Colfax County Appendix

Section Seven | Colfax County Community Profile

COMMUNITY PROFILE

COLFAX COUNTY

Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (NRD) Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

2020

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Local Planning Team

Table CCO.1: Colfax County Local Planning Team Name Title Jurisdiction Michelle Evert Deputy Emergency Manager Colfax County

Location and Geography Colfax County is in northeastern Nebraska and is bordered by Butler, Cuming, Dodge, Platte, and Stanton counties. The total area of Colfax County is 417 square miles and its major waterways include West Fork of Maple Creek, Maple Creek Recreation Area, and Dry Creek. The Platte River borders the southern end of the county and belongs to a different watershed. Most of Colfax County lies in the valley, valley-side slopes, and plains topographic regions, with most of the county’s land characterized by agricultural fields.i

Figure CCO.1: Colfax County

Colfax County’s boundaries are uniquely drawn. Approximately the northern two-thirds of the county is in the Lower Elkhorn NRD, while the southern third is in the Lower Platte North NRD.

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Transportation Colfax County’s major transportation corridors include US Highway 30, running east and west in the south, Nebraska Highway 15, running north and south through the center of the county, and Nebraska Highway 91, running east and west in the north. One Union Pacific line runs east and west in the south of the county but is not directly located within the NRD. There are several air landing strips dispersed throughout the county but only serve private plane owners. This information is important to hazard mitigation plans as it suggests possible evacuation corridors in the county, as well as areas more at risk to transportation incidents.

Demographics The following figure displays the historical population trend from 1930 to 2016. This figure indicates that the population of Colfax County has been historically stable, with minor population fluctuations since 2000.

Figure CCO.2: Colfax County Population 1930 – 2016 14,000

12,000 11,434 10,627 10,441 10,515 10,414 10,010 9,890 9,595 9,498 10,000 9,139

8,000

6,000 Population

4,000

2,000

0 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2016 (Est.) Census Year

Source: U.S. Census Bureauii

The following table indicates the State of Nebraska has a higher percentage of people under the age of 5 than Colfax County; however, the remaining age cohorts are not significantly different. Colfax County’s median age, on the other hand, is notably lower than the state average. Very young and elderly populations may be at greater risk from certain hazards than others. For a more elaborate discussion of this vulnerability, please see Section Four: Risk Assessment.

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Table CCO.2: Population by Age Age Colfax County State of Nebraska <5 8.9% 7.2% 5-64 78% 79.2% >64 13.2% 13.6% Median 33.7 36.2 Source: U.S. Census Bureauiii

The following table indicates that the county’s median household income is similar to the State of Nebraska, but the per capita income is lower than the state. Median home value and rent are lower than the rest of the state as well. Areas with low economic indicators may influence a county’s level of resilience during hazardous events.

Table CCO.3: Housing and Income Colfax County State of Nebraska Median Household Income $52,712 $52,997 Per Capita Income $23,619 $27,882 Median Home Value $93,100 $133,200 Median Rent $538 $726 Source: U.S. Census Bureauiv,v

The following figure indicates that most of Colfax County’s housing was built prior to 1970 (57.3%). Housing age can serve as an indicator of risk, as structures built prior to state building codes may be at greater risk. According to 2011-2016 ACS 5-year estimates, the county has 4,121 housing units with 88.8% of those units occupied. There are approximately 380 mobile homes in the county representing 9% of the available housing stock. Residents that live in mobile homes may be more vulnerable to high winds, tornadoes, and severe winter storms. In Colfax County, several mobile homes are located near Schyuler in the south.

Figure CCO.3: Housing Units by Year Built 35.0% 31.4% 30.0%

25.0%

20.0% 18.7%

15.0%

Percent ofHomes Percent 10.6% 11.2% 10.0% 8.3% 7.0% 7.1% 5.3% 5.0% 4.0%

0.0%

Year Constructed

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Source: Source: U.S. Census Bureauvi

Table CCO.4: Housing Units Jurisdiction Total Housing Units Occupied Housing Units Occupied Vacant Owner Renter

Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Colfax County 3,659 88.8% 462 11.2% 2,647 72.3% 1,012 27.7 Nebraska 736,613 91.0% 73,198 9.0% 487,948 66.2% 248,665 33.8% Source: U.S. Census Bureauvii

Major Employers The following table presents the number of establishments, paid employees, and the annual payroll in thousands of dollars in the county. This information is relevant to hazard mitigation as it indicates the diversification of industry. Communities with a diverse economic makeup may be more resilient following a hazardous event.

Table CCO.5: Business in Colfax County Annual Payroll Total Businesses Number of Paid Employees (in thousands) 261 3,616 118,909 Source: U.S Census Bureauviii

Agriculture is also important to the economic fabric of Colfax County, and the state as a whole. Crop and livestock production are the visible parts of the agricultural economy, but many related businesses contribute as well by producing, processing and marketing farm and food products. These businesses generate income, employment, and economic activity throughout the region.

Table CCO.6: Colfax County Agricultural Inventory Colfax County Agricultural Inventory Number of Farms 516 Land in Farms 262,364 acres Livestock Sales $238,473,000 Crop Sales $125,977,000 Source: USDA 2017 Census of Agricultureix

Future Development Trends There have been no new housing developments, businesses, or demolished buildings in the last five years in the rural areas of Colfax County. According to census data, Colfax County’s population has been fairly steady since 2000. The local planning team does not anticipate any new housing developments, businesses, or industry being built over the next five years.

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Figure CCO.4: Future Land Use Map

Source: Colfax County

Structural Inventory and Valuation The planning team requested GIS parcel data from the County Assessor. This data allowed the planning team to analyze the location, number, and value of property improvements at the parcel level. The data did not contain the number of structures on each parcel. A summary of the results of this analysis is provided in the following table.

Table CCO.7: Structural Inventory/Parcel Improvements Total Mean Value of Number of Value of Number of Improvement Improvements per Improvements in Improvements Improvements Value Parcel Floodplain in Floodplain 7,610 $431,559,276 $56,709 2,653 $142,379,385 Source: GIS Workshop/Colfax County Assessorx

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Critical Infrastructure/Key Resources Chemical Storage Fixed Sites According to the Tier II System reports submitted to the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, there are a total of 30 chemical storage sites in Colfax County. For a description and location of the other chemical sites located in incorporated areas, please see the jurisdiction’s participant section.

Table CCO.8: Chemical Storage Fixed Sites In Floodplain Facility Name Address City (Y/N) Ag91 Energy LLC 232 N 3rd St Howells N Hanel Oil Inc 140 N 3rd St Howells N Arps Red-E-Mix Inc 1304 D St Schuyler N Schuyler Co-op Assn 1303 G St Schuyler Y Cargill Meat Solutions Corp 490 Road 9 Schuyler N Bluebird Nursery Inc 519 Bryan St Clarkson N Frontier Co-op Company 840 W 13th St Schuyler N Cooperative Supply Inc 107 Main St Leigh N Farmers Union Co-op Supply Co 120 N 1st St Howells N Arps Gravel & Concrete Inc 1080 Lake Socorro Rd Schuyler Y Schwan's Home Service Inc 570 Road 11 Schuyler N NDOT Clarkson Yard 120 Bryan St Clarkson N Columbus Terminal 147 Road D Columbus N Farmers Union Co-op Supply Co 214 E 1st St Clarkson N NDOT Salt Brine Storage Yard E 22nd St Schuyler N Frontier Co-op Company 1199 Road E Schuyler N Ag91 Energy LLC Jct Highway 91 & 100 Rd Leigh N Cooperative Supply Inc 2155 Road 1a Leigh N CenturyLink 111 E 11th St Schuyler Y Schuyler Co-op Assn Road 3 Richland N Bluebird Nursery Inc 519 Cherry St Clarkson N Bluebird Nursery Inc Jct E 1st Ave & Bryan St Clarkson N Schuyler Co-op Assn Highway 15 N & Road S Clarkson N Schuyler Co-op Assn 310 E Front St Richland N Schuyler Co-op Assn Jct W Hwy 30 & Gold St Schuyler N Schuyler Co-op Assn Jct 13th & Gold Sts Schuyler N NOR-AM Cold Storage 481 Road 9 Schuyler N TriCounty Ag Service Inc 1073 Road 13 Schuyler N QC Supply 574 Road 11 Schuyler N StateLine Cooperative 2106 Road 1A Leigh N Central Sand & Gravel Dredge 588 Road 17 Rogers N Source: Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, 2018xi

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Critical Facilities Each participating jurisdiction identified critical facilities vital for disaster response, providing shelter to the public (i.e. Red Cross Shelter), and essential for returning the jurisdiction’s functions to normal during and after a disaster. Critical facilities were identified during the original planning process and updated by the local planning team as a part of this plan update. The following table and figure provide a summary of the critical facilities for the jurisdiction.

Table CCO.9: Critical Facilities Located in CF Red Cross Generator Name Floodplain Number Shelter (Y/N) (Y/N) (Y/N) 1 County Courthouse N N Y 2 Emergency Management N N N

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Figure CCO.5: Critical Facilities

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Historical Occurrences The following table provides a statistical summary for hazards that have occurred in the county. The property damages from the NCEI Storm Events Database (January 1996 – December 2018) should be considered only as broad estimates. Sources include but are not limited to: emergency management; local law enforcement; Skywarn spotters; NWS damage surveys; newspaper clipping services; insurance industry; and the general public. Crop damages are from the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) between 2000 and 2017.

