Letter to the Editor

After my opinion letter appeared in the News Blade two weeks ago, several citizens asked why the city’s financial position had changed. Many factors have contributed to our cash-flow problems. As a businessman, I recognize that some costs can be controlled, while others are fixed or beyond our control.

One major expense beyond the city’s control is purchased electricity.We buy wholesale power through Nebraska Municipal Public Power (NMPP), which secures long-term power from multiple energy producers. In November 2024, the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) raised its wholesale rates by 8.5%.

That increase passed through NMPP to participating cities.