Omaha World-Herald 2022 Election Guide

ELECTION

Voter registration deadlines approaching for

Nebraska voters have some weighty decisions to make this fall.

From the governor’s mansion to Congress, from the Legislature to the local school board, voters will be making their preferences known in races at all levels of government.

The World-Herald posed a range of questions to candidates in races across the Omaha metro area in an e ort to help voters make more informed decisions this fall. In this section, you will find information regarding the background, priorities and issue-specific positions of candidates in some of the most high profile races this year.

Additional information on local races can also be found online at Omaha.com. There you can find additional detail on certain races, such as how the candidates for Legislature would address property taxes and abortion, as well as information on races not covered here.

districts

election

Among the races you will find online, you will find information on the Nebraska gubernatorial candidates and Congressional 1st, 2nd and 3rd District candidates. These candidates will also be featured in the main section of the Omaha WorldHerald leading up to Election Day, Nov. 8.

Of course, none of this matters if you are not registered to vote. Friday is the final day to register to vote in the Nov. 8 election, and you must register at your local election o ce. Information on registering to vote can be found on the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website at sos.nebraska.gov/ elections/registering-vote.

Friday also is the final day for election o cials to receive requests for a mail-in ballot. The Secretary of State maintains a list of deadlines and other important 2022 election information at sos.nebraska.gov/elections/2022elections.

NEBRASKA ATTORNEY GENERAL

For the first time in eight years, Ne braska will have a new attorney general come 2023.

Current Attorney General Doug Pe terson, a Republican, opted not to seek a third term. State Sen. Mike Hilgers, a Republican who previously ran for the seat in 2014, is seeking the office.

Hilgers, who has served as speaker of the Legislature since 2021, will appear on the ballot with Larry Bolinger, a can didate with the Legal Marijuana NOW Party.

The attorney general is the state’s chief law officer, responsible for a range of duties from defending the state in court to issuing legal opinions to pros ecuting crimes. It pays an annual salary of $95,000.

Larry Bolinger

Age: 53

Party: Legal Marijuana nOW

Occupation: author; student at bellevue Uni versity pursuing master’s degree

Home: alliance

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, five children Website: www.Larrybolinger.com

Mike Hilgers

Age: 44

Party: republican Occupation: Owner and founding partner, law firm (Hilgers Graben)

Home: Lincoln

Elected offices held: dis trict 21 state senator, 2017-present

Family: Married, four children

Website: www.mikehilgers.com

NEBRASKA STATE AUDITOR OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS

Three candidates are seeking to re place Auditor Charlie Janssen as Ne braska’s top financial watchdog.

Lt. Gov. Mike Foley, who previously served two terms as auditor, is seeking to return to his former office. Libertar ian Gene Siadek also is running for the office. They’ll appear on the ballot along with Legal Marijuana NOW candidate L. Leroy Lopez. The winner will serve a four-year term.

The Office of Auditor of Public Ac counts conducts audits of various governmental entities in the state and establishes standards for different fi nancial duties. The Auditor’s Office investigates reported allegations of government waste, fraud and abuse. The position pays an annual salary of $85,000 per year.

L. Leroy Lopez

candidate for the Legal Marijuana nOW. He did not respond to the World-Herald’s candidate questionnaire.

Mike Foley

Age: 68

Party: republican Occupation: Lieutenant governor, state of ne braska

Home: Lincoln

Elected offices held: state senator, 2001-2007; auditor of pub lic accounts, 2007-2015; lieutenant gover nor, 2015-present

Family: Married, six children Website: none

Gene Siadek

Age: 58

Party: Libertarian Occupation: director, water distribution, Metropolitan Utilities district Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, two children Website: www.siadekforauditor.com

Among the most hotly contested races across Nebraska this fall are the seats on the Nebraska State Board of Education.

The eight-member board has a total of four positions up for grabs this year, and all four have contested races. That includes the Omaha-area District 8 seat, where incumbent Deborah Neary is seeking a second four-year term on the board. She faces a challenge from Omaha resident Marni Hodgen.

The nonpartisan board sets policy and ensures that the State Department of Education functions effectively. Districts are geographically set, and members are not paid for their service on the board, though they are reimbursed for expenses incurred as part of their service.

Marni Hodgen

Age: 43

Party: republican Occupation: Licensed massage therapist

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, three children Website: www.marni4nekids.com

Why are you running?

I’m running because I had concerns after reading the proposed health standards. I found it odd the board thought it was important to bring in curriculum discussing sexuality, gender identity, gender fluidity, and puberty for grades three and younger. I found it alarming that puberty blockers would be discussed in fifth grade. I’ve attended meetings expressing my concerns. despite 90% of stakeholders not wanting cse, the board continued to ignore the parents. the defining moment for me was when Kirk Penner made a motion to permanently reject the health standards and none of the other board members supported this motion.

What is your top priority?

My top priority is academic excellence and providing children the world-class education they deserve. I want to strive for all children to have a solid foundation of knowledge in math, science, social studies, and language arts. I also see a need to reach students exhibiting intelligence in building, creating, and repairing. this is why I want to bring back the skilled trade programs. In doing so students who may not be college bound or be able to afford college will still have the opportunity to have a lucrative career and guarantee job security while contributing to

the economy.

If elected, would you support resuming the state’s development of healtheducation standards — including standards on sexuality education — for Nebraska schools? Why?

I would not support resuming the state’s development of health-education standards including comprehensive sexuality education. For one, the state board never should have written standards for health. the board is only allowed to write standards for math, social studies, science and language arts. secondly, comprehensive sexuality education begins in kindergarten and covers topics of sexuality, gender identity, gender fluidity, and transgender instruction that are cognitively and developmentally irrelevant for young children. With proficiency scores at an alltime low students deserve classrooms that emphasize academics, and they deserve to learn in an environment free from identity politics.

In recent years, many parents have expressed a desire to have a greater say in what their kids are taught in school on such topics as sex education, gender identity, history and racism. How much influence should Nebraska parents have on what’s taught in their schools?

yes I think nebraska parents should have an influence on what’s taught in schools. I’m a proponent of local school board control and parental input working together for what they agree is best for their community. I’m also a proponent of curriculum transparency as parents have a right to know the content of the curriculum. I also want to find ways to engage the disengaged parents because studies show children do better in school when parents are involved in their education.

What are the most effective steps Nebraska can take now to ensure it has enough teachers for the future, without lowering the bar for certification?

nebraska can ensure it has enough teachers by supporting them. I’ve been listening to educators and here is what they’ve said. they want authority to control their classrooms because student misbehavior is a factor in their stress and burnout. they don’t want to teach curriculum that goes against their conscience. I question the outsourcing and overspending of third party contractors for the development of curriculum and standards. the sbOe can direct funds. We have capable teachers we can financially support instead of third parties. additionally, reciprocity for certification should be examined as a solution for bringing in more teachers.

NEBRASKA STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 8

Deborah Neary

Age: 61

Party: democrat

Occupation: retired, nonprofit executive; currently working as leadership-level consultant for nonprofits

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: nebraska state board of education member, 2019-present

Family: Married, parent to eight foster youth

Website: www.debFored.com

Why are you running?

Within the framework set by the Legislature, the department of education, and I as a board Member, must: ensure we have strong schools in nebraska, especially a strong public school system that is welcoming to all students support our teachers in ways that respect and help them — we need to retain all of our professional teachers especially in these challenging times coming out of the pandemic.

Help every youth reach their full potential by understanding the range of challenges and needs that students bring into the classroom every day.

What is your top priority?

the current nebraska commissioner of education, Matt blomstedt, has recently submitted his resignation. consequently, hiring a new commissioner that will help school districts across the state in their efforts to equip our students for success by working with all stakeholders including understanding the needs of today’s students, listening to parents, and advocating for teachers, is a top priority.

If elected, would you support resuming the state’s development of healtheducation standards — including standards on sexuality education — for Nebraska schools? Why?

the health education standards included information on physical health, nutrition, drug prevention, social learning, developing strong emotional and mental health practices, and sex education. adding health-education standards to the board agenda was prioritized by the current commisioner of education prior to my being elected to the state board of education.

It is important for the new education commissioner to set their own timelines for writing and updating standards that prioritize the needs of our students. I do, however, hope our local school districts continue to discuss the issues addressed in these standards, such as the dangers of bullying, how to diminish the high teen pregnancy rates, and continue the dialog on ways to keep youth safe from violence.

In recent years, many parents have expressed a desire to have a greater say in what their kids are taught in school on such topics as sex education, gender identity, history and racism. How much influence should Nebraska parents have on what’s taught in their schools?

Parents are crucial to a child’s growth and development and a parent’s support is instrumental to a student’s success; every school values parental engagement with their child’s education. Parents do have control over their child’s education. nebraska is a local control state that supports parental input in choices regarding curriculum, textbooks, library books, district policy and much more; I believe in and support this current system of strong local control in nebraska. at the state level, there are a wide range of parent voices that are heard on a myriad of issues addressed by the state board. It is the responsibility of the state board to balance these individual voices with practices that will facilitate that every student is able to reach their highest potential and to be competitive on a national and international stage when they graduate.

What are the most effective steps Nebraska can take now to ensure it has enough teachers for the future, without lowering the bar for certification?

all segments of nebraska’s education sector have been working on this topic with urgency, including representatives from public and private schools, universities, school leadership at all levels, nde, state board members, and of course teachers. I support the three priority recommendations made in 2021 by the nebraska association of colleges of teacher education regarding certification that do not lower the bar: 1) streamlining processes for out-of-state educators; 2) developing a tiered system for certification; and 3) Finding more efficient pathways for adding endorsements. I also support their recommendations to remove the Praxis core, offer more para-to-teacher programs, and modify student teaching.

NEBRASKA STATE TREASURER

Two candidates are running to serve as Nebraska state treasurer for the next four years.

Incumbent John Murante, a Republican who served two terms in the Nebraska Legislature, is seeking a second four-year term in the office. Libertarian Katrina Tomsen is challenging Murante.

The state treasurer receives and disburses most of the money coming to the state, returns unclaimed property and administers the college savings program. It pays an annual salary of $85,000.

John Murante

Murante, 40, did not return voicemails seek

ing his participation in the World-Herald voter guide.

Katrina Tomsen

Age: 48

Party: Libertarian Occupation: self-employed optometrist working parttime in Omaha

Home: Upland

Elected offices held: none

Family: single

Website: none

ANNA REED, THE WORLD-HERALD a voter arrives to Omaha south High Magnet school on election day, nov. 3, 2020.

OMAHA-AREA SEATS IN THE NEBRASKA LEGISLATURE

Nebraska’s 49-member, single-house Legislature is sure to see some new faces when lawmakers convene in January.

A total of 25 seats are up for election this year, with all but three of those featuring a contested race. The contests up for consideration include 10 districts in the Omaha metro area. As is the case around the state, some Omaha area races feature incumbents seeking reelection and opponents seeking to oust them. Others are contests between two newcomers, either because the incumbent was term limited or decided against seeking reelection.

The races are nonpartisan, meaning party affiliation does not appear on the ballot. The winners will serve four-year terms — with one exception. In the Millard-area District 31, an appointed incumbent and her opponent are vying to finish the two years remaining in the term of State Sen. Rich Pahls, who died earlier this year while in office.

Editor’s note: Each response was limited to 100 words and edited for style.

District 4

Brad von Gillern

Age: 62

Party: republican Occupation: business development director, Lueder construction

Home: elkhorn area

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, four children

Website: www.vongillern4ne.com

Top priority: My top priority in the Legislature is to lower the overall tax burden on nebraskans. the state is blessed to be in a strong financial position and is not only able to continue the terrific progress in the reduction of tax rates made in the last session, but also increase property tax refunds from excess revenues currently held in the coffers. a serious reconsideration of the 50-year-old system of levying taxes must occur, and I plan to be a significant part of that discussion in my term.

Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek

Age: 55

Party: nonpartisan Occupation: Vice president and owner, Mortgage Protection Insurance services Inc.

