It's time for Omaha voters to make their picks for mayor and City Council.
The mayoral primary race features five candidates including incumbent Jean Stothert, challengers John Ewing Jr., Mike McDonnell, Jasmine Harris and Terry Brewer.
Stothert is seeking a record fourth term. She was first sworn in as mayor in 2013, then reelected in 2017 and 2021.
Voters will also select members to represent Omaha's seven City Council seats.
Omaha election has already heated up over issues including the affordable housing shortage, use of tax increment financing (TIF), the streetcar project and others.
Early voting started March 17 and will continue through Election Day, April 1.
The top two vote-getters in each primary will move on to a general election, which starts with early voting on April 28, and continues through Election Day, May 13.
To help you do your research, the Omaha World-Herald asked each candidate running for office for information about themselves, their priorities and their positions.
The World-Herald limited their answers to 500 characters, or about 80 words. The answers were lightly edited for style and clarity.
Candidates are listed in alphabetical order by last name.
CANDIDATES FOR OMAHA MAYORTerry Brewer
Party: Independent
Age (as of April 1): 65
Occupation: Retired
Education: PhD in Public Administration
Family: Married, two sons, one daughter
Elected offices held: None
Why are you running for office?
Omaha is a great city to live in. However, there are issues in North and South Omaha that are being neglected or overlooked, and I believe I can make Omaha work better for everyone. My vision for Omaha is rooted in unity, community and prosperity. However, it's not just a political goal, it's a spiritual one. It is about carrying out God's will for this city, ensuring that every corner of Omaha thrives and that no resident is left behind.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
Born and raised in Omaha, I'm a veteran of the U.S. Marines, a pastor in the North Omaha community for 30 years and I've earned a Ph.D in Public Administration. I've seen the impact of low-paying jobs, lack of affordable housing and criminal activity limit one's ability to hope for a better future. After 23 years of caring for clients with mental health issues, I'm an advocate for education and higher wages. I want to promote good living and leave no one behind.
What are the most important issues affecting Omaha?
Mental health, lack of affordable housing, increased homelessness, climate change and public safety.
How should Omaha city leaders respond to those issues?
With care, transparency, consistency and integrity that earns the trust of the people we serve. Leaders who will listen to the needs of the people, tell them what you will do to help them, devise a plan and policies, communicate your plan and take action. Omaha needs new leaders who will put the needs of the people first.
What do you think Omaha needs to thrive in the future?
A plan that will unify us, include us in the decision-making process and the planning process, and keep us informed of changes or updates to the plan. We need leaders we can trust to have our well-being in mind. Leaders who will work for the people and with the people. All Omaha residents should have adequate job opportunities, compatible wages, living and working in a safe, clean environment, mental health advocates, and affordable housing based on the household's income to either rent or buy.
What should the city do about the affordable housing shortage?
Numerous programs and grants are available and if utilized properly and efficiently the housing problems could better serve those individuals and families who need assistance the most. Affordable Housing in Omaha are rental properties to include 1/2/3-bedroom apartments, single-family housing ranging from $700-$1,500 per month, and public housing (income-based rent), mostly with the help of federally funded Section 8 programs, or income restricted. As mayor, my administration will collaborate with non-profit organizations like Habitat for Humanity Omaha and Front Porch Investments to leverage funding and expertise for affordable housing development and preservation.
Does Omaha use tax increment financing (TIF) too frequently? Why or why not?
TIF can be a double-edged sword, offering potential benefits like economic development and infrastructure improvements, but also posing risks like gentrification and financial strains on local governments. There seems to be an increase since 2015, there were 196 approved TIF applications at a total value of $584 million, resulting in $4.6 billion in new investments. For the five years between 2017-2021, the average annual tally of Omaha TIF loan approvals was about $36 million. Last year, 23 projects represented $129M.
Would you vote to pass legislation outlined in the Climate Action and Resilience Plan? Why or why not?
The Omaha City Council approved a Climate Action and Resilience Plan aiming to reduce citywide annual human-made greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050 and increase resilience to impact climate change that poses a threat to the city's people, ecosystems, and economy. I would vote to pass, because it will contribute to a sustained enhancement to the community's quality of life and the effective execution of numerous climate actions will lead to expanded mobility choices, job opportunities and reductions in poverty and inequality.
John Ewing Jr.
