LB840 Renewal in O’Neill
Learn how LB840 has been used in our community and what it means for O’Neill.
What is LB840?
LB840 stands for the Local Option Municipal Economic Development Act.
It was authorized by the State of Nebraska in 1991. It allows cities, if approved by voters, to collect and use a local sales and/or property tax for economic development purposes.
In Holt County, Stuart, Atkinson, Ewing, and O’Neill have all passed LB840. O’Neill voters approved LB840 in 2012, and it will be back on the ballot in 2026 for its first renewal.
This is not a new tax. LB840 allows the city to continue using a dedicated economic development fund that, by law, can only be spent right here in O’Neill.
Local Investment & Impact
A key part of this growth has been O’Neill’s Local Option Municipal Economic Development Act (LB840) program. Approved by voters in 2012, LB840 allows the city to dedicate a portion of local tax revenue toward economic development projects that support community growth.
Since 2012, $3.1 million of LB840 funds have been expended through business loans, resulting in the creation or retention of 176 jobs and supporting total project costs of $8.6 million. In addition, 218 commercial property improvement grants have been made, with $1.0 million in LB840 funds and resulting in $2.7 million in overall improvements.
What LB840 Has Been Used For in O’Neill
LB840 funds have been used to support a variety of eligible projects that encourage business growth, redevelopment, and community improvement.
Business Support
Assistance for business startup, expansion, and retention projects that help strengthen the local economy.
Property Improvements
Eligible commercial projects include exterior upgrades ranging from minor improvements to full façade renovations, such as:
- Replacement or addition of awnings, signage, graphics, window display areas, exterior lighting, and sidewalks
- Exterior painting
- Restoration of original architectural features
- Other street-visible improvements that enhance building appearance
Demolition & Housing Development
LB840 funds may also support qualifying demolition projects of commercial or residential structures to help prepare properties for future development.
- Structure demolition is eligible for both commercial redevelopment and site reuse
- For residential properties, assistance is limited to demolition only
These efforts also support projects that encourage increased housing availability and broader community growth through redevelopment and new investment.
Below you can see the impact the O’Neill LB840 Property Improvement Program has had in O’Neill.
Orange: Property Improvements
Blue: Demolition
Voting Information for Holt County Residents
If you would like to participate in upcoming elections, including those related to local programs like LB840, here’s how to get started:
Register to Vote
Residents of Nebraska can register to vote online, by mail, or in person.
- Register online through the Nebraska Secretary of State voter portal:
Register to Vote Online - You can also register in person at the Holt County Clerk’s Office
Online registration allows you to register, update your address, or change your party affiliation. You will need a valid Nebraska driver’s license or state ID to complete the process.
Registration Deadlines
Voter registration must generally be completed by the third Friday before an election if done online or by mail.
Where to Vote
Polling locations vary by precinct. To find your polling place:
- Visit the Nebraska Secretary of State website
- Or contact the Holt County Clerk’s Office for local assistance
Voter ID Requirement
Nebraska law requires voters to present an acceptable form of photo ID when voting in person.