Leaders and organizations from across Nebraska were recently recognized for their contributions to planning and community development during the Nebraska Planning Conference in Kearney.
The conference was hosted by the American Planning Association Nebraska Chapter and the Nebraska Planning and Zoning Association (NPZA) at the Younes North Conference Center.
Among those honored was Gary Person, President and CEO of the North Platte Area Chamber & Development. Person received the Charleston-Ptak Planning Advocate Award from the American Planning Association Nebraska Chapter, recognizing his longtime leadership and contributions to community and economic development.
Pictured left to right – Gary Person, President and CEO of the North Platte Area Chamber & Development and Bruce Fountain – AICP – President
The Charleston-Ptak Planning Advocate Award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to planning initiatives in their communities. Person is well known as a leading advocate for strategic growth, infrastructure investment and regional collaboration.
Person was recognized for his role in guiding growth in North Platte, western Nebraska and the broader region. Colleagues and local officials say his commitment to community development, integrity, and public service has helped advance projects aimed at strengthening the area’s economy and improving quality of life.
“It’s humbling to be honored by the APA of Nebraska and the good people of North Platte that nominated me. I’ve always appreciated the hard work that goes into development projects and community visioning by planning professionals. I’ve worked in unison with these professionals throughout my 40 plus years of being involved in community and economic development work in Nebraska. They make a big difference in our communities and across Nebraska,” said Person.
In addition to Person’s recognition, the Hershey Planning Commission received the Nebraska Planning and Zoning Association’s Appointed Official Award for its work guiding development in the village of Hershey and supporting a coordinated approach to planning across Lincoln County.
Additional awards presented by the Nebraska Planning and Zoning Association included:
- Spotlight Community Award – David City, Nebraska
- Professional Award – Lori Ferguson, Community Consultant – South Central Economic Development District.
- Carol Swayne Planning Commissioner Award – Dave Sack, Planning Commissioner, Howard County Planning Commission
- Loretta Ludermann Award for Excellence in Planning by a Women in the State in Nebraska – Judy Migney, Zoning Administrator, Adams County, Nebraska
- President’s Award – Char Carpenter, NPZA Recording Secretary and former Antelope County Zoning Administrator.
The awards highlight the work of planning professionals, local officials, and communities across Nebraska who are helping guide thoughtful growth and development the state.
Written by: Sara Groteluschen, NPPD Economic Development Specialist