Lincoln’s 2016 budget battle propels newcomer Herrold to run for Lincoln City Council

May 01-- May 1--Libertarian James Herrold, 33, who works for a publishing company as an interactive operations manager, wants to represent District 4 in northwest Lincoln on the City Council.

He faces Democrat Tammy Ward in Tuesday's general election. Reporter Riley Johnson recently interviewed Herrold about how the political newcomer went from curiously watching council meetings on YouTube to running for a council seat.

Growing up: Herrold grew up on a farm near Garland and went to Seward High School. He stayed in Lincoln after attending the University of Nebraska. He and his wife, Wendy, have enjoyed a combination of big-city amenities and a small-town feeling where people know their community, he said.

He thought government interference in the free market was wrong, he said.

As he settled into his career and began raising a family of his own, his interest in politics shifted from federal and state issues to what's happening at city hall. He started watching the council meetings on YouTube, he said.

Then, as he thought about running for office, he began going to City Council meetings and preparing remarks on agenda items to voice his opinions, he said.

One City Council action that jolted Herrold was the unanimous vote to ban bump stocks in Lincoln after the rifle modification was used in the Las Vegas shooting spree that killed 58 people.

During the council discussion of that proposal, several council members called it a symbolic measure.

Herrold doesn't believe the ban made Lincoln any safer, he said.

"In my opinion, if it's a symbolic measure, then why don't you vote on extending people's liberties, not banning something," he asked.

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Why are you running: Herrold said he kept waiting for candidates who think like he does to emerge but, when they didn't, he decided to get involved.

He said tax and spending increases troubled him, but he was especially concerned over the 2016 budget battle when Mayor Chris Beutler sued the City Council to pass a city budget. A judge's ruling in favor of the mayor approved a higher tax rate to balance the budget.

Key priorities: Lowering taxes is his main goal. Housing costs, the cost of living, the economic vitality of a city, attracting workers and growing businesses all relate in some way to the city's tax rates, he said.

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"It touches so many other areas that are important and solves so many problems," he said.

"You don't view yourself as the primary point in your own life," he said. "It's your children now."

The city's role in development: Herrold believes the city has played a heavy-handed role in development projects through tax-increment financing, or TIF, and he'd like to see it curtailed.

"TIF has been overused and abused in the last decade," he said.

In his opinion, the Haymarket may meet the state's legal definition of blighted, which allows cities to use the urban renewal development mechanism, but the conditions in the area don't square with the spirit of the law. "It's been a stimulus, but sometimes stimulus goes too far," he said.

"I don't have those party affiliation loyalties, so I can always stick to my principles and do what I think is best for Lincoln," he said.

Q&As with candidates for Lincoln City Council

District 1: James Michael Bowers

Age: 30

Address: 4206 Touzalin Ave.

Occupation: School social worker and small business owner

Political party: Democrat

Education: Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Social Work

Website: bowersforlincoln.com

Organization endorsements: Lincoln Central Labor Union; Lincoln FireFighters Local 644; Run for Something; LGBTQ Victory Fund; Lincoln Education Association PAC

Bowers is the vice president of the Lincoln-Lancaster Board of Health and served on the boards of the Northeast Family Center and Fresh Start Home. He feels his service, along with his work at Dawes Middle School, has helped him realize the needs of families in northeast Lincoln. He wants to fix streets, fight for affordable housing and secure neighborhoods.

Why are you running and what do you want to accomplish in office?

I'm running because of my history in the district and involvement in the neighborhood make me the strongest candidate to advocate for our working families.

I grew up in northeast Lincoln and I've lived here all my life. I started a small business here, work at Dawes Middle School, and I've volunteered throughout the district for the last 15 years. The City Council needs someone who is invested in this part of town, and I've demonstrated that investment throughout my professional and civic career.

In office, I want to accomplish three things: fix our streets, fight for housing affordability and secure our neighborhoods.

The Lincoln Fire Fighters Association endorsed me because of my commitment to public safety. On the council, I will be an advocate for our first responders so they have the tools they need to keep our city safe.

Are there any special needs in your district that are different from issues in the rest of the city?

My district is too often neglected by the city. Existing neighborhoods feel forgotten and left behind as we develop other areas of town. Our neighborhoods need street repair desperately, especially along Cornhusker Highway and 48th Street. Lincoln's biggest food desert is in my district, and health disparities between my district and other neighborhoods are concerning. I will work hard to attract more grocery options and health care facilities to my district.

Every candidate includes public safety and streets as their top priorities. In lean financial times how would you budget for parks, libraries and other city services?

Just like a family budget, sound financial management in good years is critical. Keeping an adequate cash reserve and not taking on more city debt in the good years will give us more flexibility for services in lean years. I remember going to Anderson Library after school and playing in Havelock Park. Those were safe places for me growing up and are great resources for Lincoln's families. I will protect those vital city services.

Should voters approve a quarter-cent hike in the city sales tax with proceeds earmarked for streets? Why or why not?

Our roads need to be fixed. With current funding, we won't be able to repair our roads to where they need to be. However, families are already feeling the sting of property taxes. This is an issue voters, not the council, should decide. I will vote for the increase. We need to realistically deal with this issue, not pass the buck. If elected, I will seek a spot on the oversight committee to ensure we aren't in this position again.

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent housing that they can afford has become a national topic. What is your definition of affordable housing? What should the city do to encourage or provide for more affordable housing?

Affordable housing is quality housing that people of all life stages can pay for without a large financial burden. This usually means spending 30 percent or less of your monthly take-home pay on housing. Children who live in stable housing are proven to have higher test scores, better school attendance and more productive adult lives. To encourage more affordable housing, we should use TIF investment more wisely in neighborhoods, explore a community land bank and incentivize new housing construction.

With the rise in home values, the city and other local governments could bring in more revenue by not reducing the property tax rate. The additional tax revenue coming from the increase in appraised value has been called a windfall. How should the city respond?

Let's be clear: This is not a windfall, this is our citizens' money. We need to reinvest that money into fixing our neighborhood streets and funding our emergency response services. We need to fully staff our fire crews and give police the tools they need to keep us safe. Rising valuations directly impact affordability. I'll use my experience working with the county to hold the line on valuations and work together to prevent future tax increases.