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, three children

Website: www.cindyfornebraska.com

Top priority: My top priority is to support growing businesses and families. nebraska’s greatest resource is our people. Period. sound fiscal policy and investment is critical, and in order to be competitive, we need to understand what drives hardworking nebraskans to stay and grow their families here. We must invest in excellent higher education and skills training for new graduates and experienced people changing careers. nebraskans deserve good wages, inclusive policies, and affordable child care — and it’s good for business, too.

District 6

Machaela Cavanaugh

Age: 43

Party: democrat Occupation: co-owner, she’s electable

Home: Omaha Elected offices held: district 6 state senator, 2019-present

Family: Married, three children Website: cavanaughforlegislature.org

Top priority: My priorities have always and will continue to be focused on improving the quality of life for nebraska’s most vulnerable populations. In the next four years I will continue to fight to increase nebraska’s investment in services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, access to high quality health care, expansion of Medicaid postpartum up to one year, paid family and medical leave, affordable housing, addressing food insecurity, investing in our mental health crisis, and reducing recidivism in our corrections system.

Christian Mirch Age: 35

Party: republican Occupation: attorney/owner, Mirch Law, LLc; police officer Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none Family: Married, one child, and one on the way Website: votemirch.com

Top priority: With so many issues facing

our state, it’s hard to narrow down just one “top priority.” However, after knocking the entire district, the voters’ opinions are clear: we must address the unsustainably high tax burden that has been largely ignored, the high cost of housing, and ever-increasing cost of food and medication. While some may claim they alleviated the tax burden facing nebraskans, those living in district 6 know that these are hollow claims. I plan to focus my energy on completely overhauling our outdated and tax code to reduce the financial burden on families, small businesses, and retirees.

District 8

Marilyn Arant Asher

Age: 71

Party: republican Occupation: co-owner of asher Valley Farms LLc Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none Family: Married, three children

Campaign website: Marilynasher.com

Top priority: secure nebraska’s strong future! this will be done by promoting property tax relief, protecting nebraska citizens by supporting law enforcement, and preparing nebraska children for the future by providing back to basic education. My concern is for the future of nebraska’s children. nebraska taxpayers and voters should have a greater voice in where their children attend school and what curricula they are taught.

Megan Hunt

Age: 36

Party: democrat Occupation: Owner of Five nine shop & Project boutique Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: district 8 state senator, 2019-present

Family: One child Campaign website: meganfornebraska.com

Top priority: nebraska must prioritize policies to retain and attract our nation’s brightest minds, of all ages and backgrounds, to reduce brain drain and keep our communities strong.

District 10

Wendy DeBoer

Age: 48

Party: democrat Occupation: state senator; adjunct professor at Hastings college

Home: bennington

Elected offices held: district 10 state senator, 2019-present

Family: single

Website: deboerforlegislature.com

Top priority: My top priority is fighting for middle class families. We have passed tax reform, including income tax cuts for businesses and individuals. I led efforts to get more relief for the middle-class and I will continue to fight for that relief. I also believe we need to be giving families tools to be successful: strong schools for kids, affordable health and child care, and support for our first responders to keep our neighborhoods safe. that’s why this year I championed a bill that provided retention bonuses for police officers.

Lou Ann Goding

Age: 59

Party: republican Occupation: consultant to a family office

Home: Omaha Elected offices held: Omaha Public schools board of education, 2013-20

Family: Married, three children

Website: Louanngoding.com

Top priority: My top priority is utilizing my background in public accounting and private industry to improve government efficiency and reduce/balance the tax burden on individuals and businesses. several other states have initiated audits to review processes for redundancy, reduction of unnecessary processes and better implementation of technology, thereby reducing state expenditures and ultimately the taxpayer burden. as a state we need to ensure we create an environment which will promote economic growth by balancing our tax burden, ensuring our infrastructure (broadband and roads) is robust and promoting entrepreneurship.

OMAHA-AREA SEATS IN THE NEBRASKA LEGISLATURE

District 12

Robin Richards

Age: 41

Party: democrat Occupation: business manager/accountant, nebraska arts council

Home: ralston

Elected offices held: ralston Public schools board of education, 2019-present

Family: Married, two children Website: richards4ne.com

Top priority: My top priority is to diversify educational funding in our state so that the price of education does not fall completely on property owners. additional funding would be earmarked for career training in K-12 across our state, implementing and growing programs in our schools is how we build the workforce we need for our state. Finally, health care, in the 10 months my nephew fought cancer, the bills that piled up were enough to pay off his mother’s home several times over. this cannot be our system, this cannot be health care in our state, and we can change it together.

Merv Riepe

Age: 80

Party: republican

Occupation: retired hospital administrator: senior administration, bergan Mercy Hospital (18 years), children’s Hospital & Medical center (15 years)

District 14

John Arch

ELECTION

District 18

Christy Armendariz

District 20

Stu Dornan

Age: 67

Party: republican Home: La Vista

Occupation: Vice president for strategic initiatives, boys town national research Hospital

Elected offices held: district 14 state senator, 2019-present

Family: Married, two children Website: votearch.com

Top priority: In 2018 I pledged to fight for economic development policies that would help create jobs and grow the economy, pledged to put the safety and security at the top of our priority list, and I committed to lower taxes on our hard-working families and small businesses. even through natural disasters and a global pandemic, I believe I kept those promises. Four years later our economy in sarpy county is flourishing, we kept our businesses, schools, and churches open, and we passed historic tax cuts for all nebraskans. I am asking voters for another four years in the nebraska Legislature.

Cori Villegas

Age: 27

Party: democrat Occupation: Major incident specialist for tech company Home: Papillion

Home: ralston

Elected offices held: ralston Public schools board, 2020-present; district 12 state senator, 2014-18

Family: Married, one child Website: voteriepe.com

Top priority: top priority relates to services provided and the cost to provide those services through taxes.

Elected offices held: none Family: single Website: VotecoriVillegas.com

Top priority: Our children and schools need more resources and support in both mental and behavioral health. every child is their own unique self and should be treated as so. We need to gather evidence-based research in providing proper programs and trainings. that will include learning from credible local professionals for guidance and advice. In order for children to succeed, we must set up their school for success. Funding must also account for necessary materials and reasonable paying wage for our hard-working teachers and paraprofessionals. there is much more we can do to set up a path for them and our children.

Age: 55

Party: republican Occupation: strategic sourcing at nebraska Methodist Health system

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, three children

Website: christyforne.com

Top priority: My top priority will be to make nebraska a more tax friendly state to raise a family and retire. I will reduce spending and implement new taxing models that increase economic development.

Michael Young

Age: 39 Party: democrat

Occupation: Owner of technology consulting solutions and rooted synergy Gallery

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: Metropolitan community college of nebraska board, 2016-20

Family: three children

Website: www.youngforne.com

Top priority: as a father, business owner and taxpayer who has extensive experience in public, for-profit and nonprofit sectors, I want to ensure that nebraska is welcoming for all while we continue to create a stronger, more vibrant and equitable community where people feel that their voice is being heard. We need to have a serious conversation about our property taxes and how we compare to other states. We need to be able to attract and retain young families and that starts with advocates in Lincoln understanding what our counties, school districts and families are facing.

Age: 64

Party: republican Occupation: attorney Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: Westside community schools board, 200003; douglas county attorney, 2003-06; nebraska educational service Unit #3 board, 2010-present

Family: Married, nine children

Website: votestudornan.com

Top priority: In addition to tax reform, greater access to mental health services, and improving education outcomes, my top priority is public safety. this includes using my experience as an FbI agent and county prosecutor to support the difficult job of law enforcement. I regard public safety as the most important role of government. We must also prioritize youth intervention, improve rehabilitation so those in prison can be taxpayers upon release and not tax burdens, and address our serious prison overcrowding problem through responsible reform. We must also ensure that habitual, violent offenders are imprisoned for the safety of our communities.

John Fredrickson

Age: 35

Party: democrat

Occupation: clinical social worker; adjunct professor at the columbia University school of social Work

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, one child

Website: www.johnfornebraska.com

Top priority: My top priorities in office will be reflective of my values: strong community, helping those in need, and equality before the law. this is realized through strong public education statewide, accessible mental health and health care services, and policies that are welcoming and inclusive of all nebraskans. additionally, we are facing issues statewide with workforce retention, and we need to get serious about why this is. I’m interested in policies that support working families so we can attract and retain talent in nebraska for generations to come.

OMAHA-AREA SEATS IN THE NEBRASKA LEGISLATURE

District 31

Kathleen Kauth

Age: 52

Party: republican Occupation: Owner, Kt beck enterprises, LLc (mediation and consulting company)

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: district 31 state senator, June 2022-present

Family: Married, three kids Website: kathleenkauth.com

Top priority: Pushing back on federal government overreach. If it is not in the constitution it is a state responsibility. decisions need to be made locally, by nebraskans rather than decided upon in Washington, d.c. and imposed locally.

Tim Royers

Age: 37

Party: democrat

Occupation: President, Millard education association

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, two children Website: www.royersFornebraska.com

Top priority: We need to make sure our schools have the resources they need so our kids get the education they deserve. despite growing needs and being one of the most cost efficient districts in the state, our schools have received a cut in state funding for the third year in a row. this hurts our students, but also hurts our homeowners by making us even more reliant on property taxes. We need a total redesign of school finance so that all districts receive adequate funding from the state and we can lower the property tax levies at the same time.

District 36

Rick Holdcroft

Age: 68

Party: republican Occupation: Military retiree, 28 years in the U.s. navy

Home: bellevue

Elected offices held: sId 177 board, 2015-19

Family: Married, five children Website: www.rickHoldcroft.com

Top priority: sky-high taxes in nebraska are driving away investment, qualified workers, and good-paying jobs. I will work to cut income and property taxes to incentivize investment in nebraska and nebraskans.

Angie Lauritsen

Age: 47

Party: democrat

Occupation: small business owner, Lauritsen Ventures

Home: Gretna

Elected offices held: Gretna city council, 2016-20

Family: Married, three children

Website: angielauritsenforlegislature.com

Top priority: My top priority is ensuring that families are safe and have the ability to succeed. there isn’t one subject that automatically makes this happen, instead it’s a combination of essential items. I support funding our police and fire departments to keep us safe. I believe there needs to be quality schools to give every child a chance to be successful. We need to make healthcare, including mental health, affordable and accessible. We also need a tax system that looks out for the middle-class and lowers property taxes, and does not raise taxes on groceries, medicine, and other essential items.

DOUGLAS COUNTY ATTORNEY

For the first time in more than a decade, there’s a Democrat running for Douglas County attorney whose last name isn’t Kleine.

Democrat Dave Pantos is challenging longtime County Attorney Don Kleine, who changed his party registration to Republican in 2020 amid criticism from the Nebraska Democratic Party for his decision not to charge a White bar owner in the shooting of a Black man during the George Floyd protests.

The Douglas County attorney oversees an office of about 60 attorneys who prosecute more than 4,400 felonies a year, advise the Douglas County Board and defend the county against civil litigation. It pays an annual salary of $208,000.

Editor’s note: Each response was limited to 100 words and edited for style.

Donald W. Kleine

Age: 70

Party: republican Occupation: douglas county attorney

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held:

douglas county attorney, 2007-present

Family: Married, three children

Website: donKleine.com

What is the biggest issue you believe needs to be prioritized/addressed in the next four-year term? How would you address it?

there are several priorities to address in the next term: youth gun violence, mental health accessibility, fentanyl and other drug overdoses. I will continue to maximize resources in the juvenile court system making every effort to help parents ensure their children are in school. I will continue to work with local and federal agencies to stop the flow of fentanyl which has become a serious problem in our community and has led to many deaths. I will continue to maximize our efforts to gain more available resources for the mentally ill.

Some local prosecutors elsewhere in the U.S. have vowed not to enforce restrictive abortion laws in their state. If the Nebraska Legislature passes an abortion ban and establishes criminal penalties, will you prosecute those liable under the law? Please explain your thinking.

every case that is filed is done so based on the law and evidence of that specific case. It would be unethical to vow to prosecute or not prosecute without knowing such law or facts. I would vow to be fair and just in assessing the facts of each case and use my discretion appropriately in every case.

