The City of Crete will hold a live auction of surplus items on Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. at Tuxedo Park.

Novak Auction Service will conduct the auction of materials, equipment and vehicles. Additional items from Crete Public Schools will also be auctioned.

See the sale bill (pdf) and Novak Auction's online information for full auction details, additional items not on the sale bill, and more photos. Some information may be available on certain items by contacting Crete City Hall, 402-826-4312.

Four city trucks are included on the sale bill:

• 1997 Ford F-250: Mileage - 121,869, 5.8L V8, runs, problem with starter 
• 2000 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 w/blade: Mileage - 119,591, 5.3L V8, driver’s side door alignment issue, ran and working blade when parked about a year ago, stored inside
• 1978 Ford F-150 Custom: Mileage - 38,007, straight 6, parked for many years, stored outside
• 1985 GMC Sierra 3500: Mileage - 73,992, runs, may need battery

Check out these upcoming events at Crete Public Library. (specific age groups or pre-registration where noted.) Contact library staff for more information. (Click the gallery for more images)

Upcoming Programs:

• (this event was canceled due to storm cleanup) Touch-A-Truck, Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Bring the whole family to the library's parking lot to get an up-close look at a wide variety of city vehicles, including fire trucks, police cars, street sweepers, snow plows, and more. Kids and adults alike will have the chance to explore the equipment and meet the people who operate them. The first 100 kids will receive a free construction hat, generously provided by our Friends of the Library.
• Adult Craft Night - Diamond Painting, Wednesday, Aug. 13 at 5:30 p.m. Register for the next Adult Craft Night by calling the library at 402-826-3809. Limited spots available, $5 fee.
• Teen Event - Dungeons & Dragons, Saturday, Aug. 23, 12-3 p.m. For ages 12-17, registration required. This campaign is set for 8th-level characters — we’ll have pre-made heroes ready to play, or you can bring your own creation.
• Soda Pop Curtis' 1st Birthday Pawty, Saturday, Sept. 6, 10 a.m. Join us as we celebrate the 1st birthday of our favorite furry friend, Soda Pop Curtis. To mark this special occasion, we’re hosting a puppy-themed birthday party, complete with cake, crafts, and cuddly surprises.
• Adult Craft Night: Punch Needle Crafting, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 5:30 p.m. $5 fee and registration are required. Call the library at 402-826-3809 to reserve a spot.
• Scams & Fraud Education, Monday, Sept. 15, 2 p.m. Learn about: top ten scams in Nebraska; avoiding impostor scams and identity theft; and stopping unwanted calls. Presented by the Nebraska Attorney General's Office.
• Adult Puzzle Race, Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 5:30 p.m. at The 1206 (1206 Main Ave) $30 fee per team of 4; 21 and over event.
• Authors Book Signing / Meet & Greet, Saturday, Sept. 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. We're thrilled to host an exciting event featuring a fantastic lineup of writers, including: Hattie Wade, AJ Larington, Jeff Hill, Anthony Engebretson, Michael Bettendorf, Dennis Crawford, Tom Phillips, and Gene Steinmeyer. Special Guest: Local author AJ Larington will be our keynote speaker in the afternoon.

Recurring events:

• Story Times start in September for the schools year (schedule may adjusted for holidays): Toddlers (ages 0-2) on Wednesdays and Preschool (ages 3-5) on Thursdays; both at 10 a.m.
• Stay and Play - weekdays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., the library will have toys out for families with 0-5-year-old kids.
• Mommy & Me Baby Art Cafe, Mondays through April, 10-11a.m. Join other new moms for a relaxing hour of art, conversation, and connection—no art skills (or clean shirts) required. Each session lasts one hour. Come meet fellow moms, get inspired, and enjoy a little “you” time—with baby in tow. *For moms with babies 12 months & under. 
• Maker Mondays, 1st Monday of the month through April, 4-5 p.m. No registration required. Ages: 5–11 years old. Drop in and explore hands-on science, technology, engineering, and art activities at your own pace! We’ll have plenty of supplies and a variety of exciting activities for kids to choose from—experiment, build, create, and discover.
• Teen Nights, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 5 p.m. For teens ages 12-17. Each week, teens can drop in for a variety of fun activities—movies, crafts, science nights, game nights, and more! Come hang out, try something new, and connect with friends. No registration or sign-up required. 
• Tea and Threads: Tuesdays at 5 p.m.; Laid-back atmosphere, friendly conversation, and creative inspiration for those who crochet, from seasoned pros to beginners.
• Clase de Crochet: Segundo Sábado de cada mes a la 2:00 PM. ¡Ven y aprende los conceptos básicos del crochet en la biblioteca!

