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Clearwater Today
By the People, for the People
Small Nebraska Town Wins Governor's Award for Business Growth
Clearwater, Nebraska recognized for economic development and community initiatives.
Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:21pm
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A prestigious state award honors the collaborative spirit and economic growth of a small Nebraska town.Clearwater TodayThe small town of Clearwater, Nebraska with a population of just 320 people has been awarded the 2026 'Governor's Showcase Community Award' by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen. The award honors Clearwater's success in improving quality of life and supporting economic growth, including the addition of 8 new businesses last year, a new tele-health room for veterans, and a veterans memorial park.
Why it matters
The Governor's Showcase Community Award highlights the ability of small towns to drive economic development and community-focused initiatives, even with limited resources. Clearwater's recognition demonstrates how grassroots efforts and local collaboration can make a big impact in rural areas.
The details
Governor Pillen presented the award to Clearwater in a ceremony at the American Legion Hall, citing the town's business community, recent addition of a tele-health room for veterans, a veterans memorial park, and overall economic development. Clearwater's economic development director, Lauren Sheridan, noted that the award is a testament to the collective efforts of the entire community.
- The award ceremony took place on Monday, April 6, 2026.
- Clearwater added 8 new businesses to the community last year.
The players
Jim Pillen
The Governor of Nebraska who presented the 'Governor's Showcase Community Award' to Clearwater.
Lauren Sheridan
The economic development director for the City of Clearwater.
What they’re saying
“How awesome it is that we do business together, that we figure out how to do business within Clearwater, whether its making sure you stay home and go to the restaurant, you make your grocery store work. Just figuring it out so we do business with neighbors.”
— Jim Pillen, Governor of Nebraska
“It's a way for people to realize that all of the little things that they do are making a difference. Because when you have a million little things that come together, it's not any one person, any one project, it's always just trying to do better.”
— Lauren Sheridan, Economic Development Director, City of Clearwater
What’s next
Governor Pillen also proclaimed April as 'Community Development Month' in Nebraska, highlighting the state's commitment to supporting small towns and rural economic growth.
The takeaway
Clearwater's recognition demonstrates how small towns can drive meaningful economic and community development through collaborative local efforts, even with limited resources. This award highlights the power of grassroots initiatives and the impact they can have in revitalizing rural areas.
