VOTE411 Voter Guide

The following ideas (some of which are already in place) will allow public transportation to sell itself. 1. Ensure affordability through fare subsidies, discounted fares by application, and integrated ticketing systems like UMO. 2. Upgrade infrastructure to meet ADA standards. 3. Implement dedicated lanes and signal priority. 4. Develop park-and-ride facilities at transit hubs to facilitate seamless connections. 5. GPS and sensors on vehicles that allow real-time tracking of their location and traffic conditions. 6. Upgrade and maintain security systems on vehicles and at transit stations. 7. Include more microtransit options such as, ebike/scooter kiosks, ride hailing services, trails, etc. to assist with first stop to last stop

The Regional Metropolitan Transit Board (RMTB) should consider a vote to form a Regional Metropolitan Transit Authority (RMTA). This will require a 2/3rd vote of the RMTB. I think it should be given consideration and discussion on day 1. I have a master's degree in leadership and I am ready to lead on the establishment of the RMTA.

If the RMTB votes to affirm RMTA, it will have full and exclusive jurisdiction and control over all public passenger transportation facilities and systems. It will be important to me that this includes working with the newly formed streetcar authority. I know steel wheels and steel rails very well as I have been a rail transit professional for more than 17 years.

The RMTB needs to improve safety, sustainability, accessibility and funding mechanisms. Safety is always a relentless pursuit, and our transit programs must never stop improving in this department. The RMTB needs to be vigilant and make appropriate risk assessments. Sustainability programs are a cost benefit and environmentally responsible. Accessibility is important because not all current infrastructure is ADA compliant, and we still have underserved areas in the Omaha metro including D3. Finally, funding sources need to be diversified to include public-private partnerships, and other innovative mechanisms such as congestion pricing, HOT lanes, zone based pricing, etc.

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How far can we go, together? Communication is foremost. I have built a coalition of support for my campaign from all sectors, and, if elected, will never cease these efforts. My outreach includes endorsements from Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert, City Councilman Don Rowe, State Senator Brad von Gillern, Former Omaha Mayor Hal Daub, Former Douglas County Commissioner Steve McCollister, City Planning Board Member Jorge Sotolongo, Canopy South Executive Director Cesar Garcia, Latino Economic Development Council CEO Itzel Lopez. Casa de la Cultura CEO Marcos Mora, Former MAPA Director Greg Youell, Goodwill CEO Tobi Mathouser, Ollie the Trolley Owners George Davis & Deb Skinner, Hayes & Associates CPAs President Frank Hayes and many more.

How far can we go, together? Your vote is a vote FOR economic development, opportunity for all, fiscal responsibility and increased federal funding, the urban core and modern streetcar, and on-time transit. I believe the best days for public transit in Omaha are ahead of us and, if elected, will work to make that happen. I support public transit as an option in Douglas County and will work with citizens, board members and the Metro team to promote an integrated system of transportation to school, healthcare, jobs and entertainment in the metro. By law, cities outside of Douglas County must request membership in the regional authority. As adjacent cities make these requests, they should be carefully considered by the board.

How far can we go, together? Managing growth, workforce recruitment and fiduciary duty to the public present challenges, and opportunities. I have 40 years of experience in business, civic and board activity, including 20 years of experience in the architecture / engineering and construction industry and commercial real estate ownership which provide me with a broad base of experience and networks to learn more, collaborate and get things done.

I have been a fiduciary professional responsible to shareholders in business, colleagues in industry, civic organizations and not-for-profit organizations, as well as my church. Some of these positions have been appointments upon merit and others have been elected positions.