UPDATED LIST 2-26-2025

BUFFALO COUNTY PUBLIC SALE DATE – MARCH 3, 2025

Buffalo County Courthouse

1512 Central Ave, Kearney, NE  68847

9:00 a.m.

Check in will be from 8:00 to 8:45 at the Buffalo County Treasurer’s Office

EVERYONE AT THE SALE MUST WORK FROM THIS UPDATED LIST.

WE WILL NOT ADJUST THE SPEED OF THE SALE TO ACCOMMODATE THE USE OF OTHER LISTS.

REGISTRATION

Pre-Registration is strongly advised.

Registration for the sale will begin the Monday before the sale.  In order to register and participate in the Buffalo County Tax Sale, you will need to provide the following:

• Completed Buffalo County Tax Sale Registration Form.
• W-9
• $25.00 Registration Fee for each bidder  -  nonrefundable.
• Blank Check for the purchase of certificates.

• Nebraska Statute (77-1807) requires every entity or person to pay a non-refundable registration fee of $25.00 prior to the sale in order to participate.  The fee is not refundable upon redemption.

There is a limit of 25 bid numbers per company/individual.

• We will allow companies/individuals to purchase multiple bid numbers, but request only one person attend the sale regardless of bid numbers purchased.  We can advise you how to make this work. 
• Thursday morning before the sale, random bid numbers will be drawn for those who are registered.  Your bid numbers will be supplied to you after the drawing, or, to your representative at check-in the morning of the sale.

CHECK-IN

Check in will be from 8:00 to 8:45 at the Buffalo County Treasurer’s Office.

Buyers and all buyer’s representatives must check in at the Treasurer’s Office and have all paperwork completed before they will be allowed into the sale.

If you have questions, please contact our office at 308-236-1254. 

2025 Bidder registration form

Bidder Instruction Sheet

W-9 Form

Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPR) have long helped law enforcement in solving crimes. ALPRs capture computer-readable images of license plates, allowing law enforcement agencies to compare plate numbers against those of stolen cars or cars driven by people suspected of being involved in criminal activities.

The information by ALPR cameras can help determine whether a vehicle was at the scene of a crime and to discover vehicles that may be associated with each other. Law enforcement agencies can choose to share their information with other agencies. The cameras can also integrate information from national or state crime databases to provide real-time alerts when a vehicle associated with a known suspect or a stolen vehicle passes the camera.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, when employed ethically and objectively, ALPRs are an effective force-multiplying tool for law enforcement. A 2011 study by the Police Executive Research Forum concluded that ALPRs used by Mesa, Ariz., Police resulted in “nearly 3 times as many ‘hits’ for stolen vehicles, and twice as many vehicle recoveries.”

Flock Safety communities have reported overall crime reductions of over 70 percent after a period of time utilizing the ALPR system. In some areas, that included an over 60 percent reduction in non-residential burglaries, 80 percent reduction in residential burglary, and an over 40 percent reduction in robberies.

What is Flock Safety?
Flock Safety is a public safety operating system that helps communities and law enforcement work together to eliminate crime, protect privacy, and mitigate bias. We build devices that capture objective evidence and use machine learning to detect and deliver unbiased investigative leads to law enforcement. Flock Safety communities have reported crime reductions of up to 70 percent.

Today, there are over 1,500 Flock Safety communities; we partner with 1200+ law enforcement agencies.  The Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with the Kearney Police Department under their MOU with the FLOCK Safety System.

Kearney Police Department Flock Transparency Portal

Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR #1346)

Nebraska Revised Statutes – Automatic License Plate Reader Privacy Act 60-3201 to 60-3209

Flock ALPR Data Year End Report

Vigilant Mobile ALPR Year End Report

In order to efficiently respond to requests and manage the employment of off-duty police officers, The Kearney Police Department has partnered with Off Duty Management to provide services related to hiring off-duty officers effective September 27,2021.

You may request to hire off-duty police officers through the Off Duty Management web-based service, OfficerTRAK®, or calling the number below.

