Nebraska Suit Over Low Interest Loan to Ambulance Service Dismissed

A lawsuit seeking to block a Nebraska city from providing a $350,000 low-interest loan to a new ambulance service owned by two people with ties to the city’s fire department has been dismissed.

Last July, the North Platte City Council approved the loan to Priority Medical Transport. Priority is owned by North Platte Assistant Fire Chief Trent Kleinow, and Dr. James Smith, the fire department’s medical director.

The loan’s approval prompted a lawsuit by two concerned taxpayers who accused Chief Kleinow and Dr. Smith of using their positions “for private gain other than the compensation provided by law” and open meetings violations. The suit named Chief Kleinow, Dr. Smith and the city.

Judge Donald Rowlands dismissed suit, concluding that the city complied with all legal requirements. The plaintiffs until November 4 to re-file.

More on the story.