Table CCO.10: Severe Weather Events Property Hazard Type Count Crop Damage2 Damage Animal Disease10 10 439 animals N/A Agricultural Disease Plant Disease2 10 N/A $219,994 Chemical Spills – Fixed Site4 0 $125 N/A Chemical Spills – Transportation6 1 $0 N/A Dam Failure5 0 $0 N/A Drought8 364/1,487 $0 $40,299,627 Earthquake7 0 $0 $0

Extreme Heat9 4 days/year N/A $3,441,014

Flash Flood 11 $120,000 Flooding1 $388,673 Flood 9 $3,000,000 3 Grass/Wildfires 51 254 acres $56,410 2 Injuries Hail1 90 $3,000,000 $5,499,465 High Winds1 17 $0 $994,736 Levee Failure11 0 N/A N/A Thunderstorm Wind 39 $50,000 N/A Severe Thunderstorms1 Heavy Rain 0 $0 $4,662,224 Lightning 0 $0 N/A Blizzard 4 $0 Extreme Cold/Wind Chill 5 $0 Heavy Snow 4 $0 Severe Winter Storms1 $180,919 Ice Storm 2 $0 Winter Storm 36 $23,000 Winter Weather 6 $0 Terrorism/Civil Disorder12 0 $0 $0 Tornadoes1 12 $560,000 $0 Total 307 $6,753,125 $55,743,062

N/A: Data not available 7 USGS (1872-2017) 1 NCEI (January 1996-2018) 8 NCDC (1895-2018) 2 USDA RMA (2000-2017) 9 High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPCC) (1893-2018) 3 NFS (2000-2017) 10 NDA (2014-2017) 4 U.S. Coast Guard NRC (1990-2018) 11 United States Army Corps of Engineers (2010) 5 Stanford NPDP (1911-2016) 12 Global Terrorism Database (1970-2017) 6 PHMSA (1980-2017) in. = inches; EG = Estimated Gust

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County Hazard Prioritization For more information regarding these area wide hazards, please see Section Four: Risk Assessment. The following discussion provides county-specific information, reported in Colfax County Risk Assessment Summary, relevant to each hazard. Only hazards identified either as a concern to the county by the local planning team or based on the occurrence and risk of the hazard to the county are discussed in detail below.

Agricultural Animal & Plant Disease Colfax County’s economy is heavily reliant on the agricultural sector. A large-scale crop or animal disease outbreak would likely have widespread impacts throughout the county. Data from the NDA shows that the largest animal disease outbreak occurred in 2014 when Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome affected 401 animals. The largest plant disease outbreak occurred in 2012 when Mycotoxin caused $113,787 in corn crop damages. The local planning team would like to increase public awareness for these hazards.

Flooding NCEI data shows that Colfax County has experienced 20 flood events since 1996. The most damaging event occurred June 2010, when flooding around Leigh caused an estimated $1,500,000 in property damage to over 200 homes and businesses, county roads, and county bridges. In March 2019, a large flooding event occurred across the planning area and the state. Communities and roads in the county were heavily damaged from flood waters. Damage numbers are not known at this time as cleanup is still ongoing. Colfax County is a participant in the NFIP with 21 policies in-force, with a total coverage of $2,407,000. The figure below shows the county’s floodplain. The county would like to pursue property acquisition, stream bank stabilization, drainage improvements, and install a flood control structure along Maple Creek.

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Figure CCO.6: Colfax County Floodplain

Severe Thunderstorms Colfax County has experienced 39 severe thunderstorm events since 1996. The most damaging event occurred in May 1996, when 80 mph wind gusts near Richland caused an estimated $50,000 in property damage to the co-op, a camper, and several businesses. The county utilizes surge protection at critical facilities and places weather radios in them to enhance preparedness. In order to reduce the effects of severe thunderstorms, the county would like to add backup generators to critical facilities, improve emergency communication, increase public awareness, and purchase weather radios for county buildings which currently do not have them.

Severe Winter Storms NCEI data shows that Colfax County has experienced 57 severe winter storm events since 1996. The most damaging event occurred in April 2009, when a winter storm caused an estimated $23,000 in property damage to the grandstand roof in Schuyler and caused power outages across the county. During this event, travel along the highways and county roads was extremely difficult. All of the Federal-Aid Secondary Highway routes within the county are designated snow routes. Once a severe winter storm occurs, the county maintenance staff clears the roads (motor graders and front-end loaders are the major snow removal vehicles). The county also utilizes snow fences

12 Lower Elkhorn NRD Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan | 2020 Section Seven | Colfax County Community Profile on major roads. Colfax County has identified backup generators, emergency communications, weather radios, warning systems as mitigation projects.

Tornadoes Twelve tornado events have occurred across the county since 1996. On April 8, 1999, an F1 tornado near Schuyler caused an estimated $540,000 in property damage to 10 farmsteads and a 100-year old historic church. In case of tornadoes, the county has a data back-up system for municipal records and offers some educational and outreach programs on tornado preparedness. In the event of a disaster, the county has mutual aid agreements with all first responders in neighboring counties and communities. The local planning team has identified safe rooms/storm shelters and alert sirens as mitigation projects for tornadoes.

Governance A community’s governance structure impacts its capability to implement mitigation actions. Colfax County is governed by a three member board of supervisors. The county also has the following offices and departments:

• County Clerk • County Assessor • County Treasurer • Emergency Management • County Attorney • Highway Superintendent • Planning and Zoning • Sheriff • Surveyor • Weed Superintendent

Capability Assessment

Table CCO.11: Capability Assessment Survey Components/Subcomponents Yes/No Comprehensive Plan Yes Capital Improvements Plan No Economic Development Plan No Emergency Operational Plan Yes Floodplain Management Plan No Planning Storm Water Management Plan No & Zoning Ordinance Yes Regulatory Capability Subdivision Regulation/Ordinance Yes Floodplain Ordinance Yes Building Codes Yes National Flood Insurance Program Yes Community Rating System No Other (if any) - Planning Commission Yes

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Survey Components/Subcomponents Yes/No Administrative Floodplain Administration Yes & GIS Capabilities Yes Technical Capability Chief Building Official Yes Civil Engineering No Local Staff Who Can Assess Community’s No Vulnerability to Hazards Grant Manager Yes Mutual Aid Agreement Yes Other (if any) - Capital Improvement Plan/ 1- & 6-Year Plan No Applied for grants in the past No Awarded a grant in the past No Authority to Levy Taxes for Specific Purposes such as Yes Mitigation Projects Fiscal Gas/Electric Service Fees No Capability Storm Water Service Fees No Water/Sewer Service Fees No Development Impact Fees No General Obligation Revenue or Special Tax Bonds No Other (if any) - Local citizen groups or non-profit organizations focused on environmental protection, emergency preparedness, access and functional needs Yes populations, etc. Ex. CERT Teams, Red Cross, etc. Education Ongoing public education or information program & (e.g., responsible water use, fire safety, household No Outreach preparedness, environmental education) Capability Natural Disaster or Safety related school programs No StormReady Certification No Firewise Communities Certification No Tree City USA No Other (if any) -

Overall Capability Limited/Moderate/High Does your community have the financial resources needed to Limited implement mitigation projects? Does your community have the staff/expertise to implement Limited projects? Does your community have the community support to Limited implement projects? Does your community staff have the time to devote to hazard Limited mitigation?

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Plan Integration The county’s comprehensive plan was updated in 2014 and the zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations were both last updated in 2015. The primary natural hazard discussed in all three documents is flooding. The county allows development in the floodplain with elevation on a limited basis and the zoning regulation explicitly expresses preserving open spaces in the floodplain. The county also has a flood/dam failure evacuation section of the local emergency operations plan accounting for people, pets, and animals.

No other examples of plan integration were identified. There are currently no plans to further integrate existing or future planning mechanisms.

Mitigation Strategy Ongoing and New Mitigation Actions

Action Alert Sirens Perform an evaluation of existing alert sirens in order to determine sires which Analysis should be replaced or upgraded. Install new sirens where lacking. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $15,000+ Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Local Government Status Not Started

Action Emergency Communications Establish an action plan to improve communication between agencies to better Analysis assist residents and businesses during and following emergencies. Establish inter-operable communications. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $10,000+ Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Low Lead Agency Emergency Management Status Not Started

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Action Maple Creek Recreation Area at Leigh Investigate possible alternatives to address flooding on Maple Creek and design and construct the best solution. This mitigation project is for the design Analysis and construction of a flood control project on Maple Creek to reduce flooding and erosion in and around Leigh. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost $100,000+ Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority High Lead Agency County Board, Lower Elkhorn NRD Status Not Started

Action Property Acquisition Encourage flood-prone property owners to voluntarily relinquish/sell that Analysis property to the city/village/county. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding, Dam Failure, Levee Failure Estimated Cost Varies Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Low Lead Agency County Board, Local Governments Status Not Started

Action Public Awareness Through activities such as outreach projects, distribution of maps, and environmental education increase public awareness of natural hazards to both Analysis public and private property owners, renters, businesses, and local officials. Also, educate citizens on water conservation methods, evacuation plans, etc. and purchase equipment such as overhead projectors and laptops. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $0-$5,000+ Potential Funding General Fun Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Emergency Management, County Board Status Not Started

Action River/Stream Bank Stabilization Bank degradation is occurring along many rivers and creeks. Stabilization Analysis improvements include rock rip rap, vegetative cover, j-hooks, boulder vanes, etc. to reestablish the channel banks. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost Varies greatly with size and length of channel requiring bank stabilization Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority High Lead Agency Local Government Status Not Started

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Action Safe Room / Storm Shelter Design and construct storm shelters and safe rooms in highly vulnerable areas Analysis such as mobile home parks, campgrounds, school, and other areas. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $200-$300/sf stand alone; $150-200/sf addition/retrofit Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 1 Year Priority High Lead Agency Emergency Management, Local Government Status Not Started

Action Stormwater System and Drainage Improvements Undersized systems can contribute to localized flooding. Stormwater system improvements may include pipe upsizing and additional inlets. Retention and Analysis detention facilities may also be implemented to decrease runoff rates while also decreasing the need for other stormwater system improvements. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost $100,00+ Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority High Lead Agency Highway Superintendent, Local Government Status Not Started

Action Warning Systems Improve cable TV interrupt warning system and implement telephone interrupt Analysis system such as Reverse 911, emergency text messaging warning system, etc. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $5,000+ Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Emergency Management Status Not Started

Action Weather Radios Conduct an inventory of weather radios at schools and other critical facilities Analysis and provide new radios as needed. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $50 per radio Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Low Lead Agency Emergency Management Status Not Started

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Removed Mitigation Actions

Action Continue Participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Analysis Maintain good standing with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Removed. This action was removed because it is not a true mitigation action. Status The county will continue to participate in NFIP.