Check out the library's book clubs:

• Thursday night Murder Club, Flights of Fantasy, Timeless Tales, Whispered Pages (silent book club)

Current library hours:

• Monday, Wednesday, and Friday - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Tuesday and Thursday - 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• (Monday-Friday - Drive-thru window opens 8:30 a.m)
• Saturday - 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Crete Public Library
1515 Forest Ave.
Crete, NE 68333
Phone: 402.826.3809
crete.library@crete.ne.gov

As Doane University welcomes new and returning students to campus each fall for the next part of their educational journey, the City of Crete welcomes them with an abundance of opportunities to became a part of the larger Crete community.

Opportunities include volunteering, seasonal jobs, activities, resources, and more from these city departments:

Parks and Recreation:

• Coach and referee with youth programming including flag football, soccer, t-ball, and swim team
• Find seasonal employment with Wildwood Pool or parks groundskeeping (hiring opens in February/March)
• Explore 11 public parks

Community Assistance Office:

• Find volunteer opportunities
• Research city services or access community resources

Crete Volunteer Fire and Rescue:

• Apply for membership as a volunteer firefighter/EMT

Crete Police Department:

• Utilize the safe Swap Zone for completing online purchases
• Find information about parking enforcement
• Sign up for emergency alerts

Crete Public Library:

• Apply for a free library card - books, digital app, Library of Things, and more
• Reserve a study room
• Become a library volunteer
• Join a book club, attend author and speaker events, and participate in regular patron activities

Utilities Office

• Future off-campus residents can sign up for utility services when they secure rental housing
• Residents in off-campus housing can contact the office for questions regarding Public Works Utilities (electric, water, sewer, streets, trash, and recycling)

Follow city social media accounts

Crete is located in the northeast corner of Saline County, about 25 miles from Lincoln, the state capital. The city was platted in the late 1860s along the Burlington Missouri River Railroad and the banks of the Big Blue River. The current city is home to 7,566 residents (2020 census) with several major industries, a successful public school district and parochial grade school, stable business community, new public library, well-maintained public parks, over a dozen churches, active volunteer organizations, and a nationally-known, liberal arts university - Go Tigers!

Find out more about Living in Crete

Learn about Crete’s history

Crete is a growing and diverse 'community in motion' with over 7,000 residents who call it home. We embrace our pioneering heritage and present-day diversity and continue to thrive with a strong economy, successful school system, and safe parks and neighborhoods.

The City of Crete has nearly 70 full time employees as well as seasonal (summer) opportunities. No matter what role you have with us, you are sure to experience growth, professional development, and career achievements.

(Want to learn more about Crete? Check out City Government, Parks & Recreation, Departments, brand new Library, Business & Industry, and other community links.)

The City of Crete is taking applications for the role of Police Officer. 

Full-time, hourly position; excellent benefits. 

Minimum qualifications include: 

• Must be a citizen of the United States.
• Possess a valid Nebraska driver’s license or able to obtain a valid Nebraska license prior to beginning the Nebraska Law Enforcement academy.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must meet all requirements identified in the Crete Civil Service Rules and Regulations.
• Must meet all the entry requirements for the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center.
• Able to read, write, and understand the English language at the eleventh-grade level as demonstrated by the Test of Adult Basic Education
• Be able to legally carry a firearm.

