By Allison Peck | North Platte Post
Listen to the full interview with Micaela Wuehler and Jim Hawks on our Kubota Podcast
As 2025 draws to a close, Lincoln County leaders are reflecting on a year of major developments and looking ahead to a promising 2026. Commissioner Michaela Wuehler and Jim Hawks, chair of the Nebraska International Port of the Plains Board, shared insights into the county’s achievements, challenges, and plans for growth.
Nebraska International Port of the Plains: A Game-Changer
The biggest highlight of 2025, according to Wuehler, is the Nebraska International Port of the Plains, formerly the Greenbrier site. “When I discovered I was coming in to talk to you today, I put some thought into all of the developments and exciting things that have gone on in Lincoln County in the 2025 calendar year. And the first and foremost thing that came to my mind was everything that's going on at the Nebraska International Port of the Plains,” she said.
Hawks noted the significance of the port’s connection to Union Pacific’s mainline, calling it a “game-changer not just for Lincoln County, but for the entire region.” Over the past year, several key milestones have been reached: railroad agreements are finalized, equipment has been delivered—including a car mover for the site—and the first transloader is expected this week.
Wuehler emphasized the long-term impact: “The goal is to bring in more businesses, create more jobs, increase the valuation for the county and the village up there at Hershey, and really just kind of put us on the map with a lot of different people.” The port’s first client, Project Grit, is set to begin operations, with the facility expected to be fully operational in the first quarter of 2026.
Looking ahead, both Wuehler and Hawks said the plan is to expand the transloading facility, adding tracks and services for a wider variety of businesses. Hawks added, “Anything worth doing is worth taking your time and doing it right and doing it well so we grow in a healthy manner.”
Budgeting Challenges and Fiscal Responsibility
Another major topic for the county in 2025 was new legislative budgeting restrictions, which required additional planning and analysis. Wuehler described the changes as well-intentioned, but noted some unintended consequences. “Thank God we have a lot of people who are willing to advise and dig in and come alongside us and help work through this,” she said.
Maintaining essential services—law enforcement, emergency management, and the maintenance of more than 1,900 miles of roads—was a priority. “After four or five years of lowering the levy, at the end of the process, we determined that a small increase in the levy was going to be necessary in order for us to continue to provide the services that aren't just convenient, but bring safety and good health to Lincoln County residents,” Wuehler explained.
Hawks emphasized the role of growth in managing taxes: “When you come to what your tax bill is, there's really only two parts of the equation. And one of them is the mill levy, and the other one is the valuation. That’s why it’s so important to see growth.” He praised the county’s track record in balancing fiscal responsibility with growth.
Comprehensive Plan and Renewable Energy
Wuehler highlighted the county’s ongoing comprehensive plan, designed to guide responsible growth, development, and land use. “This is a living, breathing, changeable document, so it can be amended, but I feel like it’s best to just do it quality up front,” she said. Public input, expert guidance from Marvin Planning, and feedback from landowners have all shaped the plan.
Until the plan is finalized, the wind and solar moratorium remains in place. “We need to balance energy development, landowner rights, and community input to grow responsibly,” Wuehler said. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that energy development is respectful to the environment and beneficial to the county as a whole.
Local Issues: Vieira Driveway and Elected Official Salaries
Other topics included the Vieira driveway, a stretch of road under debate. Wuehler explained that the county will return the driveway to the property owner after careful review and public hearings. “While we all didn’t agree on the status of this stretch of road, I feel like at the end of the day, the right thing for Mr. Vieira will take place and the property will be in his name for him to do as he sees fit with it,” she said.
The county also reviewed elected official salaries, required every four years by state statute. Wuehler noted, “It’s important that we compensate quality people who are bringing special skill sets, special knowledge, a world of information and experience into these positions. We need to compensate them appropriately, but we are doing it with taxpayer dollars.”
Volunteer Boards and Community Partnerships
Wuehler and Hawks also highlighted the role of volunteer boards and partnerships in the county’s success. Wuehler pointed out, “The Inland Port board is a volunteer board. The only compensation they’re going to get is gratitude and the knowledge that they contributed in a really big, impactful way on making Lincoln County a better place.” Hawks added, “If you don’t understand what it is, come in and talk to me. I don’t know of any public official that wouldn’t take the time to sit down and make sure you get it from the horse’s mouth.”
Looking Ahead to 2026
For Wuehler personally, 2026 promises continuity and opportunity. She will continue as board chair, serve on multiple county boards, and is running for re-election. “I’ve really enjoyed this work. It’s not always easy, but it’s meaningful and rewarding,” she said.
With the Inland Port nearing operational status, ongoing focus on the comprehensive plan, and continued collaboration among county boards and committees, Lincoln County is poised for a promising year. “We’re truly blessed to have so many people dedicated to making our community a better place,” Wuehler said.