Douglas County pioneered problemsolving courts in the state. What, if anything, more should the County Attorney’s Office do to reduce the population of incarcerated individuals while prioritizing rehabilitation and safety?

the most effective method to ensure community safety and reduce prison population is to expand the highly successful programs that are already in place in douglas county. Our drug court, young adult court, Veterans treatment court, Mental Health diversion, and other diversion programs are the leading programs of this type in nebraska. Our office has been instrumental to the success of these innovative programs which address the core issues facing individuals allowing them to stay out of prison and become productive members of our community.

Dave Pantos

Age: 52

Party: democrat

Occupation: attorney at dave Pantos esq. LLc, practicing for over 25 years; adjunct professor, University of nebraska at Omaha

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: Metro community college board (appointment), 2017-20

Family: Married, four children

Website: www.davepantos.com

What is the biggest issue you believe needs to be prioritized/addressed in the next four-year term? How would you address it?

With no more space in our overcrowded prisons, offenders are sent home with no resources and a strong likelihood to reoffend. We need criminal justice reform now to reduce the prison population and increase public safety. I’ll advocate for unprecedented investment in mental health resources to redirect those

DOUGLAS COUNTY ATTORNEY

who need support over incarceration. I’ll also push for every prisoner to have a re-entry plan before release to reduce recidivism. We can also release pressure on the system with better geriatric care and parole for older prisoners who are unlikely to reoffend.

Some local prosecutors elsewhere in the U.S. have vowed not to enforce restrictive abortion laws in their state. If the Nebraska Legislature passes an abortion

ban and establishes criminal penalties, will you prosecute those liable under the law? Please explain your thinking.

the nebraska Legislature should not pass an abortion ban. It would be bad for our state, medical providers and women. It would represent a major step backwards for nebraska. If a ban does pass with criminal penalties, I will use prosecutorial discretion to decline abortion prosecutions. this would be consistent with the United states and

nebraska state constitutions, and it’s the right thing to do.

Douglas County pioneered problemsolving courts in the state. What, if anything, more should the County Attorney’s Office do to reduce the population of incarcerated individuals while prioritizing rehabilitation and safety?

the douglas county attorney has a major

impact on the criminal justice system.

Focusing on long sentences for low-level offenders hasn’t made us safer. We’ve failed to address the root causes of crime, and as a result we are experiencing more homicide and violence. We must make douglas county a safe place for all people. this starts with reforms such as unprecedented investments in mental health services, a re-entry plan for all prisoners upon release, and better geriatric parole processes.

Two men with lengthy backgrounds in law enforcement are running to be the next Douglas County sheriff.

Greg Gonzalez and Aaron Hanson are running to replace Sheriff Tom Wheeler, who is not running for election. Wheeler was appointed in November 2020 after the retirement of Sheriff Tim Dunning, who was elected to the position seven times and served 26 years. The winner will serve a four-year term.

The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for patrol services, criminal investigations, court security, warrant service, crime scene investigations and lab testing, among other duties.

Editor’s note: Each response was limited to 100 words and edited for style.

Website: www.gregforsheriff.com

What is your top priority?

My top priority is the reduction of crime and fear of crime through improved deputy recruitment, training and retention of experienced deputies. crime reduction and crime prevention go hand in hand. the best plans are the result of teamwork. community policing is a shared responsibility between police, neighbors and community leaders who work together to solve crime and strengthen community relations. community responsiveness will be a hallmark of my administration. From sheriff to the front-line deputy, deputies will be out of their offices and police cars and in the community more

than ever, working with all residents of douglas county.

What is your solution to what you believe is the most important issue facing the Sheriff’s Office?

as sheriff, I will work closely with county officials and deputies to strengthen recruitment. Public safety is at risk if deputy vacancies plague the department. residents pay taxes for deputies to patrol

neighborhoods. I hired over 450 Omaha police officers, including some of the largest and most diverse classes in OPd history. I understand and will employ the best recruitment and retention strategies. I managed a $57 million budget. taxpayers absorb the cost of deputies who leave. I have the executive level experience to keep you safe. a top priority will be public safety for all of douglas county.

Age: 48

Party: republican

Occupation: Omaha police sergeant

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: sId #260 board of trustees, former member

Family: Married, four children

Website: www.aaronhansonforsheriff.com

What is your top priority?

1. Keeping douglas county families safe from high-risk and repeat criminals, to include supporting law-abiding citizens’ right to protect themselves and their family when police can’t respond fast enough. 2. support good and honest police professionals. 3. Promote a healthy balance of being tough on crime while also endeavoring to help worthy people get a second chance by achieving great jobs, enhanced behavioral health, the ability to take care of their kids and become break cycles of poverty.

What is your solution to what you believe is the most important issue facing the Sheriff’s Office?

recruiting and retaining the best deputies and civilian employees will allow me to grow the sheriff’s Office proportionate to the growth and needs of our community. We must keep people safe from high risk and repeat criminals as well as the societal risks caused by our significant behavioral health crisis. We must grow our patrol presence, assign deputies to our county attorney’s effective problem solving court efforts and look to expand dcsO’s service to the board of Mental Health.

Greg Gonzalez

Age: 51

Party: democrat

Occupation: retired Omaha deputy police chief Home: elkhorn

Elected offices held: none Family: Married, three children

Aaron Hanson

DOUGLAS COUNTY SHERIFF

ANNA REED, THE WORLD-HERALD

OPS

BOARD

Three incumbents on the Omaha Public Schools board face contested races this fall. Each member on the nine-member board serves a four-year term. In Subdistrict 2, incumbent Marque Snow faces a challenge from Brianna Full, while Hina Agarwal is challenging Nancy Kratky in Subdistrict 6 and Carl Satterfield is challenging Margo Juarez in Subdistrict 8. Shavonna Holman is running unopposed in Subdistrict 4. The OPS Board of Education is a nonpartisan office, and party affiliation does not appear on the ballot.

Subdistrict 2

Brianna Full

Age: 26

Party: democrat Occupation: advocacy coordinator at spark cdI

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: single, no children Website: www.Full4OPs.com

Why are you running?

I’m running because the issues that OPs are facing need new and fresh people on the board to address them. I feel I would be the best fit because of my unique background growing up and aging out of the foster care system and because of my experience as a community organizer in north Omaha and a policy adviser at the ne Legislature.

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

the top issues the district is facing are staffing shortages, behavioral issues with students in school, and learning outcome disparities that black students, brown students, and students with disabilities experience within OPs. I will try my best to fix these issues by working collaboratively with teachers, parents, students, and community organizations in Omaha to find solutions that are meaningful and long-lasting.

Marque Snow

snow did not respond to multiple requests from the World-Herald seeking his participation.

Subdistrict 6

Hina Agarwal

Age: 43

Party: democrat Occupation: experience manager at Kiewit Luminarium

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married Website: www.agarwalforeducation.com

Why are you running?

access to a good education is integral to a thriving community. We know that by enhancing the educational opportunities of every child, we can positively impact our society. by creating and maintaining an excellent public educational system, we allow every child to become a productive member of society. I am a former classroom teacher. I understand the rewards when we see students as eager learners. I also empathize with the challenges of longer school days, teaching through a pandemic, limited resources and inadequate teacher compensation. I understand the need to make sure there is a pipeline of future teachers attracted to the profession.

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

1. teacher recruitment and retention

I will be accessible and appreciative of input from classroom teachers, as I respect our educators and that is the starting point for building and maintaining a working relationship.

2. efficient and effective communication between the district and all stakeholders

I believe all stakeholders should have a seat at the table as we work together to ensure every student has access to a quality education and learning environment. We need to find better ways to engage community members and inform them about what is happening at their district schools.

3. students meeting math, science and reading standards

Family: n/a Website: none

Age: 85

Party: republican

Occupation: retired Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: OPs school board, 1994-2013, 2018-present

Why are you running?

I am running because I have the knowledge, history and experience of the district. I attended and graduated, taught and retired from the district. I’ve served on the board from 1994-2013 and 2018-2022. We have educational opportunities for all ethnicity and races from PreK through 12th grade. this includes the gifted, remedial and special needs students. My foremost goal is to improve each student’s performance by observing, addressing and providing early and continuous assistance and interventions when needed in preparation for their future endeavors, occupations and livelihood.

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

safety is always paramount whether it be in the classroom, building, grounds or via transportation to and from activities. We employ security guards and activate police for complicated instances.

Hiring qualified staff for all schools, 52,000 students and translators for first languages is challenging.

University students in the education program are being compensated to student teach with the understanding that they will remain in OPs for two years of service.

Parents/guardians are an integral part of everything from attendance, homework, graduation rates and their importance in the future of their children.

Subdistrict 8

Margo Juarez

Juarez did not respond to multiple requests from the World-Herald seeking her participation.

Carl Satterfield

Age: 75

Party: democratic

Occupation: retired

Home: Papillion

Elected offices held: Past school board member in nebraska city, 4 years

Family: Married, two children

Website: none

Why are you running?

I believe the child should be no. 1 priority of everyone. I am a graduate of Peru state college with a bachelor’s degree in education. My three motivating reasons are:

1. Parents should be able to express their opinions, be heard and considered when it comes to their children.

2. child should the no. 1 priority by everyone concerned for receiving a quality education

3. I believe in education (minimum of reading, writing, math)

I believe in an open dialogue, by person to person contact. I will keep an open mind on all topics for discussion, hearing all sides of a question is always the best. I will always give you one of three answers: yes, and explain my reasoning; no, and explain my reasoning; I do not know, but will get the answer to you within two weeks.

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

1. I believe the child should be no. 1 priority of everyone.

2. I believe in edUcatIOn and nOt indoctrination.

3. Girls-specific activities should be for GIrLs and nOt transgender girls.

4. nO crt or seX topics of any kind should be taught to children in grades kindergarten through fourth grade at a minimum.

5. Parents should be able to have their children attend any school that they want, and the money should follow.

6. Good teachers should be compensated and nOt bad teachers.

7. Maximum of 18 children per class.

Nancy Kratky

MILLARD SCHOOL BOARD

Six candidates, including two incumbents, will vie for three at-large seats on the Millard school board.

Incumbents Stacy Jolley and Mike Kennedy are running for reelection. Also running are Terry Dale, Mark Krueger, Lisa Schoenberger and Sean Swanson. The race is nonpartisan. Board members serve fouryear terms.

Terry Dale

Age: 62

Party: Democrat

Occupation: Pinnacle Bancorp, corporate fraud o cer

Home: Sarpy County

Elected o ces held: SID 257 Board of Trustees, 2010-present

Family: Married, six children

Website: None

Why are you running?

My experience leading the SID board I serve on has given me great insight into how to manage taxpayers’ money while still delivering the services necessary to keep the district thriving. In 2012 we had a levy of .97. Today, we are at .61 with the additions of updated parks and neighborhood trash collection. It’s not necessary to tax more to achieve the district’s goals. I am the only candidate on the ballot that has actually lowered families’ taxes. Not levies, actual taxes paid. All while improving services.

What are your top priorities?

I would like to see a complete review of where funds not used directly to educate our children go, and can these areas be run more e ciently. With rapid deliveries of supplies available directly to schools, do we need a large warehouse? Do we need a lawn maintenance and snow removal sta , or might hiring outside services be a better use of funds? These types of questions. Basically, if it doesn’t contribute directly to our primary purpose, is it really necessary? More teachers, more supplies, less overhead.

Stacy Jolley

Age: 49

Party: Democrat

Occupation: Standardized patient at UNMC and Creighton Medical School; bookkeeper at Kairos Psychological and Suiter Swantz IP

Home: Omaha

Elected o ces held: Millard Public Schools Board of Education, 2018-present Family: Married, three children Website: StacyJolley.com

Why are you running?

I’m running because MPS is an outstanding district and I want to keep it that way. With public education under attack both nationally and locally, I want to advocate for the excellence we’ve grown and maintained in Millard. I also want to be a voice for our teachers, who are the very best despite their increasing responsibilities and too-low pay. Our three children had access to so many incredible opportunities that I owe this district a debt of gratitude I can never repay. Serving and preserving that for the next generation, is the best way I know how.