Application packets will be accepted until positions are filled  and may be obtained from the link below or by contacting the Human Resources Coordinator at City Hall. The City of Crete is an equal opportunity employer. Applications should be completed and submitted in one of the following ways: 

• Download the application and job description, type responses, print as PDF and email to jobs@crete.ne.gov
• Print, write responses, scan, and email to jobs@crete.ne.gov
• Fax to 402-826-6412
• Mail to the attention of Human Resources, City of Crete, at PO Box 86, Crete, NE 68333-0086
• Drop off at Crete City Hall - 243 East 13th Street

View/download the application packet, which includes the following:

• Letter of instruction
• Application for employment
• Basic qualifications checklist
• Authorization for release of information
• Essential functions

For additional inquiries, please contact:

Jody, Fiehtner, Human Resources Coordinator
City Hall - 243 East 13th Street
Crete NE 68333-0086
Phone: 402.826.4313
jobs@crete.ne.gov

Individuals and media outlets are encouraged to contact the City Administrator for additional details or clarification on the following material. Regular meetings of the Crete City Council are held on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall; Council Standing Committees may meet prior. View a list of City Officials and current council and committee meeting agendas.

The Crete City Council will hold a Special Meeting on Thursday, Aug. 14

The next Crete City Council regular meeting will be on Tuesday, Aug. 19

Summary for Crete City Council regular meeting - Tuesday, Aug. 5
View this Meeting Agenda and attachments.

The council approved the Consent Agenda items:

• Minutes of the following meetings: City Council July 15, Public Works Committee July 15, Public Safety Committee July 15, Legislative/Community Development Committee July 15, Finance Committee July 15
• Treasurer’s Report
• Payment of claims against the City 

The Council held a Public Hearing on proposed Zoning Change Request PID 760144733 CRETE CITY PINE RIDGE ADD LOT 1 BLK 2 .41 ACRE, PID 760148160 BIG BLUE PRCT PT NW 1/4 NW 1/4 SEC. 2-7-4 .41 ACRES ICL R1 To R2. City Administrator Tom Ourada explained the developer of this property, council member Anthony Fitzgerald, asked for a minor subdivision and rezoning is required in this case. He’s followed the process and it started with approval from the Planning Commission, which was voted on at their Aug. 4 meeting.

The Council voted 5-0 (Fitzgerald abstained) to approve the proposed Zoning Change Request PID 760144733 CRETE CITY PINE RIDGE ADD LOT 1 BLK 2 .41 ACRE, PID 760148160 BIG BLUE PRCT PT NW 1/4 NW 1/4 SEC. 2-7-4 .41 ACRES ICL R1 To R2.

The Council held a Public Hearing on proposed amendment to the Land Use Zoning Map PID 760144733 CRETE CITY PINE RIDGE ADD LOT 1 BLK 2 .41 ACRE, PID 760148160 BIG BLUE PRCT PT NW 1/4 NW 1/4 SEC. 2-7-4 .41 ACRES ICL R1 To R2. Ourada this action considered amending the zoning map or future land use map, a statutory requirement for a comprehensive plan; any approved rezoning, annexations, etc, the city must change the land use map.

The Council voted 5-0 (Fitzgerald abstained) to approve the proposed amendment to the Land Use Zoning Map PID 760144733 CRETE CITY PINE RIDGE ADD LOT 1 BLK 2 .41 ACRE, PID 760148160 BIG BLUE PRCT PT NW 1/4 NW 1/4 SEC. 2-7-4 .41 ACRES ICL R1 To R2.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve the 2025 Crete Water & Sewer Rate Study. JEO gave a presentation to the Public Works Committee and met with the city prior in the course of the study; they recommended water and wastewater rate schedules with stepped increases out to 2030. Mayor Dave Bauer said the rate study and increases are very small in his opinion, JEO did a good job studying the departments and the revenue needs.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve the Saline County Rural Fire MFO Agreement. Ourada said this is a standard agreement up for renewal this year.

The Council voted 6-0 to table the Certification of subdivision improvements for Burlington Estates. The city is waiting for additional requirements to be met by the developer to the satisfaction of the engineer.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve the Crete Police Department applying for the Highway Safety Mini-grant for car seats. Chief Gary Young said this will allow the department to help provide child seats for people who may not be able to afford them, or afford updated seats. CPS Officer Noah Zach is certified to inspect child safety seats and is doing this by appointment and will host a larger community event.