In 2012 the City Council passed an ordinance protecting people from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations. A referendum petition stopped the ordinance from going into effect. The council has not rescinded the ordinance nor put the issue on the ballot. If the state does not pass discrimination protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session, should the City Council put the proposed fairness ordinance on the ballot for a citywide vote? Why or why not?

Since the Legislature has failed to act, the City Council should. Everyone should be able to earn a living, regardless of who they love. Yet here in Lincoln, a person can be fired from their job, denied housing or be told to leave a restaurant because of who they are. Those are not the values Lincoln residents share, and the council should ensure all get fair treatment under the law.

Some Lincoln residents, including members of Nebraskans Against Gun Violence, believe the City Council should pass a safe gun storage ordinance. Do you think the city should require gun owners to lock up guns in their homes?

We all want children and families to be safe, and I understand the problem that safe storage is attempting to address. As a therapist and social worker I am well aware of gun violence and the impact it has on families and children. However, I have concerns with how the ordinance would be enforced and implemented. This is why I want to see the results of the Mayor's Gun Violence Task Force before we set policy.

The city has banned cardboard from the city landfill and required local haulers to provide curbside recycling service. Should the city go further, by banning other recyclable products (paper, plastic) from the landfill? What changes, if any, would you propose for the recycling program?

We should explore all options to save taxpayer dollars. Banning cardboard was a good idea. Lincoln's landfill is nearing capacity, and we extended its life and we saved taxpayer money with the cardboard ban. I support new initiatives that maintain the landfill at its current size through more readily available voluntary recycling, instead of wasting tax dollars buying land for our garbage.

What role should the city take in planning and paying for bike paths (on streets or wider sidewalks) and bike trails (separate paths for bikes and walkers)?

Lincoln should continue our investment in bike paths and bike trails. If we want to be a city that draws and retains young talent, we need to develop a city that is attractive and livable. Young professionals and families like to have outdoor activity options, and Lincoln's bike plan is a part of attracting and retaining talent. However, we need to do a better job of balancing those needs with good traffic flow and fixing our streets.

Winter weather has created an abundance of potholes. Do you think the city does enough to address the problem? Is there anything it should change?

No, the city is not doing enough to address the problem, as anyone who has driven in Lincoln can see. Currently, only 15 percent of our wheel tax goes to residential street rehabilitation, and just 35 percent to arterial street rehabilitation. My district has the majority of the residential streets that need repair. Our city staff are working hard, but we need to put more of the wheel tax money directly to our residential streets, especially here in northeast Lincoln.

District 1: Taylor Wyatt

Age: 32

Address: 927 N. 86th St.

Occupation: Realtor

Political party: Republican

Education: Bachelor's in Education and Human Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Website: wyattforlincoln.com

Organization endorsements: Young Republicans, Lincoln Independent Business Association PAC

Wyatt has experience as a public school teacher, employee, volunteer, husband, parent and small business owner. He said said he hears that good schools, well-maintained roads and low crime are important for people deciding where to live and invest their money. He'd make those his highest priorities for Lincoln's future.

Why are you running and what do you want to accomplish in office?

Born and raised in northeast Lincoln, I grew up enjoying the great things our community and Lincoln have to offer. Now that my wife Brooke and I are raising a 2--year-old son, I want to ensure we have safe neighborhoods in northeast Lincoln. I am committed to offering my experiences to help make Lincoln the best city it can be by improving our roads, properly funding emergency services and using tax dollars wisely.

Are there any special needs in your district that are different from issues in the rest of the city?

The Railroad Transportation Safety District transportation project needs to be a top priority of the city to ensure safety and efficiency for all drivers in the North 33rd and Cornhusker Highway area. Small businesses keep northeast Lincoln thriving. The city needs to continue to encourage and foster an environment for small business development and growth in Havelock and surrounding areas.

Every candidate includes public safety and streets as their top priorities. In lean financial times how would you budget for parks, libraries and other city services?

Budget transparency and prioritization are essential in spending tax dollars wisely. In lean financial times, the city, like most Lincolnites, must tighten its belt fairly with essential services in mind. While there are plenty of important things the city needs to fund, Lincoln's streets are in a crisis, addressing this needs to be the city's top priority.

Should voters approve a quarter-cent hike in the city sales tax with proceeds earmarked for streets? Why or why not?

A quarter-cent sales tax hike is a decision voters must make for themselves. If it is approved, I will be a strong voice for judicious and efficient spending. A sales tax hike is a short-term solution to a bigger underlying problem. No transparency and poor financial planning caused the road crisis. As we move forward, the mayor and City Council must commit to spending tax dollars more efficiently and prioritize essential services, like pothole repair, over unnecessary and irresponsible spending.

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent housing that they can afford has become a national topic. What is your definition of affordable housing? What should the city do to encourage or provide for more affordable housing?

Ensuring affordable housing requires a multifaceted approach. We need to look at jobs available, the pay workers are able to achieve and the housing market. We must work with business owners, developers and investors to bring good-paying jobs to Lincoln and affordable and livable houses to the market. Over-reliance on property taxes also plays a crippling role in the ability to own homes. The city's property tax levies need to be examined as a possible avenue of lowering the burden.

With the rise in home values, the city and other local governments could bring in more revenue by not reducing the property tax rate. The additional tax revenue coming from the increase in appraised value has been called a windfall. How should the city respond?

We need to be transparent with the budget so people know where their tax dollars are going, especially with new revenues. Lincolnites are overtaxed and the city's tax-and-spend policies have hurt hard-working citizens. We should take any opportunity possible to lower the property tax burden. When talking to friends and neighbors, I hear and share their frustration of being taxed more and seemingly getting worse results. We must use our citizens' tax dollars responsibly or avoid taking them at all.

In 2012 the City Council passed an ordinance protecting people from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations. A referendum petition stopped the ordinance from going into effect. The council has not rescinded the ordinance nor put the issue on the ballot. If the state does not pass discrimination protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session, should the City Council put the proposed fairness ordinance on the ballot for a citywide vote? Why or why not?

