The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners opened its meeting Monday morning with a focus on the recent wildfires that have impacted the region, acknowledging both the destruction left behind and the widespread response from emergency crews and community members.
During the opening prayer, Commissioner Wuehler spoke to the scale of the disaster and its effect on local communities.
“This week's devastating fires have tested our communities, our land, and our people,” Wuehler said.
She also highlighted the efforts of those who responded, adding, “Yet even in the smoke and the loss, we have seen the very best of Nebraska. Men and women who run toward danger and not away from it.”
Wuehler recognized the work of first responders, support crews, dispatchers, volunteers and neighbors who stepped in to help during the fires, describing their actions as part of the “can-do spirit that defines who we are.”
Despite the losses, commissioners emphasized resilience and the importance of rebuilding, particularly within the county’s agricultural sector.
“We will rebuild, we will restore, we will return with an even greater resolve to the agriculture work we love, the work that feeds the nation and the world,” Wuehler said.
Assessor Outlines Property Tax Relief for Fire Victims
Later in the meeting, Lincoln County Assessor Julie Stenger addressed commissioners during the public comment portion, providing guidance on what resources are available for property owners affected by the fires.
Stenger said her office has an application process in place for those who have experienced significant property damage due to natural disasters, including wildfires.
Under current state law, property owners who have sustained more than 20 percent damage to their property may be eligible to have their valuation adjusted. The application must be filed by July 15th.
She noted that while property valuations are typically based on their condition as of January 1 each year, the state legislature created an exception allowing for reassessment when substantial damage occurs after that date due to natural causes.
“That does allow for an application to be filed if there is damage in excess of 20% on a property up until July 1st, if it's caused by natural causes,” Stenger said.
She emphasized that wildfires qualify under that definition, meaning affected property owners should take advantage of the process if they have experienced losses.
Stenger also encouraged commissioners to help spread the word, noting that residents may begin reaching out with questions in the coming days and weeks.
“If you guys start getting phone calls from anybody that has damages lost in the fires… please encourage the taxpayers to come into the assessor’s office,” she said.
The application process is intended to provide some financial relief by adjusting property values to reflect damage sustained, which can impact property tax obligations.
Stenger indicated that forms are available through the assessor’s office and can be printed or picked up in person. Property owners are encouraged to act promptly to ensure they meet the July 15th deadline.
County officials stressed that those who have experienced damage to homes, buildings, or other structures should contact the assessor’s office as soon as possible to begin the process and determine eligibility.