January 23, 2007
York News-Times
Melanie Wilkinson
 
The York County Commissioners, in the past week, agreed to sign a proclamation saying they are behind the Nebraska Food Stamp Program.

The Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law asked the county board to officially give its approval, after presenting information members said shows the value of the program.

"Counties across the state are making a powerful statement in support of the Food Stamp Program and the positive effects it has on both Nebraska families and the local economy," wrote Sarah Sibley with the Appleseed organization.

The organization said this year, Congress will continue the program through the reorganization of the Farm Bill, "and an overwhelming statement of support for Food Stamps from Nebraska counties is a powerful influence on public policy makers," wrote Sibley.

Figures regarding York County residents were presented to make their case to the commissioners. They say there are 237 families below poverty level in the county, which translates to 1,170 individuals (or 8.5 percent of the county's population). "In 2006, the Federal Poverty Line became $20,000 for a family of four. Although 8.5 percent of citizens in York County live below the poverty level, only 3.8 percent are receiving Food Stamps."

According to Appleseed's figures, as of September 2006, there are 51 families on public assistance in the county, with 206 receiving non-public assistance.

"Food Stamps brought a total of $483,574 into York County in 2005," according to Appleseed. "Food Stamps brought a total of $10,110,695.65 federal dollars a month, $121,327,347.74 federal dollars last year into Nebraska, supporting community spending, the local economy and agriculture."

"I wasn't too excited about them creating a proclamation for us to sign," said Commissioner Gene Bergen, "but . . ."

"I'm not particularly sure that all their numbers are right, in checking with other sources," said Commissioner Gus Brown. "I'm not necessarily sure that we should be taking part in this, that this is our role."

"This program goes through Health and Human Services and I am basically concerned about the utilization. I understand there are a lot of benefits that families could utilize, but because of their pride, they don't. But apparently, then they don't need it if they don't use it. But, I believe, that this being an agricultural community, they don't want a hand-out. I have nothing against it, I am for the program for those who need it," said Commissioner Chairman Ken Stuhr. "And I know the program has changed. It used to be that they could get money and then buy cigarettes and booze and other items and then get into their Cadillacs and drive away. That used to irritate me. But I know the program has changed over the years."

"I also want to remind the board that the Appleseed organization has very, very powerful lawyers," said Commissioner Bob Wolfe.

With the exception of Stuhr, the commissioners voted in favor of signing the proclamation, in support of the Food Stamp program.