Save Gretna from Rapid Development
Gretna’s Good Life District has been a topic of discussion in recent months and the city-wide special election held in January of this year proved the uncertainty of Gretna’s citizens. The Nebraska Department of Economic Development states that “The purpose of the Act is to promote and develop the general and economic welfare of this state and its communities by providing support for unique Nebraska projects that will attract new industries and employment opportunities and further grow and strengthen Nebraska’s retail, entertainment, and tourism industries.” Developer Rod Yates (and others) have picked up this opportunity and put together ideas and proposals that are too big for Gretna to handle.
Yates had wanted more land than what was available to him and wanted the city to use its power of eminent domain to force the sale of local farmers' land. Nebraska Examiner reporter Cindy Gonzalez wrote in January that “Yates has indicated that he will not give up on his mega vision for the site, but would pursue tweaks in state law to better target the state incentive toward his vision for the property.”
As of right now, Woodsonia Real Estate has also been working up a plan for The Good Life District. But in the meantime, Yates has worked with lawmakers to push for the Destination Nebraska Act. This act would essentially take away all benefits of the expansion for the city of Gretna, and Gretna would not have a say in what is developed or how much land would be involved.
With all of this in mind, please sign this petition to state your support for sensible growth and development that occurs in a reasonable way instead of huge mega projects. We acknowledge that Gretna must grow over time, but huge land sales to developers from outside of our area are unwise and unwelcome. This petition will be shared with Gretna and Sarpy County officials. Let your voice be heard!
Ashlyn Oetting Contact the author of the petition