The Regional Metropolitan Transit Authority of Omaha Board of Directors approved its 2027 budget and maintained its property tax levy at 10 mills, the maximum allowed by state law and unchanged from 2026. The $99.4 million expenditure budget is 5.35% higher than this year’s budget, reflecting a planned 10% increase in service, more frequent bus cleaning and higher capital spending. Metro Transit reported nearly 305,000 fixed-route trips in August, its highest August ridership since 2015, with overall 2026 ridership running nearly 6% ahead of 2025.
The meeting also included public comment from the president of the transit workers’ union, who raised concerns about approving the budget before reaching an agreement on employee wages. Metro Transit CEO Lauren Cencic said negotiations are scheduled for Sept. 28 and 29. The board also approved an extension of its contract with Cubic Transportation Systems for the UMO fare payment system, including an increase in smart card costs from $3 to $3.50, while staff reported that construction at the Metro Community College South Transit Center is nearing completion.
Meeting documented by Debbi Breeling
Read full meeting here
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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.