I do not support discrimination of any kind and it is undeniable that all people should be treated with dignity and respect. This is a complicated issue that deserves thoughtful consideration. It is my understanding that the LGBTQ community would prefer this to be handled at the state level and I agree with that approach.

Some Lincoln residents, including members of Nebraskans Against Gun Violence, believe the City Council should pass a safe gun storage ordinance. Do you think the city should require gun owners to lock up guns in their homes?

The city should not interfere with constitutionally protected freedoms. I am an advocate of the Second Amendment and am concerned about the liberties this threatens. I advocate responsible gun ownership, but this is a slippery slope.

The city has banned cardboard from the city landfill and required local haulers to provide curbside recycling service. Should the city go further, by banning other recyclable products (paper, plastic) from the landfill? What changes, if any, would you propose for the recycling program?

The city did a poor job launching the cardboard ban. They did not have enough free drop-off locations and the locations became overwhelmed and littered. There are a lot of factors that can play into this question and I would be glad to work with our city landfill in finding good plans for its future.

What role should the city take in planning and paying for bike paths (on streets or wider sidewalks) and bike trails (separate paths for bikes and walkers)?

We have a great bike and trail system and recreational opportunities in Lincoln. I believe we need to prioritize our funds to address urgent needs like pothole repair while maintaining the trail system we already have as we make plans for responsible growth in all areas, including bike paths.

Winter weather has created an abundance of potholes. Do you think the city does enough to address the problem? Is there anything it should change?

Lincoln does not do enough to address the pothole problem that has plagued our roads. In the future, the city needs to think ahead to plan for impending winter-caused potholes and their repair. Road maintenance and improvement needs to be a top priority to keep Lincoln safe. We need to cut wasteful spending and divert funds to road repair before addressing other city priorities.

District 2: Megan Stock

Age: 31

Address: 6201 Sunrise Road

Occupation: Public school teacher

Political party: Democrat

Education: Bachelor's degree in Education and Human Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2011); Master's degree in Education Administration, University of Nebraska at Kearney (2017)

Website: meganstock.com

Organization endorsements: Lincoln Fire Fighters Association, Lincoln Education Association PAC

Stock has served as the president of a teachers' union and is co-chair of the School Improvement Committee at McPhee Elementary, where she teaches art and computer science. She wants more investment in early childhood education, parks, public transportation, safety, libraries and fixing streets, rather than "flashy new downtown construction projects."

Why are you running and what do you want to accomplish in office?

I'm running because I think City Council needs to focus more on creating a positive, healthy community for all Lincolnites and less on pleasing special interest groups. Rather than investing funds in flashy new downtown construction projects, I want more investment in early childhood education, parks, public transportation, safety, libraries and, of course, fixing our crumbling roads. And I am confident we can make these changes while being fiscally responsible. As a public school teacher, I am very experienced at elevating our product (education) while sticking to a firm budget.

Are there any special needs in your district that are different from issues in the rest of the city?

Concerns over traffic and commute times are felt even more sharply in District 2. Residents in my district, on average, live farther from hubs of employment, entertainment, government and farther from Interstate 80. Addressing traffic congestion and commute times will be a top priority. And I will also do everything I can to facilitate a speedy commencement of the Lincoln South Beltway project.

Every candidate includes public safety and streets as their top priorities. In lean financial times how would you budget for parks, libraries and other city services?

I would support those priorities by scaling back in other areas. For example, I would decrease our investments in new downtown and Haymarket tax-increment financing construction projects. Moreover, there is room to raise additional funds by bringing real estate developers' impact fees closer to the actual costs of their impacts. As it stands, residents make up the difference through higher property taxes, sales taxes, wheel taxes and by sacrificing services.

Should voters approve a quarter-cent hike in the city sales tax with proceeds earmarked for streets? Why or why not?

No. I realize Lincoln needs more money for roads, but I strongly disagree with raising taxes on citizens while simultaneously giving a five-year fee freeze to wealthy real estate developers. The City Council needs to go back and redo its proposal, but this time without the gift to special interests.

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent housing that they can afford has become a national topic. What is your definition of affordable housing? What should the city do to encourage or provide for more affordable housing?

Affordable housing is housing that working people earning less than average can afford without sacrificing necessities. To help make it "decent," the City Council should ensure that health and safety ordinances already on the books are enforced. Also, we need to find ways to encourage new construction without relying on tax-increment financing handouts. TIF is supposed to help blighted neighborhoods, yet it keeps getting used to finance projects on some of the most expensive real estate in town.

With the rise in home values, the city and other local governments could bring in more revenue by not reducing the property tax rate. The additional tax revenue coming from the increase in appraised value has been called a windfall. How should the city respond?

Last year LPS -- the biggest user of property tax funds -- announced a drop in its levy. What did the property tax relief mean to average Lincoln homeowners? Less than $3 per month. It wasn't nothing, but it certainly wasn't the relief homeowners had hoped for. Let's be honest; meaningful property tax relief will only come from the state. Any politician who tells you otherwise is exaggerating. As councilwoman, I will use the windfall to fix our roads.

In 2012 the City Council passed an ordinance protecting people from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations. A referendum petition stopped the ordinance from going into effect. The council has not rescinded the ordinance nor put the issue on the ballot. If the state does not pass discrimination protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session, should the City Council put the proposed fairness ordinance on the ballot for a citywide vote? Why or why not?

I support LGBTQ protections. This issue with the fairness ordinance has been lingering since 2012. If elected, I will push to get it out of limbo and bring it to a vote of the people, most likely on the November 2020 ballot. And, for what it's worth, I believe Lincoln voters will support the fairness ordinance.

Some Lincoln residents, including members of Nebraskans Against Gun Violence, believe the City Council should pass a safe gun storage ordinance. Do you think the city should require gun owners to lock up guns in their homes?

