Phelps Families: Meet the McNierney Family, Whose RV Journey Led Them to a Home in Bertrand

Michelle (Mel) McNierney is the first to say that her Phelps journey is unlike most folks. She and her husband Jason were born in Colorado and spent most of their lives in the state. However, when the pandemic hit and her family noticed that things were changing in their current town, they packed up their kids, dogs, and belongings into an RV. Little did they know their vacation plans would lead them to a long-term home in Nebraska.

Get to know Jason and Mel McNierney, along with their kids, and how they found their place in Phelps County.

The McNierneys Stumbled Into Their Bertrand Home 

Jason and Mel chose to leave Colorado when they noticed their local community was struggling. Businesses were closing down, the schools were having a hard time, and their church was losing members. They tried homeschooling their middle school daughters but decided they needed a change of scenery. This is where the RV comes in. They packed up the family for a road trip to get a break from Colorado. Somehow they ended up in Nebraska.

The McNierneys were in Bertrand when they saw a beautiful house on the street corner. They contacted a real estate agent and toured the home. Within a few days, they decided to buy the house and move to Phelps County.  

“Everywhere we went in Nebraska felt so peaceful, honest, and good old wholesome America,” says Mel. “The people had good values. They were polite and helpful.”

Jason and Mel thought Bertrand would be a better option for their kids than Colorado, especially when they considered the low crime rates.

“We didn’t really choose Phelps, Phelps chose us,” says Mel. “We just happened to be listening.”

Jason and Mel Feel Supported By the Phelps Community

The McNierneys – Jason, Mel, and three of their kids – have settled into Phelps County and built their lives here. Jason is a roofer who works all across the county, while Mel is a yoga teacher and a holistic wellness practitioner. The couple meets new people every day and tries to improve their lives, either through home repairs or through spiritual development.  

“It is amazing how welcoming Phelps County was to all of us,” says Mel. “The best thing about moving to Phelps so far – for Jason and myself – is the support we have received to pursue our dreams.”

The McNierneys enjoy volunteering in the community and Mel has learned how hard farmers work to provide for America. Their children have been able to grow up in a safer environment where they can ride bikes, hang out with friends, play sports, and enjoy other teenager activities.

“Every person here has a voice, and we all work together to make this work,” says Mel. “It’s been very enlightening moving to Phelps County in a wonderful way.”

They Both are Looking Ahead to Phelps County’s Future

Mel admits that she is a little uneasy about change and is trying to support the new opportunities, businesses, and industries around her. Phelps County continues to grow as more people discover this part of America. They are bringing different jobs, career paths for graduates, and fresh faces to the region.

The McNierneys will stand by Phelps County as it changes and embrace their adopted home town of Bertand. They have a voice in the community and can shape its future.

“No matter what happens, we are fully happy and trust that we were brought to the right place,” says Mel. “We look forward to seeing Phelps County grow around us and being a part of that growth.” 

Learn More About Phelps County and The People Who Live Here

This is the second article in a multi-part series on Phelps families. To keep reading, get to know The Feusners who left Phelps County but returned to Holdrege because they wanted a safe, supportive community to raise their children.

The Phelps Families series is developed by the Phelps County Development Corporation. PCDC has the tools, information, and skills to assist you with relocation for your business or family. PCDC is ready to help with housing and project advocacy, including permitting, timely utilities, and financial assistance. Contact PCDC at (308) 995-4148 or pcdc@phelpscountyne.com today. To further explore “Why Phelps,” download the community guide.

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