The Council voted 5-0 (Papik abstained) to approve the claims from Crete Ace Hardware in the amount of $104.63.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve Resolution 2025-9 LARM Renewal. The council previously agreed to the renewal terms and this put it in resolution form.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve Resolution 2025-12 Introducing propositions for voters to approve the extension of the City .5% sales and use tax and extension of the City's Local Option Municipal Economic Development plan to be voted on by the community on November 4. Ashley Newmyer, chair of the Legislative and Economic Development Committee said they reviewed the plan and recommended the city move forward. Mayor Bauer said this is the LB840 plan that has been very successful for the City of Crete and improved things in town that have brought people in. I encourage everyone to ask about it and look for this information. Ourada clarified that after this vote, the city cannot spend any money to campaign on this topic, which would be a violation of state law. We can educate or answer questions.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve the Lift Station Construction Agreement between the City of Crete and Dittmer & Dittmer, LLC. Ourada said this agreement is with the city and Dittmer & Dittmer, LLC, with plans and specifications for lift station at zero cost to the city

The Council voted 6-0 to approve maintenance plans and set a bid date for the Business Improvement District. Ourada said this is for snow removal in the downtown district with a bid opening on Aug. 29 at 10 a.m.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve Resolution 2025-13 authorizing the city to increase the match to Police Officer retirement contributions to 9%. Ourada said this is mandated by state law voted in this year.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve authorizing to apply for the LARM Safety Grant. Ourada said the city applies for this every year and includes a $500 grant with zero match. In the past the city has used it for traffic cones, barricades, first aid kits, etc.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve the City of Crete engineer formally making plans and specs for lift station construction. This goes along with the Dittmer and Dittmer LLC agreement; after plans and specs are done it will move to bid letting.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve amendment to auction agreement. The date changed from Aug. 16 to Sept. 6.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve the City of Crete #24DTR001 Payment Request #2 in the amount of $6,096.54 from Southeast Nebraska Development District.

The Council voted 6-0 to approve the Crete 24PWI004 Payment Request #2 from Southeast Nebraska Development District in the amount of $7,114.10

Petition - Communication - Citizen Concern:

Officer Reports:

Reports may be given by Officers, Departments, Committees, or Council members concerning the current operations of the City. No action can be taken on matters presented under this title except to answer any questions or to refer the matter for further action.

• Liz Cody, Parks and Recreation Director: 
  • the pool closed on Sunday, Aug. 3; 8k patron visits, about 220 in swimming lessons, infant and toddler, water aerobics;
  • Coed Softball is ongoing, registration is open for youth flag football;
  • Exmark mower grant is partially complete with pickup of the new mower in Beatrice on Wednesday and $25,000 in awarded funds to use for Library Park this season;
• Gary Young, Police Chief:
  • Officer Noah Zach organized Project Protein with 1,600 pounds of donated meat products distributed to about 160 families; late July into August is tough for some families with no school meals, etc. I am proud of him and his enthusiasm for this work and looking forward to seeing him in the schools this year;
  • Sgt Lincoln Morehouse is working with forensic investigation for thefts from gaming machines; he’s working with DMV, facial recognition, Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff, and Nebraska City PD to wrap up the individuals responsible;
  • ‘Touch-A-Truck’ event on Saturday at the library, 10am-12pm; this was a PD idea and Jessica at the Library put it together to showcase library, police, fire, public works, etc.
• Jessica Wilkinson, Library Director:
  • Maridza’s idea was putting together a children’s Library of Things which includes Tonies, story time kits; these ideas come from staff members to help the library evolve;
  • September will be busy with Maker Mondays, baby art cafe, chess club; toddler and preschool story times; we’ve have had 2 kids complete 1,000 Books before Kindergarten, 8 are working to it;
• Tom Ourada, City Administrator said food truck information will be at the next meeting;
• Mayor Dave Bauer mentioned a group from Lincoln with a member in Crete who hosts visitors from a different country and this year is a group of mayors, etc. from Romania. They are going to Lincoln and Schuyler city council meetings and will be in Crete Sunday evening with a school bus tour of town from the library, then a meal and their program in the community room.