Action Floodplain Regulation Enforcements/Updates Continue to enforce local floodplain regulations for structures located in the 100-year floodplain. Strict enforcement of the type of development and Analysis elevations of structures should be considered through issuance of building permits by any community or county. Continue education of building inspectors or Certified Floodplain Managers. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Removed. This action was removed because it is not a true mitigation action. Status The county will continue to enforce local floodplain regulations.

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COMMUNITY PROFILE

CITY OF CLARKSON

Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

2020

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Local Planning Team

Table CLK.1: Clarkson Local Planning Team Name Title Jurisdiction Chuck Hamernik Mayor City of Clarkson Gary Ullery Water Commissioner City of Clarkson

Location and Geography The City of Clarkson is in the northern portion of Colfax County, 1.65 miles south of the Colfax- Stanton County line. The city covers 0.79 square miles, and its main transportation corridors are Nebraska Highways 91 and its spur route, 19B. There is one major waterway near the community, the West Fork Maple Creek, which flows south on the city’s north and east edge.

Figure CLK.1: City of Clarkson

Transportation The City of Clarkson has one major transportation corridor and one spur route. The major corridor is Nebraska Highway 91, which runs east and west about a mile south of the city, averaging 2,065 vehicles per day. The second is Nebraska Highway 19B, a spur route which runs from the east directly into the city where it becomes Bryan Street. This corridor averages 1,040 vehicles per day.xii Nebraska Highway 15 runs north to south to Clarkson’s east and averages about 1,210

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Demographics Clarkson’s population declined from approximately 685 people in 2000 to 623 people in 2016, an average annual decrease of about four people and a total loss of 9.2%. A declining population is associated with a higher level of unoccupied housing and decreasing tax revenue. Clarkson’s population accounted for nearly 6% of Colfax County’s population of 10,414 in 2016.xiii

Figure CLK.2: Population 1930 - 2016 1000 918

900 829 797 805 817 800 764 699 685 658 700 623 600

500

Population 400

300

200

100

Census Year

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

The young, elderly, minorities, and poor may be more vulnerable to certain hazards than other groups. In comparison to Colfax County, Clarkson’s population was:

• Older. The median age of Clarkson was 50.5 years old in 2016, compared with the county average of 33.9 years. Clarkson’s population grew older since 2009, when the median age was 39.3 years old. Clarkson had a smaller proportion of people under 20 years old (21.9%) than Colfax County (32.5%).xiv • More ethnically diverse, but less than the county. Since 2010, Clarkson grew more ethnically diverse. In 2010, Clarkson’s population was 0% Hispanic or Latino. By 2016, Clarkson’s population was 1.9% Hispanic or Latino. During that time, the Hispanic or Latino population in Colfax County grew from 36.2% in 2010 to 43.8% in 2016.xv • More likely to be below the federal poverty line. The poverty rate in Clarkson (9.8% of families living below the federal poverty line) was higher than Colfax County’s poverty rate (9%) in 2016.xvi

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Employment and Economics The Colfax County major economic base is a mixture of manufacturing (34.8%), education/healthcare/social services (12.6%), agriculture (10.2%), and retail (9%). In comparison to the county, the City of Clarkson economy had:

• Similar mix of industries. Clarkson’s major employment sectors, accounting for 10% or more of employment each, were: education/healthcare/social services (27.7%), manufacturing (27.7%), and retail (11%).xvii • Lower household income. Clarkson median household income in 2016 ($40,769) was $11,943 lower than the county ($52,712).xviii • More long-distance commuters. A total of 46% percent of workers in Clarkson commuted for fewer than 15 minutes, compared with 56.8% of workers in Colfax County. An additional 32.3% of workers in Clarkson commute 30 minutes or more to work, compared to 18.8% of the county workers.xix

Major Employers Major employers within Clarkson include Bluebird Nursery, Inc., Clarkson Community Care Center, and Clarkson Public Schools. Most residents do not commute to another community for employment.

Housing In comparison to Colfax County, Clarkson’s housing stock was:

• More owner-occupied. Of occupied housing units in Clarkson, 81.6% are owner- occupied compared with 72.3% of occupied housing in Colfax County.xx • Older. Clarkson had a larger share of housing built prior to 1970 than Colfax County (75.4% compared to 57.3%).xxi • Less multifamily. The predominant housing type in Clarkson is single-family detached, and Clarkson contains fewer multifamily housing with five or more units per structure compared to Colfax County (.5% compared to 5.4%). The housing in Clarkson is 85.7% single-family detached, compared with 81.2% of the county’s housing. Clarkson has a smaller share of mobile housing (2.4%) compared to the county (8.3%).xxii Mobile homes are located throughout the city.

This housing information is relevant to hazard mitigation as the age of housing may indicate which housing units were built prior to the development of state building codes. Furthermore, unoccupied housing may suggest that future development may be less likely to occur. Finally, communities with a substantial number of mobile homes may be more vulnerable to high winds, tornadoes, and severe winter storms.

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Figure CLK.3: Housing in Clarkson, Nebraska 60.0%

51.1% 50.0%

40.0%

30.0%

20.0% Percent ofHomes Percent 12.4% 8.6% 10.0% 7.3% 8.1% 5.4% 4.6% 2.7% 0.0%

Year Built

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Future Development Trends Some new housing has been built in the last five years, within the city limits and in the subdivision east of the city. No new housing developments are planned. Clarkson’s population is declining, primarily because of a lack of affordable housing. A new gymnastics facility will be opening.

Table CLK.2: Structural Inventory/Parcel Improvements Total Mean Value of Number of Value of Number of Improvement Improvements per Improvements in Improvements Improvements Value Parcel Floodplain in Floodplain 690 $20,916,721 $30,314 13 $780,070 Source: Nebraska Department of Revenue, Property Assessment Divisionxxiii

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Table CLK.3: Chemical Storage Fixed Sites Facility Name Address In Floodplain (Y/N) Ag91 Energy LLC Pine St N Bluebird Nursery Inc. 519 Bryan St N Bluebird Nursery Inc. 519 Cherry St N Bluebird Nursery Inc. Jct E 1st Ave & Bryan St N Clay Hills Ag 57037 Highway 32 N Farmers Union Co-op Supply Co 214 E 1st St N NDOT Clarkson Yard 120 Bryan St N NNSWC Landfill 57220 825 Rd N Source: Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy 2018xxiv

Critical Facilities Each participating jurisdiction identified critical facilities vital for disaster response, providing shelter to the public, and essential for returning the jurisdiction’s functions to normal during and after a disaster. Critical facilities were identified during the original planning process and updated by the local planning team as a part of this plan update. The following table and figure provide a summary of the critical facilities for the jurisdiction.

Table CLK.4: Critical Facilities Located in CF Red Cross Generator Name Floodplain Number Shelter (Y/N) (Y/N) (Y/N) 1 Bank N N N 2 City Office / City Hall N N N 3 Clarkson Public Schools N N N 4 Cyril Catholic Church N N N 5 Fire Station N N N 6 Library N N N 7 Medical Clinic N N N 8 New Zion Church N N N 9 Nursing Home N N N 10 Opera House N N N 11 Post Office N N N 12 St. John Neumann School N N N 13 Water Tower N N N

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Figure CLK.4: Critical Facilities

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Historical Occurrences See the Colfax County community profile for historical hazard events.

Hazard Prioritization For an in-depth discussion regarding area wide hazards, please see Section Four: Risk Assessment. The hazards discussed in detail below were prioritized by the local planning team based on the identification of hazards of greatest concern, hazard history, and the jurisdiction’s capabilities.

Agricultural Animal & Plant Disease The City of Clarkson is heavily reliant on agriculture for both employment and the local economy. If a plant or animal disease outbreak were to occur, the city would be deeply impacted. From 2014 to 2017, Colfax County experienced 10 animal disease outbreaks which affected 439 animals. From 2000 to 2017, Colfax County experienced 10 plant disease outbreaks which caused an estimated $291,994 in crop loss. As the data is given on a county-by-county basis, it is unknown if the outbreaks affected the city.

Chemical Spills – Transportation There have been no reported transportation chemical spills for the community, however, that does not mean risk does not exist. The local planning team indicated that agricultural chemicals are regularly transported through the community. In addition, there are several anhydrous ammonia tanks within the city limits which need to be filled periodically. If a large anhydrous spill occurred, nearby areas of the community may need to be evacuated.

Flooding Most of Clarkson’s flood risk comes from the West Fork of Maple Creek, which is located on the north and east sides of the city. NCEI data shows that the city has experienced one flood event in 2007, but there were no reported damages. Clarkson is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program but does not have any policies in force.

Levee Failure The City of Clarkson has one levee system located on the northeast side of the city. The national levee database estimates that Clarkson’s levee system protects 145 people and 150 structures with a property value of $67,200,000.xxv There have been no recorded failures for the levee system. In 1995 and 1996 the levee was fully loaded with a greater than 200-year flood event and no performance issues were noted. Figure CLK.5 shows the location of the levee and the leveed area.

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Figure CLK.5: Leveed Area

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Tornadoes NCEI data since 1996 shows that Clarkson has experienced two tornadic events. Both tornadoes were relatively small (EF1 and EF0) and did not cause property damage. The local planning team indicated that there are tornado shelters located in the park and the fire station. The city’s alert sirens reach all areas of the community.

Governance A community’s governance indicates the number of boards or offices that may be available to help implement hazard mitigation actions. Clarkson has a number of offices or departments that may be involved in implementing hazard mitigation initiatives. Clarkson has four city council members and the following offices.

• Mayor • Council President • Clerk • Utility Superintendent • Lagoon Operator • Sewer Commissioner • Street Commissioner • Street superintendent • Water Commissioner • Electric Commissioner • Personnel Director • Engineer • Police Department • Volunteer Fire Department

Capability Assessment The capability assessment consisted of a survey completed by the jurisdiction and a review of local existing policies, regulations, plans, and the programs. This survey is used to gather information regarding the jurisdiction’s planning and regulatory capability; administrative and technical capability; fiscal capability; and educational and outreach capability.