Off Duty Management provides the following to the vendor:

• Online access to information through the OfficerTRAK® software including:
• Job-status
• Officer attendance
• Field notes and media files
• Post orders and instructions
• Past and future shift information
• Full liability coverage for the vendor, the agency, and the officer
• 24/7 vendor service
• Dedicated point of contact for scheduling and invoicing
• Officer payroll

• Private detective agencies
• Licensed liquor establishments
• Sell, manufacture, or transport alcoholic beverages
• Collection agencies
• Advertising agencies (use of uniform or office to endorse products or businesses);
• Process server
• Bail bond agency
• Repossessing property or evicting persons or entities from premises
• Assisting in case preparation or investigation for any criminal defense or civil proceedings
• Employment as an investigator or in any capacity involving the use of police records for other than law enforcement purposes
• Employment that would be likely to bring the Police Department or the officer into disrespect, disfavor or ridicule, or involve the officer in a violation of Department policies, procedures or rules
• Other situations, locations or capacities not approved by the Chief of Police.
• Cannot access, use, or convey any data, files or information that is proprietary, is under the control of, or was collected and stored by this or any other law enforcement agency.
• Cannot perform any task or job that would bring discredit or embarrassment to the Kearney Police Department.

*PLEASE NOTE: the above list is not an all-inclusive and questions regarding permitted activity should be forwarded to Off Duty Management.

RATES:

*Supervisor Rates: A supervisor is required when four or more officers are requested.

**Holiday Rates: Rate will apply to the following days: New Year’s Day, MLK Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Day After Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day.

***Emergency Rates:  If request is received less than 72 hours prior to assignment the emergency pay rate goes into effect.

 Cancellation policy:

Once an assignment has been approved and scheduled; vendors canceling or reducing assignments are required to pay the full ODM administrative fees for the first 24 hours of the original assignment. Vendors canceling or reducing assignments within 48 hours of the start of the assignment are required to pay the greater of officer hours worked or the agency minimum hours plus ODM administrative fees for the first 24 hours of the original assignment.

 YOU CAN REQUEST SERVICE BY VISITING THE OFFICERTRAK® WEBSITE

OR CALL OFF DUTY MANAGEMENT 24/7  (308) 281-1827

• Same user interface that is used on the courthouse workstation
• Real time, 24/7 access
• Customizable results screens
• Subscription based

• Know what has been filed against you;
• An attorney (a Public Defender may be provided at no cost);
• Face and cross-examine witnesses;
• Present evidence in your own defense;
• Testify if you wish; however, you do not have to testify;
• Be advised by the Judge as to what the Court can do with you; and
• Appeal the Court’s decision to the Nebraska Court of Appeals or Nebraska Supreme Court.

• Dress neatly and cleanly, as you would for an important meeting.
• Be 15 minutes early, so you are ready to attend the hearing on time.
• Speak loudly and clearly.
• Be honest and make eye contact when talking.
• Respond to Judge’s questions by saying, “Yes, Your Honor,” or “No, Your Honor.”

• Curse, swear or lie;
• Get angry or roll your eyes;
• Walk out of the courtroom (you could be held in contempt;
• Speak or act rudely;
• Take a cell phone into the courtroom;
• Slouch or chew gum; or
• Wear sagging pants, offensive T-shirts or gang-related items.

• ...fail to follow court orders (any law violation, including Court orders to obey your parents’ rules and curfew, and/or attend school).
• ...are a runaway youth (a history of running from home or if you run from your Court-ordered placement, such as foster or group home).
• …are a danger to yourself or others (violent, aggressive, gang-related behavior or use of alcohol or drugs).
• ...are being discharged unsatisfactorily from a placement facility. If you are not following rules of your Court-ordered placement and are discharged, you may be detained.
• ...an OJS evaluation is ordered to be done residentially.

• To stop the violence.
• To protect the victim from additional acts of violence committed by the Defendant.
• To protect the children or other family members from exposure to, or possible injury from, domestic violence.
• To provide restitution to the victims.
• To hold the offender accountable for their violent conduct.

• Be between 12 and 18 years of age. (Juveniles 11 and younger will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.)
• Accept responsibility for their offense and acknowledge the extent of their involvement.
• Be willing to comply with all of the program requirements.
• Reside in Buffalo County.

• The juvenile’s previous encounters with the law, including delinquent behavior.
• The length of time over which any prior offenses occurred, and similarity of those offenses.
• Whether the offense involved violence, and whether it was premeditated.
• The number of victims involved in the offense.
• The potential for actual harm to the victim(s), even if unintended.
• The monetary value of any damages.
• The juvenile’s motives for committing the offense.
• The likelihood of future law violations 
• Whether the juvenile is amenable to treatment.

