Nominations accepted for community awards

Three new awards will be presented in the Clearwater community, including volunteer, community organization (non-profit) and business of the year.

Economic development director Lauren Sheridan-Simonsen presented the idea at the village’s Jan. 10 meeting.

Community members may nominate an individual, group or business as a way “to recognize individuals who give their time, talents and treasure.”

“You just can’t run a community without the great volunteers and businesses,” Sheridan-Simonsen said.

Funding for the awards will be made through the village’s LB840 fund, for community betterment.

Village trustee Mike Klabenes asked how the program will operate.

Sheridan-Simonsen said nominations can be directed to her office, as well as to the village clerk and via the clearwaterne.com website.

Nominations could also be submitted via the village’s Facebook account.

“I’m just trying to figure out who’s driving the bus, if it’s Angie’s responsibility or yours,” Klabenes said.

The economic development director said she did not believe the program would require a large time commitment.

Trustees approved a $250 budget for the program, following a 5-0 vote.