Douglas County Voters' Guide - 2006 General Election
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University of Nebraska Regents Metropolitan Utilities District Douglas County Clerk of the District Court Metropolitan Community College Papio-Missouri Natural Resource District Douglas County West Board of Education
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Democrat BEN NELSON: Age 65. 2819 S. 125th Avenue, Suite 279 68108, www.bennelson2006.com. Incumbent. United States Senator (D-NE). Married, 4 children. 2001 – present - Nebraska's United States Senator. 1991-1999 Two-terms as Nebraska's governor. Bachelor's degree, philosophy, UNL, 1963, Master's degree, philosophy, UNL, 1966, Law degree, Univ of Nebraska College of Law, 1970. Two-year college stint in the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, then failed the eye exam to (word limit exceeded)
Republican PETE RICKETTS: Age 42. 6450 Prairie Ave. 68154. www.petericketts.com. Republican Nominee for U.S. Senate. Married, 3 children. University of Chicago, AB in Biology, University of Chicago, MBA, Marketing & Finance. Volunteer Hours: My wife Susanne and I are active with the Children’s Scholarship Fund Board and we are members of St. Margaret Mary Church. I am also on the board of the non- profit arm of Gambling with the Good Life.
1. What would you do to make health care affordable for all Americans? NELSON: Every American should have access to high-quality, affordable health care. My bill allows small businesses to pool together to buy health insurance for their employees at a lower price allowing more small businesses to offer health care coverage. An independent study found that my bill would save $1000 per employee. RICKETTS: Our healthcare system must be reformed. We must start by passing medical malpractice tort reform which my opponent opposes. I also support allowing small businesses join together to purchase insurance for their employees. Finally, we must leverage the power of consumers and make it easier to use Health Savings Accounts.
2. What should be the criteria for ending American involvement in Iraq? Explain. NELSON: I support our troops and have identified three benchmarks: a democratically elected and functioning Iraqi government, an Iraqi security force able to address the insurgency, and an independent military that can fight on its own and defend Iraq. An arbitrary timetable for withdrawing U.S. troops from Iraq won't work. RICKETTS: I support our brave troops stationed overseas. It is critical to the global war on terror that we do not allow Iraq to become a terrorist haven. We should allow the U.S. military commanders in Iraq to determine when the mission is complete and when it’s time to go.
3. What is your position regarding the requirements and funding of the No Child Left Behind Act? NELSON: No Child Left Behind (NCLB), while well-intended, is ultimately a one-size-fits all underfunded federal mandate and a poor fit for a state like Nebraska. Nebraska is committed to providing quality education. Education decisions should be left up to local and state officials. I voted against NCLB for these reasons and (word limit exceeded) RICKETTS: A federal mandate like NCLB takes us down the wrong path towards federal control of our schools. Nebraska parents and school boards should hold schools accountable, not the federal government. This will allow us to implement common sense practices to accommodate local situations.
4. What energy policy would you pursue in order to reduce our dependence on foreign oil? NELSON: Renewable and alternative energy sources are critical to reducing our dependence on foreign oil. As Governor and Senator I have promoted renewable fuels. The 2005 Energy Bill requires oil refiners to blend 7.5 billion gallons of renewable fuels into the nation's fuel supply by 2012. Nebraska ranks third in the nation in ethanol production. RICKETTS: We must achieve energy independence through multiple sources. I support drilling in ANWR and further domestic oil exploration. I also support ethanol because it is a win for Nebraska and America. We need to pursue alternative sources of energy such as nuclear power, wind, and clean burning coal.
5. How do you propose protecting the civil liberties of American citizens while assuring national defense? NELSON: The Patriot Act conference negotiations produced a final bill that did not offer as many protections as the Senate version I supported. Though I voted for the Patriot Act extension, including the additional judicial review, I preferred the stronger civil liberties protections included in the Senate version of the bill. RICKETTS: I support the Patriot Act. I believe that we need the law to appropriately protect our civil liberties at home and protect ourselves from the terrorists abroad. We also have to remember that we are Americans and we hold ourselves to a higher standard of conduct.
6. What changes should the United States make in its immigration laws. Explain. NELSON: Our immigration laws need to be updated and enforced so we can stop illegal immigration and promote legal immigration. My bill would secure our borders first. Once we secure our borders and end illegal immigration we can begin to address immigration issues in this country. RICKETTS: First, we must secure our borders. We also must enforce our employment laws and give employers the tools to know which potential employees are legal. I oppose amnesty, but support compromise solutions like the Pence-Hutchison plan that holds illegal immigrants accountable. My immigration reform plan is attached.
