Nuckolls County board ponders fate of courthouse

The Nuckolls County Board of Commissioners met at the courthouse in Nelson Monday. All three board members were present.

The board approved routine claims.

The board held a conversation concerning the future of the courthouse building. The debates is whether to keep spending money on upkeep of the current building or construct a replacement structure. The board was informed that more than $1.5 million had been spent on maintenance over the past 10 years. The monthly utility bill exceeds $5,000. It was decided to consult with architects and other experts as to costs and options. The board will continue to explore this subject. Any decisions will be made after public hearings are held. It was pointed out the continuing HVAC issues could result in another large expenditure.

County court was in session with Michael Burns presiding. The session was 45 minutes late in starting because of an issue with the recording system.

The time was quickly made up when four defendants failed to appear for their hearings.

A juvenile who had been ordered to report to a group home was missing. He had been wearing an ankle monitor. He was instructed to report to a group home in North Platte. He traveled to Grand Island to have his electronic monitoring device removed. His parents were called to transport him to North Platte but he was nowhere to be found. The judge issued a juvenile arrest warrant for the individual.

The board will meet at 8:30 a.m., Monday, Oct 16.

The courthouse is closed Monday to observe Columbus Day. It will reopen Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.