What are your top priorities?

My top priorities are based on keeping MPS a district of choice for students and sta . Although our covid-era learning loss has been significantly less than the national data, we need to do everything we can to get all of our students up to or beyond grade-level standards. We need to retain our talented teachers and recruit the best and brightest to Millard. We’ve felt the pinch of the teacher/ sta shortage in MPS, and it’s not going to get better without creative approaches. That would include “growing our own” by getting more kids interested in becoming teachers.

Mike Kennedy

Age: 52

Party: Republican

Occupation: Lawyer, Kennedy Law Firm Home: Omaha

Elected o ces held: Millard school board, 2003-present; Metropolitan Community College Board, 1999-2002

Family: Married, two children

Website: www.parentsformikekennedy.com

Why are you running?

I am running for reelection because I want to continue what the Board has done to keep Millard one of the best school districts in the country. We were able to keep our schools open and safe during the pandemic and I want to address the learning loss some of our students su ered during that time. I also want to make sure our teachers have the

resources they need to continue to provide a quality education. I am pleased to announce that I have the endorsements of former Millard Superintendents Dr. Jim Sutfin and Dr. Keith Lutz.

What are your top priorities?

Millard has two major challenges facing it in the next few years. 1) addressing the teacher shortage and 2) obtaining enough resources to continue our high-quality educational programs. Millard has been very blessed to have high-caliber educators. The Board must work to retain and attract a strong workforce. Also, we must also work to keep our great educational programs properly funded and manage our budgets e ciently in these tough times. I believe my 20 years of experience on the Millard School Board will help our community in these e orts.

Mark Krueger

Krueger did not respond to The World-Herald.

Lisa Schoenberger

Age: 39

Party: Democrat Occupation: Marketing and public relations

Elected o ces held: Learning Community Coordinating Council, 2021-present

Family: Married, two children Website: www.lisaformillard.com

Why are you running?

I am running because I believe we have something truly special here in Millard, and that education is the most important investment we make as a community. I am a proud Millard parent and will have a child enrolled in this district for the next 15 years, so my stake in world-class educational opportunity for all our children is personal. I am committed to collaboration, transparency and exploring creative solutions to guarantee we maintain a great place to work and learn, as well as e ective stewardship of taxpayer investments.

What are your top priorities?

I am committed to maintaining and expanding outstanding educational opportunities for all our students. Specifically, I would love to expand early childhood education programs, add additional exposure to careers in highdemand industries like skilled trades and further investment in early literacy. I

want to make sure that Millard navigates the workforce shortages that we are experiencing nationwide by making sure our compensation packages are commensurate with the critical work our educators perform. It will always be a priority to make prudent and strategic financial decisions and maximize community return on investment in our schools.

Sean Swanson

Age: 55 Party: Republican Occupation: Financial adviser, Retire Smart LLC Home: Omaha

Elected o ces held: None

Family: Married, three children

Website: www.swansonformillard.com

Why are you running?

I want to KEEP MILLARD AWESOME. Part of a four generation Millard family since 1966, I graduated from Millard in 1985, my three kids graduated from Millard and so will my grandchildren. I believe that every child should have access to a world-class public education and graduate high school well prepared for success in college, trade school, the military, or the workforce. I am passionate about serving our community and I want to bring my 21 years of business and financial experience to the Board. The future success of our Millard schools depends on us all working together.

What are your top priorities?

1. Use taxpayer dollars wisely

2. Encourage parent and community involvement

3. Attract and retain outstanding teachers

4. Maintain complete transparency

5. Keep our kids safe

6. Remove political agendas from the classroom

7. Support the arts

8. I am pro-teacher, pro-student and proparent

PAPIO-MISSOURI RIVER NATURAL RESOURCES DISTRICT

There are five seats on the PapioMissouri River Natural Resources District board up for election this year, but only one of those races is contested.

Tim McCormick, currently representing Subdistrict 4 on the board, faces a challenge from Barbara Nichols.

The subdistrict is in west Omaha. Its general boundaries are Fort Street to the north, Interstate 680 to the east, West Center Road to the south and 168th Street to the west.

In the four other subdistricts up for election this year, only the incumbent is running.

The NRD is a governmental entity tasked with protecting and enhancing natural resources. The board sets policy and provides direction to NRD staff members who handle day-to-day operations of the district.

Members of the 11-member board serve four-year terms. Board seats are nonpartisan offices, and party affiliation does not appear on the ballot.

Editor’s note: Each response was limited to 100 words and edited for style.

Tim McCormick

Age: 62

Party: republican Occupation: Owner of a bridge and piling construction company

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: Papio Missouri river nrd board, 2019-present

Family: did not answer

Website: none

Why do you want to serve on the NRD board?

I am very interested in water issues and their importance to our future. From flood safety, water quality, utilization, preservation and recreation. I support all and am proud to be associated with the fine staff at the Papio Missouri natural resource district and the great work they are doing. I hope my

experience can bring something to the board to help the staff do their jobs better.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing the NRD?

In my first term, the district has seen record flooding and severe drought. it will be important to keep our eye on the ball and plan for the future knowing it’s uncertainty. We should build our infrastructure before floods and droughts. staying ahead of our rapidly growing community’s need for flood safety, water quality, and desire for recreational facilities.

How is climate change challenging the fundamental mission of the NRD to conserve, manage and enhance the area’s natural resources?

We have seen records in all sorts of climate issues pointing to water as one of our most valuable resources to be managed not ignored.

Do you feel the NRD board has been a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars?

yes the district has reduced the levy, recognizing the growth in valuations has allowed for higher revenue. the growth driving those valuations has created greater need for infrastructure and management. resulting in greater responsibilities for the Papio Missouri natural resource district.

Why should voters pick you to continue serving on the NRD board?

I have a bachelor of science in civil engineering from the University of notre dame, graduate studies modeling the Ogallala aquifer at UnO, 40+ year career in heavy civil construction, bridge construction business owner for 26 years. I have built or repaired over 200 bridges and structures in the area, worked on Papio Missouri natural resource district projects and corp of engineers projects including the big Papio channel control structure from center street to L street. Widening the channel underneath the UPrr trestle just south of I-80 significantly increased flows and reduced flooding potential for miles upstream.

Barbara Nichols Age: 71

Party: republican Occupation: retired Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: Papio Missouri river nrd board, 2001-2005

Family: Unmarried, three children Website: none

Why do you want to serve on the NRD board?

the mission and work of the nrd is where I come alive and thrive — setting policies and making decisions to guide our most precious natural resources into our greatest assets. I know the geography, the demographics, and most importantly, the people. I am passionate about working to make a difference in improving the quality of life with our abundant natural resources, while holding the line on spending – for now and the future. My interest in natural resources guided my study at UnO where I earned bs in environmental science-planning and political science, and coursework masters in public administration coursework.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing the NRD?

continuing to provide flood control with rising cost of acquiring property for those projects, balance with commercial and residential development, private property owners, public recreation access, and with environmental integrity, with wishes of the public to maximize public access to recreational opportunities. studies show that water features with recreation are important to home buyers, which increase property values and contribute to the tax base. nrd operates on a conservative budget and must prudently allocate available funds for such purchases in a timely manner to save the tax payers even more dollars in the long run.

How is climate change challenging the fundamental mission of the NRD to

conserve, manage and enhance the area’s natural resources?

changes in climate trends definitely impact the nrd’s fundamental mission to conserve, manage and enhance our area’s natural resources. Preparation and planning is key. From drought to floods, to soil and wind erosion, to flora and fauna, to prepare for projected changes that will affect the way we live and work, I will study and monitor current research in the scientific community so I can be the most credible asset possible in contributing to those discussions with my fellow nrd board members, and to make the best informed decisions that will strategically and fiscally protect and grow our community.

Do you feel the NRD board has been a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars? the maximum tax levy for nrds is set by the state at 4.5 cents per $100 of valuation. Papio nrd boasts either decreased or same tax levy for the past 17 years. due in part to recent inflated property values, the nrd will drop its property tax levy to 3.48 cents per $100 of assessed valuation for 2023, after this year’s levy of 3.57 cents, citing “methodical and conservative financial management” and “while simultaneously funding critical public safety projects” (John Winkler, GM Papio nrd). the nrd is fortunate to have and work with some of the best professionals in flood and natural resources management.

Why should voters pick you to serve on the NRD board?

I offer education and experience, leadership and passion with a lifelong history of dedicated service to the community. I served honorably and faithfully on the board in the past, including the executive board. as the only woman on the board, managing natural resources for approximately 40% of the state’s population, I bring a fresh perspective to make the district a better place to live, work, and play through support of progressive flood management, trail development, more river access, and cost sharing projects. It isn’t always so much about change, but about better. I will make it better.

ELECTION

METROPOLITAN UTILITIES DISTRICT

Two spots on the Metropolitan Utilities District Board of Directors are up for grabs in November.

The seven-member board governs the district, a public utility that serves more than 700,000 people in the Omaha metro area. It provides natural gas, as well as drinking water and water treatment services.

Board members serve six-year terms and are elected in nonpartisan races, meaning party a liation does not appear on the ballot.

In Subdivision 6, incumbent Mike McGowan is challenged by State Sen. John McCollister, who is barred by term limits from seeking reelection to the Legislature. Jack Frost, who has represented subdivision 7 since 1986, is not seeking reelection. Candidates Scott Murray and Bob Sidzyik are vying for the seat.

Subdivision 6 encompasses parts of southwest Omaha, including Ralston and part of Boys Town. Subdivision 7 encompasses La Vista, Bellevue and other parts of Sarpy County.

Editor’s note: Each response was limited to 100 words and edited for style.

Subdivision 6

John S. McCollister

Age: 75

Party: Republican Occupation: District 20 state senator

Home: Omaha

Elected o ces held: Metropolitan Utilities District board, 1979-2008; District 20 state senator, 2015-present

Family: Married, three children

Website: johnmccollister.com

Why do you want to serve on the MUD board?

Public service is in my DNA. I have lived in Omaha for nearly all of my life and after moderate success in our community, I think I have an obligation to pay the debt forward. In that vein, my experience managing a family business for 35 years, serving on the MUD Board of Directors for three decades,

supervising a free market think tank and twoterms serving as a state senator, gives me an important perspective that will benefit MUD customers.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing MUD?

Running a natural gas and water utility during a time of rapid change is and will be challenging. The e ects of climate change, ever changing governmental regulations, low unemployment, abnormally high inflation, fluctuating costs for natural gas and the demand to improve infrastructure makes it essential that the MUD Board of Directors makes good decisions for both the long and short-term. The lead pipe situation in east Omaha also warrants serious attention.

How, as a board member, would you view climate change as it relates to the district’s role as a gas and water utility?

Climate change is an existential threat. CO2 traps heat which results in more frequent and severe wildfires, hurricanes, heat waves, floods and droughts. Those living in poverty are the hardest hit by climate change despite being the least responsible for its cause. Renewable energy is the lowest cost zero carbon producing sources of energy available. Passage of my priority bill in the Unicameral, LB 824 in 2016, allowed wind and solar companies in Nebraska to thrive by removing 1930’s regulatory barriers. Importantly, MUD will need to participate in e orts to reduce its carbon footprint by expanded home weatherization programs for customers.

Do you feel MUD has been both reasonable and responsible in setting its rates? Please explain.

MUD must continue to provide safe and a ordable natural gas and water to Omaha. As a customer owned utility, it is incumbent that MUD maintain its lower cost advantage over investor utilities. As infrastructure projects proceed in Omaha, MUD must adhere to tight construction schedules. Delays and poor coordination makes construction projects more expensive and take longer. Lastly, the City of Lincoln is currently evaluating its options for additional sources of water. Consequently, MUD needs to evaluate the opportunity to serve finished water to the City of Lincoln to the betterment

of both cities.

Why should voters pick you to serve on the MUD board?

