NORFOLK, Neb. -- The City Council was evenly divided Monday night, stemming from a disagreement on whether or not to enter an interlocal agreement with Madison County.

Presented by City Engineer Steven Rames, the interlocal agreement would provide road improvements along Omaha Ave. and 45th St. with a shared construction cost of $575,000.

Rames said maintenance on the roads was not initially planned for this year, but severe deterioration had taken place on the roads.

Rames said the agreement would not be binding, allowing them to "ride on top" of the county's annual mill and overlay project should they choose to do so. He also admitted there was risk involved.

"It is very possible should we decide to ride on top of this...there's no guarantee this work would still get done this year," Rames said.

However, many council members had concerns.

City Attorney Danielle Myer-Noelle said the language, as she understood it, would be binding for the city.

Council Member Corey Granquist said the city should focus on roads more used in town, rather than roads that aren't as frequently traveled.

This sentiment was echoed by council members Kory Hildebrand and others.

"So we're going to improve this road, when our roads in town need improvement, for the Battle Creek commuters...and we truly don't have anyone living on these roads?" Hildebrand said. "I know this is a juggling act with roads, but nobody lives on those roads and the traffic count is not what they are on 25th, Benjamin, First Street...and we're putting those to the side to carry the traffic volume of 600 cars, which might be a far stretch number."

The council voted to table the discussion for their next meeting, resulting in a 4-4 tied vote.

Mayor Josh Moenning broke the tie by voting in favor of tabling the agreement.

Council members in favor were Andrew McCarthy, Thad Murren, Justin Snorton, and Shane Clausen. Those in opposition were Corey Granquist, Frank Arens, Justin Webb, and Kory Hildebrand.