Jan. 7: Douglas County board bids fond farewell to one of its own

The Douglas County Board began its first meeting of the year by electing new leadership. Roger Garcia and Mike Friend were voted in as chair and vice-chair, respectively. The meeting also marked a farewell to Commissioner Maureen Boyle, whose retirement drew heartfelt tributes from colleagues, including Commissioner Mary Ann Borgeson, who noted Boyle always “left partisan politics at the door.” 

Significant approvals were also on the agenda, including a $1 million allocation for tax refunds and smaller budget items, including $142,000 for restorative justice programs at the Douglas County Youth Center and $200,000 for road improvements. The board also ratified labor agreements with communications and corrections staff, which will result in budget increases of $40,000-$70,000 through 2027. Consent agenda items A-N, including these highlights, were approved unanimously.

Public input centered on the tri-county resolution, a joint initiative between Douglas, Sarpy and Lancaster counties aimed at legislative advocacy in 2025. Goals include addressing the end of inheritance tax funding, improving safety and mental health resources, and supporting state mandates with adequate funding. While approved 7-0, public commenter Larry Storer urged the board to focus on local representation and expressed concern over potential limits on public commentary at government meetings. The meeting concluded with an executive session shortly after 10 a.m.

Meeting documented by Vince Furlong

Read full meeting notes here

By Omaha Documenters

Omaha Documenters is a program that empowers citizens to actively participate in local governance by documenting public meetings. This initiative enhances transparency and accountability by making critical information accessible to the community, fostering informed public discourse, and promoting civic engagement. Through its network of dedicated Documenters, the program bridges the gap between government entities and the public, ensuring that decisions affecting the community are transparent and inclusive. For more information and to get involved, visit documenters.org.

By Leah Keinama

Leah Wambui Keinama boasts a robust professional journey, commencing as a systems engineer and integrator within the software industry. In this capacity, she excelled in the conception, design, construction, and deployment of software systems, adeptly managing projects from inception to completion. Transitioning into the nonprofit realm, Leah directed her expertise towards enhancing food systems, with a particular emphasis on soil health, regenerative agriculture, and bolstering food accessibility while fostering resilient communities. Her repertoire includes comprehensive program design skills coupled with a profound commitment to community engagement. Leah's fervor for cultivating networks and forging meaningful connections underscores her dedication to advancing organizational goals.

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