My three decades of experience on the MUD Board and two terms as a state senator sponsoring pro-environmental bills gives me a unique perspective that will benefit MUD customers. Known as the environmental senator, I introduced legislation to create a climate change plan for the state, encourage the state itself to purchase renewable energy and create a renewable energy portfolio standard for Nebraska. Because of these legislative initiatives, I was named the 2015 Wind Energy Champion, the 2018-19 Nebraska League of Conservation Voter’s Legislator of the Year and the Sierra Club Senator of the Year in 2020.

Mike McGowan

Age: 74 Party: Republican Occupation: Retired (worked 36 years for Northern Natural Gas in Omaha)

Home: Omaha

Elected o ces held: Metropolitan Utilities District board, nine years

Family: Married, five children Website: None

Why do you want to continue serving on the MUD board?

I want to continue to serve on the board to continue to utilize my knowledge and experience to benefit the Omaha area ratepayers. I worked for Northern Natural Gas for 36 years — I know and understand the utility business.

I am proud of the accomplishments achieved while serving on the MUD Board for nine years: safe and reliable natural gas and water service at the lowest rates possible.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing MUD?

The greatest challenges facing MUD are: gas and water cast iron pipe replacement to ensure infrastructure safety and reliability; aggressive management of costs and maximizing revenue to ensure the lowest

rates possible; promote conservation of water and natural gas; ensure timely and e cient response to emergency situations and customer issues.

How, as a board member, do you view climate change as it relates to the district’s role as a gas and water utility?

I do believe climate change impacts everyone including the district and its approach to business. I believe that there is no immediate solution and that there should be a strategic transition to greenhouse goals. We are blessed to have natural gas, oil and coal reserves available to meet the energy needs of all Americans. We need to incorporate usage of these precious resources as we transition to the new managed energy environment.

Do you feel MUD has been both reasonable and responsible in setting its rates? Please explain.

MUD has been very prudent and reasonable and works very hard every day to ensure the lowest water and natural gas rates possible.

MUD has not raised its natural gas rate (the rate component for costs MUD controls for the gas delivery) for five years, and most of the increases in water rates has come from ongoing increases to the City of Omaha’s sewer replacement project. Out of 40 major utilities surveyed across the country, MUD has the ninth lowest natural gas rate and the 16th lowest water rate.

Why should voters pick you to continue serving on the MUD board?

Voters should vote for my conservative approach and results achieved. I have 36 years experience working for Northern Natural Gas in the utility business. I also have a MBA from Creighton University. Over my nine years on the Board, I have utilized this knowledge and experience for the direct benefit of the Omaha area ratepayers and the MUD employees — employee pension funded at 97%. I am proud of the accomplishments achieved: safe and reliable delivery of natural gas and water at reasonable rates; excellent financial strength and excellent operational assets and capability. I have worked hard to earn the TRUST of the ratepayers and my accomplishments clearly show the ratepayers can continue to TRUST me.

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projects from the Omaha

ELECTION

METROPOLITAN UTILITIES DISTRICT

Subdivision 7

Scott Murray

Age: 35

Party: republican Occupation: Mechanical program engineer at Olsson Inc.

Home: La Vista

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, two children

Website: www.MurrayForMUd.com

Why do you want to serve on the MUD board?

I enjoy solving problems and working with utilities as I have a lot of experience in the area. Fundamentally I want to help where I can make the greatest impact. I am a professional mechanical engineer with over a decade of experience working directly on utility projects and utility business operations. I graduated from the University of nebraska with a master’s degree in engineering, and currently serve as the vice president for the Mary our Queen school board.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing MUD?

to put it simply: execution and communication. the board needs to help the utility keep costs as low as possible and provide proper oversight to prevent issues before they happen. With the utility facing an increase in projects, regulations, and various water and gas crises across the nation, it highlights the challenge of being prepared and maintaining a well-run utility. the communication with its customers can be expanded with additional partnerships and trade education programs. the utility can also provide additional transparency into some of its challenges by reducing some of the red tape where possible.

How, as a board member, would you view climate change as it relates to the district’s role as a gas and water utility?

In a word, I would view the role of the utility to be: efficiency. a gas and water utility has a responsibility to utilize what resources it provides as efficiently as possible. Gas and water are limited resources and will not only increase in price but impact the environment the more each of us use them. the utility must efficiently manage the systems and convert where possible to long term, environmentally responsible sources.

Do you feel MUD has been both reasonable and responsible in setting its rates? Please explain.

yes. MUd is ranked the ninth lowest for gas and the 16th lowest for water out of 40 top utilities which reflects the hard work put in by all those involved. expanding on the work that is already done, maintaining the balance between repairs to keep the reliability while still keeping costs as low as possible is key. Pulling in help through expanded business and community partnerships to improve efficiency can help ensure that goal is achieved for the long run.

Why should voters pick you to serve on the MUD board?

I am good at solving problems and I enjoy working with utilities. I have the necessary experience, skillset, and an open communication mindset that make me, in my opinion, the best candidate for the position. I want to help make the world a little better than how I found it, and I am grateful for all the support I have received. thank you for your time and please feel free to reach out if you have any comments or questions, my email is scott.Murray.nebraska@gmail.com.

Bob Sidzyik

Age: 42

Party: democrat

Occupation: Membership development coordinator, International brotherhood of electrical Workers (IbeW) Local 22

Home: Papillion

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, five children Website: none

Why do you want to serve on the MUD board?

I have spent the majority of my life solving problems. Our community is rapidly expanding and our infrastructure has reached its lifespan. these are problems I am prepared to tackle with my experience in construction. What better way to use my skillset than for the greater good of our community?

What is the greatest challenge currently facing MUD?

the greatest challenge MUd currently faces is the low rate and reliability balance we have enjoyed for decades with our public utility. building and replacing infrastructure isn’t cheap. Having stakeholder engagement allows us to find efficiencies that contractors or regulations might miss. Finding new partners to offset our bottom line may end up costing us more than negotiating long term solutions with our established partners. My goal will be to make sure we have considered all avenues to secure reasonable rates and reliable infrastructure.

How, as a board member, would you view climate change as it relates to the district’s role as a gas and water utility? I view climate change the same way I view any threat to sustainability. the approach is twofold.

1. We need to diversify our infrastructure so we can maintain services during extreme conditions.

2. We also need to find ways to offset the causes of extreme conditions throughout the utility district.

Do you feel MUD has been both reasonable and responsible in setting its rates? Please explain.

I do. MUd participated in a 2022 survey of 40 utilities. they ranked ninth lowest in residential gas bills and 16th lowest for residential water bills. this is no easy feat when you consider the expansion and replacement infrastructure work. We have enjoyed gas and water services through floods, droughts and price spikes because the MUd board of directors have listened to the experts and implemented good ideas from all levels.

Why should voters pick you to serve on the MUD board?

I am proud to bring my perspective to the board. as a lifetime member of this community, having lived in older and newer developments, and with my professional career in construction, I know priorities can vary. the reason someone should vote for me is accessibility. the MUd board of directors’ responsibility is to the community. this is our utility and directors are the voice for everyone to understand what happens with it. I want to know your questions and concerns. It will be my honor to get you those answers as a director. Please reach out with your concerns at sidzyikformud@gmail.com.

ANNA REED, THE WORLD-HERALD

People line up and vote at Omaha south High Magnet school on election day 2020.

Two seats on the Omaha Public Power District Board of Directors are up for election this year, and both have contested races.

The public power utility district serves nearly 400,000 customers in all or parts of 13 eastern Nebraska counties.

In Subdivision 4, candidates Matt Core and Jim Grotrian are running to replace Rick Yoder. The subdivision includes most of Sarpy County, as well as six counties south of it. In Subdivision 5, incumbent Craig Moody faces a challenge from Kevin Ryan. The subdivision is in Omaha, with the general boundaries being West Maple Road to the north, Saddle Creek Road to the east, the Union Pacific Railroad track to the south, and 132nd Street to the west.

The board is tasked with setting the district’s mission and vision. It establishes policy, evaluates the district’s performance, makes some operational decisions and decides who serves as the district’s president and CEO.

Races are nonpartisan, and those elected to the eight-member board serve six-year terms.

Editor’s note: Each response was limited to 100 words and edited for style.

Subdivision 4

Matt Core Age: 36

Party: nonpartisan

Occupation: Lieutenant, sarpy county sheriff’s Office

Home: Papillion

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, four children

Website: www.core4oppd.com

Why do you want to serve on the OPPD board?

Family, community, and service drive me. I spent the last 14 years at the sarpy county sheriff’s Office, and prior to my career in law enforcement, I served in the air national Guard and was deployed to Iraq and afghanistan. I feel a responsibility to serve my country and my community. My dad worked for OPPd for 32 years and I learned from an early age the important role OPPd plays in our community and in our daily lives. the OPPd board is another way that I can give back and utilize my skills and experience to benefit others.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing OPPD?

ensuring that all of those served by OPPd have consistent, reliable, and affordable power while navigating the quickly changing energy market, extreme weather events that put stress on the grid, and economy-wide and world events that cause volatile pricing for resources like oil and gas.

OPPD is targeting 2050 for net-zero carbon emissions. Do you support this goal? Please explain your answer.

yes. this is the direction the industry as a whole is going. credit agencies want to see that the utility is taking steps to decarbonize because they see a high-emitting portfolio as a business risk. a good credit rating reduces the cost of debt and helps keep rates low. More and more, businesses are looking for a decarbonized electricity portfolio when they choose where to locate. OPPd must be careful in their decision-making in the coming years to accomplish this goal so that they can achieve it while continuing to provide ratepayers with reliable and affordable power.

Do you feel OPPD is doing enough to prepare for the future surge in electricity demand as more products and people shift to electric?

It’s clear that OPPd has an eye on the future. Power with Purpose is an important initiative that helps OPPd keep up with demand, and the OPPd board’s decision to postpone shut-down of the north Omaha station demonstrates their commitment to maintaining a reliable power supply. OPPd needs to make sure that we have a diverse and sustainable supply of energy to be able

to provide power to ratepayers without interruption as demand continues to grow. Why should voters pick you to serve on the OPPD board?

My priorities are to keep rates low, ensure our electricity is reliable, and protect our quality of life. My years of direct service in law enforcement, the U.s. air national Guard, and volunteering in the community have given me a lot of experience listening to people and understanding them. I will ensure that proper oversight is provided to OPPd and that you, the ratepayer, are wellrepresented. If you have any concerns, needs, or ideas, please call or text me at 402-6726520.

Jim Grotrian

Age: 56

Party: republican Occupation: self-employed, consulting and agribusiness

Home: cass county (buccaneer bay)

Elected offices held: sanitary Improvement district #5 board, 2010-present

Family: Married Website: www.jimgrotrian.com

Why do you want to serve on the OPPD board?

I am a lifelong resident of southeast nebraska which encompasses the seven counties of the OPPd subdivision 4. I believe sd #4 of the OPPd service area should have a representative who can authentically

represent the rural and urban ratepayer of the utility. It is also important to have an experienced, business minded public servant on the board that can help shape important energy policy during such a critical time in our communities and country.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing OPPD?

I think the greatest challenge is to meet current and future demands on our electrical grid and stay focused on the affordability and reliability of our rates and service to our ratepayers. I also think OPPd must be a strong partner with our business community and work collaboratively to grow our economy.

OPPD is targeting 2050 for net-zero carbon emissions. Do you support this goal? Please explain your answer.

a. Having zero net emissions is an admiral goal. I am in support of the plan insofar as it does not jeopardize reliability and affordability for the ratepayers. First and foremost, we owe it to our ratepayers to provide electricity at a rate that doesn’t break the bank and comes on when they flip the switch. to accomplish this, we need to maintain a diversified energy portfolio. I will serve as an advocate for ratepayers and look at every decision through that lens.

Do you feel OPPD is doing enough to prepare for the future surge in electricity demand as more products and people shift to electric?

as a public utility, OPPd exists to serve the ratepayers. We owe it to everyone we serve to continue to look at usage trends and anticipate future energy needs. Failing to do so now would undoubtedly lead to increased rates in the future. the district must maintain a strong, diversified, energy portfolio to meet current and future energy needs.

Why should voters pick you to serve on the OPPD board?

