Gretna voters narrowly approved a key measure for a new tourist district, despite last-minute challenges from developer Rod Yates
Mayor Mike Evans mentioned that the close results reflect some confusion among voters about the project and the state incentives involved. He emphasized the need for clearer communication moving forward. The district will be located near Interstate 80 and Highway 31, right between Omaha and Lincoln.
The good life district aims to create an economic development program that allows the city to collect a portion of the reduced state sales tax. This tax cut, from 5.5% to 2.75%, is crucial for funding retail and entertainment venues in the area.
However, there’s been some drama. Rod Yates, the developer behind the project, pulled his application just before the vote. He had proposed a mega youth-sports campus that he claimed would bring in billions. But city officials found his demands too risky for taxpayers.
Despite Yates’ exit, other developers are still interested in the district. Evans is optimistic about new proposals that could transform the area. The Nebraska Department of Economic Development has stated that Yates’ withdrawal doesn’t automatically end the district’s plans, so there’s still hope for the project moving forward.