Table CLK.5: Capability Assessment Survey Components/Subcomponents Yes/No Comprehensive Plan Yes Capital Improvements Plan No Economic Development Plan No Emergency Operational Plan No Planning Floodplain Management Plan No & Storm Water Management Plan No Regulatory Capability Zoning Ordinance Yes Subdivision Regulation/Ordinance Yes Floodplain Ordinance Yes Building Codes No National Flood Insurance Program Yes

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Survey Components/Subcomponents Yes/No Community Rating System No Other (if any) - Planning Commission Yes Floodplain Administration Yes GIS Capabilities Yes Administrative Chief Building Official No & Civil Engineering Yes Technical Local Staff Who Can Assess Community’s Yes Capability Vulnerability to Hazards Grant Manager No Mutual Aid Agreement Yes Other (if any) - Capital Improvement Plan/ 1- & 6-Year Plan Yes Applied for grants in the past Yes Awarded a grant in the past Yes Authority to Levy Taxes for Specific Purposes such as No Mitigation Projects Fiscal Gas/Electric Service Fees No Capability Storm Water Service Fees No Water/Sewer Service Fees Yes Development Impact Fees No General Obligation Revenue or Special Tax Bonds Yes Other (if any) - Local citizen groups or non-profit organizations focused on environmental protection, emergency preparedness, access and functional needs Yes populations, etc. Ex. CERT Teams, Red Cross, etc. Education Ongoing public education or information program & (e.g., responsible water use, fire safety, household No Outreach preparedness, environmental education) Capability Natural Disaster or Safety related school programs No StormReady Certification No Firewise Communities Certification No Tree City USA No Other (if any) -

Overall Capability Limited/Moderate/High Does your community have the financial resources needed to Limited implement mitigation projects? Does your community have the staff/expertise to implement Moderate projects? Does your community have the community support to Moderate implement projects? Does your community staff have the time to devote to hazard Moderate mitigation?

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Plan Integration Clarkson’s comprehensive plan and zoning/subdivision regulations were all last updated in 2002. Due to the age of the plans, they have not integrated hazard mitigation principles. During the next update, the city will look to integrate mitigation principles where possible.

No other examples of plan integration were identified. There are currently no plans to further integrate existing or future planning mechanisms.

Mitigation Strategy Completed Mitigation Actions

Action Short Term Residency Shelters Design and construct short term shelters for rural residents after damage from an event. These structures would not serve as FEMA approved safe rooms. The building could also be used for things such as short term sheltering during a high heat event for those without A/C. The building is not intended to be used Analysis for long term recovery, such as long-term (more than a month) displacement from floods, fires, etc. The number of shelters needed depends on the size of the building(s), which will be determined during a future project scoping process. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards This action is considered complete due to the availability of local schools, the Status fire station, and nursing homes.

Action Storm Shelter/Safe Room Design and construct storm shelters and safe rooms in highly vulnerable areas Analysis such as mobile home parks, campgrounds, school, and other areas. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Thunderstorms This action is considered complete due to the tornado shelters already located Status in the park and in the fire station.

Action Water Conservation Awareness Programs Improve and/or develop a program to conserve water use by the citizens during elongated periods of drought. Potential restrictions on water could include Analysis limitations on lawn watering, car washing, or water sold to outside sources. Work with DNR on farm irrigation restrictions. Hazard(s) Addressed Drought This activity was completed in 2012 and the city will continue the awareness Status program.

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Ongoing and New Mitigation Actions

Action Backup Generator Provide a portable or stationary source of backup power to redundant power Analysis supplies, municipal wells, lift stations, and other critical facilities and shelters. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $15,000-$30,000 per generator Potential Funding HMGP, LENRD, County, Local Governing Agency Timeline 2-5 Years Priority High Lead Agency City This is an ongoing action listed in the previous mitigation plan. At present Status Clarkson has tractors capable of running one of the wells and the lift system has a backup generator.

Action Comprehensive City/Village Disaster / Emergency Response Plan Create or update Comprehensive City Disaster and Emergency Response Analysis Plan. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $6,000+ Emergency Management Performance Grant, Homeland Security Funding, Potential Funding LENRD, County, Local Governing Agency Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Fire Department Status Not Started

Action Create a Citywide Master Plan to Prioritize all Flood Related Projects Identify potential flooding sources and flood-vulnerable areas. Explore and Analysis prioritize solutions. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding, Dam Failure, Levee Failure Estimated Cost $50,000 - $100,000 Potential Funding HMGP, PDM, LENRD, Governing County & Local Governing Agency Timeline 5+ Years Priority Medium Lead Agency City Planning Stage. The city has identified a need for 28 more dams in the Status watershed.

Action Formal Evacuation Plan Develop an evacuation plan to be prepared for any disaster that would require Analysis evacuation. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost Staff Time Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 1 Year Priority Low Lead Agency Fire Department Status Not Started

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Action Grade Control Structures Stream bed degradation can occur along many rivers and creeks. Grade Analysis control structures include sheet-pile weirs, rock weirs, ponds, road dams, etc. Can be implemented to maintain the channel bed. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost $50,000 to $100,000 per site Potential Funding USACE, PDM, HMGP, LENRD, County, Local Governing Agency Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency City Status Not Started

Action Levee/ Floodwall Construction and/or Improvements Levees and floodwalls serve to provide flood protection to businesses and residents during large storm events. Improvements to existing levees and floodwalls will increase flood protection. If possible, the structure may be Analysis designed to FEMA standards to provide 100-year flood protection providing additional flood insurance benefits. The northeast portion of Clarkson is vulnerable to flooding from West Fork Maple Creek. This action would reduce this vulnerability. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost $500,000+ Potential Funding USACE, HMGP, PDM, LENRD, County, Local Governing Agency Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency City Status Not Started

Action New Municipal Well Evaluate and install a new well to provide a safe backup water supply for the Analysis community, replace existing wells affected by drought, increase of demand in water, and additional water for fire protection. Hazard(s) Addressed Drought Estimated Cost $350,000 to $450,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), State Revolving Fund (SRF), Potential Funding LENRD, County, Local Governing Agency Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency City Planning Stage. The city is currently looking at possible sites to locate the new Status well.

Action Participate in the Community Rating System (CRS) Participation in the CRS, part of the NFIP, can provide a movement for the Analysis community to undertake projects and activities designed to increase the flooding mitigation efforts. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost Staff Time Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency City Status Not Started

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Action Property Acquisition Encourage flood-prone property owners to voluntarily relinquish/sell that property to the city. Implement projects such as property acquisition, relocation, Analysis demolition, or elevation of the one existing repetitive loss structure located in the city. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding, Dam Failure, Levee Failure Estimated Cost Varies HMGP, PDM, CDBG, USACE, FMA, SRL, RLC, LENRD, County, Local Potential Funding Governing Agency Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency City Status Planning Stage. Two flood-prone properties have been identified for purchase.

Action Public Awareness Through activities such as outreach projects, distribution of maps, and environmental education increase public awareness of natural hazards to both Analysis public and private property owners, renters, businesses, and local officials. Also, educate citizens on water conservation methods, evacuation plans, etc. and purchase equipment such as overhead projectors and laptops. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $0-$5,000+ Potential Funding HMGP, PDM, LENRD, County, Local Governing Agency Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency City Status Not Started

Action Stormwater System and Drainage Improvements Smaller communities may utilize stormwater systems comprising of ditches and culverts to convey runoff. Undersized systems can contribute to localized Analysis flooding. Drainage improvements may include ditch upsizing, ditch cleanout and culvert improvements. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost $10,000-$50,000 for smaller communities, $100,000+ for larger Potential Funding Local Budget Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency City Status Planning Phase. The city has identified two farm fields in need of a dry dam.

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Action Tree City USA – Tree Maintenance Programs Become a Tree City USA through the National Arbor Day Foundation in order to receive direction, technical assistance, and public education on how to establish a tree maintenance program in order to maintain trees in a community Analysis to limited potential damages when a storm event occurs. The four main requirements include: 1) Establish a tree board; 2) Enact a tree care ordinance; 3) Establish a forestry care program; 4) Enact an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. Hazard(s) Addressed Severe Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms Estimated Cost $0-$1,000+ Potential Funding Local budgets, the NRD, the Forest Service Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Low Lead Agency The Tree Board Status In Progress. The city has established a tree board.

Action Weather Radios Conduct an inventory of weather radios at schools and other critical facilities Analysis and provide new radios as needed. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $50/per radio Potential Funding HMGP, PDM, LENRD, County, Local Governing Agency Timeline 1 Year Priority Medium Lead Agency Fire Department Status Not Started

Removed Mitigation Actions

Action Channel and Bridge Improvements Implement channel and bridge improvements to increase channel conveyance Analysis and decrease the base flood elevations. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding This action has been combined with another mitigation action listed in the Status ongoing mitigation actions.

Action Floodplain Regulation Enforcements / Updates Continue to enforce local floodplain regulations for structures located in the 100-year floodplain. Strict enforcement of the type of development and Analysis elevations of structures should be considered through issuance of building permits by any community or county. Continue education of building inspectors or Certified Floodplain Managers. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding This action was removed because it is not a true mitigation action. The city will Status continue to enforce all regulations in the floodplain.

Action NFIP Repetitive Loss Structure Removal/Acquisition Implement projects such as property acquisition, relocation, demolition, or Analysis elevation of the one existing repetitive loss structure located in the city. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding This action has been combined with another property acquisition action listed Status in the ongoing mitigation actions.

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Action Source Water Contingency Plan Analysis Evaluate and locate new sources of groundwater. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards The mitigation action of new municipal well will encompass this project so it Status can be removed.

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COMMUNITY PROFILE

VILLAGE OF HOWELLS

Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

2020

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Local Planning Team

Table HWL.1: Howells Local Planning Team Name Title Jurisdiction Dawn Gall Village Clerk Village of Howells

Location and Geography The Village of Howells is in the northeast corner of Colfax County, approximately three miles south of the Colfax-Stanton-Cuming County line. The village covers 0.58 square miles and its main transportation corridor is Nebraska Highway 91 and accessible via a spur road. There is one major waterway near the village’s eastern end, the East Fork of Maple Creek. It flows north and south and has been incorporated into the village limits.