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Democrat JIM ESCH: Age 30. 2464 Harney St., #31, 68131. www.jimesch.org. Single, no children. Bachelor of Science Business Administration, Creighton University 1997; J.D., Creighton Law School 2000. Volunteer Hours: The Sienna Francis house; Black Student Catholic Scholarship Fund; The Heart Ministry Board; Habitat for Humanity; Numerous charitable walks & runs. Republican LEE TERRY: Age 44. PO Box 540098, 68154. www.leeterry.com. Incumbent. Congressman - U.S. House of Representatives. Married, 3 children. Congressman since 1998. Omaha City Councilman 1991 – 1998 (Council President two years – 1995-96). B.S. Political Science: UNL, J.D. Creighton University Law School. Volunteer Hours: I continue as a non-board member to the American Diabetes Association by helping to organize the annual “Swing for a Cure” golf tournament. I also attend numerous charitable events; (word limit exceeded)
1. What would you do to make health care affordable for all Americans? ESCH: A recent statistic pointed to 46.6 million Americans now lack health insurance. That is nearly one in five. We need to address this problem immediately. We must promote preventative care and wellness initiatives. We also need to look at a National Core Benefit Package, so catastrophic injuries don’t devastate families. TERRY: I support Medicare as a commitment between the government and hard-working citizens, but we cannot continue on our current path as funding short-falls increase. I support creation of voluntary private Health Savings Accounts as a way of helping Medicare. I have introduced legislation promoting the purchase of long-term health insurance coverage (word limit exceeded)
2. What should be the criteria for ending American involvement in Iraq? Explain. ESCH: We have met our strategic goals in Iraq. We are now bogged down policing a civil war. I have called for a redeployment of troops out of Iraq while leaving some troops there to guard our interests and protect Iraq from foreign invasion. The Iraqi conflict has been terribly mismanaged. TERRY: Any decision to end U.S. involvement in Iraq must take into account the following criteria: assurances by the democratically-elected government of Iraq that it is prepared to take over responsibility for security; a timetable for the orderly withdrawal of coalition forces; and a plan by the Iraqi government to equally distribute (word limit exceeded)
3. What is your position regarding the requirements and funding of the No Child Left Behind Act? ESCH: The Federal government can be a partner in developing our educational system, but overall control of education should remain at the local level. Federal mandates handed down to states without adequate funding to support them are unfair to local school districts that are ultimately charged with the task of implementation. TERRY: I am strong believer in letting local school boards and educators take the lead role in education. However, I support No Child Left Behind because I share the belief that every child should learn to read, write, and perform arithmetic. Nebraska schools have a strong record; I have offered legislation (word limit exceeded)
4. What energy policy would you pursue in order to reduce our dependence on foreign oil? ESCH: I will implement my 5 point C.L.E.A.N. energy initiative. We need to lesson our dependence upon fossil fuels. Utilizing America’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovation we need an effort similar to the Apollo Space program to develop renewable energy sources. Our addiction to fossil fuels endangers national security. TERRY: I joined the House Energy and Commerce Committee because it has jurisdiction over America’s energy policies and I will continue to work on this critical issue. I support the increased use of ethanol and have worked to speed up the development of hydrogen as a fuel. We also need to (word limit exceeded)
5. How do you propose protecting the civil liberties of American citizens while assuring national defense? ESCH: I introduced a 5 point Homeland Security plan. We need to implement all of the 9/11 commission’s recommendations. The large amounts of cargo containers coming into our country unchecked are a dangerous hazard. We must restore a balance of power between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government. TERRY: We have a responsibility to effectively combat terrorism while safeguarding our civil liberties. Congress developed anti-terrorism legislation after 09/11 which strikes a balance between law enforcement and intelligence needs and civil liberties. The House approved the PATRIOT Act by a bipartisan vote of 337 - 79. Several provisions of the Act affecting (word limit exceeded)
6. What changes should the United States make in its immigration laws? Explain. ESCH: Immigration is a problem of not enforcing existing law. In 1998 nearly 14,000 were apprehended and nearly 1,000 businesses were fined. In 2004 those numbers had dropped to under 1,000 apprehended and 4 businesses fined. We need to secure our borders and work towards a legal status with established immigrants. TERRY: The House passed HR 4437, the Border Protection, Antiterrorism and Illegal Immigration Control Act by a vote of 239-182. HR 4437 helps secure our borders, including ending the “catch and release” policy of releasing captured illegal aliens due to a lack of detention space. This bill also authorizes 1,000 full-time port (word limit exceeded)
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Democrat DAVID HAHN: Age 51. 501 Pier 2, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68528. www.hahnfornebraska.org. Entrepreneur, CEO of New Digital Group - New Digital Group. Married, 3 children. Bachelor of Political Science and Philosophy, Sterling College, Kansas, 1978. Law degree from UNL, 1981. Volunteer Hours: Boy Scouts, ARC of Nebraska, Autism Society of America. Independent BARRY RICHARDS: Age 49. 73775 370 Maywood Avenue 69032. Farmer/Rancher – Self employed. Married – 3 children. Graduate of McCook Community College and attended UNL. Volunteer Hours: Hayes Center Christian Youth Group-weekly, Hayes Center High School-3 or 4 times/year. Nonpartisan MORT SULLIVAN: No response received. Republican DAVE HEINEMAN: Age 58. 1425 H Street, Lincoln, NE 68508. GovernorDave.com. Incumbent. Governor - State of Nebraska. Married, 1 child. Governor, 2005 – present. Lt. Governor, 2001-2005, State Treasurer, 1995-2001, Fremont City Council, 1990-1994. United States Military Academy at West Point, 1970. U.S. Army, 5 years, Captain.