Meeting adjourned.

Crete is a growing and diverse 'community in motion' with over 7,000 residents who call it home. We embrace our pioneering heritage and present-day diversity and continue to thrive with a strong economy, successful school system, and safe parks and neighborhoods.

The City of Crete has nearly 70 full time employees as well as seasonal (summer) opportunities. No matter what role you have with us, you are sure to experience growth, professional development, and career achievements.

(Want to learn more about Crete? Check out City Government, Parks & Recreation, Departments, brand new Library, Business & Industry, and other community links.)

The City of Crete is taking applications for the position of Code Enforcement Officer. Full-time, hourly position, with benefits. General functions: Under the direction of the Police Lieutenant or other assigned department director or manager, this position performs a wide variety of duties involved in the investigation of potential violation and the enforcement of municipal codes, ensure animal control, ordinances and regulations including building and zoning codes. This position performs office and field work involving the inspection, investigation, and enforcement of applicable codes and ordinances pertaining to nuisances, zoning, parking, and related quality of life and public safety issues. This position also provides customer service to residents, businesses, and other complainants in resolving concerns and complaints. Report to Police Lieutenant, Crete Police Department. Hourly range: $20.04-$27.47. See full job description for more information.

Minimum qualifications include: 

• be at least 19 years of age;
• possess a valid driver’s license;
• have high school diploma or GED;
• be legally able to work in the U.S. 

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• must speak, read, and write fluently in English;
• reside within 30 minutes of the City of Crete.

Applications will be accepted until this position is filled and may be obtained from the link below or by contacting the Human Resources Coordinator at City Hall. The City of Crete is an equal opportunity employer. Applications should be completed and submitted in one of the following ways: 

• Download the application and job description, type responses, print as PDF and email to jobs@crete.ne.gov
• Print, write responses, scan, and email to jobs@crete.ne.gov
• Fax to 402-826-6412
• Mail to the attention of Human Resources, City of Crete, at PO Box 86, Crete, NE 68333-0086
• Drop off at Crete City Hall - 243 East 13th Street

View/download the job description and employment application:

• Job description 
• Application for employment 

For additional inquiries, please contact:

Jody Fiehtner, Human Resources Coordinator
City Hall - 243 East 13th Street
Crete NE 68333-0086
Phone: 402.826.4313 Fax: 402.826.6412
jobs@crete.ne.gov

Q.  When do I need a building permit?

A.  The City of Crete requires building permits if you plan to construct, erect, enlarge, alter, repair, improve, remove, convert or demolish any building or dwelling. Some examples would be replacing a water heater, furnace or air conditioner.      

Q.  Where do I get a building permit?

A.  Permits are issued through the Building Inspector's office on the 1st floor of Crete City Hall at 243 East 13th Street. City Hall is open Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. An elevator is accessible from the ground floor entrance on the south side of the building. Permits can be downloaded from this site and returned to City Hall.

Q.  Why get a building permit?

A.  The Building Inspector will do inspections to make sure construction codes are adhered to for the health and safety of the owner and the general public.

Q.  How long does it take to get a permit?

A.   Simple permits like a fence or shed usually can be issued immediately. Permits for homes and larger commercial projects need to be reviewed and could take from 1 to 10 days.

Q.  What do I need to bring to get a building permit?

A.   A plan showing the 4 corners of your lot and the location you are putting the building or addition. If it’s a new home or commercial building we need 3 copies of the plan with construction details. You’ll also need to fill out a building permit form, which can be obtained online or in the Building Inspector’s office. 

Q.  Do I need a permit to build a fence or a garden shed?

A.   Yes, there are building codes that determine where you place them and the size they can be.

Q.  Do I need a permit for a sign?

A.   Yes, the city has regulations on sign placement, types and sizes.

Q.  Can I have construction or landscaping materials placed on my street, sidewalk or in the alley during a project?

A.   City code states rock, gravel, dirt, construction material, litter, and/or containers thereof cannot be placed upon any street, alley, right-of-way, or sidewalk without prior permission from the Department of Public Works.