• Criminal charges regarding the offense will be dismissed or not filed.
• Improvement in personal responsibility and coping skills.
• Opportunity to develop a sense of community responsibility and accountability.

1. Assessment. Upon the offer by the County Attorney to participate in Diversion, the juvenile will complete an intake assessment. He or she will be required to meet with the Diversion Administrator to discuss the referral, the diversion process, and the offender’s willingness to participate. The youth’s history, family life, academic performance, and other relevant factors will be examined. The Diversion Administrator may also provide avenues for additional services and/or make referrals to other agencies.
2. Drug/Alcohol Assessment. All youth who are referred with drug- or alcohol-related offenses will be required to get a complete professional drug/alcohol evaluation at their expense. The results of this assessment will be shared with the youth and their parent(s), and be required to follow the recommendations of the assessment.
3. Drug/Alcohol Testing. Once accepted into the Program, continued use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol will be forbidden. At any time while on Diversion, the youth may be required to submit to drug and alcohol screening. The Diversion Administrator may share the results of such testing with the County Attorney, who will consider whether the youth will be allowed to continue in the Diversion Program. An offender deemed no longer eligible for Diversion will be referred back to the court for formal charges.
4. Curfews. After being accepted into the Juvenile Diversion Program, some participants may be required to observe a curfew. The juvenile, the parent(s), and the Program Administrator will help in determining the curfew times and conditions.
5. Duration of the Program. The Program will be tailored to the individual needs of the juvenile. Consequently, the duration of the program will depend on the offender. The maximum term of Diversion will not exceed one year.
6. No Plea Required. While the participant must acknowledge their participation in the offense, they will not be required to enter a court plea of “admit” or “no contest.” The County Attorney will not use any admissions if charges are subsequently filed.
7. Victim/Offender Mediation. If the victim agrees, the offender may be considered for mediation.
8. Sponsor. A juvenile participating in Diversion will be asked to have a responsible adult as their sponsor. The Program Administrator must approve the sponsor. The sponsor may be a parent, relative, or friend.

• Paying all required fines, fees, and restitution.
• Satisfactorily completing all required community service.
• Attending and participating in all educational classes.
• Writing a letter of apology to the victim(s).
• Informing the school in writing about participation in the Diversion Program and serving all, if any, school-related consequences.
• Avoiding social situations that may involve criminal or delinquent behavior.
• Obeying school and household rules, and working towards a good academic standing.
• Receiving no additional violations and obeying the rules of the Program.
• Signing a release of information permitting open communication with the school and other interested parties and the Diversion Program.
• Each individual is entitled to and capable of being responsible for his or her lawful participation in society.

• Marriage License Application

• Name of Applicant A/Groom
• Name of Applicant B/Bride (including maiden name)
• Date of marriage (Must be issued from Buffalo County)

• Social Security Card (require certified copy)
• Bank, credit union, and investment accounts 
• Vehicle title/registration
• Driver's license (require certified copy)
• Mortgage
• Homeowner's insurance
• Life insurance
• Car insurance
• Medical and dental records
• Credit cards and files
• Deeds and property titles
• Passport
• Voter registration card
• IRS forms
• Church records
• Mail and newspaper subscriptions
• Employer/payroll
• Post office
• Your attorney (to update legal documents, will)
• Military records
• Utilities/Subscriptions

• Extreme weather, and other threatening emergencies in your area
• AMBER Alerts
• Presidential Alerts during a national emergency

• Tsunami Warnings
• Tornado and Flash Flood Warnings
• Hurricane, Typhoon, Dust Storm and Extreme Wind Warnings
• Blizzard and Ice Storm Warnings

What is a safe room? What are the design requirements for a FEMA safe room?
A safe room is a hardened structure specifically designed to meet FEMA criteria and provide "near-absolute protection" in extreme weather events, including tornadoes and hurricanes. The level of protection provided by a safe room is a function of its design parameters, specifically the design wind speed and resulting wind pressure and the wind-borne debris load resistance. To be considered a FEMA safe room, the structure must be designed and constructed to the guidelines specified in FEMA P-320, Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business (FEMA, third edition, 2008a) (for home and small business safe rooms). Additionally, all applicable Federal, State, and local codes must be followed. When questions arise pertaining to the differences between FEMA P320 criteria and another code or standard, the most conservative criteria should apply.

