Top Priority

Harding, a Republican, said public safety has and will continue to be his top priority. He said the council, the mayor and the police chief have made significant progress in strengthening the Omaha Police Department’s resources, delivering pay raises for officers and building a fifth police precinct in the Elkhorn area. Harding said he also has supported investments in upgraded safety equipment for Omaha firefighters and upgrading the city’s fleet of firetrucks.

Tax Increment Financing (TIF)

Harding said the city has used TIF effectively and in a manner consistent with the state’s redevelopment law. In 2023, he said, 16 TIF-supported projects were paid off or matured and will now contribute over $2.2 million in additional property tax revenues compared to what would have been $75,000 had the projects not happened. He said he will continue to advocate for the use of TIF.

Major projects and council’s relationship with mayor

Major projects pursued by the mayor will benefit Omaha and the region, Harding said. City Council members must conduct investigations, do their due diligence and analyze the projects that come before the council so members are well informed when it’s time to vote. He said he has supported public/private partnerships to grow the city, and stressed the importance of relationships with philanthropic and charitable organizations. 

Housing

Harding said Omaha has taken a proactive approach to addressing the shortage of housing stock in the city, noting that the city had passed the Housing Affordability Action Plan at the end of 2023. He said he has been working with local organizations to address the issue, including targeting regulations that have affected the cost of construction. Harding said that because of the additional cost, he opposed a recently approved City Council measure that included a provision that would require all new housing developments to pre-wire for electric vehicle charging stations.