Lincoln · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lincoln public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Heartland at Hidden Hills Residential Design Review
Century Communities is proposing 151 homes south of Hidden Hills Phase 1, with varied Spanish, Farmhouse, and Cottage elevations. The design review shapes what the neighborhood will look like as it builds out.
Parkwood Residential Development Agreement
A 122-home subdivision on 21 acres in Village 1 moved forward with introduction of its development agreement, which locks in developer and city obligations for roads, utilities and parks over 20 years.
Carefield Assisted Living and Memory Care Project Review
The developer of the Carefield Lincoln assisted living and memory care facility requested a delay on their design review and permit extension. The project will come back before the Planning Commission in November.
Hangar reversion deferral program and airport master plan workshop
Staff is designing a program to let hangar tenants buy out reversion clauses — with a discount for paying upfront — and planning a 2027 strategic workshop to prioritize the airport's long-term business needs.
Economic Development Action Plan 2030
A draft brochure pitching Lincoln to businesses highlights traffic counts, safety rankings, schools, and retail centers. The committee also floated a sales tax incentive policy for large retailers and infill parcels, to be discussed at a future meeting, and noted the hotel TOT rebate program is nearing expiration.
Tier II SPRTA Development Fee Deferral for Liberty at Lincoln
Council debated and approved fee deferrals for regional transportation impact fees for 674 new homes, sparking discussions on inter-agency cooperation and financial backing.
Windsor Cove Residential Development and Open Space
A 90-acre residential project proposing 165 homes and extensive open space along Auburn Ravine in Village 5.
Auburn Ravine Estates Production Homes Design Review
Lennar Homes is proposing an 80-lot residential subdivision with diverse floor plans and elevation options, prompting board discussion on affordability versus architectural enhancements.
JLC Concrete Facility Expansion & Design Review
JLC Concrete is building a new two-story office and observation tower at its Gladding Road facility. The project includes parking and landscaping improvements that meet industrial zoning standards.
First Street Subdivision Drainage and Property Disputes
Residents along First Street raised urgent concerns regarding property lines, unauthorized construction, and potential flooding due to nearby Pulte development grading. City officials confirmed they issued stop-work orders and are engaging legal levers to protect homeowners.
Lincoln Skyways Hangar Development at Airport
BPM Rentals received approval to construct a 13,500-square-foot metal aircraft storage hangar at Lincoln Regional Airport, boosting local aviation maintenance capabilities.
West Lincoln Square Commercial Development
The board advanced major tenant plans and color schemes for the 39-acre commercial project at Highway 65 and Nelson Lane, bringing retail, dining, and fuel stations closer to reality.
Starbucks and Circle K Commercial Development
A new commercial project bringing a Starbucks with a drive-thru and a Circle K gas station to First Street and Joiner Parkway sparked community debate about traffic safety and the need for competing gas stations.
CFD 2018-2 Tax Rate Reduction and Streamlined Entitlements
The city lowered maximum special tax rates for CFD 2018-2 properties, providing financial relief to homeowners.
Leavell North Tentative Parcel Map
The council approved splitting a 103-acre agricultural parcel in Village 1 into four lots to facilitate future residential development by Beazer Homes.
Stardust 12 Residential Subdivision
The commission recommended approval of an 84-unit housing subdivision in Village 1. The project reallocates unused density from a nearby development.
Pedestrian and Trail Circulation in New Housing Developments
During review of housing design permits, commissioners debated the quality of neighborhood trail and pedestrian connections. Commissioners highlighted how one subdivision's trail plan effectively connected parks and schools while another fell short, urging staff to push developers for better non-vehicular circulation.
New Residential Subdivisions in Village 1 and Village 7
New housing developments by Beazer Homes ('The Grove') and Risewell Homes ('Liberty at Lincoln') received positive reviews for offering diverse home styles, energy efficiency, and community trails.
Advisory Boards and Commissions Reconfiguration
The city is revamping how its advisory committees and commissions work to make it easier for residents to participate and to reduce the workload on city staff. Proposed changes include shifting most bodies to two-year terms, standardizing committee sizes, and clarifying the roles of staff and elected officials.