I have the experience, passion, and conservative vision to lead OPPd during this time of rising cost and uncertain demand on our electrical grid. OPPd must put ratepayers first, I pledge to always stand up for their voice. district 4 is very geographically unique, from suburban sarpy county to rural richardson county. but one thing is always true, we need electricity that will reliably turn on at an affordable rate. as a lifelong southeast nebraskan, I understand those diverse needs, and will fight for the ratepayer. I would be honored to earn the support of the residents of subdistrict 4.

OMAHA

ANNA REED, THE WORLD-HERALD

thomas Godby, of Omaha, turns in his ballot ahead of the primary election at the douglas county election commission in Omaha on May 9.

Subdivision 5

Craig Moody

Age: 47 Party: Democrat

Occupation: Managing partner at Verdis Group Home: Omaha

Elected o ces held: OPPD Board of Directors, 2017-present

Family: Married, two children

Website: craigmoody.org

Why do you want to continue serving on the OPPD board?

My first term on the board was heavily focused on reshaping the vision and direction of the organization towards clean energy, a ordability, and reliability, and a future that prioritizes our customer-owners and captures all the advantages public power has to o er. With solid plans in place, our focus turns toward execution of those plans, which is undeniably more di cult. The district is building two natural gas plants, decommissioning a nuclear plant, adding 600 MW of solar, and investing in several new technologies. Leading this work requires deep knowledge of the industry and pragmatically moving the organization through the transition ahead.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing OPPD?

The biggest challenge is navigating a quickly transforming and growing industry. Demand for OPPD’s service has grown significantly, and that growth is going to continue as more consumers electrify their homes and drive electric vehicles. Meanwhile, the entire industry is shifting towards clean energy, consumers are demanding new services and products from their utility, and the grid requires continued investment to maintain reliability. The challenge, actually the opportunity, is to meet growing demand while smoothly transitioning the organization to a utility of the future while maintaining the a ordability and reliability that our customer-owners expect.

OPPD is targeting 2050 for net-zero carbon emissions. Do you support this goal? Please explain your answer.

I absolutely support this goal. I was heavily involved in leading the board toward adopting our net zero goal, and I’m proud that we’re leading the utility industry towards decarbonization. The good news is that we

can achieve it and do so while keeping our services a ordable and reliable. This is a finding that was revealed by a significant study the district performed (with the help of industry experts) to examine how we might achieve net zero by 2050.

Do you feel OPPD is doing enough to prepare for the future surge in electricity demand as more products and people shift to electric?

Yes. We have a great start in our preparations as evidenced by the investments in two natural gas plants and 600 MW of solar. We are also investing in programs to help customer-owners conserve electricity (and save a few bucks) and reduce overall demand. However, the anticipated demand growth is significant, and more work is needed to ensure OPPD continues to meet that demand. We have an obligation to serve, and we take that mandate very seriously.

Why should voters pick you to continue serving on the OPPD board?

Electricity is a basic life necessity and should not be taken for granted. Given the anticipated demand growth, pace of change in the industry, and technological advancements occurring, OPPD needs board members who have experience, expertise in the industry, and an ability to make sound decisions that will shepherd the district through these changes to best serve our customer-owners. I have the experience, the expertise, and the track record of accomplishments to demonstrate that I can and will continue leading OPPD to a successful future.

increasing consumption; and 3.) increasing technological advances and a ordability of renewable energy. As the transportation and industry sectors become more environmentally responsible (e.g. electric vehicles), it’s the power industry left to provide more electricity than it ever has. The challenge is to always keep power reliable, always keep it a ordable, and to welcome smart, reasonable, and economically sensible renewable energy options.

OPPD is targeting 2050 for net-zero carbon emissions. Do you support this goal? Please explain your answer.

Age: 53

Party: Democrat

Occupation: Attorney, private practice

Home: Omaha

Elected o ces held: None

Family: Married, two children

Website: kevinryanoppd.com

Why do you want to serve on the OPPD board?

First and foremost, I would like to save OPPD customers from unnecessary and avoidable rate increases. The amount of money that OPPD has in reserves, exceeds what a public power utility truly requires. Last year’s rate increase was wholly unnecessary due to this fact. I believe that OPPD will almost certainly increase rates again in the coming year, and in subsequent years to come, until the Board has the courage to say no. These rate increases, coupled with rising fuel costs, have the potential of making our electricity bills unreasonable and una ordable. Lowering customers’ electricity bills is my top priority.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing OPPD?

The greatest challenge that OPPD faces is how to continue to provide enough reliable power to its customers in a time of 1.) increasing electrification; 2.)

Yes. OPPD’s plan to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 is a long-term goal, not a binding deadline, and as we’ve seen with the recent North Omaha coal plant closure delay, OPPD is not afraid to extend its goals. I fully support the goal, as it is hardly aggressive (power companies, corporations, cities, states, all over the country have the same 2050 goal, if not sooner) but I also believe every plan for renewable energy must be done within reason, and can never threaten the reliability of our power, nor can it result in electricity bills that we cannot a ord.

Do you feel OPPD is doing enough to prepare for the future surge in electricity demand as more products and people shift to electric?

Rapid electrification is a significant challenge for the entire country. I am currently more confident in OPPD’s preparation for providing reliable power in the face of a demand surge, than I am in OPPD’s commitment to true a ordability for the customers. While the North Omaha coal plant delay is most likely a signal that OPPD will halt environmental progress to guarantee reliability when it has to, I am concerned about OPPD keeping rates as low as possible for ratepayers in the process. And again, that is my top priority — the ratepayers.

Why should voters pick you to serve on the OPPD board?

I have practiced law in the Omaha area for 25 years. My work as a trial attorney in state and federal court has taught me how to help people from all walks of life, and fight for people in need. The OPPD Board needs board members who will fight for the customers. The customers who own OPPD. The customers who need their rates to be a ordable, their power to be reliable, and who welcome reasonable renewable energy solutions when they benefit both the environment and themselves.

Kevin Ryan

ANNA REED, THE WORLD-HERALD

O cial ballot drop boxes at the Douglas County Election Commission in Omaha on May 9.

ELECTION

RALSTON

Four candidates are running for three seats on the Ralston Public Schools board, with one of those qualifying as a write-in candidate.

Elizabeth Kumru, Mary Roarty and Carrie Hough all filed to appear on the ballot, while Cynthia Huebner qualified as the sole write-in candidate in the race. Kumru and Roarty are both incumbents.

The three winners will serve fouryear terms on the board. Board seats are nonpartisan, and party affiliation does not appear on the ballot.

Carrie Hough

Age: 47

Party: republican

Occupation: technical recruiter, capstone It

Home: ralston

Elected office held: none

Family: Married, three children

Website: none

Why are you running?

I am running for this office because my family and I have lived in ralston for over 18 years. all of my children have attended ralston schools and I look forward to the opportunity to serve the community.

What are your top priorities?

My top priorities will be to learn, provide experience from my career in business, promote fiscal responsibility and foremost continue to promote the great learning opportunities for ralston children.

Cynthia Huebner

Age: 69

Party: republican

Occupation: treasurer emeritus, Professional research consultants Inc.

Home: ralston

Elected offices held: none

Family: Unmarried, two children

Website: none

Why are you running?

I was uncertain about committing prior to March 1, the filing deadline to have one’s name printed on the ballot. at the august board meetings a proposal was initially presented by the administration, and subsequently passed by the board, to

replace within the 2022-2023 staff Handbook the singular pronouns “he” and “she” with the plural pronoun “they”. this incident propelled me into commitment, first to the effort and expense of running as a Write-in candidate, and potentially to the duty of being a responsible board member, willing to carry out such an assignment with integrity, forthrightness, and fortitude.

What are your top priorities?

1. to ensure that parents are allowed and encouraged to exercise God-given authority with their children.

2. to hire, support, pay and empower teachers to teach curriculum that prepares and challenges students, develops their minds, and strengthens their thinking capacities.

3. to assess curriculum to substantiate that the intent and content of the subject matter being presented is course work and apprenticeship skills that better prepare our children for their future vocations. Language literacy (ability to communicate) and math literacy (ability to problem solve, reason, analyze information) must be paramount in preparing our children to become contributors to society.

Elizabeth Kumru Age: 69

Party: nonpartisan

Occupation: retired Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: ralston school board, 2019-present

Family: Married, two children Website: none

Why are you running?

Public education is one of the building blocks on which this country was built, but it’s under attack now and needs strong support like never before. Public schools are the best option for students in this state. I also believe that it takes a community to raise a child. student success depends on the support of parents, schools, educators and the entire community. even though my children, who are graduates of ralston, are now grown and productive, enterprising citizens in their own right, I want to continue to be involved and give back to my community.

What are your top priorities?

Last year, the ralston community passed a bond issue that will provide safe and secure schools in our district. One of my priorities is to ensure that the board continues to be good stewards of taxpayer money and that the projects are completed as promised. Other priorities are to provide ralston students with a quality educational experience, create innovative ways to educate our kids and support the needs of

every child and family. ralston already offers many workforce development experiences, but I’d like to see an expansion of our academies.

Mary Katherine Roarty

Age: 58

Party: democrat

Occupation: Fiserv client care organization director II Home: ralston

Elected offices held: ralston school board, 2019-present

Family: single, one child

Website: none

What are your top priorities?

My top priorities align with the strategic priorities of our district. My top priority continues to be providing the best education possible for all students and ensuring our students have an understanding of their career opportunities. We continue to expand our rHs career academies to offer students options to explore career fields and even obtain certifications while still in high school. Our Future ready ralston project focuses on updating our facilities to provide secure entrances to our schools, enhanced learning environments, and improved technology. We have been responsible stewards of our taxpayers’ money and will continue to work to reduce our levy and pay off our debts early.

LILY SMITH , THE WORLD-HERALD

a person votes at the Omaha community Playhouse in Omaha on nov. 3, 2020.

BENNINGTON SCHOOL BOARD

There are three seats up for election on the Bennington schools board. The six candidates include incumbent Mark Byars, who is currently the board president. Byars is up against five other challengers. Each seat will have a four-year term.

Mark Byars

Age: 48

Party: republican Occupation: Vice president of finance, adams Land & cattle, LLc

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: bennington school board, January 2015-present

Family: Married, two children

Website: markbyars.com

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

bennington’s rapid growth provides additional resources and opportunities, but also presents challenges. new facilities are needed for more students. additional teachers are needed as educational programs expand, and all teachers should have fair compensation and a reasonable workload. the district must have excellent administrators, reliable student transportation, quality food service, and safe classrooms to support student success. by strategically planning and investing to meet these needs, we can manage spending on pace with our growth, maintain a fiscally responsible budget and tax structure, and continue to see our kids excel.

Jeremy Dick Age: 48

Party: nonpartisan Occupation: Manager of supervision, VP bancWest Investment services

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, two children

Website: Jeremy dick for bennington school board of education Fb page

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

Fiscally responsible growth. currently the district has the second highest tax levy and one of the highest valuations/debt ratios/ the board needs to be better stewards of tax

dollars. We need to ensure that the district grows in a manner that doesn’t put an undue burden on tax payers.

at a time when many teachers are leaving the profession, bennington teachers’ average salary is $1,000 less than the state average despite 75% of bennington teachers holding a master’s degree, compared to 57% in the state. We need to review teacher compensation from salary to sick time and develop a strategy to increase in areas in which bennington is lacking.

Sandra Hulm

Age: 44

Party: nonpartisan Occupation: Vice president & general manager, scoular

Home: bennington Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, two children

Website: facebook.com/sHULMbbe

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

1. ensuring fiscal responsibility in a time of

unprecedented growth through eliminating waste in spending and optimizing budgets, as well as thoughtful, pragmatic, and agile planning.

2. retaining our educators and staff by executing on the basics. We need competitive wages and benefits, address burdensome workloads, and listen to our teacher’s on where the gaps lie from their perspective, then put in place the necessary corrective actions.

3. establishing transparency and accountability through deliberate and timely communication and actions.

4. remaining laser focused on keeping our children safe through ensuring there is the appropriate measures, resources, and education in place.

