Finally, a group of county taxpayers renewed a request Wednesday that the County Board sign on to a letter sent to Gov. Pete Ricketts asking for help.

Don Schuller, chairman of the Gage County Democrats, said the Legislature should budget some $33 million to cover all obligations arising from the case.

“Even if reduced by insurance, an appeals court or spread over years by bankruptcy, the demand on property owners will be excessive,” Schuller said. “I believe the state has an obligation to pay the award and the cost related to the lawsuit.”

Although the letter was sent by a group of Democrats, Schuller said the issue is nonpartisan.

“The tax burden on the property owners of Gage County is already a major factor in the cost of production and family budgets,” he said, adding any further burden may eliminate services.

Former state Sen. Bill Burrows of rural Adams also suggested the board contact the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office for help.

After the meeting Wednesday, Schuller said his group sent the letter on Sept. 24 and has received no response from Ricketts’ office.