Cheyenne County Commissioners suspend Visitors Committee for review

SIDNEY, Neb. — The Cheyenne County Commissioners voted Monday to temporarily suspend the Cheyenne County Visitors Committee to review its bylaws and structure.
Cheyenne County Tourism Director Kendra Mitchell represented the Visitors Committee at the meeting, where commissioners discussed the need for change and clarification in committee guidelines.
Commissioner Phil Sanders praised the work of the advisory board, emphasizing its impact on local events through volunteer commitment.
“First of all, I want to thank the people who are willing to step up in our county voluntarily to sit on these boards,” Sanders said. “I've had this one (Visitors Committee) since I started as a commissioner 10 years ago, and I've been able to see first-hand some of the amazing stuff they've done. I mean, the events they put on, quite frankly, a lot of them wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for the Visitors Committee.”
Sanders noted while he has not always agreed with every decision made by the committee, necessary changes have been implemented over the years. He highlighted the importance of adhering to the Nebraska Visitors Development Act, which outlines proper use of tourism funds.
“There have been changes made in the 10 years I've been there, and I think the changes that were made were necessary by making some extra guidelines,” Sanders said. “That was one place we lacked a lot. In reading the statutes, it's helped me to understand why the Nebraska Visitors Development Act was created. It explains what it's about, what it's for, how we're supposed to use it. I've had four directors to work with since I've started. Kendra's my fourth one and I can't say enough good about all four. They're awesome people. I've seen them kind of beat up and bullied at times, which I don't appreciate. Pretty much by certain board members.”
Commissioners Sanders and Randy Miller expressed support for reviewing the committee’s bylaws and granting the Tourism Director more authority.
“I think the time has come that we take a big step back from the Visitors Committee and the commissioners, and everyone else, and even the people that come year after year and apply for those grants,” Sanders said. “We want them to keep coming—that's what this money is for—but we need to take a step back and take a look at our guidelines and our bylaws.”
Sanders suggested Mitchell lead the review process, consulting the county attorney when needed. Miller asked about a timeline for the suspension, with both commissioners considering a period of approximately two months. They emphasized their intent to avoid delaying upcoming events.
“I don’t think it’s going to take a long time, but also in that timeframe, I would like to see the Visitors Committee meet and talk about these things,” Miller said.
Interim County Attorney Amber Horn advised written suggestions be submitted to Mitchell via email.
The commissioners ultimately voted to place the Visitors Committee on temporary suspension until further notice, allowing time for an internal review of its structure and governance.