Kristi Ryan

Age: 50

Party: republican Occupation: director of school counseling, buena Vista High school Home: bennington Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, two children

Website: facebook.com/Kristiryan-for-bennington-board-ofeducation-109907944979999/

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

two of the most crucial issues facing the district include accommodating the rapid growth of our community and maintaining and attracting top-notch educators and support staff in the midst of a national teacher shortage. to address the exponential growth in our community, we must invest in our educational infrastructure and build additional schools. In order to recruit and retain outstanding educators, we must provide competitive compensation packages. Ideally, with the growing demands for and on teachers, these packages would not only be equivalent to those in surrounding districts but also commensurate with salaries and benefits in the wider job market.

Steve Shannon

Age: 45 Party: republican Occupation: Managing director, disaster response Group

Elected offices held: none Family: Married, four children

Website: facebook.com/steve.shannon.for. bennington.school.board

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

electing school board members is one of our system’s most effective mechanisms to hold school officials accountable and make changes when necessary.

as an elected school board member, I will put my experience, knowledge and common sense to work for you. I will:

1. support parental and student rights in education.

2. restore fiscal responsibility to our education system.

3. emphasize core subjects and trade skills.

4. Promote transparency in schools’ instructional, training and learning materials.

Brittany Cameron

cameron was unable to respond by press deadline.

ANNA REED, THE WORLD-HERALD bill black and Leslie Janak, both election officials, put up a sign outside the elks Lodge 39 for the primary election in Omaha.

ELKHORN SCHOOL BOARD

Three seats are up for election on the Elkhorn Public Schools board. Six candidates are competing for seats, including two incumbents: Amy Parks, board president, and Nancy Rogic-Greufe.

Brett Elliott

Age: 58

Party: republican Occupation: President and ceO, skillwork LLc

Home: elkhorn area

Elected offices held: none Family: Married, four children

Website: set4elkhorn.com

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

the number one issue is the lack of transparency in the system, and the resulting deficit of trust between all parties involved. second is managing a growing and changing district, specifically in terms of demographics. We need to start investing in individual student strengths and focus on what is right for students over what is right for the school. third, over 100 teachers have left elkhorn since January. We need to retain and attract the best. From managing class sizes, classroom support, concerns about wages and growing behavioral issues we need to listen, support, and take action.

Amy Parks

Age: 49

Party: nonpartisan Occupation: administrative assistant at brown & Wolff/ Quantum real estate

Home: Omaha

Elected offices held: elkhorn school board Member, 2015-present

Family: Married, three children

Website: Facebook – re-elect amy Parks for elkhorn school board

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

1. rapid growth, 2. teacher retention and 3. fiscal responsibility. supervision of district administration is key in addressing these issues. Our board has a solid relationship with dr. Habrock, and this partnership is crucial to the district running efficiently. I am on committees where I have a role in helping brainstorm solutions to retain our excellent

staff and find innovative ideas for recruiting new staff. bond issues need to be passed to finance land and buildings. We keep a reasonable bond levy and refinance bonds when prudent. additionally, a slim central office allows taxpayer dollars to go straight to the classroom to benefit students.

Nancy Rogic-Greufe

Age: 59

Party: republican Occupation: Pediatric anesthesiologist, UnMc/ nebraska Medicine

Home: elkhorn area

Elected office held: elkhorn school board, 2018-present

Family: Married, six children

Website: nancy-rogic-greufe.webnode.page

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

the biggest issue facing elkhorn Public schools is the rapid growth. When we moved here 23 years ago, spring ridge and elkhorn ridge Middle school were just coming into existence, and there have been schools popping up ever since! I have served in the buildings and Grounds committee for the last four years. We must do strategic planning, acquire sites, build buildings, and add staff, so there are places to educate

these wonderful children. Our goal is to try to maintain the integrity and excellence of this district, while keeping the small town feel that elkhorn has always had.

Luther Starks

Age: 43

Party: republican Occupation: First national bank of Omaha

Home: elkhorn area

Elected offices held: none Family: Married, four children

Website: set4elkhorn.com

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

there are a number of issues currently facing our elkhorn school district. these include a lack of transparency and adequate support and resources for our teachers. to combat these current issues, I will work to guarantee educators have what they need to be successful by prioritizing teacher feedback through open lines of communication as the district continues to expand. I will work to promote transparency ranging from topics of school curriculum to district budgets so that parents are aware of what is being taught to their children and where their tax dollars are being allocated.

Jerid Tingelhoff

Age: 42

Party: republican Occupation: Medical sales consultant, J&J Home: Omaha Elected offices held: none Family: Married, three children

Website: set4elkhorn.com

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

One top issue is the mass teacher resignations ePs has faced. With over 100 resignations this year alone, 3 times the normal amount it is critical to provide the necessary resources to teachers that are the bedrock of our education system. another pillar of our campaigns is parental choice and medical freedom, which were stripped away during the pandemic. Lastly, we need to maximize student strengths by teaching our children to think critically, building their confidence, and promoting teamwork free from social agendas.

Mark Wortman

Age: 69 Party: democrat Occupation: retired after 46 years as a high school teacher and coach

Home: elkhorn area

Elected offices held: none

Family: Married, four children

Website: markwortmanforeps.com

What are the top issues facing the district and how would you address them?

elkhorn continues to grow. beautiful, affordable neighborhoods and an exceptional school system are pulling more and more families into elkhorn. While a growing school district with new educational facilities has many advantages, growth can also produce stress. anticipating this growth and accommodating every student should be done thoughtfully and economically so as not to overburden taxpayers.

a school district’s most valuable commodity is a superb teaching staff. the finest teachers should be recruited, hired and supported so that they are able to create an atmosphere of success for all students. your children have been and will continue to be inspired by these compassionate educators.

ANNA REED, THE WORLD-HERALD

elks Lodge 39 serves as a polling place for the primary election in Omaha.

Douglas County Election Commission General Election Sample Ballot

The following is the sample ballot for the General Election to be held Tuesday, November 8, 2022. The sample ballot contains all races that appear throughout Douglas County. Please note that not all races will appear on your specific ballot. Polls are open from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Call (402) 444-VOTE (8683) or visit www.votedouglascounty.com for polling place information.

SAMPLE BALLOT 2022 GENERAL ELECTION

For Governor

Vote For ONE

Jim Pillen

Joe Kelly

Carol Blood Al Davis Scott Zimmerman Jason Blumenthal

} } }

Republican Democratic Libertarian

_____________________

_____________________

For Secretary Of State

Vote For ONE

Bob Evnen Republican

For Douglas County Assessor/ Register Of Deeds

Vote For ONE

Walt Peffer Republican

For Douglas County Attorney Vote For ONE

Donald W. Kleine Republican

Dave Pantos Democratic

For Douglas County Clerk Of The District Court

Vote For ONE

COUNTY TICKET

For Douglas County Engineer

Vote For ONE

SAMPLE BALLOT 2022 GENERAL ELECTION

Todd P tzer Republican

Jim Rose Democratic

For Legislature District Ten Vote For ONE Wendy DeBoer Lou Ann Goding

For State Board Of Education District Eight

Vote For ONE Deborah Neary Marni Hodgen

For Douglas County Sheriff Vote For ONE

Aaron Hanson Republican Greg Gonzalez Democratic

For Legislature District Twelve Vote For ONE Robin Richards Merv Riepe

For Board Of Governors Metropolitan Community College District One

Vote For ONE Phillip Klein Mark Stoj

For State Treasurer Vote For ONE John Murante Republican Katrina Tomsen Libertarian

Thomas Flynn Republican Crystal Rhoades Democratic

For Douglas County Treasurer Vote For ONE John W. Ewing, Jr. Democratic

For Legislature District Eighteen Vote For ONE Christy Armendariz Michael Young

For Attorney General Vote For ONE

Mike Hilgers Republican

Larry Bolinger Legal Marijuana NOW

For Douglas County Commissioner District Two

Vote For ONE

James Cavanaugh Democratic

_____________________

For Douglas County Commissioner District Four

Vote For ONE PJ Morgan Republican

TICKET

For U.S. House Of Representatives District Two

Vote For ONE

Don Bacon Republican

Tony Vargas Democratic

For Auditor Of Public Accounts

Vote For ONE

Mike Foley Republican

Gene Siadek Libertarian

L. Leroy Lopez Legal Marijuana NOW

For Douglas County Commissioner District Six

Vote For ONE

Mary Ann Borgeson Republican

For Legislature District Four Vote For ONE Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek R. Brad von Gillern

For Legislature District Six Vote For ONE Christian Mirch Machaela Cavanaugh

For Legislature District Twenty Vote For ONE Stu Dornan John A. Fredrickson

For Legislature District Thirty-One Two-Year Term

Vote For ONE Tim Royers By Petition Kathleen R. Kauth By Petition

_____________________

For Board Of Governors Metropolitan Community College District Two

Vote For ONE Erin Feichtinger Tammy L. Wright

For Board Of Governors Metropolitan Community College District Three

Vote For ONE Maureen K. Monahan Tyler Fausset

For Board Of Governors Metropolitan Community College District Four

For Legislature District Eight Vote For ONE Megan Hunt Marilyn Arant Asher

For Legislature District Thirty-Six Vote For ONE Angie Lauritsen Rick Holdcroft

Vote For ONE Ron Hug Kimara Snipes

_____________________

Douglas County, Nebraska General Election

November 8, 2022

STATE TICKET COUNTY TICKET

Douglas County, Nebraska General Election November 8, 2022

NONPARTISAN TICKET

NONPARTISAN TICKET

NONPARTISAN TICKET

Douglas County Election Commission General Election Sample Ballot

The following is the sample ballot for the General Election to be held Tuesday, November 8, 2022 The sample ballot contains all races that appear throughout Douglas County Please note that not all races will appear on your specific ballot Polls are open from 8:00 a.m until 8:00 p.m Call (402) 444 VOTE (8683) or visit www.votedouglascounty.com for polling place information

SAMPLE BALLOT 2022 GENERAL ELECTION

Douglas County, Nebraska General Election

For Board Of Governors

Metropo itan Communit y Col ege At Large

Vote For ONE

Kristen DuPree John M McCar thy

For Coordinating Council Learning Communit y District One

Vote For ONE

Brian Thommes Gerald Mike Kuhn II

For Coordinating Council

Learning Communit y District Three

Vote For ONE

Mark Hoeger

Sally Otis Chris Tooker

For Coordinating Council

Learning Communit y District Five

Vote For ONE

Andy Allen

Erik Ser vellon

Tonya Ward Douglas Brady

For Board Of Directors

Papio Missouri River Natural Resources District Subdistrict Two

Vote For ONE

Fred Conley

For Board Of Directors

Papio Missouri River Natura Resources Distr ct Subdistrict Four

Vote For ONE

Tim McCormick Barbara Nichols

For Board Of Directors

Pap o M ssour River Natural Resources District Subdistrict Six

Vote For ONE Jim Thompson

For Board Of Directors

Pap o M ssouri River Natural Resources District Subdistrict Eight

Vote For ONE Tim N. Fowler

For Board Of Directors

Metropo itan Util ties District Of Omaha Subdivision Six

Vote For ONE Mike McGowan

John S. McCollister

For Board Of Directors Omaha Public Power District Subdivision Five

Vote For ONE

Craig Moody Kevin Ryan

November 8, 2022

For Board Member

Educational Ser v ce Unit Number Three District One

Vote For ONE

Stan Turner

For Board Member

Educational Ser vice Unit Number Three District Three

Vote For ONE Sean M. Fennessy

Marla Fries Tyler Gloe

For Board Member

Educational Ser vice Unit Number Three District Five

Vote For ONE Bret t Kuhn

For Board Member

Educational Ser vice Unit Number Three District Seven

Vote For ONE Brenda Sherman

For Bennington C t y Council Ward One

Vote For ONE Shane Pekny

For Bennington C t y Council Ward Two

Vote For ONE Kaye Bridgeford

Douglas County, Nebraska

NONPARTISAN TICKET

For Ralston Cit y Council Ward Three

Vote For ONE Brian Kavanaugh

SAMPLE BALLOT 2022 GENERAL ELECTION

General Election November 8, 2022

NONPARTISAN TICKET

For Board Of Trustees Village Of Water oo

Vote For Up To T WO

David E . Rochford

Trav s Harlow

Ashley Livengood

NONPARTISAN TICKET

For Board Of Education Douglas Count y West Communit y Schools #15

Vote For Up To THREE

Jam e Jorgensen Kelly H nrichs

For Ralston Cit y Council Ward Four

Vote For ONE Jerr y Krause

For Ralston Cit y Council Ward Five

Vote For ONE M chael Sanchez

For Valley Cit y Council

Vote For Up To T WO

Linda Lewis John Batcher

Ha ey Cor tez

For Board Of Education Arlington Public Schools # 24

Vote For Up To THREE

Jason Arp

Cassie Voss Flesner Brian Laaker

Steve Slykhuis

Erich Meyer

James Tomanek, Jr JJ Swierczek

For Board Of Trustees Village Of Boys Town

Vote For Up To THREE James E Gilg

Kyle Skar t vedt Joseph West

For Board Of Education Bennington Public Schools # 59

Vote For Up To THREE Mark A Byars Steve Shannon Kristi Ryan

Brit tany Cameron Jeremy Dick Sandra Hulm

For Board Of Education Elkhorn Pub c Schools #10

Vote For Up To THREE Amy Parks Nancy Rogic Greufe Luther Starks Bret t Elliot t Mark Wor tman Jerid Tingelhof f