Should I have a safe room?
Pages 6 through 10 of FEMA P-320 (FEMA, 2008a) provide background information to help homeowners decide if a safe room is needed in their home. Homeowners and small-business owners should also refer to the Homeowner’s Worksheet, Assessing Your Risk (Table I-1) in FEMA P-320 (FEMA, 2008a); this is an easy-to-use matrix that helps users decide whether a safe room is a matter of preference, should be considered, or is the preferred method for protection from extreme winds.

My house has a basement. Do I need a safe room?
Some strong tornadoes have resulted in loss of floor framing, collapse of basement walls, and death and injuries to individuals taking refuge in a basement. What constitutes an acceptable level of protection is an individual decision. A basement may be the safest place to seek shelter for homes without a safe room, but it will not provide the same level of protection as a safe room unless it has been designed and constructed to provide the level of protection in accordance with FEMA P-320 (FEMA, 2008a) and FEMA P-361 (FEMA, 2008b).

A basement is a good location to install a shelter or build a safe room, but access for handicapped or physically challenged individuals may be limited. The flood risk of your location may also affect whether it is appropriate to place a safe room in your basement. If your house or neighborhood is prone to flooding, the basement may not be an appropriate location for taking refuge.

Where can I find information about obtaining FEMA funding to construct a safe room? Are there any funds available in my area?
For project eligibility and financial assistance questions, please contact your Local Emergency Manager. Your Emergency Manager can advise you on what information must be provided for your project to be considered for funding, as well as any applicable Federal, State, and local design requirements.

Can I still apply for FEMA funding after I have begun construction of a safe room or purchased a safe room?
No. You must apply for funding before the purchase of a safe room or beginning any construction. Section D.2, Part III of FY 2011 Hazard Mitigation Assistance Unified Guidance (FEMA, 2010) states that costs related to projects for which actual physical work (such as groundbreaking, demolition, or construction of a raised foundation) has occurred prior to award or final approval are ineligible.

What costs are eligible for funding under a safe room grant?
Allowable costs for safe room projects funded under FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) are those components related to, and necessary for, providing life safety for building residents in the immediate vicinity during an extreme-wind event. The funding covers design and building costs related to structural and building envelope protection. The funding covers both retrofits to existing facilities and new construction projects, and applies to both single- and multi-use facilities.

Eligible costs are only those consistent with FEMA-approved performance criteria as provided in FEMA P-320 (FEMA, 2008a). These criteria are summarized in Table 6 (below) of the 2011 FY FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance Unified Guidance (FEMA, 2010). (Click the table to view it larger.)

Does FEMA approve, endorse, or certify any products?
No. Federal No. Federal policy does not allow FEMA to approve, endorse, certify, or recommend any products. While a product may be in compliance with FEMA design guidance, any language from manufacturers stating their product is "FEMA approved" or "FEMA certified" is incorrect.

What is the recommended square footage per person for a residential tornado and hurricane safe room?
For residential safe rooms, the usable tornado safe room floor area should be the gross floor area minus the area of sanitary facilities, if any, and should include the protected occupant area between the safe room walls at the height of any fixed seating, if it exists. The minimum recommended safe room floor area per occupant for residential tornado and hurricane safe rooms is provided in table below. (Click the table to view it larger.)

What is the cost of installing a safe room in a new home or small business?
Costs for construction vary across the United States. The cost for constructing a safe room that can double as a master closet, bathroom, or utility room inside a new home or small business ranges from approximately $6,600 to $8,700 (in 2011 dollars). This cost range is applicable to the basic designs in FEMA P-320 (FEMA, 2008a) for an 8-foot by 8-foot safe room (approximately 64 square feet of protected space). Larger, more refined designs for greater comfort cost more, with 14 foot by 14-foot safe rooms ranging in cost from approximately $12,000 to $14,300. The cost of the safe room can vary significantly, depending on the following factors:

Numbers for Real Estate Transfer Statements 

Nebraska Documentary Stamp Tax Computation Table 

Certificate of Exemption 

Real Estate Transfer Statement - Form 521 

Documentary Stamp Tax Exemptions Chart 

Example Cover Sheet for the Transfer on Death Deed Transactions  

Form 53, Nebraska Refund Claim for Documentary Stamp Tax 

Life Estate/Remainder Interest Tables 

Documentary Stamp Tax Rate History 

Certificate of Exemption Form 5B 


The Nebraska Department of Revenue requires the Register of Deeds office to collect a documentary-stamp tax when a deed is presented for recording.  A  Form 521 (transfer statement) must be completed for all deeds, memorandum of contracts and/or land contracts.

Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force youto evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services--water, gas, electricity or telephones--were cut off?  Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they will not be able to reach everyone right away, so it is important for you to develop a plan for you and your family.

Families can, and do, cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team. Follow the steps below to create your family's disaster plan.  Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility.

Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere--at work, at school or in the car.

How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe?

4 STEPS TO SAFETY

1.  Find Out What Could Happen to You

Contact the Emergency Management office or the Ft. Kearney Chapter of the American Red Cross.

• Ask what types of disasters are most likely to happen in Kearney and the surrounding area.  Request information on how to prepare for the different types of emergencies that could occur.
• Learn about the existing warning signals in Buffalo County: what they sound like (outdoor warning sirens), and that the alert signal should indicate to all citizens to tune to local radio or television for emergency information and instructions.
• Ask about animal care after a disaster. Animals will not be allowed inside emergency shelters due to health regulations, so prepare a plan for your pets.
• Find out how to help elderly or disabled persons, if needed.
• Next, find out about the disaster plans at your workplace, your children's school or daycare center and other places where your family spends time.

2.  Create a Disaster Plan

Meet wiith your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster. Explain the dangers of fire, severe weather and hazardous materials to children.  Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.

• Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen. Explain what to do in each case.
• Pick two places to meet;
1. Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire.
2. Outside your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Everyone must know the address and phone number.
• Ask an out-of-state friend to be your "family contact." After a disaster, its often easier to call long distance. Other family members should call this person and tell them where they are. Everyone must know your contact's phone number.
• Discuss what to do in an evacuation.  Plan how to take care of your pets.

3.  Complete This Checklist

• Post emergency telephone numbers by your telephones or have them programmed into your phone (fire, police, EMS, etc.)
• Teach children how and when to call 911 for emergency help.
• Show each family member how and when to turn off the water, gas and electricity at the main switches.
• Check if you have adequate insurance coverage.
• Teach each family member how to use a fire extinguisher (ABC type), and show them the designated locations where they are kept in the house.
• Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
• Conduct a home hazard hunt.
• Stock emergency supplies and assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit.
• Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class.
• Determine the best escape routes from your home.  Find two ways out of each room.
• Find the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster, including your Shelter-in-Place spot.

4.  Practice and Maintain Your Plan

• Quiz your children every six months so they remember what to do.
• Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills.
• Replace stored water every three months and stored food every six months.
• Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Test your smoke detectors monthly and replace the batteries the same weekend as the time change occurs in the spring (daylight-savings time) and fall (standard time).

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit with items you may need in an evacuation.  Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, duffle bags or covered plastic containers. Include:

• A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil.
• One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket or sleeping bag per person.
• A first aid kit that includes your family's prescription medications.
• Emergency tools, including a battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries.
• An extra set of car keys and a credit card, cash or traveler's checks.
• Sanitation supplies.
• Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.
• An extra pair of glasses.
• Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller kit in the trunk of your car.

UTILITIES
Locate the main electric fuse box, water service main and natural gas main.  Learn how and when to turn these utilities off. Teach all responsible family members.  Keep necessary tools near gas and water shut-off valves.

Remember, turn off the utilities only if you suspect the lines are damaged or if you are instructed to do so. If you turn the gas off, you will need a professional to turn it back on.

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS
Working with neighbors can save lives and property. Meet with your neighbors to plan how the neighborhood could work together after a disaster until help arrives. If you're a member of a neighborhood organization, such as a home association or neighborhood watch group, introduce disaster preparedness as a new activity. Know your neighbors' special skills (e.g., medical, technical) and consider how you could help neighbors who have special needs, such as disabled and elderly persons. Make plans for child-care in case parents are unable to get home during the emergency.

HOME HAZARD HUNT
During a disaster, ordinary objects in your home can cause injury or damage. Anything that can move, fall, break or cause a fire is a home hazard.  Inspect your home at least once a year and fix potential hazards.

Contact the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department to learn about home fire hazards.

EVACUATION
Evacuate immediately if told to do so:

• Listen to your battery-powered radio and follow the instructions of local emergency officials.
• Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes.
• Take your family disaster supplies kit.
• Lock your home.
• Use travel routes specified by local authorities--don't use shortcuts because certain areas may be impassable or dangerous.