Figure HWL.1: Village of Howells

Transportation The Village of Howells has one major transportation corridor, Nebraska Highway 91,and its spur road which is critical for access. The highway runs east and west and is a quarter mile south of the village limits. This corridor averages 2,205 vehicles per day. The main highway’s spur road, Nebraska Highway 19C, runs directly into the town and becomes 3rd Street. This corridor averages 1,465 vehicles per day.xxvi Transportation information is important to hazard mitigation

Lower Elkhorn NRD Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan | 2020 37 Section Seven | Village of Howells Community Profile plans because it suggests possible evacuation corridors in the community, as well as areas more at risk to transportation incidents.

There are three main routes in and around the village that are of concern to local mitigation planners. Highways 91 and 19C are important because they connect the village to the rest of the state. There is an additional gravel road that runs west out of Howells that connects with Highway 15. All of these routes carry hazardous materials ranging from petroleum products to fertilizer to industrial chemicals. Flooding has recently impacted residents’ ability to exit via the north and west ends of town.

Demographics Howells’s population declined from approximately 632 people in 2000 to 547 people in 2016, an average annual decrease of five people and a total loss of 13.5%. A declining population is associated with a higher level of unoccupied housing and decreasing tax revenue. Howells’s population accounted for 5.25% of Colfax County’s population of 10,414 in 2016.xxvii

Figure HWL.2: Population 1930 - 2016 1000 952

900 861 784 800 694 682 677 700 615 632 600 561 547

500

400 Population

300

200

100

Year

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

The young, elderly, minorities, and poor may be more vulnerable to certain hazards than other groups. In comparison to Colfax County, Howells’s population was:

• Older. The median age of Howells was 43.6 years old in 2016, compared with the county average of 33.9 years. Howells’s population grew younger since 2009, when the median age was 55 years old. Howells had a smaller proportion of people under 20 years old (23.1%) than Colfax County (32.5%).xxviii • More ethnically diverse. Since 2010, Howells grew more ethnically diverse. In 2010, Howells’s population was 0% Hispanic or Latino. By 2016, Howells’s population was 4.6%

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Hispanic or Latino. During that time, the Hispanic or Latino population in Colfax County grew from 36.2% in 2010 to 43.8% in 2016.xxix • Less likely to be below the federal poverty line. The poverty rate in Howells (0.6% of families living below the federal poverty line) was lower than Colfax County’s poverty rate (9%) in 2016.xxx

• Similar mix of industries. Howells’s major employment sectors, accounting for 10% or more of employment each, were: education/healthcare/social services (25.6%), manufacturing (18.5%), and retail (16.7%).xxxi • Higher household income. Howells median household income in 2016 ($59,286) was $6,574 higher than the county ($52,712).xxxii • More long-distance commuters. A total of 46.3% percent of workers in Howells commuted for fewer than 15 minutes, compared with 56.8% of workers in Colfax County. An additional 20.4% of workers in Howells commute 30 minutes or more to work, compared to 18.8% of the county workers.xxxiii

Major Employers Major employers within Howells include Howells Fab, Bill’s Food Mart, Faltia Meat Market, Howells-Dodge Consolidated School District, and Central Plains Milling. A large percentage of residents commute to West Point, Snyder, Norfolk, Columbus, and Schuyler for employment.

Housing In comparison to Colfax County, Howells’s housing stock was:

• More owner-occupied. Of occupied housing units in Howells, 76.9% are owner-occupied compared with 72.3% of occupied housing in Colfax County.xxxiv • Older. Howells had a larger share of housing built prior to 1970 than Colfax County (67.8% compared to 57.3%).xxxv • Less multifamily. The predominant housing type in Howells is single-family detached. Howells contains fewer multifamily housing with five or more units per structure compared to Colfax County (2.2% compared to 5.4%). The housing in Howells is 91% single-family detached, compared with 81.2% of the county’s housing. Howells has a smaller share of mobile housing (4.5%) compared to the county (8.3%).xxxvi Mobile homes are located throughout the village.

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Figure HWL.3: Housing in Howells, Nebraska 45.0%

40.0% 38.6%

35.0%

30.0%

25.0%

20.0% 17.3%

15.0% Percent ofHomes Percent 12.6% 11.9%

10.0% 7.2% 6.1% 5.0% 3.2% 1.4% 1.4% 0.0%

Year Built

Source: Source: U.S. Census Bureauxxxvii

Future Development Trends Since the previous mitigation plan, new homes have been constructed and five houses were demolished. New construction also included a bank, car dealership, meeting building for Fire Department, and a seed building for the local seed business. Even with this new development, Howells’s overall population has been in decline. This is attributed to several factors including overall smaller families and a lack of rental properties There is also a limited number of lots available for additional development. Over the past year, a new housing development was completed in the northwestern part of town. There are currently discussions regarding another development before the next planning update. There are no more new businesses or industries planned.

Table HWL.2: Structural Inventory/Parcel Improvements Total Mean Value of Number of Value of Number of Improvement Improvements per Improvements in Improvements Improvements Value Parcel Floodplain in Floodplain 630 $23,126,820 $36,709 53 $2,378,630 Source: Nebraska Department of Revenue, Property Assessment Divisionxxxviii

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Table HWL.3: Chemical Storage Fixed Sites Facility Name Address In Floodplain (Y/N) Ag91 Energy LLC 232 N 3rd St N CenturyLink 121 S 2nd St N Hanel Oil Inc 140 N 3rd St N Source: Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy 2018xxxix

Table HWL.4: Critical Facilities Red Cross Located in CF Generator Name Shelter Floodplain Number (Y/N) (Y/N) (Y/N) 1 American Legion N N N 2 Ballroom N N N 3 Colfax County Maintenance Shed N N N 4 Community Center & Police Station N N N 5 Fire Department and Rescue Station N N N 6 Howells Catholic School N N N 7 Howells Medical Clinic N N N 8 Howells Public Schools N N N 9 Lift Station N Y N 10 Loup Power Sub Station N N N 11 Post Office N N N 12 Public Library N N N 13 St John's Church N N N 14 St Peter Church N N N 15 St. Francis Medical Clinic N N N 16 Trinity Lutheran N N N 17 Village Utility Building N Y N 18 Wastewater Lagoons N N Y 19 Well 91-1 N Y Y 20 Well 91-2 N Y N

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Figure HWL.4: Critical Facilities

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Historical Occurrences See the Colfax County community profile for historical hazard events.

Agricultural Animal & Plant Disease The Howells planning team noted a significant lack of local knowledge about the potential economic impacts agricultural animal and plant disease would have on the community. Pigs and chickens are the most likely animal populations to be impacted. The closest sale barns are in West Point and Columbus. The planning team was not aware of any educational outreach for the general public, but the livestock producers have these types of programs. There are no local plans in place in the event of an outbreak.

Dam Failure While dam failure was not among the top concerns for the community, there is significant risk and vulnerability for the community in this regard. The Pokorny is a high hazard dam located on the west side of the community. Should dam failure occur, the Colfax County LEOP estimates near 100 percent inundation of the community. Fortunately, there have been no historical occurrences of dam failure impacting Howells.

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Figure HWL.5: Dam Locations

Chemical Spills – Transportation If a transportation chemical spill occurred it would more than likely happen on the main artery running in and out of the village. This includes Third Street/Road 14, which runs north and south through Howells, and Main Street/Road X, which runs east and west on the north end of Howells. Finally, US Highway 91 runs east and west south of town and is also a significant concern. Chemicals are regularly transported along these routes. This includes petroleum products, propane, and fertilizer. Traffic control would be a significant obstacle to a timely evacuation. A lack of public education would further complicate evacuation. There have been no major events of this type in recent history. A medical clinic is the only critical facility located along a main transportation route.

Levee Failure The Maple Creek Levee runs along the north and east ends of town and is the main concern for the local planning team. If this levee were to fail, the National Levee Database estimates that 108 people and 92 structures would be at risk. Total property value for the at-risk structures is $14,400,000.xl The levee is FEMA-certified and provides protection for the 500-year floodplain.

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Figure HWL.6: Leveed Area

Severe Thunderstorms Thunderstorms are an annual occurrence in Howells. There have been four specific incidents that have impacted the community: June 2014, July 2017 (7 inches of rain), June 2018 (3.5 inches of rain), and March 2019 (heavy rains almost overtopping dike). Most of the community lies adjacent to Maple Creek. If the creek overtops and compromises the levee, it would affect the business district and a large portion of the population. Severe thunderstorms have not impacted critical facilities in the past. Municipal records are protected by surge protectors and about five percent of power lines in Howells are buried. There are multiple hazardous trees in need of removal throughout the community. There are no weather radios in critical facilities. The local planning team indicated that most people rely on their smart phones to access weather data.

Tornadoes There have been no significant tornadic events recently, and no vulnerable populations been impacted by past events. However, this is a major concern for the local planning team due to the potential severity of tornadoes. The village has taken some action to protect themselves. Carbonite, a private internet source company, backs up municipal records on a daily basis. Howells has tornado sirens that are activated through county dispatch or manually by the fire chief, and all areas can be reached by the sirens. Howells does not have any community safe rooms, but alternate local options are private residential or commercial basements. If a disaster

Lower Elkhorn NRD Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan | 2020 45 Section Seven | Village of Howells Community Profile were to occur, mutual aid agreements exist between Howells, Clarkson, Dodge, and Schuyler.

Governance A community’s governance indicates the number of boards or offices that may be available to help implement hazard mitigation actions. Howells has a number of offices or departments that may be involved in implementing hazard mitigation initiatives. Howells has a five member board and the following offices.