Q.  Where can I find information on local energy efficiency programs?

A.   Currently, the City of Crete in partnership with its wholesale electric power supplier, the Municipal Energy Agency of Nebraska, is continuing to provide five energy efficiency programs to assist in lowering energy costs for local utility customers through energy efficiency improvements.

City Hall is open Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Municipal Building Inspector’s Office is located on the first floor. An elevator is accessible from the ground floor entrance on the south side of the building. Find more information from the Building Inspector's Office

City Hall - 243 East 13th Street
Crete, NE 68333-0086
Phone: 402.826.4312

City Hall

• City Hall is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and centrally located in the downtown area on East 13th Street.
• South side parking and ground level entrance: (access from Linden Ave. between 12th and 13th Streets) Off-street parking, handicap parking, and Utilities drive-thru; Utilities Office ground level main entrance and elevator access.
• North side parking and first floor entrance (steps): Parallel parking spaces are available along East 13th street.
• Ground Floor: Public Works - Utilities Office and elevator access.
• First Floor: City Administrator, City Clerk, Finance Director, Building Inspector, Parks and Recreation (program registration and city facilities rentals/reservations), Community Assistance Director, and Human Resources
• Second Floor:  City Council Chambers, and Council Meeting Room

Utility Issues: If residents have any ongoing or immediate utilities issues or concerns (electric, water, sewer, street, trash or recycling) they should call the Public Works Office at City Hall, 402.826.4312. If situations occur after regular business hours, calls to this number will be answered by dispatchers who will notify the proper on-call city personnel. This is the most direct and efficient way to contact the city regarding these issues.

 Website - www.crete.ne.gov | Social Media

• Please use the City Government, Departments, Public Works, and Library sections above to find more information about City of Crete functions and services.

• Official City of Crete social media accounts (@CreteNE) are maintained by City Hall staff on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Additional city departments also maintain social media accounts: @CretePoliceNE, @CPDPoPaws, @CreteFireNE, @CreteLibraryNE. All accounts are for communication with the public about city services, programs, announcements, and notifications. Accounts are not monitored 24 hours a day. In an emergency, call 911. For utility issues, see above.

Elected Officials:

• Mayor Dave Bauer
• City Council Ward I - Dan Papik, Anthony Fitzgerald
• City Council Ward II - Dale Strehle, Tom Crisman
• City Council Ward III - Kyle Frans, Ashley Newmyer

City officials/department heads:

• City Administrator - Tom Ourada
• City Clerk - Nancy Tellez
• Finance Director - Wendy Thomas
• City Attorney - Anna Burge
• Economic Development
• Human Resources
• Police Chief - Gary Young
• Fire Chief - Tod Allen
• Community Assistance Office - Director Marilyn Schacht
• Library Director - Jessica Wilkinson
• Building Inspector - Trenton Griffin
• Parks and Recreation Department -Director Liz Cody
• Public Works - Utilities
• City Code

Records Requests:

• Please see information and the Records Request form from the City Clerk's Office

Crete is a First-Class city with a Mayor-City Council form of government with the mayor and six council members who are all elected to four-year terms. There are three council wards, each represented by two members. The 2023-2024 actual/estimated expenditures are $30,154,401. The current municipal levy is 0.342669 (2024). The actual valuation of the City of Crete is $450,968,476 (2024).

In addition to the 5.5% Nebraska sales tax, a 2% city sales tax is imposed in Crete. The revenue generated by 1% of the city sales tax is used entirely for property tax relief; 0.5% is dedicated to economic development; the final 0.5% is dedicated to capital construction and public safety.

Regular city council meetings are held the first and third Tuesdays of each month at City Hall; council members sit on six standing committees. There are 11 citizen advisory boards appointed by the mayor and approved by the council.

VISION STATEMENT: 
Crete, Nebraska will be a destination for family living, business development and a variety of activities.

MISSION STATEMENT: 
The City of Crete, Nebraska strives to provide the municipal services required for a safe and peaceful "Community in Motion" in which to live, work and play.

City of Crete annual memberships and dues paid October 2024 - March 2025: