Improving the community

It's interesting to me how Chris Anderson, a relative newcomer to the area, can promote Central City as easily as he might his hometown. Yes, his job is that of City Administrator, but nonetheless, he does it with such grace.

Anderson stated that many friendly people have welcomed him and his family which made their transition amazingly problem free. "People here have a positive outlook toward their community so that makes it easy." An Omaha native, this friendly man moved to Central Nebraska several years ago after similar positions in other small towns in Nebraska. Anderson said they are comfortable in this cozy community of nearly 3000. But more importantly, they are happy with the elementary school their children attend, and Mrs. Machelle Anderson, CPA, works out of their home for an accounting firm from Norfolk.

Five and a half years ago Chris was appointed as City Administrator and has been working hard ever since.  He stated that his position, "is to make Central City the most attractive community I can to businesses and families."  So far he's pleased with the projects he and the entire city team have accomplished, including:

€ Many roads have been resurfaced in concrete that were still gravel; € City parks and ball fields have been improved; € Utility rates have been kept competitive with no rate increases for sewer or water services for over 6 years; € Electric and natural gas systems are owned by Central City, which holds rates to lower, reasonable levels; € An Ethanol Plant moved into Central City 4 years ago, is up and running and employs 35 to 40 people; € The city "Free Lot Program" gives free lots to applicants who want to build within the city limits, which is 1 of only 10 similar programs in Nebraska.

Mr. Anderson stated that he's always looking for new businesses for Central City. As with the Ethanol Plant, new business helps the city tremendously as they pay taxes and utilities, shop downtown, and support local schools when children are enrolled. The City Administrator said that such activities naturally boost the morale of all its' citizens.

As tickled as Anderson is over projects already described, he's also thrilled about upcoming ones. His favorite programs "provide new housing opportunities for people. You're either growing or shrinking  so we have to do whatever we can to bring people to town."  He added, "We've been able to help people (solve housing problems) from any range on the housing spectrum, from $150,000 and down."  To add to the excitement he anticipates a busy summer in Central City since they have begun building the new Aquatic Center with a  pool, water slides, and bath house, and 3 brand new soccer fields.

In addition,  the nearby Lakeview Subdivision provides 10 beautiful building lots, sites for upscale homes. Those projects are underway and located at the South Recreation Area, between 28th Street and 18th Avenue.

Central City keeps humming thanks to Chris Anderson's keen eye for opportunities and smart business practices.  Anderson said he does the best he can with what the city has to offer.  New projects and programs are available to those who already appreciate the city and are invitations to those who have yet to discover expanding Central City.  If you're curious about what is cooking at City Hall, or want more information about programs, don't hesitate to call Anderson at 308-946-3806 to learn more about current projects, homes for sale, or other great deals.