Kearney, Nebraska is an attractive, historic community in the Platte River Valley that enjoys a vibrant economy and strong community spirit. With such diverse businesses as major manufacturers, agriculture, education, medicine and tourism, Kearney and Buffalo County are poised to move into the future with confidence.

The City of Kearney is governed by a City Council/City Manager form of government and operates its own water and sanitation systems. Five council members are elected at large and select one member to serve as Mayor/President. There are 16 boards and commissions who work with the City Council and City staff for the betterment of the community. 

The City Council hires a City Manager, who oversees daily operations, prepares a budget and implements policies of the council. The City of Kearney employs 196 full-time and 24 part-time employees. The eight city departments are: Airport, Administration, Fire, Library, Parks & Recreation, Police, Public Works and Utilities. Services and facilities include 11 parks, two swimming pools, 18-hole municipal golf course and cemetery.

Citizens and businesses benefit from the communications facilities available in Kearney. The city government is on-line, allowing access to government meeting agendas, regulations and other documents. Enhanced 911 services provide the safety and protection benefits that Buffalo County residents need while improved communications keep law enforcement and other public officials in touch with each other and the community.

Operations shared with Buffalo County are the Library Bookmobile, Solid Waste Agency Landfill, Emergency Management, Cottonmill Park and Law Enforcement Center with no duplication of services in the police department and sheriff's department in the Law Enforcement Center.