Shane Hilker's statement

City Councilman Shane Hilker's statement, read Dec. 19, 2011:

Ladies and Gentleman,

It has been deemed that due to Nebraska state statute 19-613 my seat on the McCook city council has been forfeit. Although I personally do not agree with this law, I understand that I am still subject to it.

Although my time on council was short I hope that it did serve some purpose. I want people to learn from my mistake, and just maybe even be a little inspired to change things. Hopefully some perceptions have changed about youth as well, the older generation will understand and appreciate that youth can have quality well thought out ideas and plans. Maybe young people will learn that with energy, passion, hard work, and some people skills that one person can make a difference in a city like McCook in a short time.

I would like to close by thanking those who have given me such tremendous support, in supporting my decision to run for council the work I have done here, and through these proceedings . So thank you Councilman and thank you to Jeff Hancock, thank you to Kurt Fritsch and thank you to all the citizens who have defended me. Most of all thank you to my family and fiancé for supporting me in these trying times.

Thank you.