EXPLAINER: What you should know about the six bond issues on Omaha’s November ballot

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - The six bonds on the November ballot are related to city improvements.

If approved, the money will go towards city parks, renovating metro streets and bridges.

As well as funding public safety and facility projects like a new police precinct, fire station, and expanding the CHI Health Center.

“These are the sweet spots of what a city is supposed to do and to that point these are the items we have to do,” Stephen Curtiss, Omaha Finance Director, said.

Curtiss said each bond issue will have a description telling you how much the bond is and what the money will go towards. He said it’s important to read each description carefully, as the legal language may be confusing.

He also emphasized that none of the bonds will raise taxes.

“We’re retiring bonds at the same rate we’re bringing bonds on and that’s why they’re no new taxes for these general obligation bonds that are on the ballot," Curtiss said.

Mayor Jean Stothert reiterated taxes will remain the same and said it’s important to get out and vote.

“People want their city in good shape and we feel like we manage it very very carefully so that we can put these bonds out for a vote and say all of this will happen once these pass, but your taxes will not increase to pay for it,” Stothert said.

While the bonds won’t raise taxes, Curtiss does say if they don’t pass the city may not have a choice but to potentially raise the levy tax rate.

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