During Tuesday’s Lexington City Council meeting, a diverse array of topics ranging from public health updates to economic development initiatives were on the agenda.
Haleigh Eschliman, representing Two Rivers Public Health Department, took the floor to provide a thorough update on the organization’s activities during the public comments section of the meeting.
Eschliman shared informative packets with the council, shedding light on the role that Two Rivers plays in promoting public health in the region. Notably, Eschliman emphasized the ongoing partnership with Lexington and surrounding areas.
Eschliman said 21 families are enrolled with Two Rivers Public Health Department, with seven of them from Dawson County.
Eschliman outlined key programs and initiatives spearheaded by Two Rivers, including child welfare, health promotion and prevention of child abuse. Moreover, she highlighted the organization’s commitment to providing comprehensive support through home visits, aimed at strengthening the bond between parents and children.
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Addressing pressing public health concerns, Eschliman provided updates on the measles outbreak and avian influenza surveillance efforts.
Eschliman said the number of measles cases has doubled this year.
Eschliman said Two Rivers’ surveillance program is keeping an eye on this matter and making sure that the agency is doing everything it can during this situation.
Despite the outbreak, Eschliman said, measles “herd immunity” is about 97%, which is above average and puts the state in good standing.
Eschliman said one of the surveillance areas that Two Rivers is monitoring has an avian influenza outbreak.
Eschliman said Nebraskans should take notice, since this is an agricultural state and should protect animals, crops, humans and agricultural businesses.
Despite challenges posed by these outbreaks, Eschliman reassured the council of Two Rivers’ proactive measures and robust surveillance systems aimed at safeguarding public health.
Eschliman said that through Two Rivers’ environmental health program, purple air monitors have been placed in each district. The one in Lexington is placed on top of the courthouse.
The purpose of the monitors is to detect air quality at any time and report findings.
After Eschliman answered a few questions from council members about the filters and how the diseases are spread, she concluded her 10-minute presentation.
The council deliberated on Ordinance 2465, which pertains to the establishment of an enhanced employment area business occupation tax for the Lexington Holiday Inn Express redevelopment project. City Manager Joe Pepplitsch reiterated the specifics of the ordinance.
City Clerk/Personnel Manager Pam Baruth then read the ordinance aloud.
After a motion was approved to suspend the rules on subsequent readings, the council unanimously approved adopting the ordinance on final reading, marking progress toward the envisioned redevelopment project.
The council reviewed and accepted the Fiscal Year 2023 Audit Report. City Treasurer Derek Haines commending the thoroughness of the report. Despite noting one typo on the 40-page report, Haines said he agreed with everything else presented.
Additionally, the council granted a request from the Lexington Housing Authority to waive payments under a “payment in lieu of taxes” agreement.
The council concluded the session by approving the purchase of two properties at 505 E. Pacific St. and 605 E. Pacific St. While details regarding the future use of these properties were not extensively discussed, Pepplitsch said they would be used for future community redevelopment purposes.
