Development Council for Buffalo County

06/16/2026

Wow, what a week! The Development Council was incredibly proud to host more than 150 economic development leaders from across Nebraska for the 2026 Nebraska Economic Developers Association Annual Conference for three days filled with meaningful conversations, fresh ideas, and strong connections.

From engaging presentations and hospitality at Younes Hospitality to unforgettable experiences around Kearney including stops at McCue’s Nebraska Taproom, Drop Zone, Meadowlark Hills Golf Course, Kearney Paddle Sports, Downtown Kearney on the Bricks and more—we loved showcasing what makes our community such a special place to live, work, and grow.

06/12/2026

POV: You get to host a block party in beautiful Downtown Kearney on the Bricks for 150 economic developers from across Nebraska featuring food trucks and brews at McCue’s Nebraska Taproom, amazing music from Radio Star, and generous support from Olsson! 😍

Nebraska Economic Developers Association

05/26/2026

Want to know the pulse of the Buffalo County economy? Trevor's got you covered!

KGFW's "Talk of the Town" - Weekdays from 9-11.

05/22/2026

Glow up, but make it Badass. 🤭

Cody and his team at Badass Workbench and Kyle and his crew at Magnify Signs & Graphics knocked it out of the park with this custom wall wrap map of Buffalo County and backlit powder coated sign. 🔥 🔥

Stop by our office and see it for yourself sometime!

05/13/2026

Amanda recently attended the Early Childhood & Business Advisory Council – Northern States Convening with colleagues from First Five Nebraska and Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Early childhood education is a key pillar of a strong and thriving community!

Leaders from across the country recently gathered in Kalispell, Montana, for the latest Early Childhood and Business Advisory Council (ECBAC) convening hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Nebraska was represented by First Five Nebraska, Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Development Council for Buffalo County, who continued efforts to position early childhood as a workforce and economic development priority through cross-sector collaboration and business engagement.

Left to right in the photo: Dena Beck, 6 Regions One Nebraska; Hunter Traynor, Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Amanda Polacek, Development Council for Buffalo County; and FFN's Mike Feeken and Elizabeth Everett.

05/13/2026

The City of Kearney extends its sincere appreciation to the residents of Kearney for their support and participation in the successful vote regarding the Kearney Good Life District.

With voter approval secured, the Kearney City Council is now authorized to formally prepare and adopt a Good Life District Economic Development Program, an important step toward advancing a transformational entertainment, retail, dining, and community destination for Kearney. Information about the Kearney Good Life District has been shared through the City’s website.

The Good Life District is designed to create long-term economic growth opportunities, attract visitors and private investment, support new jobs, and enhance quality-of-life amenities for residents and families throughout the community.

“We are grateful to the voters for their engagement and support throughout this process,” Mayor Nikkila stated. “This vote reflects a shared vision for Kearney’s future and allows the community to move forward with a project that will create lasting benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

The next steps will include formal adoption of the Good Life District Economic Development Program by the Kearney City Council and continued collaboration with the developer and project partners on planning, infrastructure, and implementation efforts. Additional updates and timelines will be shared with the public as the development progresses.

The City of Kearney appreciates everyone who took the time to learn about the proposal, participate in the process, and cast their vote.

05/08/2026

City of Kearney Nebraska Government Council recently approved several housing projects that collectively represent meaningful, tangible momentum in addressing local housing needs.

Even with this progress, data continues to show demand outpacing supply—particularly for attainable, entry‑level, and workforce housing.

But this progress is worth celebrating and sets the foundation for the next phase of work—continued collaboration, problem‑solving, and policy discussion aimed at strengthening housing availability and affordability over the long term. 🎉🏠🏘️

Positive Momentum on Housing in Kearney

05/07/2026

Economic Development Week is the perfect time to recognize the people who help move our community forward every single day—our incredible Board of Directors/Ex-Officos!

Their leadership, vision, and dedication play a vital role in driving growth, supporting local businesses, and creating opportunities that make our community stronger. From big-picture strategy to hands-on support, their commitment does not go unnoticed.

👏 Thank you to our board members for your passion, guidance, and unwavering belief in our mission. We are grateful for everything you do to help our community thrive!

05/07/2026

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