For Board Of Education For t Calhoun Communit y Schools # 3

Vote For Up To THREE

Amanda Schrum

Jon A Genoways Ted Welcher t Ryan J. Sevc k John Pane Cassie Kelly

NONPARTISAN NOTICKET NPARTISAN NOTICKET NPARTISAN TICKET

Douglas County Election Commission General Election Sample Ballot

The following is the sample ballot for the General Election to be held Tuesday, November 8, 2022 The sample ballot contains all races that appear throughout Douglas County Please note that not all races will appear on your specific ballot Polls are open from 8:00 a.m until 8:00 p.m Call (402) 444 VOTE (8683) or visit www.votedouglascounty.com for polling place information

SAMPLE BALLOT 2022 GENERAL ELECTION

Douglas County, Nebraska General Election

NONPARTISAN TICKET

For Board Of Educat on Fremont Publ c Schools #1

Vote For Up To THREE

Terr y L Sorensen, Jr

Sandi Proskovec

Mike Petersen

NONPARTISAN TICKET

For Board Of Education Omaha Public Schools Subdistr ct Two

Vote For ONE

Brianna Full Marque Snow

For Board Of Education Omaha Publ c Schools Subdistrict Four

November 8, 2022

FOR JUDGE OF THE NEBR ASK A SUPREME COURT CHIEF JUSTICE

Shal Judge Michae G Heav can be retained in of ce?

Yes No

FOR JUDGE OF THE NEBR ASK A SUPREME COURT DISTRICT THREE

Shall Judge William B. Cassel be retained in of ce?

Yes No

For Board Of Educat on Gretna Public Schools # 37

Vote For Up To THREE

Mark R Hauptman

Greg Beach

Ann Sacket t Wright

Blake Turpen

Lor Lowr y

Jenna L Garcia

Vote For ONE Shavonna Holman

For Board Of Education Omaha Publ c Schools Subdistrict Six

Vote For ONE

H na D Agar wal Nancy Kratk y

For Board Of Education Omaha Publ c Schools Subdistrict Eight

FOR JUDGE OF THE NEBR ASK A SUPREME COURT DISTRICT FOUR

Shal Judge Jonathan J Pap k be retained in of ce?

Yes No

FOR JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPE ALS DISTRICT THREE

Shal Judge Francie Riedmann Weis be retained in of ce?

Yes No

FOR JUDGE OF THE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION COURT

For Board Of Educat on Mil ard Public Schools #17

Vote For Up To THREE

Sean Swanson

Lisa Schoenberger

Stacy Jolley

Mike Kennedy

Mark Krueger

Terr y Da e

Vote For ONE Margo R Juarez

Carl G Sat ter eld, Jr

For Board Of Education Ralston Pub ic Schools # 5 4

Vote For Up To THREE

Elizabeth Kumru

Mar y K . Roar t y

Carr e Hough

Shal Judge Dan el R Fr drich be retained in of ce?

Yes No

Shal Judge James R Coe be retained in of ce?

Yes No

Shall Judge John R Hof fer t be retained in of ce?

Yes No

SAMPLE BALLOT 2022 GENERAL ELECTION

Douglas County, Nebraska General Election November 8, 2022

Sha l Judge James M Masteller be retained in of ce?

Yes No

Sha l Judge Peter C Bataillon be retained in of ce?

Yes No

Shall Judge Kimberly Miller Pankon n be reta ned in of ce?

Yes No

Shall Judge Shelly R . Stratman be reta ned in of ce?

Yes No

Shall Judge W Russell Bowie be reta ned in of ce?

Yes No

Shall Judge Thomas K Harmon be reta ned in of ce?

Yes No

Shall Judge Grant A Forsberg be reta ned in of ce?

Yes No

Shall Judge Jef frey L Marcuz zo be reta ned in of ce?

Yes No

Yes No Proposed Amendment No 1

SPECIAL SSUES TICKET

Initiative Measure 432

A vote “ FOR ” wi amend the Nebraska Constitution to requ re that, before cast ng a ba lot n any election, a qual ed voter shal present va id photographic dentication n a manner spec ed by the Legis ature

A vote “AGAINST ” means the Nebraska Constitution wi l not be amended in this manner

Shall the Nebraska Const tution be amended to require that , before cast ng a ballot in any election, a qualied voter sha l present valid photographic identication in a manner spec ed by the Legislature?

A vote FOR this amendment wi l author ze any ci y, county, or other pol tical subdivision that owns or operates an a rpor to use ts revenue for the purpose of developing or encourag ng the development of new or expanded regular y scheduled commercial passenger air ser vice at such airpor t.

A vote AGA NST this amendment wil not authorize a c y, county, or other po tical subdivision that owns or operates an a rpor t to use i s revenue for such purpose

A constitutional amendment to authorize any cit y, count y, or other politica subdivision owning or operating an airpor t to expend its revenues for the public purpose of deve op ng or encouraging the development of new or expanded regularly schedu ed commercia passenger a r ser v ce at such airpor t

For Against Initiative Measure 433

A vote FOR wi amend the Nebraska sta ute establ shing a m nimum wage for employees to ncrease the sta e minimum wage from nine dollars ($9.0 0) per hour to ten dol ars and f ty cents ($10.50) per hour on Januar y 1, 2023, o twelve dollars ($12.0 0) per hour on Januar y 1, 2024, to thir teen dol ars and f ty cents ($13.50) per hour on Januar y 1, 2025, and to f teen dollars ($15 .0 0) per hour on Januar y 1, 2026, o be adjusted annua ly thereaf er to account for increases in the cost of iving

A vote “AGAINST ” means the Nebraska statute establishing a m nimum wage or employees wil not be amended in such manner

Sha l the Nebraska statute establishing a minimum wage for emp oyees be amended to increase the state m nimum wage from nine dollars ($9.00) per hour to ten dollars and f t y cents ($10 50) per hour on Januar y 1, 2023, to t welve do lars ($12 00) per hour on Januar y 1, 2024, to thir teen dollars and f t y cents ($13 50) per hour on Januar y 1, 2025, and to f teen dol ars ($15 00) per hour on Januar y 1, 2026, to be adjusted annually thereaf ter to account for increases n the cost of living?

For Against

Shal Judge Chad M Brown be retained n of ce?

Yes No Shal Judge Vernon Danie s be reta ned in of ce?

For Against

FOR JUDGE OF THE DOUGL AS COUNT Y JUVENILE COURT

FOR JUDGE OF THE DOUGL AS COUNT Y DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT FOUR SPECIAL SSUES TICKET

FOR JUDGE OF THE DOUGL AS COUNT Y COURT DISTRICT FOUR

Douglas County Election Commission

Election Sample Ballot

The follow ng is the sample bal ot for the General Election to be held Tuesday, November 8, 2022. The sample ballot contains al races that appear throughout Douglas County Please note that not al races will appear on your specific ballot Polls are open from 8:00 a.m until 8:00 p.m Call (402) 444 VOTE (8683) or visit www.votedouglascounty.com for polling place information

SAMPLE BALLOT 2022 GENERAL ELECTION

SPECIAL ISSUES TICKET SPECIAL ISSUES TICKET

Special Cit y Of Omaha E ection

Char ter Amendment 1

Shall Section 2.0 6 of the Home Rule Char ter of the Cit y of Omaha be amended to prov de ha a Counc lmember who is vacating a Cit y Counc l posit on cannot vote for the Counc lmember s replacement all as prov ded in the Not ce of Election?

Yes No

Special Cit y Of Omaha E ection

Char ter Amendment 2

Shall Section 2.07 of the Home Rule Char ter of the Cit y of Omaha be amended to change he process for determining if a mayor is disabled and unable to per orm he Mayor s dut es from one which requires the appointment of a medical commit tee to a process ha is similar to the process out ined in the United States Constitution where the ultimate determination is made by a t wo thirds majorit y of the Cit y Counc l all as prov ded in the Notice of E ect on?

Yes No

Special C t y Of Omaha Election

Char ter Amendment 3

Shall Sec ions 2.08, 2.10, and 2.18 of the Home Rule Char ter of the Cit y of Omaha be amended to prov de for a line of succession in the event that he Counci President and the Counc l V ce Presiden are unable to per orm as Act ng Mayor when it is so necessar y, to provide an exception to the requirement that he Ci y Counc l must meet at least t wice a month in the event of an emergency declared by the sta e or federal governmen , and to require that the publica ion related to any initiative petition be made only in he Cit y s designated of cial newspaper al as prov ded in the Not ce of Elec ion?

Yes No

Special C t y Of Omaha Election Char ter Amendment 4

Shall Sec ions 5.03, 5.16, and 5.17 of the Home Rule Char ter of the Cit y of Omaha be amended to amend Ar t cle V Finance of the Char ter to allow for an increase in the size of he cash reser ve fund from 8% to 12% and to increase the monetar y amount which requires public bidding and Ci y Counc action rom $20,0 0 0 to $50,0 0 0, all as provided in the Notice of Elect on?

Yes No Special Cit y Of Omaha Election Char ter Amendment 5

Shall Sec ion 7 0 4 of the Home Rule Char ter of the Cit y of Omaha be amended to include a requirement that he Cit y of Omaha s master plan must address af fordable housing development and sustainable developmen in addition to the elements that it is already required to address as provided in the Notice of Elect on?

Yes No

Bennington Public Schools Bond Election

“Shall Douglas County School District 0059 (Bennington Public Schools), in the State of Nebraska, issue the bonds of said Distric in the principal amount of not to exceed One Hundred Fifty-Three Million Dollars ($153,000,000) for the purpose of paying the costs of constructing a new high school building, which shall include a new stadium and track facility, a new softbal and baseball complex, and new tennis courts providing for necessary furniture and apparatus for such new high school building and additions, constructing improvements to the existing high school building and existing stadium, and providing for technology and security updates in the existing facilities of the District; said bonds to be issued from time to time as may be determined by the Board of Education, to bear interest at a rate or rates to be determined by the Board of Education and to become due at such time or times as may be xed by the Board of Education; and

“Shall the District cause to be levied and collected annually a specia levy of taxes against all the taxable property in said District sufcient in rate and amount to pay the interest and principal of said bonds as the same become due?

FOR said bonds and tax

AGAINST said bonds and tax

Douglas County, Nebraska General Election November 8, 2022

Wendy

Robin Richards

Cori Villegas

Michael Young

18

John Fredrickson

20 George Dungan LD 26

Jane

Tim Royers

Angie Lauritsen

Danielle Conrad

James Michael Bowers

Sarah Slattery

2 Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek

Machaela Cavanaugh LD 6 Megan Hunt

8 Carol Blood Governor