I support a safe storage ordinance. Rights come with limits. We have a right to free speech, but we don't have the right to falsely yell "fire!" in a crowded theater. If licensed, we have the right to drive, but we don't have the right to drive 100 mph through neighborhoods. Likewise, we have gun rights, but we shouldn't have the right to store them where children (and adults) can just pick them up and create a tragedy.

The city has banned cardboard from the city landfill and required local haulers to provide curbside recycling service. Should the city go further, by banning other recyclable products (paper, plastic) from the landfill? What changes, if any, would you propose for the recycling program?

The Bluffs Road Landfill is estimated to reach full capacity by 2032. And once it does, it will cost Lincoln a lot of money to expand it. Our cheapest (and best) option is to act now to extend its lifespan by adding paper and plastics to the list of the landfill's banned products. And not only is recycling paper and plastics our most economical option, it's simply the right thing to do.

What role should the city take in planning and paying for bike paths (on streets or wider sidewalks) and bike trails (separate paths for bikes and walkers)?

Lincoln should fully support more bike (and walking) paths and trails. For those of us who use the paths and trails, they make life in Lincoln all the better. For those of us who don't, we still benefit from fewer cars on the roads and less pollution in our air.

Winter weather has created an abundance of potholes. Do you think the city does enough to address the problem? Is there anything it should change?

We need to get on top of the pothole problem immediately. The potholes are only going to get bigger and more expensive to repair if we delay. There are times when an issue needs further study, but this is not one of those times. This is a time for action. Let's figure out what resources we can divert to the problem and let's get started.

District 2: Richard Meginnis

Age: 61

Address: 2720 Katy Circle

Occupation: Commercial real estate sales/leasing

Political party: Republican

Education: University of Utah

Website: Meginnisforcouncil.com

Organization endorsements: Lincoln Independent Business Association PAC

Meginnis has served eight years on the Lincoln Public School Board. He's also been past president of the Better Business Bureau, Lincoln Independent Business Association and East Lincoln Business Association, a board member of the Rudge Memorial Trust (low-income senior housing) and a commissioner on the Public Building Commission joint public agency. He said he doesn't have an agenda, but he's proud of his hometown and wants to serve its citizens.

Why are you running and what do you want to accomplish in office?

Lincoln is my home and my family's home for decades. Hometown pride and service to support the town I love is my reason for wanting to serve the citizens. I don't have any single agenda. Just the betterment of all citizens.

Are there any special needs in your district that are different from issues in the rest of the city?

The issues that are coming to the surface quickly will be the land/road planning for the south and east beltways. How we develop the area will be crucial in providing services and access throughout the district. With the new growth we need to continue to keep up with traffic flows and safety of our neighborhoods.

Every candidate includes public safety and streets as their top priorities. In lean financial times how would you budget for parks, libraries and other city services?

This challenge can be met by a budget process change. Currently the City Council is allowed little budget input. The mayor constructs the budget and gives it to the council to approve at the last minute. The public schools budget process spans the whole year, allowing exchange of ideas between the administration and board. If the mayor and council work together throughout the year, I believe a budget can be constructed that meets citizen needs with available resources.

Should voters approve a quarter-cent hike in the city sales tax with proceeds earmarked for streets? Why or why not?

Yes. We need to keep our current streets drivable, but ... more importantly we need to recognize that Lincoln is growing. It has nearly tripled from the time I was in school here. Streets are more of a capital expenditure. We not only need the quarter-cent to maintain current streets, but also to build new streets to serve our growing population.

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent housing that they can afford has become a national topic. What is your definition of affordable housing? What should the city do to encourage or provide for more affordable housing?

As a long-term member of a low-income senior housing board I see how rent can be a struggle for many. My definition of affordable housing is that anyone at or above the poverty line can afford to pay the monthly rent without foregoing other basic necessities. The city could encourage public-private partnerships to provide housing at affordable market rates by offering tax incentives, streamlining the process based on how many of their total units are offered at reasonable rates.

With the rise in home values, the city and other local governments could bring in more revenue by not reducing the property tax rate. The additional tax revenue coming from the increase in appraised value has been called a windfall. How should the city respond?

I believe that this additional revenue belongs to Lincoln's citizens and the city doesn't have the right to extract those funds from the citizens. A budget has already been set for 2019-20 with a slight increase. The city should adjust their mill levy to stay within their existing budget. We are fortunate to have a strong housing market that has given the city increased revenue for all the critical programs that are in need of funding.

In 2012 the City Council passed an ordinance protecting people from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations. A referendum petition stopped the ordinance from going into effect. The council has not rescinded the ordinance nor put the issue on the ballot. If the state does not pass discrimination protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session, should the City Council put the proposed fairness ordinance on the ballot for a citywide vote? Why or why not?

I believe this is a state issue, not a local issue. I am disappointed that the Legislature has failed to address it appropriately. Given this failure, I believe the city should step up and address this issue in a way that makes all our citizens feel they are an equal part of our community.

Some Lincoln residents, including members of Nebraskans Against Gun Violence, believe the City Council should pass a safe gun storage ordinance. Do you think the city should require gun owners to lock up guns in their homes?

As a lifelong gun owner, I believe responsible gun ownership is important. While I don't necessarily think that people should be required to lock up their guns I do believe there should be consequences if their registered firearm is used in a crime or involved in an accidental shooting.

The city has banned cardboard from the city landfill and required local haulers to provide curbside recycling service. Should the city go further, by banning other recyclable products (paper, plastic) from the landfill? What changes, if any, would you propose for the recycling program?

Recycling is necessary but the required cardboard ban did significantly impact the cost of waste removal. I think the city should provide more recycling drop-off sites and offer waste removal companies incentives to provide economical/free recycling pick-up services so as to encourage rather than require residences to participate.

What role should the city take in planning and paying for bike paths (on streets or wider sidewalks) and bike trails (separate paths for bikes and walkers)?

Lincoln's great trail system began through a partnership between the city and citizens who wanted trails. It started with a bond issue, because it was a capital expenditure. We should continue down this path in the same way. If money is needed for improvements, we should partner with interested users and then present a bond issue to voters and let them decide. I do believe the city needs to focus on our streets first.