If you're sure you have time:

• If instructed to do so, shut off water, gas and electricity before leaving.
• Post a note telling others when you left and where you are going.
• Make arrangements for your pets.

IF DISASTER STRIKES

• If disaster strikes
  Remain calm and patient. Put your plan into action.
• Check for injuries
  Give first aid and get help for seriously injured people.
• Listen to your battery powered radio for news and instructions.
• Evacuate, if advised to do so. Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes.

Check for damage in your home...

• Use flashlights--do not light matches or turn on electrical switches, if you suspect damage.
• Check for fires, fire hazards and other household hazards.
• Sniff for gas leaks, starting at the water heater.  If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows, and get everyone outside quickly.
• Shut off any other damaged utilities.
• Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline and other flammable liquids immediately.

Remember to...

• Confine or secure your pets.
• Call your family contact--do not use the telephone again unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
• Check on your neighbors, especially elderly or disabled persons.
• Make sure you have an adequate water supply in case service is cut off.
• Stay away from downed power lines.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency's Family Protection Program and the American Red Cross' Disaster Education Program are nationwide efforts to help citizens prepare for disasters of all types. For more information, please contact the Emergency Management office, or the Fort Kearney Chapter of the American Red Cross. Start planning now.

Whether it's a large-scale natural catastrophe or an unforeseen emergency that causes you to leave your home temporarily, everyone's family can benefit from having a household evacuation plan in place before disaster strikes.

Every disaster plan must include your pets!

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) offers the following tips to pet owners designing an emergency safety plan:

• If you evacuate your home, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND! Pets most likely cannot survive on their own; and if by some remote chance they do, you may not be able to find them when you return.
• For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Find out which motels and hotels in your area allow pets -- well in advance of needing them. Include your local animal shelter's number in your list of emergency numbers -- they might be able to provide information concerning pets during a disaster.
• Make sure identification tags are up to date and securely fastened to your pet's collar. If possible, attach the address and/or phone number of your evacuation site. If your pet gets lost, his tag is his ticket home. Make sure you have a current photo of your pet for identification purposes.
• Make sure you have a secure pet carrier, leash or harness for your pet so that if he panics, he can't escape.
• Take pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, cat litter/pan, can opener, food dishes, first aid kit and other supplies with you in case they're not available later. While the sun is still shining, consider packing a "pet survival" kit, which could be easily deployed if disaster hits.
• If you are unable to return to your home right away, you may need to board your pet. Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet's medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current. Include copies in your "pet survival" kit along with a photo of your pet.
• If it is impossible to take your pet with you to temporary shelter, contact friends, family, veterinarians, or boarding kennels to arrange for care. Make sure medical and feeding information, food, medicine and other supplies accompany your pet to his foster home. NOTE: Some animal shelters will provide temporary foster care for owned pets in times of disaster, but this should be considered only as a last resort.
• If you have no alternative but to leave your pet at home, there are some precautions you must take, but remember that leaving your pet at home alone can place your animal in great danger! Confine your pet to a safe area inside -- NEVER leave your pet chained outside! Place a notice outside in a visible area, advising what pets are in the house and where they are located. Provide a phone number where you or a contact can be reached as well as the name and number of your vet.

Not only are pets affected by disaster, but the other animals in the disaster area are affected as well.  The HSUS offers these basic tips for people who encounter wildlife or have livestock on their property:

Wildlife

• Wild animals often seek higher ground, which, during floods, eventually become submerged (i.e., island) and the animals become stranded. If the island is large enough and provides suitable shelter, you can leave food appropriate to the species (i.e., sunflower seeds for squirrels). Animals have a flight response and will flee from anyone approaching too closely. If the animal threatens to rush into the water, back away from the island or you may frighten the animal into jumping into the water to escape from you
• Wildlife often seek refuge from flood waters on upper levels of a home and may remain inside even after the water recedes. If you meet a rat or snake face to face, be careful but don't panic. Open a window or other escape route and the animal will probably leave on its own. Never attempt to capture a wild animal unless you have the training, protective clothing, restraint equipment and caging necessary to perform the job.
• Beware of an increased number of snakes and other predators who will try to feed on the carcasses of small mammals who have been drowned or crushed in their burrows or under rocks.
• Often, during natural disasters, mosquitoes and dead animal carcasses may present disease problems. Outbreaks of disease may occur. The local public health office will issue news releases to assist with aiding the public regarding health issues associated with the disaster.
• If you see an injured or stranded animal in need of assistance, or you need help with evicting an animal from your home, please contact your local animal control office or Nebraska Games and Parks.