• Board Chairperson • Clerk • Utility Superintendent • Sewer/Street/Water Commissioner • Engineer • Sheriff’s Department • Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department • Village Board Members

Table HWL.5: Capability Assessment Survey Components/Subcomponents Yes/No Comprehensive Plan Yes Capital Improvements Plan Yes Economic Development Plan No Emergency Operational Plan Yes Floodplain Management Plan Yes Planning Storm Water Management Plan No & Zoning Ordinance Yes Regulatory Capability Subdivision Regulation/Ordinance Yes Floodplain Ordinance Yes Building Codes Yes National Flood Insurance Program Yes Community Rating System No Other (if any) - Planning Commission Yes Floodplain Administration Yes Administrative GIS Capabilities No & Chief Building Official No Technical Civil Engineering Yes Capability Local Staff Who Can Assess Community’s No Vulnerability to Hazards Grant Manager No

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Survey Components/Subcomponents Yes/No Mutual Aid Agreement Yes Other (if any) - Capital Improvement Plan/ 1- & 6-Year Plan No Applied for grants in the past Yes Awarded a grant in the past Yes Authority to Levy Taxes for Specific Purposes such as No Mitigation Projects Fiscal Gas/Electric Service Fees N Capability Storm Water Service Fees No Water/Sewer Service Fees Yes Development Impact Fees No General Obligation Revenue or Special Tax Bonds Yes Other (if any) - Local citizen groups or non-profit organizations focused on environmental protection, emergency preparedness, access and functional needs No populations, etc. Ex. CERT Teams, Red Cross, etc. Education Ongoing public education or information program & (e.g., responsible water use, fire safety, household No Outreach preparedness, environmental education) Capability Natural Disaster or Safety related school programs No StormReady Certification No Firewise Communities Certification No Tree Village USA No Other (if any) -

Plan Integration Howells’s comprehensive plan was created since the last mitigation plan. However, flooding is the only hazard discussed in the plan. The zoning/subdivision regulations were last updated in 1981. Due to the age of the regulations, hazard mitigation principles are not discussed. The village’s local emergency operations plan (LEOP) is an annex to the county’s plan. It addresses hazards of greatest concern, identifies evacuation routes, and lists shelter locations.

No other examples of plan integration were identified. There are currently no plans to further integrate existing or future planning mechanisms.

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Mitigation Strategy Completed Mitigation Actions

Action Alert Sirens Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status This action was completed in 2006.

Action Backup Generators Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms This project was completed in 2015 with the addition of backup generators on Status the village utility building, water wells, and sewer lift station.

Action Evaluate and Improve Building Standards Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status This action was completed in 2009.

Action Flood-Prone Property Acquisition Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding, Dam Failure, Levee Failure This action was completed in 2015 after the levee accreditation determined Status there were no affected properties.

Action Grade Control Structures Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Status This action was completed in 2015.

Action Improve Subdivisions Design Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status This action was completed in 2009.

Action Levee/ Floodwall Construction and/or Improvements Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Status This action was completed in November 2014 using LENRD and local funds.

Action Short Term Residency Shelters Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status This action was completed in 2016.

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Ongoing and New Mitigation Actions

Action Civil Service Improvements Improve Fire Department and Rescue squad equipment and facilities. Providing additional, or updating existing emergency response equipment; this Analysis could include fire trucks, ATVs, pay loaders, etc. This would also include developing backup systems for emergency vehicles and identifying and training additional personnel for emergency response. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards $5,000 to $400,000 per vehicle, varies depending on what equipment is Estimated Cost needed Potential Funding Rural Fire Board Timeline 5+ Years Priority High Lead Agency Rural Fire Board, Howells Fire and Rescue Department Ongoing. The lead agencies regularly purchase new equipment when funding Status is available.

Action Comprehensive City/Village Disaster / Emergency Response Plan Create or update Comprehensive Village Disaster and Emergency Response Analysis Plan Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $6,000+ Potential Funding CDBG Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Clerk, Maintenance, Fire Department Ongoing. The village works with the County Emergency Management to update Status the plan on a regular basis.

Action Coordinate with National Drought Mitigation Center Analysis Coordinate with National Drought Mitigation Center. Hazard(s) Addressed Drought Estimated Cost Staff Time Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Village Board Status Not Started

Create a City/Village-wide Master Plan to Prioritize all Flood-Related Action Projects Identify potential flooding sources and flood-vulnerable areas. Explore and Analysis prioritize solutions. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding, Dam Failure, Levee Failure Estimated Cost $50,000 - $100,000 Potential Funding Bonds, General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Village Maintenance, Village Clerk Status This action has not been started yet and is listed in the previous mitigation plan.

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Action Emergency Communications Establish an action plan to improve communication between agencies to better Analysis assist residents and businesses during and following emergencies. Establish inter-operable communications. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $10,000+ Potential Funding Village Funds, Rural Fire Board Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Clerk, Fire Department Status Not Started

Action Formal Evacuation Plan Develop an evacuation plan to be prepared for any disaster that would require Analysis evacuation. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost Staff Time Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Clerk, Fire Department Status Not Started

Action Improve and Revise Snow/Ice Removal Program As needed, continue to revise and improve the snow and ice removal program for streets. Revisions should address situations such as plowing snow, ice Analysis removal, parking during snow and ice removal, and removal of associated storm debris. This would include equipment that is needed and paving routes. Hazard(s) Addressed Severe Winter Storm Estimated Cost $20,000+ Potential Funding Village Street Funds Timeline 5+ Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Village Board, Street Super Intendent Ongoing. The village revises and improves their snow and ice removal program Status on an annual basis.

Action Improvements to Flood Warning System Analysis Update equipment make more secure and install additional gauges. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost $50,000 Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Fire and Rescue, Clerk Status Not Started

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Action Mutual Aid Analysis Work with utility providers for mutual aid. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost Staff Time Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Village Board Ongoing. The village currently works with utility providers for mutual aid and Status would like to continue this into the future.

Action Obtaining Missing Data for Future Updates Obtain necessary data to improve vulnerability assessments when updating Analysis the plan. Information may include hazardous events that occur between plan updates, development in hazardous areas between plan updates, etc. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost Staff Time Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Village Board Ongoing. The village provides missing data for each update and would like to Status continue this into the future.

Action Protecting the Water Treatment Facility Flood protection measures for the water treatment facility such as levees Analysis and/or a bypass system may be constructed. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding, Drought Estimated Cost Varies Potential Funding Bonds, USDA Timeline 5+ Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Water Superintendent, Clerk’s Office Status Not Started

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Action Public Awareness Through activities such as outreach projects, distribution of maps and environmental education increase public awareness of natural hazards to both Analysis public and private property owners, renters, businesses, and local officials. Also, educate citizens on water conservation methods, evacuation plans, etc. In addition, purchasing equipment such as overhead projectors and laptops. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $0-$5,000+ Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Clerk’s Office Status Planning Stage. The village is currently creating outreach materials.

Action Safe Room / Storm Shelter Design and construct storm shelters and safe rooms in highly vulnerable areas Analysis such as mobile home parks, campgrounds, school, and other areas. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $200-$300/sf stand alone; $150-200/sf addition/retrofit Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Village Clerk, Maintenance Super intendent Status Not Started

Action Source Water Contingency Plan Analysis Evaluate and locate new sources of groundwater. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $500,000+ Potential Funding General Fund, Water Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Water Superintendent Status Not Started

Action Stormwater System and Drainage Improvements Smaller communities may utilize stormwater systems comprising of ditches and culverts to convey runoff. Undersized systems can contribute to localized Analysis flooding. Drainage improvements may include ditch upsizing, ditch cleanout and culvert improvements. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Estimated Cost $10,000-$50,000 Potential Funding General Fund, Water Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Maintenance Superintendent Status In Progress. The village cleans out culverts when issues arise.

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Action Tree City USA – Tree Maintenance Programs Work to become a Tree City USA through the National Arbor Day Foundation in order to receive direction, technical assistance, and public education on how to establish a tree maintenance program in order to maintain trees in a Analysis community to limited potential damages when a storm event occurs. The four main requirements include: 1) Establish a tree board; 2) Enact a tree care ordinance; 3) Establish a forestry care program; 4) Enact an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. Hazard(s) Addressed Severe Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms Estimated Cost $0-$1,000+ Arbor Day Foundation, US Forest Service, LENRD, Governing County & Local Potential Funding Governing Agency Timeline 1 Year Priority Low Lead Agency Village Clerk, Tree Board Status Not Started

Action Warning System Improve city cable TV interrupt warning system and implement telephone Analysis interrupt system such as Reverse 911, emergency text messaging warning system, etc. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $5,000+ Potential Funding General Fund, Rural Fire Board Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Low Lead Agency Clerk, Fire Department Status Not Started

Action Water System Improvements Water system improvements to include additional fire hydrants/increase supply Analysis and pressure. High pressure is needed in the event of an emergency to effectively fight fires and also to meet increasing demands. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $50,000+ Potential Funding General Fund, Water Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority High Lead Agency Village Clerk, Water Superintendent Planning Stage. The village is currently identifying what water system upgrades Status are needed.

Removed Mitigation Actions

Action Continue Participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Analysis Maintain good standing with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding This action is no longer considered a mitigation action by FEMA and has been Status removed.

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Action Floodplain Regulation Enforcements/Updates Continue to enforce local floodplain regulations for structures located in the 100-year floodplain. Strict enforcement of the type of development and Analysis elevations of structures should be considered through issuance of building permits by any community or county. Continue education of building inspectors or Certified Floodplain Managers. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding This action was removed as it is not a true mitigation action. The village will Status continue to enforce all floodplain regulations.

Action New Municipal Well Evaluate and install a new well to provide a safe backup water supply for the Analysis community, replace existing wells affected by drought, increase of demand in water, and additional water for fire protection. Hazard(s) Addressed Drought Upgrades have been performed on existing wells and they are performing at or Status above normal capacity, so a new well is no longer necessary.

Action NFIP Repetitive Loss Structure Removal/Acquisition Implement projects such as property acquisition, relocation, demolition, or Analysis elevation of the one existing repetitive loss structure located in the village Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding There are currently no structures that fall into this category. In the future if there Status are repetitive loss structures, then this action will be revisited.