Winter weather has created an abundance of potholes. Do you think the city does enough to address the problem? Is there anything it should change?

I think the city does what it can to fix the potholes but are limited in their efforts until the weather reaches a temperature at which roadwork can be done. I also believe that effective long-range planning could be helpful in being able to get potholes filled faster.

District 3: Jane Raybould

Age: 60

Address: 3015 S. 20th St.

Occupation: Grocery store vice president, Lincoln City Council member

Political party: Democrat

Education: Bacherlor of Arts, Creighton University; Master of Arts, Georgetown University

Website: janeraybould.com

Raybould is seeking her second term on the City Council after serving as a Lancaster County commissioner from 2011-15. She lost a bid to unseat Deb Fischer in the U.S. Senate in November. She's been active in the community and wants to continue moving the city forward with common sense and responsible budget practices while safeguarding city services such as libraries, parks, pools and trails that make neighborhoods vibrant.

Why are you running and what do you want to accomplish in office?

I'm running for re-election because I want to keep our city moving forward. I have the expertise and proven leadership to do so. I have been honored to be an elected official for the last eight years and a community leader and stakeholder in this positive progress. I will continue to bring common sense, responsible budget practices and accountability to city government while safeguarding city services such as our libraries, parks, pools and trails that make our neighborhoods vibrant.

Are there any special needs in your district that are different from issues in the rest of the city?

My district is really the heart of our city with some of the oldest neighborhoods with aging infrastructure, sidewalks, streets and homes. This urban core is also a big source of the affordable single-family rentals and multifamily housing that need to be preserved.

Every candidate includes public safety and streets as their top priorities. In lean financial times how would you budget for parks, libraries and other city services?

Our city has been nationally recognized as a great place to raise a family and start a business. Re-investing and safeguarding the quality of life in our city and the livability of our neighborhoods and celebrating the diversity has helped attract and grow our tax base and dynamic economy. We have done so by sensibly and responsibly and creatively using finance tools such as Certificates of Participation, Energy Saving Companies and public/private partnerships to improve our libraries, parks, pools and trails.

Should voters approve a quarter-cent hike in the city sales tax with proceeds earmarked for streets? Why or why not?

Voters should approve this as it will allow the city to more economically repair streets versus more costly replacement. A task force of community leaders determined this was the best and most fiscally responsible route. If approved, the quarter-cent sales tax lasts for six years with 75 percent of the funding to focus on residential and existing arterials throughout the city. We know maintaining our infrastructure is essential to growing our economy and touches every aspect of our daily lives.

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent housing that they can afford has become a national topic. What is your definition of affordable housing? What should the city do to encourage or provide for more affordable housing?

Affordable housing should cost no more than one-third of a household's income, including utilities. The city should use a variety of tools to address the causes that contribute to the deficiency of affordable housing. These could include incentive funding like tax-increment financing, setting aside funding to provide for low- to no-interest loans to rehab existing housing, sales tax credits, impact fee credits, community land trusts and partnering with organizations like Neighborworks, Habitat for Humanity and South of Downtown Community Development Organization.

With the rise in home values, the city and other local governments could bring in more revenue by not reducing the property tax rate. The additional tax revenue coming from the increase in appraised value has been called a windfall. How should the city respond?

The city should act prudently in carefully determining if we are meeting revenue projections. Actual sales tax receipts are running about 1.5 percent behind budgeted projections. This is a concern. I have been proud to have reduced our property tax rate when our budget and projected expenses are addressed. The property tax rate is lower than when I was elected and that is with the hiring of 12 new police officers, 15 new firefighters and purchasing additional fire equipment.

In 2012 the City Council passed an ordinance protecting people from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations. A referendum petition stopped the ordinance from going into effect. The council has not rescinded the ordinance nor put the issue on the ballot. If the state does not pass discrimination protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session, should the City Council put the proposed fairness ordinance on the ballot for a citywide vote? Why or why not?

I support the fairness ordinance and am very happy to see that other business organizations such as the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce have advocated in support as well. I am hopeful that the Nebraska Legislature will pass the workplace fairness bill prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session. This will provide the consistent and uniform protections to help us retain and attract a diverse workforce to our city and state.

Some Lincoln residents, including members of Nebraskans Against Gun Violence, believe the City Council should pass a safe gun storage ordinance. Do you think the city should require gun owners to lock up guns in their homes?

We heard very compelling testimony over several weeks in our City Council meetings on how we as a community can do a better job of keeping our families safer. I applaud the mayor for listening and establishing a task force to look at this very issue and look forward to reviewing their findings and recommendations.

The city has banned cardboard from the city landfill and required local haulers to provide curbside recycling service. Should the city go further, by banning other recyclable products (paper, plastic) from the landfill? What changes, if any, would you propose for the recycling program?

Our goal is to increase recycling of many materials that have value and to divert these items from our landfill to prolong the life and usability of the existing landfill. Our community recognizes that this is the responsible direction in saving taxpayer money and conserving resources. We have 25 free drop-off recycling centers throughout the city and our local haulers now offer curbside recycling.

What role should the city take in planning and paying for bike paths (on streets or wider sidewalks) and bike trails (separate paths for bikes and walkers)?

I love our trail system and I support the continued city and community funding partnerships that have built and maintained our amazing network of trails that has garnered national recognition and enhanced the quality of life in our city. Our 130 miles of trails is a true success story and great return on our investment by using only 15 cents out every $10 of our transportation dollars where we spend $8 on roads and $1.85 on StarTran.

Winter weather has created an abundance of potholes. Do you think the city does enough to address the problem? Is there anything it should change?

The city has invested in additional equipment to repair potholes timely. We need to continue to enlist the help of the community in reporting potholes by phoning 402-441-7644, going online to the city's website, lincoln.ne.gov, or using the city's app, UPLNK, to get the repairs done quickly and safely.

District 3: Colten Zamrzla

Colten Zamrzla

Zamrzla

COURTESY PHOTO

Age: 25

Address: 2045 D St.

Occupation: Commercial insurance agent with Copple Insurance Agency, Inc.