Livestock

Evacuate Livestock Whenever Possible.

• Arrangements for evacuation, including routes and host sites, should be made in advance. Alternate routes should be mapped out in case the planned route is inaccessible.
• The evacuation sites should have or be able to readily obtain food, water, veterinary care, handling equipment and facilities.
• Trucks, trailers, and other vehicles suitable for transporting livestock (appropriate for transporting each specific type of animal) should be available along with experienced handlers and drivers to transport them. Whenever possible, the animals should be accustomed to these vehicles in advance so they're less frightened and easier to move.
• If evacuation is not possible, a decision must be made whether to move large animals to available shelter or turn them outside. This decision should be determined based on the type of disaster and the soundness and location of the shelter (structure).
• All animals should have some form of identification that will help facilitate their return.

Your disaster plan should include a list of emergency phone numbers for local agencies that can assist you if disaster strikes -- including your veterinarian, state veterinarian, local animal shelter, animal care and control, and county extension service. These numbers should be kept with your disaster kit in a secure, but easily accessible place.

For additional information, please contact:

The Humane Society of the United States
2100 L. Street, NW
Washington, DC. 20037
Attn: Disaster Services Program
Phone: (202) 452-1100

Website: http://www.hsus.org

Minimum Right of Way-66 feet requirement
Design Speed (MPH)-30 MPH or less
Maximum Curve (degree)-23.0 degree
Maximum Grade (%)-10%
Number of Lanes-2
Lane Width-10 feet each
Shoulder Width (feet)-3 feet
Lateral Obstacle Clearance (feet)-5 feet
Surface Type Minimum--Gravel

Drainage Facilities
Buffalo County will require the number of structures to accommodate adequate water drainage (culverts and bridges), as well as adequate drainage ditches to insure a safe travel surface for the traveling public. The County will not be responsible for any drainage structures that have not met requirements.

Turn Arounds
Minimum radius of 66.0 feet on dead end roads for adequate machine turn arounds.

Signing
Proper signing will be required on intersections within the subdivision as well as on main roads outside and/or leading into a subdivision. This includes proper dead end signs, obstacle markers and speed signs.

Driveways
Paved and hard surfaced driveways will be the responsibility of the landowner in the event of any reconstruction or maintenance work. New driveways within the subdivision are the responsibility of the landowner. Landowners must obtain a driveway permit from the County Highway Department, whereupon the Highway Department will check the location for drainage and/or culvert size. If a culvert is required, it will be the responsibility of the landowner to purchase the culvert and install it.

Trees, Etc.
Trees, shrubbery or flowers will not be allowed within the 66.0 feet of right of way, nor will fences be allowed within this right of way.

Snow Removal
Snow removal will consist of the traveled surface only as low priority. Driveways will be the responsibility of the landowner or tenant.

Maintenance
Those gravel roads within the subdivision will be treated as low priority as compared to other County gravel roads. Paved or hard surface roadways within the subdivision will be the responsibility of the subdivision as far as maintenance, patching, resurfacing or complete reconstruction. Buffalo County will assume snow removal of the traveled roadway only. Any outside construction or maintenance work done on those roads within the subdivision by a contractor or resident will not be the responsibility of Buffalo County liability and/or cost.

For additional information, please contact the Highway Department at 308-236-1237.

There are approximately 962 square miles in Buffalo County.  Within this area there are 1500 miles of road: 112.3 miles are County oil or concrete roads.  There are 342 bridges over 20 feet in the County.  There are also 242 bridges that are 20 feet and under which are not considered bridges but are classified as culverts because of the constricted water flow.

There are 41 full time employees and during the summer months we employ three to four more people.  In addition to the Highway Superintendent, there are: one assistant Highway Superintendent, two clerical, two foremen, 19 maintainer operators, five heavy equipment operators, one sign man, one welder, two mechanics, one mechanic assistant and eight truck driver/operators.

We also have a large inventory of machines and equipment valued at $9,143,598.00.  This includes 21 maintainers, one crane, three backhoes, four loaders, 43 pickups and trucks and a considerable number of other pieces of equipment. 

We have an excellent communication system which includes 2-way radios which are used extensively.  They save many miles of driving and enable people to communicate from one corner of the county to the other.  They have saved many maintainer men from having to walk for help after having a flat tire, being stuck in a snowstorm or any other emergency type situation.  Our foremen also have cellular phones.

We have 2-way radios in all the maintainers, office, loaders and in a majority of our other equipment.  The radios also give us communication with the Sheriff’s Department an the County Surveyor.  The telephone system gives us easier communication with the Sheriff’s Department, Surveyor, other County Courthouse offices and also the City of Kearney offices by dialing just four digits.

Buffalo County is divided into 26 Townships.  We have divided the townships into Zones 1 through 26.  We bid gravel once a year.  The bid period is from April 1 of one year to March 31 of the following year.

Buffalo County went to the GEO Base Addressing System and signs were installed in 1997.  This system makes finding a resident faster in an emergency type situation.

• 1st page of document: $10.00
• 2nd page & all subsequent pages: $6.00 each
• The above fees pertain to ALL documents filed within the Register of Deeds offices.
  Exceptions listed below are "no fee" documents:
• Federal Tax Lien Termination
• State Tax Lien Termination
• UCC Termination
• Relinquishment
• Certified copies: $1.50 per page
• UCC Financings Statements, Assignment, Amendments, Release, Partial Release: Flat Fee $14.00 (Change effective date 7/1/2021) LB 910 passed 7/31/2020

Documentary Tax - Effective 7/1/2005 to $2.25 per thousand (LB-40) (see the Computation Table) 
The Nebraska Department of Revenue requires the Register of Deeds office to collect a documentary-stamp tax when a deed is presented for recording.  A  Form 521 (transfer statement) must be completed for all deeds, memorandum of contracts and/or land contracts.

The above list of fees are in accordance with LB463 L.S. 1983: Effective August 26, 1983; LB606 L.S. 1985 Effective July 1, 1985; LB1153, Effective January 1, 1991 LB 1022, Effective January 1, 1993; LB1099, Effective July 16, 2004

LB 254 - Provide New Requirements for Instruments recorded in the Office of Register of Deeds Effective August 27, 2011

• Recording Space Requirements:
• 3" X 8 1/2" on top of page 1
• No attachment or affirmation shall be used in any way to cover any information or printed material on the instrument. (For example, nothing may be taped or attached to an instrument.)
• Every instrument presented for recording shall have on the first page BELOW the 3 inch margin a return address and the title of the document
• Margin Requirements: 1" on both vertical sides, and 1" on the bottom. This applies throughout the document.
• Instrument Requirements:
• Paper at least 8 1/2" X 11" , and no larger than 8 1/2" X 14"
• Shall be printed, typewritten or computer generated in black ink, white paper, and a minimum 8pt font
• Must be legible
• Each signature on an instrument shall be in black or dark blue ink
• Names of each party shall be typed, printed, or stamped beneath the original signature.
• Stamps shall not cover or interfere with any part of the instrument
• Exceptions to the rule:
• Instruments signed before the effective date of this bill (August 27, 2011)
• Instruments executed outside of the U.S.
• Certified copies from governmental agencies (Death Certificates)
• Instruments signed by an incapacitated or deceased person at the time of recording
• Instruments formatted to meet court requirements
• State & Federal Tax Liens
• UCC Instruments
• Plats, Surveys, etc.

Treasurer: Brenda R. Rohrich (elected 4 yr. Term)
Deputy Treasurer: Michele L. Richardson

Duties:

• To collect all revenues for the County
• To bill and collect all real estate and personal taxes in the County
• To issue motor vehicle titles
• To register all motor vehicles with tax situs in the County
• To issue driver licenses, CDL’s, learner permits, ID cards, school permits, etc
• To disburse collections to the proper political subdivisions
• To register motor boats
• To register snowmobiles

General Information:

• Information on titling NEW motor vehicles and watercraft
• Information on titling previously owned motor vehicles and watercraft
• Information on titles coming from out of state
• Information on replacing a lost title
• Information on your first registration for cars, trucks, trailers, motorcycles and boats whether new or used
• Information on renewing registrations
• Information on registering snowmobiles
• Information on refunds
• Tax Sales and Tax Sale Certificates

 Telephone Numbers:

Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes: (308) 236-1250
Motor Vehicle: (308) 236-1259
Tax Sales: (308) 236-1250

The Courthouse is located one block east of 2nd Avenue on 16th street.

Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday - Friday