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COMMUNITY PROFILE

VILLAGE OF LEIGH

Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

2020

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Local Planning Team

Table LEH.1: Leigh Local Planning Team Name Title Jurisdiction Wayne Schroeder Board Member Village of Legh Larry Fuhr Board Chair Village of Legh

Location and Geography The Village of Leigh is in the northwest corner of Colfax County. The Maple Creek Recreation Area is directly adjacent to the west and the village is about one and a half miles southwest of the intersection of Nebraska Highways 57 and 91. The village covers 0.61 square miles and its main transportation corridor is Nebraska Highway 91 and its spur road. There are two waterways near the village. The biggest is the lake located in the Maple Creek Recreation Area, which has a total surface area of 160 acres. The other, smaller waterway is a stream to the south of the community, which feeds into the West Fork Maple Creek. The confluence of these two bodies of water is 1.25 miles southeast of the village.

Figure LEH.1: Village of Leigh

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Transportation The Village of Leigh has two major transportation corridors and one spur road critical for access. The first is Nebraska Highway 91, which runs east and west less than a mile north of the village and is accessed by Nebraska Highway 19A, a spur road that connects the village to the mainstream highway and becomes Main Street in the village limits. Nebraska Highway 91 averages 1,780 vehicles per day and Nebraska Highway 19A averages 1,025 vehicles per day. The second is Nebraska Highway 57 which runs north and south and intersects with Highway 91 about a mile northeast of the village. This corridor averages 805 vehicles per day.xli Transportation information is important to hazard mitigation plans because it suggests possible evacuation corridors in the community, as well as areas more at risk to transportation incidents.

Nebraska Highways 57 and 91 are the main routes of concern to local mitigation planners. Although, to date, there have not been any transportation incidents that impacted Leigh, the risk that comes with major transportation lines is significant. These routes regularly transport agricultural, industrial, and petroleum chemicals.

Demographics Leigh’s population declined from about 442 people in 2000 to 401 people in 2016, an average annual decrease of about three people and a total loss of 9.25% of the population. A declining population is associated with a higher level of unoccupied housing and decreasing tax revenue. Leigh’s population accounted for 3.85% of Colfax County’s population of 10,414 in 2016.xlii

Figure LEH.2: Population 1930 - 2016 800 692 700 575 600 551 502 501 509 500 447 442 405 401 400

Population 300

200

100

Year

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

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The young, elderly, minorities, and poor may be more vulnerable to certain hazards than other groups. In comparison to Colfax County, Leigh’s population was:

• Older. The median age of Leigh was 40.5 years old in 2016, compared with the county average of 33.9 years. Leigh’s population remained the same since 2009, when the median age was 40.4 years old. Leigh had a smaller proportion of people under 20 years old (18.3%) than Colfax County (32.5%).xliii • Lacking ethnic diversity. Since 2010, Leigh lost its ethnic diversity. In 2010, Leigh’s population was 5.9% Hispanic or Latino. By 2016, Leigh’s population was 0% Hispanic or Latino. During that time, the Hispanic or Latino population in Colfax County grew from 36.2% in 2010 to 43.8% in 2016.xliv • Less likely to be below the federal poverty line. The poverty rate in Leigh (1.5% of families living below the federal poverty line) was significantly lower than Colfax County’s poverty rate (9%) in 2016.xlv

• Similar mix of industries with considerable specialization. Leigh’s major employment sectors, accounting for 10% or more of employment each, were: education/healthcare/social services (20.1%), manufacturing (15.9%), retail (11.4%), finance/insurance/real estate/renting/leasing (10%), agriculture (10%), and transportation/warehousing/utilities (9%).xlvi • Lower household income. Leigh median household income in 2016 ($55,375) was $2,663 higher than the county ($52,712).xlvii • More long-distance commuters. A total of 38.5% percent of workers in Leigh commuted for fewer than 15 minutes, compared with 56.8% of workers in Colfax County. An additional 46.6% of workers in Leigh commute 30 minutes or more to work, compared to 18.8% of the county workers.xlviii

Major Employers Major employers within Leigh include Swants Farms, Leigh Public Schools, and the CO-OP Supply. Most employees work locally and very few commute outside Leigh to work.

Housing In comparison to Colfax County, Leigh’s housing stock was:

• Less owner-occupied. Of occupied housing units in Leigh, 62.9% are owner-occupied compared with 72.3% of occupied housing in Colfax County.xlix • Older. Leigh had a larger share of housing built prior to 1970 than Colfax County (65.9% compared to 57.3%). l • Less multifamily. Although the predominant housing type in Leigh is single-family detached, Leigh contains fewer multifamily housing with five or more units per structure compared to Colfax County (4.8% compared to 5.4%). The housing in Leigh is 86.7% single-family detached, compared with 81.2% of the county’s housing. Leigh has a smaller share of mobile housing (7.8%) compared to the county (8.3%).li Mobile homes are located throughout the village.

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This housing information is relevant to hazard mitigation as the age of housing may indicate which housing units were built prior to the development of state building codes. Further, unoccupied housing may suggest that future development may be less likely to occur. Finally, communities with a substantial number of mobile homes may be more vulnerable high winds, tornadoes, and severe winter storms.

Figure LEH.3: Housing in Leigh, Nebraska 50.0% 47.3% 45.0% 40.0% 35.0% 30.0% 25.0% 19.9% 20.0%

Percnt of Homes of Percnt 15.0% 8.7% 10.0% 6.5% 5.8% 5.8% 4.7% 5.0% 0.7% 0.7% 0.0%

Year Built

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Future Development Trends Since the previous mitigation plan, several new housing developments, a bank, and private businesses have been constructed in Leigh. Although the census indicates a population decline, local mitigation planners noted this may not necessarily be accurate as the recent construction of new housing and recent influx of new families into the area generally indicates increased population. Additionally, there are new businesses and housing development planned in the upcoming five years which may further increase Leigh’s population.

Table LEH.2: Structural Inventory/Parcel Improvements Total Mean Value of Number of Value of Number of Improvement Improvements per Improvements in Improvements Improvements Value Parcel Floodplain in Floodplain 472 $16,856,565 $35,713 25 $1,037,360 Source: Nebraska Department of Revenue, Property Assessment Divisionlii

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Table LEH.3: Chemical Storage Fixed Sites Facility Name Address In Floodplain (Y/N) Ag 91 Energy LLC Highway 91 and 100 Road N Cooperative Supply Inc 107 Main Street N Cooperative Supply Inc 2155 Road 1A N StateLine Cooperative 2106 Road 1A N Source: Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy 2018liii

Table LEH.4: Critical Facilities Located in CF Red Cross Generator Name Floodplain Number Shelter (Y/N) (Y/N) (Y/N) 1 County Fair Office N N Y 2 Leigh City Office N N N 3 Leigh Elementary N N N 4 Leigh Fire/Rescue Building N Y N 5 Library N N N 6 Lift Station N Y Y 7 Multi-Purpose Building N N N 8 Post Office N N N 9 School N N N 10 Sports Complex N N Y 11 St. John's N N N 12 St. Mary's Church N N N 13 Stable N N N 14 Stable N N N 15 Wastewater Lagoons N N Y 16 Water Tower N N N 17 Water Wells N Y N Zion Lutheran Church and 18 N N N Preschool

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Figure LEH.4: Critical Facilities

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Historical Occurrences See the Colfax County community profile for historical hazard events.

Dam Failure While dam failure was not among the community’s top concerns, there is some local risk and vulnerability. The Maple Creek Recreation Area Dam is a high hazard dam located on the west side of the community. In addition to residential units, the dam protects the fairgrounds, village offices, the post office, fire department, two parks, and one church. There have been no historical occurrences of dam failure impacting Leigh.

Figure LEH.5: Dam Locations

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Hail There are no specific concerns regarding this event and no recent, local events have occurred. The community’s critical facilities do not have hail-resistant building materials, but the buildings are insured. There is no tree board and no outreach efforts to residents about hail-resistant materials.

High Winds Although there are no specific concerns regarding high winds, Leigh has a notable vulnerability due to the minimal number of buried power lines. Municipal records are backed up and critical facilities have not been damaged by high winds. The community has safe rooms in the fire station and the schools, and education outreach activities occur in schools. The County EM does not offer text message alerts.

Severe Thunderstorms There have not been significant severe thunderstorm impacts to Leigh, but the risk from this hazard is great. As a result, critical municipal records are protected with surge protectors and the wells, lift stations, and the fire station have backup generators. Ten percent of the power lines are buried as power loss is a realistic possibility. Hazardous trees are not maintained but weather radios are located in critical facilities.

Severe Winter Storms Although no severe winter storms have significantly disrupted local service provision, there is a serious concern that power loss could happen, as only 10% of power lines are buried in Leigh. There are no designated snow routes and the community does not use snow fences. Maintenance personnel are responsible for snow removal and Leigh considers its removal resources sufficient.

Tornadoes Although there has not been any significant tornadic activity, there is risk of a tornadic incident. Municipal records are backed up on a flash drive every two weeks. The village has access to alert sirens which are run through the fire station and plans to add an additional siren. There are FEMA- certified community safe rooms in the fire barn. The schools also serve as safe shelters. If a disaster were to occur, the community has mutual aid agreements with Clarkson and Creston.

Governance A community’s governance indicates the number of boards or offices that may be available to help implement hazard mitigation actions. Leigh has a number of offices or departments that may be involved in implementing hazard mitigation initiatives. Leigh has a five-member Village Board and the following offices.

• Board Chairperson • Clerk • Utility Superintendent • Sewer/Street/Water Commissioner • Engineer • Village Board Members

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Table LEH.5: Capability Assessment Survey Components/Subcomponents Yes/No Comprehensive Plan Yes Capital Improvements Plan No Economic Development Plan No Emergency Operational Plan Yes Floodplain Management Plan No Planning Storm Water Management Plan No & Zoning Ordinance No Regulatory Capability Subdivision Regulation/Ordinance Yes Floodplain Ordinance Yes Building Codes No National Flood Insurance Program No Community Rating System No Other (if any) - Planning Commission No Floodplain Administration No GIS Capabilities No Administrative Chief Building Official No & Civil Engineering No Technical Local Staff Who Can Assess Community’s Yes Capability Vulnerability to Hazards Grant Manager No Mutual Aid Agreement Yes Other (if any) - Capital Improvement Plan/ 1- & 6-Year Plan Yes Applied for grants in the past Yes Awarded a grant in the past Yes Authority to Levy Taxes for Specific Purposes such as No Mitigation Projects Fiscal Gas/Electric Service Fees No Capability Storm Water Service Fees No Water/Sewer Service Fees Yes Development Impact Fees No General Obligation Revenue or Special Tax Bonds Yes Other (if any) - Education Local citizen groups or non-profit organizations No & focused on environmental protection, emergency

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Survey Components/Subcomponents Yes/No Outreach preparedness, access and functional needs Capability populations, etc. Ex. CERT Teams, Red Cross, etc. Ongoing public education or information program (e.g., responsible water use, fire safety, household Yes preparedness, environmental education) Natural Disaster or Safety related school programs Yes StormReady Certification No Firewise Communities Certification No Tree Village USA No Other (if any) -

Overall Capability Limited/Moderate/High Does your community have the financial resources needed to No implement mitigation projects? Does your community have the staff/expertise to implement Yes projects? Does your community have the community support to Yes implement projects? Does your community staff have the time to devote to hazard No mitigation?