Political party: Republican

Education: Southeast Community College; bachelor's degree in Finance, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Website: coltenforcouncil.com

Organization endorsements: Lincoln Independent Business Association PAC, Nebraska Federation of Young Republicans, Cornhusker Republican Women's Club

Zamrzla, a newcomer to politics, has been a member of the Legislative Advisory Council with his professional association, the Independent Insurance Agents of Nebraska. He's also been involved with Gateway Sertoma Club, CASA for Lancaster County, the Lincoln Independent Business Association and Chamber of Commerce. He says his top three priorities are fixing roads, adding police officers and working on tax relief.

Why are you running and what do you want to accomplish in office?

I came to Lincoln for college, but I stayed for the community and opportunity Lincoln presents. I chose Lincoln as my home, and Lincoln is where I'll build my business and raise a family. However, I see issues holding back our city, and with many more years ahead of me as a Lincolnite, I'm especially concerned about fixing these issues and making Lincoln the best it can be. My top three priorities once elected will be: 1. Fixing the roads and keeping them fixed, 2. Adding police officers, and 3. Working toward tax relief by prioritizing "needs" before "wants."

Are there any special needs in your district that are different from issues in the rest of the city?

District 3 contains the majority of the South of Downtown Neighborhood, and I applaud the efforts currently underway in revitalizing this neighborhood. Shawn Ryba and his team are working toward building a sense of community and changing the perception of this neighborhood, spurring growth and boosting safety. While the South of Downtown Neighborhood is the best example, similar areas exist within the district and similar approaches need to be taken to alleviate these issues.

Every candidate includes public safety and streets as their top priorities. In lean financial times how would you budget for parks, libraries and other city services?

A reprioritization of spending needs to happen now to safeguard our city's future. Roads and public safety are indisputable needs and must be our first priority when budgeting. Libraries, parks and other city services should be carefully examined and reprioritized behind them. Government-wide, a close examination of personnel costs, which account for the majority of the city's budget, is the first step to creating fiscal efficiency, which can potentially free up money for all aspects discussed here.

Should voters approve a quarter-cent hike in the city sales tax with proceeds earmarked for streets? Why or why not?

This is for Lincolnites to decide, and I won't try to persuade on how to vote. However, the better discussion to be having is: why do we need an additional sales tax for streets when we already have wheel taxes, registration fees and motor vehicle taxes? The core issue here is not a lack of funding, but rather a lack of prioritization of funding. The taxpayers deserve accountability from their elected officials and transparency for their tax dollars.

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent housing that they can afford has become a national topic. What is your definition of affordable housing? What should the city do to encourage or provide for more affordable housing?

The Housing and Urban Development's definition for Lincoln roughly calculates to $1,200 per month or less, but true affordability starts below $900 per month. Increasing access is directly correlated to supply, but to increase supply, relaxed restrictions and rezoning efforts need to be made. Further, reducing government "red tape" for builders will aid in this effort, especially since 35 percent of the cost of a new Lincoln home is government-related expenses which get passed down to buyers.

With the rise in home values, the city and other local governments could bring in more revenue by not reducing the property tax rate. The additional tax revenue coming from the increase in appraised value has been called a windfall. How should the city respond?

The city should not extract more of our money because of the revaluations. The city has already set its budget for 2018-2020, and that budget did not include this revaluation increase -- the property tax levy should be decreased to match the unpredicted "windfall," making it net neutral. Further, citizens should demand that their school board members do the same.

In 2012 the City Council passed an ordinance protecting people from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations. A referendum petition stopped the ordinance from going into effect. The council has not rescinded the ordinance nor put the issue on the ballot. If the state does not pass discrimination protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session, should the City Council put the proposed fairness ordinance on the ballot for a citywide vote? Why or why not?

Discrimination is wrong. I think we can all agree on that. I support the idea of putting in protections for folks in the LGBTQ+ community to ensure fair access to gainful employment, housing and public accommodations. While the LGBTQ+ community would prefer a statewide solution, if that does not pass this year, a suitable Band-aid would be to bring back the Fairness Ordinance for a vote to protect LGBTQ+ Lincolnites while the state works on legislation.

Some Lincoln residents, including members of Nebraskans Against Gun Violence, believe the City Council should pass a safe gun storage ordinance. Do you think the city should require gun owners to lock up guns in their homes?

This proposal seems to infringe on Second Amendment rights, and, to certify safe storage, home inspections would be required which could infringe on Fourth Amendment rights. Further, fines for unsafe storage may incentivize citizens to forego reporting lost or stolen firearms to avoid penalty. Most importantly, this ordinance is largely reactive and would simply create more unnecessary, rights-infringing regulation. A better avenue would be public education on safe storage and a focus on mental health, especially with our youth.

The city has banned cardboard from the city landfill and required local haulers to provide curbside recycling service. Should the city go further, by banning other recyclable products (paper, plastic) from the landfill? What changes, if any, would you propose for the recycling program?

Due to changes in quality standards from prominent buyers of recyclables like China, many items we think are recyclable end up in a landfill. The only viable recyclables, at least for the foreseeable future, are corrugated cardboard, plastic milk jugs, newspapers, and aluminum/tin cans; all of which must be thoroughly cleaned before recyclable. If we add further bans, it would need to be on these items, and the process would need to be better communicated with the community.

What role should the city take in planning and paying for bike paths (on streets or wider sidewalks) and bike trails (separate paths for bikes and walkers)?

I love our bike trails and use them regularly. I'm happy to maintain and expand them. However, the problem is when bike lanes reduce vehicle lanes. Bikes are a good alternative form of travel, but bike lanes are a want, and not a need. Further, bike lanes can cost 62 percent more than simply repairing streets. If we add bike lanes, they should never be on arterials, only side streets, and they should connect to our existing trails.

Winter weather has created an abundance of potholes. Do you think the city does enough to address the problem? Is there anything it should change?

Potholes will always happen, but there's no excuse for the quantity or the severity we currently have -- it all goes back to poor planning and a lack of prioritization by the current administration. Pothole filling shouldn't be a full-time job for our city maintenance staff like it currently is, and executing a comprehensive plan to fully replace or rehabilitate our roads should be the No. 1 priority.

District 4: James Herrold

James Herrold

James Herrold, District 4 Lincoln City Council candidate.

COURTESY PHOTO

Age: 33

Address: 1200 Hawkfly Road

Occupation: Interactive Operations Manager

Political party: Libertarian

Education: Bachelor of Arts, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2007); Master of Business Administration, Concordia University (2017)

Website: jamesherrold.com

Organization endorsements: Lincoln Independent Business Association PAC

Herrold, a newcomer to politics, said he's troubled that taxes and spending keep going up and city government continues to grow. He wants his children to be able to afford to live here. "I will work to lower taxes and spending and reduce wasteful government to encourage real growth and make it easier to live and work in Lincoln."

Why are you running and what do you want to accomplish in office?

I moved to Lincoln over 15 years ago to attend UNL. After graduating and getting married, my wife and I knew this is where we wanted to make our home and raise our family. Over those 15 years, I've noticed some disturbing trends: Our taxes keep going up. Spending keeps going up. And city government is getting bigger. I want to live in this city for a long time. I want my children to be able to afford to live here as well. I will work to lower taxes and spending and reduce wasteful government to encourage real growth and make it easier to live and work in Lincoln.

Are there any special needs in your district that are different from issues in the rest of the city?

This district is diverse in many ways, meaning there are many different hopes and desires by the individuals that live here. The cost of living is high in many neighborhoods in the district. We need to address the root causes of these expenses (high taxes, land use restrictions, etc). There are neighborhoods in the district that have seen an increase in violent crimes. We must make sure our police officers are focused on high-crime areas to keep Lincoln streets safer.

Every candidate includes public safety and streets as their top priorities. In lean financial times how would you budget for parks, libraries and other city services?

I believe in fiscal restraint at all times -- not just the "lean financial times." I will oppose budget policies that spend lavishly in good times so we're not stretched thin in tough times. For example, the city has a "cash reserve" fund that is designed to lessen the financial strain in lean times. In the last budget cycle, that fund was raided for special projects. That was wrong, and I would not support similar short-sighted policies in the future.

Should voters approve a quarter-cent hike in the city sales tax with proceeds earmarked for streets? Why or why not?

I hope Lincoln voters defeat the sales tax increase. Our streets need attention and have needed it for years. But we don't need new money -- we need a new strategy. I will look diligently for waste in the budget and inefficiencies in our current processes for building and maintaining roads. I will examine the best practices of other cities and counties using their best ideas to improve Lincoln's streets. We can have better roads without increasing tax rates.

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent housing that they can afford has become a national topic. What is your definition of affordable housing? What should the city do to encourage or provide for more affordable housing?

I will not use arbitrary definitions of affordable housing (e.g. HUD's 30 percent of income figure). They are not objective, and we shouldn't make policies that affect everyone based on definitions from an elite few. To address issues of rising housing costs, we must address root problems. Property and sales taxes, land-use restrictions and restrictive zoning are all burdens the government puts on us making housing more expensive. Reducing these burdens is the only real way to address this issue.

With the rise in home values, the city and other local governments could bring in more revenue by not reducing the property tax rate. The additional tax revenue coming from the increase in appraised value has been called a windfall. How should the city respond?

I will craft and champion budget policies that return more of the people's money to them or let them keep more of it in the first place. This includes reducing the mill levy on properties so taxes on those properties do not increase and even go down. I will insist LPS and Lancaster County officials do the same. I will reject any policy that attempts to find special, unnecessary projects to spend any "windfall." It is the people's money.

In 2012 the City Council passed an ordinance protecting people from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations. A referendum petition stopped the ordinance from going into effect. The council has not rescinded the ordinance nor put the issue on the ballot. If the state does not pass discrimination protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session, should the City Council put the proposed fairness ordinance on the ballot for a citywide vote? Why or why not?

I do not support putting the fairness ordinance on a ballot for a variety of reasons. I support everyone's right to freely associate and rights should not be on a ballot. I am concerned about the mixed messages a vote on this ordinance would send whether it passes or not. I am concerned of the religious freedom/employment issues this may cause. I believe it is prudent to wait for the outcome of the state policy proposal before acting further.

Some Lincoln residents, including members of Nebraskans Against Gun Violence, believe the City Council should pass a safe gun storage ordinance. Do you think the city should require gun owners to lock up guns in their homes?

No, I do not believe it should be a requirement (i.e. enforced by statute), but I do believe it's a good idea to store guns safely and responsibly. However, how one decides what is safe and responsible for him or herself is up to that individual. Above all else regarding this issue, I support every individual's natural right to defense. If one chooses to defend his or her property with firearms, the government should not interfere with that choice.

The city has banned cardboard from the city landfill and required local haulers to provide curbside recycling service. Should the city go further, by banning other recyclable products (paper, plastic) from the landfill? What changes, if any, would you propose for the recycling program?

The cardboard ban is less than a year old, so it is too early to tell if it is a success or a problem. Less cardboard is going to the landfill (a positive), but there are also issues, for example, of cardboard piling up around apartment complexes (a negative). We need more time to evaluate the effects. I will say I personally think recycling is an important thing to do, but I am against government overreach like forced recycling.

What role should the city take in planning and paying for bike paths (on streets or wider sidewalks) and bike trails (separate paths for bikes and walkers)?

I have no issues with bike paths or trails per se, but too often tax dollars that should be going to road improvement go to bike lanes. I take no issue with using private funding for bike paths -- sources like grants, endowments, or other private funds -- which happens often. I will work to make sure tax dollars, however, are prioritized toward roads. We should not be adding bike lanes to roads especially where there are safety and congestion concerns.

Winter weather has created an abundance of potholes. Do you think the city does enough to address the problem? Is there anything it should change?

It is not just potholes that are the problem, but our streets, in general, need serious attention. We need a better strategy from our engineers. We need to examine what the best road surface technology, materials, and construction methods are and adopt those for Lincoln. We need to write our contracts so construction companies are held accountable when roads fall apart too quickly. We spend a lot of money on roads, and the condition they are in is unacceptable.