Party: Democrat
Age (as of April 1): 63
Occupation: Douglas County Treasurer
Education: Bachelor of Science, Business Administration & Criminal Justice, University of Nebraska at Omaha; Master of Science, Urban Studies, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Family: Married, two children
Elected offices held: Douglas County Treasurer (2007-present)
Why are you running for office?
I am running for office because I believe Omaha needs experienced leadership to move forward. Our city faces significant challenges, including a major housing shortage, a rapidly growing homelessness rate, substandard roads and city services, and an inadequate public transportation system. I have the experience necessary to address these issues and bring the best and brightest in our city together to find solutions.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
Forty-three years of public service, including deputy police chief and Douglas County treasurer.
My experience managing a large and diverse workforce, coupled with my budgetary expertise, makes me a strong candidate for this position. As Douglas County treasurer, I modernized the office and increased county revenue by $91 million without raising taxes.
My experience with nonprofit boards, community groups and the Legislature demonstrates my ability to build consensus and collaborate effectively.
What are the most important issues affecting Omaha?
A shortage of living wage jobs, the housing crisis and inadequate public transit are the biggest challenges affecting Omaha today. Omaha has the fastest growing homeless and unsheltered population in the nation. We also have the largest discrepancy between median wages and median rents of anywhere in the country. We need to increase living wage jobs and build more houses.
How should Omaha city leaders respond to those issues?
We will prioritize job creation by refocusing on essential city services, such as street repair and snow removal, and developing a more effective public transit system. This improved transit system will better serve our community and connect citizens to employment opportunities. Additionally, we will implement a comprehensive plan to tackle the housing crisis in Omaha, focusing on development that expands the housing market and attracts new businesses to our city.
What do you think Omaha needs to thrive in the future?
We need to get back to providing basic infrastructure services, living wage jobs and public transit. Enhancing those services will allow Omaha to attract new businesses, retain young professionals and allow us to consider other development projects to move Omaha forward.
What should the city do about the affordable housing shortage?
To address this, I believe the city should take proactive steps by developing a comprehensive plan and allocating the necessary resources and incentives for its implementation. This plan should include a thorough review of our current zoning laws and incentives to identify areas for improvement and support the growth of affordable housing developments. Additionally, we should research and learn from the strategies other cities have successfully implemented to meet the housing needs of their communities. Finally, we should create incentives to encourage further development of residential and high density housing in the areas where it is most needed.
Does Omaha use tax increment financing (TIF) too frequently? Why or why not?
Yes, I am concerned that Omaha may be utilizing TIF too frequently. While TIF was originally intended to stimulate redevelopment in areas lacking a viable business case, it appears to have become a ubiquitous subsidy for major developments, regardless of market demand. This practice has negatively impacted taxpayers by obscuring the true cost of projects and necessitating property tax levy increases to offset revenue losses from excessive TIF districts. I believe TIF can still be a valuable tool, but it should be applied more judiciously and reserved for projects genuinely lacking financial viability.
Would you vote to pass legislation outlined in the Climate Action and Resilience Plan? Why or why not?
As mayor, I would not have a vote on this plan, but I do support it. The plan's focus on reducing waste, pollution and costs associated with climate change aligns with my vision for the city. Expanding public transportation, improving energy efficiency in city-owned properties and encouraging high density housing solutions are all key components of the plan that will benefit our community. By supporting this plan, we can improve the quality of life for Omaha residents while addressing the critical issue of climate change.
Jasmine Harris
Party: Democrat
Age (as of April 1): 45
Occupation: Nonprofit Director
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Biology, University of Nebraska at Omaha; Master of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center
Family: Married, three children
Elected offices held: None
Why are you running for office?
I am running to be the mayor for the people of Omaha because I understand the challenges our communities face. In my work as a policy director in the Nebraska Legislature, I have been a leader of people to advocate for laws to improve the lives of Nebraskans. In this work, I have witnessed firsthand how much work can be done at the local level. Omaha is facing a critical moment in determining our city's future and we need a mayor with a vision that includes everyone.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
As a public health professional, policy director and advocate, I've worked alongside people from different backgrounds, experiences and areas of our city to make meaningful change. I have experience working with multi-million dollar budgets and developing programs and services over the past 15 years through my work experiences and service on nonprofit boards. I look holistically at the root causes of issues and work to identify solutions and deliver outcomes to alleviate problems.
What are the most important issues affecting Omaha?
The most important issue facing the city of Omaha will depend on who you ask. I believe the most pressing issues that need to be addressed are public safety including a focus on prevention, safe and affordable housing with a focus on increasing the quality and quantity of affordable units, public transportation that connects all of the different transit systems in Omaha, and economic opportunities that increase living wage jobs and support for our local small businesses.
How should Omaha city leaders respond to those issues?
City leaders should respond to these issues by ensuring that every decision is made with people at the forefront of their minds. As mayor, I will ask, "How will this decision impact people's daily lives?" I want to meet regularly with constituents to intentionally build relationships so that they know I am a mayor who is willing to listen, engage in hard conversations and create solutions with them to ensure the progress of an Omaha of the future that works for everyone.
What do you think Omaha needs to thrive in the future?
Omaha must include the needs and voices of all community members in developing innovative and sustainable infrastructure for our city to thrive. Intentional and purposeful planning will ensure that we design an Omaha that provides everyone with an improved quality of life. When we have established equitable access to opportunity we will be able to build an Omaha that our future generations will be proud to call home and want to continue to raise their families.
What should the city do about the affordable housing shortage?
Omaha must address affordable housing by establishing working definitions of affordable, effective administration of the landlord registry and rental inspection program, revising current zoning laws to encourage middle housing development, providing incentives for developers building affordable units and prioritizing the city's budget to address the development and maintenance of affordable housing and programs addressing homelessness and housing stability.
Does Omaha use tax increment financing (TIF) too frequently? Why or why not?
TIF was designed to give historically disenfranchised areas the resources needed for redevelopment. The well-intentioned process has been used in certain areas of the city and not in the areas that continue to be extremely blighted. As mayor, I want to work with developers on intentional and purposeful development that prioritizes thoughtful restoration of blighted areas. This will be key to ensuring that we are laying the foundation for economic opportunities for all areas of Omaha.
Would you vote to pass legislation outlined in the Climate Action and Resilience Plan? Why or why not?
I support the implementation of the Climate Action and Resilience Plan because we must have innovative and intentional initiatives with an active commitment to sustainability that reduces and offsets Omaha's carbon footprint. We have to prioritize implementing more clean energy options to sustain Omaha. If we expect private citizens to do their part to combat climate change, the city government should be dedicated to the work to build a sustainable and environmentally efficient community.
Mike McDonnell
Party: Republican
Age (as of April 1): 59
Occupation: President, Omaha Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO
Education: Master of Public Administration, Bellevue University; Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, University of Nebraska at Omaha; Associate of Applied Science in Fire Protection Technology, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Family: Married, one son
Elected offices held: Nebraska State Senator, District 5 (2016-2024)
Why are you running for office?
I am running to ensure Omaha continues to grow as a safe, vibrant, and opportunity-filled city. My focus is on lowering property taxes, ending the police staffing crisis and increasing affordable housing. I will bring strong leadership and experience to tackle pressing issues while advocating for policies that improve our quality of life.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
My background in public service, leadership experience and deep understanding of Omaha's challenges qualify me to serve. As a state senator and Omaha fire chief, I have worked with diverse stakeholders to find solutions, led teams in high-pressure situations and successfully implemented policies that have improved our community.
What are the most important issues affecting Omaha?
Public safety, streets, taxes and spending, and affordable housing are key issues. We need to invest in law enforcement, update aging roads and infrastructure, and ensure housing is accessible for all residents. Addressing these challenges will keep Omaha strong and prosperous.
How should Omaha city leaders respond to those issues?
City leaders must prioritize public safety, invest in infrastructure, promote economic development and adopt policies that expand affordable housing. We need strategic partnerships, responsible budgeting and community engagement to address these issues effectively. I will work to bring people together to implement real solutions.
What do you think Omaha needs to thrive in the future?
Omaha needs strong leadership focused on economic growth, workforce development and maintaining a high quality of life. We must support small businesses, attract new industries, modernize infrastructure and ensure our neighborhoods are safe and vibrant. A balanced approach to growth and sustainability will position Omaha for long-term success.
What should the city do about the affordable housing shortage?
We need a mix of solutions including incentives for developers to build affordable units, streamlined permitting processes, zoning reform and partnerships with nonprofits. Investing in housing initiatives and mixed-use developments can help expand options for families and individuals across income levels.
Does Omaha use tax increment financing (TIF) too frequently? Why or why not?
TIF is a valuable tool for economic development, but it must be used responsibly. Projects should provide a clear public benefit and not shift tax burdens elsewhere. I am concerned about the use of TIF for the streetcar, the largest diversion of tax revenue in state history.
Would you vote to pass legislation outlined in the Climate Action and Resilience Plan? Why or why not?
I support efforts to make Omaha more sustainable while balancing economic growth and affordability. Any legislation should be carefully reviewed to ensure it is practical, cost-effective and benefits both residents and businesses. Addressing climate challenges should be done through smart policies that encourage innovation and efficiency.
Jean Stothert
Party: Republican
Age (as of April 1): 71
Occupation: Mayor of Omaha
Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Seattle Pacific University
Family: Married, two children, four grandsons
Elected offices held: Mayor of Omaha (2013-present), Omaha City Council member, Millard School Board member
Why are you running for office?
It takes initiative, experience and commitment to build on Omaha's unprecedented growth and momentum. Our citizens are safe, families, young professionals and retirees can find affordable housing, safe and convenient public transportation, low taxes, good roads and unique entertainment and leisure venues. This is why Forbes ranked Omaha the No. 1 City to Move To in 2024. I am focused on public safety, employment and business growth, strong financial management and creating opportunities for all.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
Proven management and leadership experience resulting in positive results including substantial crime reduction, record economic growth and private development, and excellent financial management. I have reduced the tax levy, implemented a long-term solution to rehabilitate deteriorating roads, negotiated labor contracts fair to employees and taxpayers, corrected the fire and police pension system that was on the verge of collapse and held 74 town halls to gather input and make decisions.
What are the most important issues affecting Omaha?
Public safety, reducing the tax burden and safe streets. Continuing to reduce all types of crime through innovative prevention and enforcement, while overcoming the declining pool of officer recruit candidates are my priorities. Taxpayers want lower taxes and strong fiscal management without wasteful spending. Safe roads for all users are a fundamental responsibility. Our long-term funding solution to repair and rehabilitate streets is a proven fix after decades of neglect and underfunding.
How should Omaha city leaders respond to those issues?
To recruit and retain officers we must offer the highest pay in Nebraska and expand recruiting strategies. I have done both, increasing applications. I lowered the property tax levy five times, nearly 12%, the lowest rate since 2010. I will continue to find ways to reduce taxes. With our Street Preservation Program, passed by voters in 2020 and 2024, we increased street resurfacing and replacement. As the program continues, nearly 1,000 additional lane miles will be completed by the end of 2025.
What do you think Omaha needs to thrive in the future?
Cities never stand still. They are growing and moving forward, or declining and falling behind. We will grow by retaining and attracting young professionals and families with good-paying jobs, job training, great school districts, transit options for all types of commuting, an affordable cost of living, entertainment, arts, culture and sports venues, high-quality public spaces for leisure, all in a safe city. Forbes ranked Omaha as the Best City to Move To in 2024. We are on the right track.
What should the city do about the affordable housing shortage?
Our role is to increase the number of units by making affordable housing affordable to build and increasing availability. We review and change codes to reduce costs for builders to encourage density. Sell city-owned lots to housing developers for $1. We created the Development & Preservation Fund, offering grants and low-interest construction loans, and expanded funding to preserve existing housing. The new Master Plan, in development now, will provide greater availability and affordability.
Does Omaha use tax increment financing (TIF) too frequently? Why or why not?
No. TIF makes growth and impactful development possible in areas where private investment would not happen without it, such as Forever North at 24th and Lake, Habitat for Humanity's Blue Stem Prairie, The Duo and Beam residential towers, The Ashton in Millwork District, Crossroads, senior housing, industrial developments and even Mutual of Omaha's new headquarters. Since 2015, 196 TIF projects have resulted in $4.6 billion in new investment in Omaha, creating jobs, affordable housing and retail.
Would you vote to pass legislation outlined in the Climate Action and Resilience Plan? Why or why not?
Omaha's Climate Action and Resilience Plan is a framework that explores what the city can do to reduce emissions and build resilience, rather than a definitive list of legislative actions. The plan was generated through extensive public engagement, reflecting community priorities and aspirations. Future local legislative proposals would be considered through the policymaking process, always considering advances in technology and the cost of implementation.