state championship, also advancing to nationals.

Allison Huesers captured a gold medal and state title in Say Yes to FCS (Level 2), while Kaylee Kloster won a gold medal and state championship in Level 3 of the same event. Both qualified for nationals.

Additional national qualifiers included Hadley Grutsch, Nora Lange and Jocelyn Reyes, who earned gold and a state runner-up finish in Chapter Service Project Portfolio (Level 2); Keira Carl and Brooklyn Lenhoff, who took silver and runner-up honors in Event Management (Level 1); and Kloe Fischer, who placed as state runner-up in Job Interview (Level 2) with a gold medal.

Karissa Bruning also earned a gold medal and national qualification in Job Interview (Level 3), while Ella Kelly earned gold and a runner-up finish in Promote and Publicize (Level 2).

Haleigh Lammers, Celia Gall, Ella Hoeppner earned silver medals and a state championship in Nutrition and Wellness (Level 1), also qualifying for nationals.

Other national qualifiers included Vayda Lippert, who earned gold in Teach or Train (Level 2).

Additional medalists for Hartington-Newcastle included Danika Kleinschmit and Samantha Thoene (silver, Chapter Service Project Display, Level 1); Brynlee Feilmeier, Lily Heikes, and Maggie Lippert (silver, Focus on Children, Level 1); Jerze Hunt, Emma Hoeppner, and Willa Sage (silver, Professional Presentation, Level 1); and Linden Bensen and Malyla Zach (gold, Repurpose and Redesign, Level 1).

In earlier recognition, Olivia Olsen earned a gold medal in Career Investigation (Level 2).

Katelyn Uldrich and Allison Huesers were also recognized as state peer officer candidates, while FCCLA adviser Kelsey Schumacher received the organization’s Ace Award.