District 4: Tammy Ward

Tammy Ward

Ward

COURTESY PHOTO

Age: 60

Address: 641 N.W. 20th St.

Occupation: Owner/President, Tammy J. Ward LLC, which provides consulting services in advocacy, governmental affairs and community outreach to a variety of clients representing seniors and veterans.

Education: Business Education Associate Degree, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Political party: Democrat

Website: TammyWardforLincoln.com

Organization endorsements: Lincoln Firefighters Association, Lincoln Central Labor Union

Ward has 30 years of experience working in the U.S. Senate, Lincoln Mayor's Office, Nebraska Governor's Office, Legislature and Department of Economic Development. She's been a member of the Downtown Rotary Club No. 14 and a past president of the South Salt Creek Community organization. She said her No. 1 priority will be to support policies that continue Lincoln's strong economy, unprecedented job growth and low unemployment.

Why are you running and what do you want to accomplish in office?

My No. 1 priority will be to support policies that continue Lincoln's strong economy, unprecedented job growth and low unemployment. We must emphasize policies that attract and retain young professionals and promote safe and attractive neighborhoods. A growing community means maintaining and, in some cases, increasing public safety and infrastructure. I pledge to listen, learn, and work with other members of the City Council and the next mayor to help create and maintain a tone of cooperation on behalf of all Lincolnites.

Are there any special needs in your district that are different from issues in the rest of the city?

Our northwest District 4 is one of the most diversely unique in the city, and I'm proud to have lived here for the past almost 30 years. From the Highlands and Fallbrook, to Arnold Heights and Air Park, from Belmont to the North Bottoms and South Salt Creek, to Clinton and Hartley to the University of Nebraska, downtown and the Haymarket, Everett to West A, and all of the other great neighborhoods that make northwest District 4 unique.

Every candidate includes public safety and streets as their top priorities. In lean financial times how would you budget for parks, libraries and other city services?

It is important to me to cultivate a can-do attitude and to remain good stewards of taxpayer dollars. I will take an in-depth look at the city's priorities and weigh what is fiscally possible to continue to support our great parks, libraries and other important city services.

Should voters approve a quarter-cent hike in the city sales tax with proceeds earmarked for streets? Why or why not?

I will vote yes, for these reasons: We are a growing city, the longer we wait the more expensive it becomes to repair streets. Newer streets mean fewer potholes, which will reduce money spent on expensive car repairs. Improving our streets means first responders getting to emergencies faster and safer, saving lives and money. The measure will provide four times as many residential street improvements each year. Out-of-town visitors will pay their fair share for use of our streets.

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent housing that they can afford has become a national topic. What is your definition of affordable housing? What should the city do to encourage or provide for more affordable housing?

All Lincolnites should have safe and attractive neighborhoods and for those who desire to, the opportunity to achieve their dreams of homeownership. To keep Lincoln a city where people want to live and work, we must also find solutions to our serious affordable housing problem. I will work with NeighborWorks, the Lincoln Housing Authority, South of Downtown Community Development Organization and other organizations to provide adequate, clean, safe housing for all of our citizens.

With the rise in home values, the city and other local governments could bring in more revenue by not reducing the property tax rate. The additional tax revenue coming from the increase in appraised value has been called a windfall. How should the city respond?

I believe it will be important to take an in-depth look at the entire budget for the city in order to determine top priorities. I believe we should also identify areas where funding may have been reduced or eliminated and determine if it is appropriate or possible to revisit those budget needs for reconsideration.

In 2012 the City Council passed an ordinance protecting people from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations. A referendum petition stopped the ordinance from going into effect. The council has not rescinded the ordinance nor put the issue on the ballot. If the state does not pass discrimination protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity this session, should the City Council put the proposed fairness ordinance on the ballot for a citywide vote? Why or why not?

I support equality for the LGBTQ community and all Lincoln residents. Prejudice and discrimination against anyone is always wrong. It makes our whole community less than what we can be. I will support policies that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing and public accommodations. I'm hopeful our Legislature will take action on this issue. Should that not happen, I would support efforts to place the question on a future city ballot.

Some Lincoln residents, including members of Nebraskans Against Gun Violence, believe the City Council should pass a safe gun storage ordinance. Do you think the city should require gun owners to lock up guns in their homes?

I support efforts to make our community safer and protect our children from the misuse of firearms. I am an advocate for safe and secure storage of firearms. I favor efforts to educate and encourage gun owners to secure all guns in homes and vehicles and model responsible behavior. However, before I could support a proposed ordinance, I want to hear recommendations from the 17-member task force that has been asked to study this important issue.

The city has banned cardboard from the city landfill and required local haulers to provide curbside recycling service. Should the city go further, by banning other recyclable products (paper, plastic) from the landfill? What changes, if any, would you propose for the recycling program?

I supported the city's ban. I've long been a proponent of recycling and support continued efforts to educate and encourage recycling of other materials. I also support our local haulers, the hardworking local companies who keep Lincoln the cleanest city in America. Regarding additional recycling, those decisions will be based on global economics. China has cut back on recycling making some materials worthless. Many cities have absorbed the losses, fearing that passing on the cost to residents would discourage recycling.

What role should the city take in planning and paying for bike paths (on streets or wider sidewalks) and bike trails (separate paths for bikes and walkers)?

I believe the city should continue to take an active role in the continued planning for bike paths and trails. I support the current and collaborative efforts between the city and biking trails and paths advocacy organizations to financially support our trails system through public and private efforts.

Winter weather has created an abundance of potholes. Do you think the city does enough to address the problem? Is there anything it should change?

Lincoln has experienced one of the most extreme winters in history. Although all of us complain about the snow and street conditions, the fact remains we are unable to control the weather. I am thankful for the dedicated men and women who work long hours to keep our streets cleared so we can safely travel to work, school, medical appointments and worship services. We're a growing city, the longer we wait the more expensive it becomes to repair streets.

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Reach the writer at 402-473-2657 or rjohnson@journalstar.com.

On Twitter @LJSRileyJohnson.

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