By Allison Peck
North Platte City Council Ward 3 candidates Jim Riewe and Scott Young both say continued community growth should remain a priority, but their answers at Tuesday's Downtown Association candidates forum showed different approaches to how that growth should be managed.
Riewe, who has lived in North Platte for 17 years and cited 42 years of leadership and business experience, said he wants to help guide development while identifying areas where the community is lacking.
He said North Platte needs to continue recruiting businesses and shopping opportunities while making sure development projects are carefully reviewed.
Young also emphasized growth, but put greater emphasis on long-term planning and fiscal caution. He said the city should vet opportunities, encourage small business and have contingency plans for changing economic conditions.
The candidates had a more direct disagreement over tax increment financing.
Young said TIF should have restraints and that the city should take time to determine whether projects are likely to succeed and whether they serve the broader community. He also said public opinion should be part of the discussion.
Riewe described TIF as an investment tool that can help pay for infrastructure associated with development. He said the city keeps records of TIF bonds and that some are paid off early.
The candidates also approached property taxes differently.
Young said the city should continue looking for ways to reduce the burden while maintaining enough money for infrastructure and reserves. He said tax reductions may need to happen gradually rather than through large cuts.
Riewe said he believes the city has found a reasonable balance between taxes and the cost of operating city government. He pointed to the city's history of keeping tax growth below inflation and said officials should continue monitoring costs and staying vigilant.
Both candidates ultimately tied their positions back to the future of North Platte.
Young said he wants to think 10, 20 and 30 years ahead. Riewe said his business and leadership experience could help the city evaluate projects, identify problems and see development through to completion.
The Ward 3 seat is being vacated by Brian Flanders. Riewe and Young advanced from the May primary and will face each other in the Nov. 3 general election.
Source note: Sept. 8, 2026 North Platte Downtown Association Candidates Forum transcript; Lincoln County 2026 election information and May primary results where applicable.