Plan Integration Leigh’s comprehensive plan and zoning/subdivision regulations were all last updated in 1998. Due to the plans’ age, hazard mitigation principles have not been integrated. The village hopes to integrate these principles where possible during the next updates. The village’s local emergency operations plan (LEOP) was last updated in 2016 as an annex to the county’s plan. The LEOP addresses hazards of greatest concern, identifies evacuation routes, and lists shelter locations.

No other examples of plan integration were identified. There are currently no plans to further integrate existing or future planning mechanisms.

Mitigation Strategy Completed Mitigation Actions

Action Comprehensive City/Village Disaster / Emergency Response Plan Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms Status This action was completed in 2016.

Action Improve and Revise Snow/Ice Removal Program Hazard(s) Addressed Severe Winter Storm Status This action was completed in 2018.

Action Short Term Residency Shelters Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status This action was completed in 2018.

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Action Storm Shelter/Safe Rooms Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Thunderstorms Status This action was completed in 2018.

Action Water System Improvements Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status This action was completed since the previous mitigation plan.

Action Work with Other Utility Providers for Mutual Aid Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status Completed

Ongoing and New Mitigation Actions

Action Alert Sirens Perform an evaluation of existing alert sirens in order to determine sires which Analysis should be replaced or upgraded. Install new sirens where lacking. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $15,000+ Potential Funding Grant Timeline 2-5 Years Priority High Lead Agency Village Board, Rural Fire Board Status Not Started

Action Backup Generator Provide a portable or stationary source of backup power to redundant power Analysis supplies, municipal wells, lift stations, and other critical facilities and shelters. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Storms, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $15,000-$30,000 per generator Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 1 Year Priority High Lead Agency Village Board Status In Progress. There is a specific focus on putting a generator on the lift station.

Action Emergency Communications Establish an action plan to improve communication between agencies to better Analysis assist residents and businesses during and following emergencies. Establish inter-operable communications. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $10,000+ Potential Funding Homeland Security, LENRD, Colfax County, General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Rural Fire Board Status Not Started

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Action Formal Evacuation Plan Develop an evacuation plan to be prepared for any disaster that would require Analysis evacuation. Hazard(s) Addressed Al Hazards Estimated Cost Staff Time Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Low Lead Agency Rural Fire Board Status Not Started

Action Public Awareness Through activities such as outreach projects, distribution of maps and environmental education increase public awareness of natural hazards to both Analysis public and private property owners, renters, businesses, and local officials. Also, educate citizens on water conservation methods, evacuation plans, etc. and purchase equipment such as overhead projectors and laptops. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $0-$5,000+ Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Village Board Ongoing. Efforts to educate community members is ongoing and information is Status shared at county fairs, at schools, and is available upon request from the county emergency management agency.

Action Source Water Contingency Plan Analysis Evaluate and locate new sources of groundwater. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $500,000+ Potential Funding General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Medium Lead Agency Village Board Status Not Started

Action Warning Systems Improve village cable TV interrupt warning system and implement telephone Analysis interrupt system such as Reverse 911, emergency text messaging warning system, etc. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms Estimated Cost $5,000+ Potential Funding HMGP, PDM, LENRD, Colfax County, General Fund Timeline 5+ Years Priority Low Lead Agency Rural Fire Board Status Not Started

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Action Weather Radios Conduct an inventory of weather radios at schools and other critical facilities Analysis and provide new radios as needed. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Estimated Cost $50/per radio Potential Funding HMGP, PDM, LENRD, Colfax County, General Fund Timeline 2-5 Years Priority Low Lead Agency Rural Fire Board Status Not Started

Removed Mitigation Actions

Action Continue Participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Analysis Maintain good standing with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding FEMA no longer considers this a mitigation action and it has been removed. Status The village will continue to maintain good standing with NFIP.

Action Coordinate with National Drought Mitigation Center Analysis Coordinate with National Drought Mitigation Center. Hazard(s) Addressed Drought Status Removed in order to prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

Action Evaluate and Improve Building Standards Improve any existing building standards or establish new standards as deemed necessary to reduce potential of damage to new and existing structures, Analysis especially mobile home parks and other highly vulnerable populations such as nursing home facilities. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status Removed in order to prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

Action Floodplain Regulation Enforcements/ Updates Continue to enforce local floodplain regulations for structures located in the 100-year floodplain. Strict enforcement of the type of development and Analysis elevations of structures should be considered through issuance of building permits by any community or county. Continue education of building inspectors or Certified Floodplain Managers. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding This action was removed because it is not a true mitigation action. The village Status will continue to enforce all floodplain regulations.

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Action Improve Subdivisions Design Improve any existing building standards or establish new standards as deemed Analysis necessary to reduce potential of damage to new and existing structures in subdivisions. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status Removed in order to prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

Action Obtaining Missing Data for Future Updates Obtain necessary data to improve vulnerability assessments when updating Analysis the plan. Information may include hazardous events that occur between plan updates, development in hazardous areas between plan updates, etc. Hazard(s) Addressed All Hazards Status Removed in order to prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

Action Participate in the Community Rating System (CRS) Participation in the CRS, part of the NFIP, can provide a movement for the Analysis community to undertake projects and activities designed to increase the flooding mitigation efforts. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Status Removed in order to prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

Action Power and Service Lines Communities can work with their local Public Power District or Electricity Department to identify vulnerable transmission and distribution lines and plan to bury lines underground or retrofit existing structures/infrastructure to be less vulnerable to storm events. Electrical utilities shall be required to use underground construction methods where possible for future installation of power lines. Activities could include: Replacing damaged/aging power poles Analysis lines and removing unused lines from poles; burying power lines; install pad mounted transformers; elevating transformers above floodplain; adding guy wire and support; removing large diameter communication lines; replacing damaged poles with higher class; using multiple poles or dead end structures to support; replacing porcelain cutout; ice-proof cutouts; and use dead head poles. Hazard(s) Addressed Tornadoes, High Winds, Severe Winter Storms, Severe Thunderstorms This action is no longer relevant for Leigh. This decision was made in order to Status prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

Action Stormwater System and Drainage Improvements Larger communities generally utilize underground stormwater systems comprising of pipes and inlets to convey runoff. Undersized systems can contribute to localized flooding. Stormwater system improvements may include Analysis pipe upsizing and additional inlets. Retention and detention facilities may also be implemented to decrease runoff rates while also decreasing the need for other stormwater system improvements. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding This action is no longer relevant for Leigh. This decision was made in order to Status prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

Action Update FIRM maps Analysis Update FEMA Insurance Rate Maps for the Village of Leigh. Hazard(s) Addressed Flooding Status Removed in order to prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

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Action Water Conservation Awareness Programs Improve and/or develop a program to conserve water use by the citizens during elongated periods of drought. Potential restrictions on water could include Analysis limitations on lawn watering, car washing, or water sold to outside sources. Work with DNR on farm irrigation restrictions. Hazard(s) Addressed Drought Status Removed in order to prioritize other projects identified in this plan update.

i Center for Applied Rural Innovation. “Topographic Regions Map of Nebraska.” 2001. http://digitalcommons.unl.edu/caripubs/62. ii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: S0101: Age and Sex.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov. iii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: S0101: Age and Sex.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov. iv United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov. v United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov. vi United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov. vii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov. viii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: Geography Area Series County Business Patterns 2015 Business Patterns.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov. ix US Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Server. 2019. “2017 Census of Agriculture – County Data.” https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2017/index.php. x Colfax County Assessors. Personal correspondence, February 2019. xi Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy. “Search Tier II Data.” Accessed 2018. https://deq-iis.ne.gov/tier2/search.faces. xii Nebraska Department of Transportation. “Statewide Traffic Flow Map.” Accessed December 2018. https://dot.nebraska.gov/media/2510/2014-statewide-traffic-flow-map.pdf. xiii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: S0101: Age and Sex.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xiv United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: S0101: Age and Sex.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xv United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP05: ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xvi United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xvii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xviii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xix United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: S0802: Means of Transportation to Work by Selected Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xx United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxi United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxiii County Assessor. Personal correspondence, February 2019. xxiv Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy. “Search Tier II Data.” Accessed December 2018. https://deq-iis.ne.gov/tier2/search.faces. xxv National Levee Database. “Levees of Colfax County” Accessed September 2019. https://levees.sec.usace.army.mil/#/. xxvi Nebraska Department of Transportation. “Statewide Traffic Flow Map.” Accessed December 2018. https://dot.nebraska.gov/media/2510/2014-statewide-traffic-flow-map.pdf. xxvii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: S0101: Age and Sex.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxviii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: S0101: Age and Sex.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxix United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP05: ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxx United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxxi United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxxii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxxiii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: S0802: Means of Transportation to Work by Selected Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxxiv United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxxv United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxxvi United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov/. xxxvii United States Census Bureau. “American Fact Finder: DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics.” [database file]. https://factfinder.census.gov. xxxviii County Assessor. 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Personal correspondence, February 2019. liii Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy. “Search Tier II Data.” Accessed December 2018. https://deq-iis.ne.gov/tier2/search.faces.

70 Lower Elkhorn NRD Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan | 2020