1. How can the state provide property tax relief while still maintaining essential programs and services? HAHN: Restructure taxes to cut rates for working families. This can be funded by reevaluating Nebraska's system of corporate taxes, which costs our states millions. Tax cuts need to go to working families, not large corporations. RICHARDS: Abolish property taxes and implement the “Transaction Tax” which eliminates state sales and income taxes along with personal and real estate taxes. Property owners would still be responsible for bond issue indebtedness, which is why I would push for a new law limiting who gets to vote on bond issues. SULLIVAN: No response received. HEINEMAN: Property Taxes are determined by local spending. As Governor, I have tried to ease the property tax burden by fully funding state aid to education and by providing funding to other local government aid programs. Property taxes are too high and that’s why I support property tax relief.
2. Would you support a change in Nebraska law that would allow social workers rather than law enforcement to determine whether children should be removed from homes where there is an allegation of child abuse or neglect? Why or why not? HAHN: Nebraska's police work hard, but I believe that social workers should determine whether or not a child should be removed from a potentially abusive or neglectful home. We must also hire more social workers immediately, at least 50-100, to protect our children. RICHARDS: Yes. Our law enforcement officers are fine folks but these cases need the most human touch available not a guilt or innocence mentality but heart-felt compassion and understanding that allows social workers to befriend the family and help them locate the problem and to give advice in-house. SULLIVAN: No response received. HEINEMAN: I am open to this change but I would need to understand all of the legal ramifications. I am concerned that the State needs a better way to deal with situations where children need to be removed from the home immediately.
3. What role should the state play in providing equitable funding and resources for all public school students in Nebraska? HAHN: Nebraska should make sure all public schools are funded equally, including Class I rural schools. Nebraska's children will be leading us into the future and it is important to give them the best education we can provide. RICHARDS: Very minimal. Local schools are just that, local. No matter what the state does, schools will never be equal. We must get rid of the State Reorganization Committee, unfunded mandates, and forced school consolidations and leave the funding up to the local constituents and allow God back into the schools. SULLIVAN: No response received. HEINEMAN: The State plays a key role in funding education. My budget fully funded state aid to education, increased special education funding by approximately 4.5% and expanded early childhood funding.
4. Ground and surface water has been over-appropriated in various drainage basins and now the state is faced with a shortfall of water owed Kansas as part of the settlement agreement reached several years ago. What are your short and long term plans for complying with the settlement agreement with Kansas? HAHN: We need to comply immediately with the Kansas water compact. I would also sign the Platte River Recovery program immediately. Nebraska also currently is owed water from the Colorado River in a similar compact with Colorado and Wyoming, and as governor I'd ensure we get that water. RICHARDS: Water, it’s very hard to live without but that doesn’t mean we have to abuse it when we have it. It is a fact that this level of pumping cannot continue. We must severely regulate water usage without paying Kansas or anybody else anything! We all own this water. SULLIVAN: No response received. HEINEMAN: Nebraska is working with Republican Basin NRDs and Bostwick Irrigation on a short-term strategy to release more water into Kansas for better compliance with the Interstate Compact. The State continues its work with the Water Policy Task Force and stakeholders on integrated management plans that value agriculture and our cities.
5. Under what circumstances would you agree to federalizing the Nebraska National Guard? HAHN: I believe that the Nebraska National Guard is here to protect Nebraskans, but in extraordinary circumstances like a natural disaster or an attack on our country, I would agree to federalizing our Guard. RICHARDS: The only way I would be willing to agree to federalizing our National Guard would be if America were invaded or was under attack. SULLIVAN: No response received. HEINEMAN: I support federalizing the Nebraska National Guard for purposes of national defense and national security. Currently, Nebraska National Guard soldiers are deployed in support of the war on terrorism and for security of the U.S.-Mexico border. |
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Salary: $12,000
District 4 PETE PIRSCH: 2315 Nelson’s Creek Drive, 68116. votepetepirsch.com. Criminal Prosecutor - City of Omaha. Married. Appointed by Governor Johanns to Nebraska Crime Commission, 2003-present. Elected Trustee, S.I.D., 2005-present. Law Degree, U.N.L.; M.B.A., U.N.O.; B.A.-Government, University Virginia. Volunteer Hours: Boyscouts; Big Brothers (7 years); Omaha Jaycees (10 years, established scholarships for Nebraska students); OBA Public Service Committee; Chamber of Commerce YPC; Central Alumni Board; Frequently Speak at Schools. TONY SORRENTINO: Age 52. 13295 Cuming St., 68154. votesorrentino2006.com. Principal, SilverStone Group. Married, 4 children. Creighton University (BSBA, 1976). Creighton University School of Law (JD, 1981). Volunteer Hours: President, Nebraska Leukemia/Lymphoma Society; Volunteer cross country coach, Marian High School.
District 6 LYNNE SARAFIAN ANDERSON: Age 61. 6626 Cuming St., 68132. LynneAnderson.com. Retired Nurse and small business owner (self employed). Married, 2 children. I have a BSN and MSN from Emory University in Atlanta, Ga. I have been active throughout my nursing career in the Nebraska Nursing Assoc; serving for 2 terms as President in Dist II. I served on Senator Bob Kerrey’s bi-partisan committee for Universal Health Insurance, am currently a member (word limit exceeded) JOHN E. NELSON: 6269 Glenwood Road, 68132. www.electjohnnelson.com. Attorney-at-Law - self-employed, sole practitioner. Married, 3 children. Chief Deputy Election Commissioner (1972-1980). B.A., UNL; J.D., Creighton Law School. U.S. Navy & Naval Reserve; Commander (SC) Ret. Volunteer Hours: Pro bono legal work, OBA--Lawyer Referral: 3-5 hours quarterly, Church Choir--4+ hours weekly; Church Boards – 5 hours monthly, Omaha Presbyterian Seminary Foundation—6-8 hours quarterly.
District 8 MARC KRAFT: Age 58. 601 North 51, 68132. Vote4Kraft.com. Owner/Operator Kraft Furniture. Married, 4 children. Omaha City Countil 1997-2005. BS in Math Creighton University. Volunteer Hours: With Youth groups, Cosmopolitan Club of Omaha; Whenever possible. TOM WHITE: Age 49. 2517 N. 55th Street, 68104. www.Whiteforlegislature.com. Attorney - White Wulff and Jorgensen Law Offices. Married, 2 children. JD -Creighton University School of Law 1983, BA History and Philosophy --Regis University 1979. Volunteer Hours: Pro bono legal services for civil rights groups, Nebraska Horse Association, Trail preparation, 4-H.
District 10 MIKE FRIEND: Age: 44. 4722 N. 81 St., 68134. Incumbent. Bus. Analyst - First National Bank. Married, 4 children. Nebraska Legislature 2005-2006. Creighton Univ, BZ. ROBERT WIMBERLEY: Age 24. 3615 North 113th Court, #5, 68164. www.vote4robw.com. Fundraising Consultant - Self-employed. Single, no children. UC Berkeley, BA in Political Science, BA in French. Volunteer Hours: Saturday mornings at the public library.
District 12 STEVE LATHROP: Age 48. 11818 Oakair Plaza, 68137. www.lathropforlegislature.com. Attorney - Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop. Divorced, 4 Children. Graduated from Creighton University Business College in 1979 and the School of Law in 1981. Since 1989 a partner at Hauptman, O’Brien. Past president of the Nebraska Association of Trial Attorneys. Volunteer activities include St. Gerald’s Men’s Club, RGSA, Mary Our Queen soccer and Nebraska Volunteer Lawyers Project, representing indigent Nebraskans. JEAN STOTHERT: Age 52. 5909 South 118th Plz., 68137. www.stothertforlegislature.com. R.N., Volunteer. Married, 2 children. Bd of Ed, Millard Public School: 2004-present; currently Vice President. Bd of Ed, Millard Public Schools; elected 1998, 2000, 2004; President 2003-2004. B.S. Nursing—Seattle Pacific Univ. Volunteer Hours: Univ Hospital Auxiliary; Faculty Women’s Club—UNMC; Project Extra Mile; Metro Area Boards of Education; Nebraska Assoc. School Boards; Nebraska Nurses Assoc; All Saints Episcopal Church.
District 18 MICK MINES: Age 56. www.mickmines.com. Incumbent. Vice President, HunTel Systems. Married, 2 children. Nebraska Legislature – 2003 to present. Mayor of Blair – 1994 to 2002. United States Naval Reserve Corp – E3. Blair Rotary Club – weekly. SCOTT R. YAHNKE: Age 55. 4414 N. 156 Ave Cir. 68116. scottyahnke.com. Occupation Realtor, CBS Home Real Estate Co. Married, 4 children. Trustee, S.I.D. 375 (Walnut Ridge subdivision), 2002-present. B.A., UNL, 1973; graduate studies in economics & urban education. Volunteer Hours: I serve on S.I.D. 375 on an unpaid, voluntary, elected basis.
District 20 BRAD ASHFORD: Age 56. 7926 Shirley St., 68124. www.bradashford.com. Exec Dir-OHA. Married, 3 children. Omaha Housing Authority Exec. Dir. 2004 to present; Board member—MECA (Qwest Center). Past Offices: Judge—Commission of Industrial Relations; State Senator 1987-1995; Chairman, OHA Board. Colgate Univ, BA, Phi Beta Kapa 1971; Creighton Univ School of Law. Volunteer Hours: 15-20 Community based nonprofits and MECA (Qwest Center) board. CAROL CASEY: 2506 S. 105 Ave. 68124. www.carolcaseyforlegislature.com. Self employed Management Consultant & licensed P&C Insurance Agent/Broker. Married, 9 children. Metro Tech – Assoc. Cert. in Landscape Design ’70; Randall School of Real Estate; numerous insurance, loss control and finance courses. Volunteer Hours: Current board member of the following non-profits: National Safety Council, Rockbrook Women’s Wellness, Christ the King Parish Council, Mercy High School – Have volunteered regularly for many years.
1. How can the state provide property tax relief while still maintaining essential programs and services? District 4 PIRSCH: As a homeowner with experience running a family business, my mission is to lower property taxes. We can deliver essential services by reducing wasteful spending and efficiencies through technology and shared services. We should increase sales revenue from non-Nebraskans through tourism, etc. Unfunded mandates to localities should be reduced. SORRENTINO: A thorough review of the public education budget (for which property taxes provide the majority of funding) is necessary. Steps to encourage economic growth will provide a greater base from which to extract revenue. Consider alternative sources of revenue for education expenses.
District 6 ANDERSON: A luxury sales tax on non essential items i.e. perfume, jewelry, candy, etc could ease the property tax burden. NELSON: To decrease property taxes, the state must provide more funding for public schools. This will require decreased spending on costly Corrections and Medicaid programs. This can be achieved by providing incentives for home-based and assisted living, and reducing prison population through creative alternative sentencing for non-violent offenders.
District 8 KRAFT: If we broaden the homestead exemption and allow an across the board $25,000 exemption for the first $25,000 of valuation we can make property taxes more progressive. We must also make sure funds are allocated properly to those services most deserving. With proper oversight and preventative maintenance we can save money. WHITE: There are a number of ways in which the state can provide property tax relief. These include: transferring some of the burden to other sources of revenue, increasing the homestead exemption, encouraging new industries and growth that would expand our tax base and create new jobs, and auditing all taxing (word limit exceeded)
District 10 FRIEND: A) Tax relief drives economic growth. Overall, economic growth makes our tax system more efficient and effective. B) We can always prioritize and look to cut or streamline in areas of non-essential services. C) Privitization of many government functions needs to be addressed—continually. WIMBERLEY: We need to look at our current tax incentives and bring them up to date with our current economic status. I believe too many corporations are getting a free ride at the expense of Nebraska’s taxpayers.
District 12 LATHROP: In order to provide property tax relief, it is essential that Nebraska increase its tax base. This requires that the State provide incentives to Nebraska businesses to expand and to outside businesses that will bring good paying jobs to Nebraska. Additional jobs will improve our economy and provide additional tax revenues. STOTHERT: The best way to provide property tax relief is to prioritize spending, cut waste and grow the economy. To truly relieve the tax burden, tax cuts must be sustainable. My goals are to focus on spending restraint and to increase efficiency and accountability in state government.
District 18 MINES: Property taxes are set by and for local government, i.e., K-12, cities, counties, etc. State aid to local government merely shifts cost to sales and income taxes and does not fix Nebraska’s status of a high-tax state. Only through merger and consolidation of local government can we reduce taxes. YAHNKE: I support a performance review of all state agencies, as well as programs, which receive state funding in order to determine the basis for tax relief. Human needs should come ahead of programs funded as a result of the influence of special interests. Also, we should look at ways to downsize (word limit exceeded)
District 20 ASHFORD: Property tax relief is a product of efficiency in government service on the local level, with reasonable and prudent appropriations of state aid. CASEY: Primary resource for funding education in Nebraska should be sales and income tax, not property tax. It would be a more fair and equitable way of funding. Shift the source of revenues and shift the costs accordingly. Essential programs and services can be maintained.
2. Would you support a change in Nebraska law that would allow social workers rather than law enforcement to determine whether children should be removed from homes where there is an allegation of child abuse or neglect? Why or why not?
District 4 PIRSCH: As a Criminal Prosecutor, I have handled hundreds of child abuse cases. Children represent the future of Nebraska: we can’t let one fall through the cracks. Both social workers and law enforcement should be able to remove children from grave and immediate danger with good cause and legal guidance. SORRENTINO: The determination as to whether a crime has been committed should not be delegated to social workers, in place of law enforcement officials. Social workers should be incorporated into the process of dealing with the resolution of family issues if neglect or abuse is alleged.
District 6 ANDERSON: Social workers are the better alternative due to their education; however, police officers should retain the responsibility if a social worker is not immediately available and the child’s life or health is at risk. NELSON: The welfare of children is paramount; I would consider supporting change which allows social workers to make this determination. Their training and experience should enable them to evaluate whether the allegation of abuse or neglect is valid. However, law enforcement officers should still be allowed to make such a determination.
District 8 KRAFT: Yes, provided that the law is properly written so that law enforcement can still take care of the emergencies and that trained, knowledgeable social workers are called in within a very short time frame. Sometimes there is need for immediate action. Law enforcement and Social Workers need to work together. WHITE: No, not until evidence of sufficient training and standards are in place.
District 10 FRIEND: * This needs to be a situation where law enforcement and social services work collaboratively. *Both organizations have a wealth of experience in dealing with these issues. This should be looked at as a positive—organizations working together with the child’s best interest at the forefront. WIMBERLEY: Social workers and law enforcement alike have a child’s best interest at heart. Neither side should have a sole say. Law enforcement needs to maintain its ability to make an immediate on-site decision to act promptly for the child’s welfare.
District 12 LATHROP: I support a change in the law which would have trained social workers primarily responsible for the decision to remove children from a home. Any change in the law must still permit law enforcement to remove a child where the child’s safety is an immediate concern. STOTHERT: I support a partnership between social workers and law enforcement. Recognizing that many of these situations are dangerous, my top priority would be assuring the safety of the child and the social worker.
District 18 MINES: Yes, if those social workers who determine the fate of children are properly trained and held accountable in statute. YAHNKE: Either or both law enforcement and social workers should be allowed to determine whether a child should be removed.
District 20 ASHFORD: Law enforcement must be first line of defense against child abuse. Social workers perform an essential role but not without the active involvement of law enforcement. CASEY: I would support it. Social workers are trained to judge the situation and needs. Law enforcement and social workers should work together, providing expertise in assessing situations and enforcement support to implement necessary protection.
3. What role should the state play in providing equitable funding and resources for all public school students in Nebraska?
District 4 PIRSCH: Education is extremely important. The state should play a leading role ensuring equitable funding for all students, regardless of school district attendance. Everyone’s interest is served when all children have the opportunity to obtain a quality education. Our children are the next generation of workers and leaders in Nebraska. SORRENTINO: The Nebraska Constitution calls for the State to fund public education from the K-12 level. A balancing of State provided funds and personal property taxes is necessary for equitable funding, along with consideration for “extraordinary” expenses for certain school students.
District 6 ANDERSON: The state should provide funding and resources to all public schools in Ne in order to provide an equitable learning experience. NELSON: The state legislature should find a better way of funding our public schools. This may require complete revamping of our tax structure. The state must insure that funds are properly allocated to meet higher costs of districts with special needs programs and/or large minority student concentrations.
District 8 KRAFT: All our children, regardless of where they live or their economic status, deserve a quality education. The state should make sure that this happens regardless of the special needs and financial difficulties a city or school district may be facing. By providing quality education we plan for the future. WHITE: The state must play a pivotal role because the Constitution places the burden of providing an appropriate education on the state government, not on local governmental subdivisions. We must change the state aid to education formula to make schools less reliant on property taxes.
District 10 MIKE FRIEND: * A solid role. I believe we are constitutionally mandated to provide equitable funding. * We should also, as taxpayers, be able to expect, and demand, results that can be effectively measured. WIMBERLEY: The state needs to increase its share of public school funding from only 37% to closer to 50%. The state also needs to take into consideration the needs of schools, such as special education, second language learning and AP classes.
District 12 LATHROP: While I opposed the OPS attempt to take over the patrons of the Ralston and Millard School Districts, it is important that all children, regardless of where they live, receive the same high quality education. The State must continue to provide aid to school districts to equalize resources among districts. STOTHERT: The Legislature is responsible to see that school funding is fair; not only to the students, but also to the taxpayers and that funds are adequate and equitable and guarantee a high quality education. This is done through a combination of state and local revenue sources.
District 18 MINES: Nebraska’s state aid formula does provide equitable funding YAHNKE: If an Omaha-area learning community is to come completely to fruition, careful attention needs to be paid to ensure allocation of funding to all entities involved. Also, no matter where a child attends school in Nebraska, every child should have the opportunity to obtain a quality education. Therefore, the (word limit exceeded)
District 20 ASHFORD: State has for 20 years made significant contributions to funding public schools. This commitment should continue based on factors of need established by experts and citizens in a collaborative environment. CASEY: The State Legislature has the responsibility for providing funding and resources to educate all persons between the ages of five and twenty-one years, mandated by the state’s constitution. The school finance system must be fair and adequate. Disparities among schools and funding exist and must be eliminated.
4. Do you favor using state general funds to reimburse irrigators for not irrigating, asking irrigators to pay a conservation fee to help mitigate costs of regulation, or some other way to fund the cost of managing and preserving Nebraska's water supply? Explain.
District 4 PIRSCH: I oppose using state general funds in a way that will lead to tax increases for Nebraskans. However, the state has not historically properly regulated water usage, and the state will have to play a role in solving the present problem so that our agricultural economy is not harmed. SORRENTINO: Nebraska’s water supply is a Statewide concern, not just a rural Nebraska concern. A conservation fee for irrigators may be prudent if not punitive in amount, however, the State must play a role in preserving the water supply as well.
District 6 ANDERSON: Managing Nebraska’s water supply is a shared responsibility for all residents of our state in coordination with those whose livelihood depends on irrigation. Professors at UNL have plants that use less water and are more productive for the production of ethanol. I support research and transition to less water intense crops. NELSON: I believe we need a combination which compensates farmers who agree not to irrigate and requires that those who do irrigate pay a conservation fee. Preserving our state’s water supply and our farm economy is essential, so all Nebraska taxpayers should contribute toward these future costs.
District 8 KRAFT: Our farm community makes up a large percentage of our state economy. There is not one right solution. The solution will be by compromise in the legislature that will probably call for a combination of some contribution for the general fund, some irrigation fees and other funds. WHITE: The State mishandled the negotiation of the water compacts in the first instance, and then further mishandled the resolution of the lawsuits brought to enforce those compacts, thereby placing an inequitable hardship on farmers. In fairness the State must participate in alleviating that hardship. It’s important that we bring people together (word limit exceeded)
District 10 FRIEND: Haven’t come to a determination yet. *I will not support reimbursing irrigators with gen. fund money. WIMBERLEY: I don’t like the idea of paying people for not doing their jobs. I believe a conservation fee will provide a beneficial yet short-term solution. We need a long-term solution that won’t be another burden left for our children.
District 12 LATHROP: I would be reluctant to use state general funds to pay irrigators not to irrigate. The primary cost of the water used by irrigators should be shouldered by those who use this natural resource. STOTHERT: Water is an important state asset and plays a vital role in our economy. I support economic incentives to encourage stewardship of the resources by individual land owners. I believe effective, efficient use and management of water will produce sustainable social, economic and environmental benefits.
District 18 MINES: I could support a plan whereby irrigator’s wells are metered and they pay for the water they use. YAHNKE: I think that, in the long range, we will regret that folks have expanded row crop agriculture into the sandhills. I thought we may have learned from the experiences of those who tried to homestead in the sandhills in the 1800’s, only to learn that one needs his own source (word limit exceeded)
District 20 ASHFORD: All of the above should be considered. We must have a timely plan for allocation of water resources which includes all 93 counties. Urban areas must be part of the solution and citizens in the eastern part of the state must better educated on the options. CASEY: I am not familiar enough with this issue to give a thorough answer. I am open to listening to and weighing pros and cons. |
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Salary: $65,000
Democrat JAY C. STODDARD: Age 74. 1810 West Charles St., Grand Island 68803. J. C. Stoddard Enterprise - Self-employed. Married, 3 children. 2nd Associate Chair of State Democratic Party 2001-2006. Past offices: Grand Island Public School Board—President Gates P.T.A., Boy Scouts Board and Scoutmaster. Certified watchmaker, Kearney State Teachers College (UNK). Volunteer Hours: I have volunteered: Red Cross Board, Salvation Army and St. Stephens Church Choir and Vestry. Green DOUG PATERSON: No response received. Republican JOHN A. GALE: Age 65. 5040 Valley Rd, Lincoln 68510. Incumbent. Secretary of State – Nebraska. Married, 3 children. Secretary of State, appointed 12/18/00 until 1/1/03. Elected Nov, 2002 for term 1/1/05 until 1/1/07. B.A., Carleton College, Northfield, Minn 1962. J.D. University of Chicago Law School, Chicago, Ill 1965. Volunteer Hours: Nebraskaland Foundation, quarterly meetings. Boys State Board of Directors, semi annual meetings. Speaking to college classes & service clubs about democracy.
1. What specific actions would you take to encourage more Nebraskans to register and vote? STODDARD: We must inspect—and have voting machines checked by inspectors (recorded)—also initiate new law to provide “availability of manual hand re-counting” if necessary. (Not just run through same machine) PATERSON: No response received. GALE: Use federal grants to help non-profit groups to promote registration; continue youth voter training programs such as Mock Student Election; honor poll workers and frequent voters; develop more options for voters such as satellite voting, early voting, and mail-in only ballot precincts in rural areas; create more civic outreach programs.
2. How will you insure the integrity of electronic voting machines in Nebraska? STODDARD: By having RABA technologies security experts check our voting machines ES&S to make certain the machine can not be hacked. (Diebold was removed from Maryland) PATERSON: No response received. GALE: Nebraska’s election system continues to be based upon paper ballots, not electronic digital votes, so the danger of lost votes from malfunction, or fraudulent digital tally of votes is minimal. Objectives: solid training of poll workers, testing tabulating equipment before election and retaining the paper ballots in case of contests.
3. Under what circumstances do you think a convicted felon should be pardoned? STODDARD: The felon should meet requirements to be pardoned. (by serving time required). It would be important to me that felon have some arrangements for possible job—and family support. We just build more jails—without solution. We must do better. PATERSON: No response received. GALE: At least 10 years since discharge without further criminal history, and some evidence of rehabilitation such as family life, employment, community service; felony crimes such as drug distribution, rape or sexual assault, motor vehicle homicide, physical or sexual assault of children should be viewed more strictly before pardon is granted. |
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Salary: $60,000
Independent JOHN H. GATHINGS: Age 25. 54138 874 Rd. Wausa, 68786. Nebraskaparty.org. Livestock Production. Single. Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences, UNL, 2002. Volunteer Hours: Faith Hope and Love Fellowship Church, Creighton, teaching for Club, weekly.
Republican SHANE OSBORN: Age 32. 6246 N 157th Avenue Circle, 68116. www.osbornfortreasurer.com. Aviation Risk Services - SilverStone Group. Attended UNL on an ROTC Scholarship. Received B.S. in Mathematics, with an emphasis in Statistics and Actuarial Science, in 1996. U.S. Navy, 1996-2005; Lt. Commander; Awarded Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement in flight. Volunteer Hours: Spends time giving motivational speeches and fundraising for numerous charities and nonprofit organizations.
1. How could you improve the efficiency of the collection and disbursement of child support funds? GATHINGS: Making sure things are done promptly. OSBORN: Communications with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Systems is key. Turnaround time needs to be minimal. Awareness is another important issue. Currently, Nebraska has millions of dollars in uncollected child support and we need to make citizens and employers aware that this is a serious matter.
2. Explain your plans to invest state assets to achieve both growth and safety. GATHINGS: To look at many options, so that investments are done efficiently. OSBORN: The Nebraska Investment Council currently has an investment return of 1.0% during the last year. With no tracking system to monitor how long funds may be invested before needed, I propose working with the State Accounting officer and the Investment Council to determine which funds to invest long term, in order to increase the overall investment return.
3. If elected, what would be your top three priorities in office? Why? GATHINGS: 1. To put the Lord first, without Him, I cannot do a thing. 2. To be honest and use integrity in the job, to serve the people of Nebraska. 3. Proper disbursement of state funds. OSBORN: 1. Bring integrity, trust and leadership to the office. 2. Work to increase participation in the Nebraska College Savings Plan, ensuring that more than 7% of eligible Nebraskans are involved in this excellent investment program. 3. Work to increase the rate of return on state funds through the Nebraska Investment Council.
Salary: $60,000
Democrat KATE WITEK: Age 51. 5179 South 147th Circle, 68137. Incumbent. State Auditor of Public Accounts - State of Nebraska. Married, 2 children. State Auditor of Public Accounts, Elected/1998, ReElected/2002. State Senator, District 31, Elected/1992, ReElected/1996. Bellevue University; Graduate Fall 2007. Volunteer Hours: National State Auditor Association / Chairman, Excellence in Accountability Committee. National State Auditors, Comptrollers and Treasurers (NASACT) hosted 2006 Annual Conference, Chairman / Program Committee. Regularly speak to various groups about government finance. (word limit exceeded)
Green STEVE LARRICK: Age 54. 920 S. 8th, Lincoln 68508. www.nebraskagreens.org. Community Development Consultant - Contract work. Married, 1 child. Currently finishing first four-year term as an elected director of the Lower Platte South Natural Resource District. Running unopposed for second term. Ran the All-Nebraska Community Program for four years. Administered Nebraska’s Urban Community Improvement Program (UCIP), working with neighborhood associations across the state (1990-2003). Bachelors degree in economics from Grinnell (word limit exceeded)
Independent KELLY RENEE ROSBERG: Age 38. Wausa. Sales specialist - Self Employed Sales Consultant. Married. 2 years of business classes. Volunteer Hours: At church.
Republican MIKE FOLEY: No response received.
1. What can a state auditor do to assure citizens of Nebraska that their state money is being used efficiently and appropriately? WITEK: A) Be responsive to citizen concerns- The auditors office provides a hotline for citizens to report suspected government fraud, waste and abuse. B) Be responsive to state and local officials who may require the assistance of the Auditor of Public Accounts office for investigations, audits or information. C) Hire and train professional staff. LARRICK: |