The return of a crisp autumn breeze brings out the best in our state’s legendary work ethic, none more so than in Southeast Nebraska. Harvest crews are sprinting to finish their tasks before the dry weather breaks, road and construction crews are putting in hours to finish projects before the winter freeze, CNS and outage workers are kicking off Outage, and first responders and TSCI teammates are on duty around the clock to keep us all safe. The peaceful autumn breeze is not an invitation to stand still but rather a steady drumbeat to guide the buzz of labor in our region.

Those working overtime in this season aren’t alone. Families adjust to tough schedules, and kids learn to help wherever they can. Growing up, my sisters and I knew another outage at Cooper meant our Dad would be at work twelve hours per day, six days a week, for at least a few months. Throw in daily commute and security time; we’d be lucky to see Dad before Christmas. Every kid whose parents work long hours knows the drill- don’t expect to see your parent in the stands for every single game, help with the chores, and take a moment to appreciate the hard work your parent is doing to keep people safe/keep the lights on/keep harvest moving.

Hard work is woven into the fabric of Southeast Nebraska. While many parts of our country have strayed far from the pioneering spirit that laid the foundation for the American Dream to thrive, you will still find plenty of it in our little slice of heaven. May God Bless the hands at work this season and those who keep things moving at home.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

There have been many discussions about calling for a special session in the Nebraska Legislature to address how our state allocates its electoral votes. Unlike other states, Nebraska does not use a “winner-take-all” method to allocate its electoral votes in presidential elections. Instead, Nebraska divides its electoral votes by congressional district, resulting in a divided voice on the national stage.

As I have consistently stated, I strongly endorse the winner-take-all system. It’s time to simplify Nebraska’s electoral process and ensure our state speaks with a single, impactful voice. In April, I introduced the winner-take-all concept through an amendment to a Government Committee bill (LB 1300). My goal was simple: to ensure that Nebraska’s position in presidential elections is not just strong, but also clear and influential.

With talks of a special session, we have another chance. Governor Jim Pillen has expressed his full support for reviving winner-take-all. In a recent statement, he said: “I strongly support statewide unity and joining the 48 other states by awarding all five of our electoral college votes to the presidential candidate who wins the majority of Nebraskans’ votes.” Governor Pillen has made it clear: he is willing to call a special session to address the issue before the 2024 election- provided we can secure 33 votes in the Legislature to overcome a filibuster.

Currently, only Nebraska and Maine divide their electoral votes by district. The current system does not reflect Nebraska’s true voice and gives undue influence to a single congressional district.

As we look ahead, support for winner-take-all is growing, but we must work together, united, to secure the 33 votes required. The path forward is clear. It is time for Nebraska to speak with one voice in presidential elections, just like the rest of the country. I commend Governor Pillen’s leadership on this issue, and I am ready to cast my vote for winner-take-all. We will see if the necessary votes come together, and I am optimistic that if we come together, we can get this done for Nebraskans.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

Fall is just around the corner, and District 1 has an exciting lineup of activities and events that showcase the greatest of our local communities. Everyone can find something to enjoy this fall, from apple-picking to parades. Check out some upcoming activities, and make sure to mark your calendar!

Richardson County Fair & Humboldt Fall Festival (September 11-14)
“Rooted in Tradition,” the Richardson County Fair & Humboldt Fall Festival is a community event that hosts a wide range of events and activities. In addition to the daily parades, carnival rides, food vendors, and live entertainment, the festival begins with the coronation of the Fair King and Queen. It is a wonderful way to get into the seasonal spirit while supporting local businesses.

AppleJack Festival (September 20-29)
Celebrate the apple harvest at Nebraska City’s AppleJack Festival, one of the biggest fall festivities in Nebraska: parades, vendor fairs, a carnival, and the infamous Downtown Cider Stroll. Take a break from shopping with arts and crafts while indulging in apple-themed treats such as cider donuts and pies. This is a family-friendly event that you will not want to miss!

Brownville Fall Flea Market (September 28-29)
A beloved local tradition, the Brownville Fall Flea Market attracts over 200 vendors selling food, crafts, antiques, and more! Enjoy the delightful small-town atmosphere while shopping for one-of-a-kind items. This is the ideal fall expedition to support small businesses, as vendors will be set up throughout Main Street and surrounding areas.

Trail of Treasures (October 4-6)
The Trail of Treasures is located along Heritage Highway 136 and is a great place to discover antiques and collectibles. This 238-mile stretch of yard sales extends from Brownville to Edison, plus another 135 miles to the Colorado State Line, encompassing 17 counties. It is the perfect opportunity to take a scenic drive and discover hidden gems while promoting our towns and businesses!

Oh, and remember to catch some Peru State University games this fall. Whether you’re in the stands or just tuning in from home – Go ‘Cats!

If we want our communities to continue to thrive, we must support local events and businesses. When we invest in our neighbors, we pave the way for more prosperity, sustainability, and pride in the places we call home. This fall, attend these fantastic events to show your support – your participation and support will go a long way! As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

The special legislative session has indeed presented us with numerous challenges. However, I am delighted to report that we have made a positive step forward in our ongoing efforts to reform property taxes in Nebraska.

During this special session, we passed LB 34, LB 2, and LB 3, which will provide new property tax relief. This outcome is far from the transformative tax reform that many of us – including myself – hoped for, but it is half a step towards improvement from where we started.

Governor Jim Pillen came into this special session with a proposal that would have imposed the largest tax increase in Nebraska’s history. From that starting point, we could negotiate new caps on government spending and redirect existing funds to provide tax relief – all without raising taxes. The fact that there are no tax increases is vital here as I am opposed to any new taxes, especially when it is just the government taking money out of one pocket to put it in the other and pretending it is doing something beneficial. As a fiscal conservative, I believe Nebraskans should keep more of their hard-earned money because, frankly, the government is not the most efficient steward of your resources – you are.

One of the most controversial aspects of this proposal also included Governor Jim Pillen’s initial proposal to take over local K-12 educational funding at the state level. Education funding makes up a substantial portion of Nebraskan’s property tax bills. While the idea of the state footing the bill might sound appealing, this plan did not have measures in place for it to be implemented effectively. Without a solid plan, we would have been left with a pipe dream that could have resulted in increased costs, school consolidations, and actual overall losses for Nebraskans, especially in our rural areas. I am grateful that the Legislature did not pursue this dangerous proposal. If the Governor or Legislature intends to pursue this in the future, it must be done with a much more careful and considered approach to ensure the security of our educational system and our taxpayers.

Regarding the cuts and transfers in LB 2 and LB 3, these were overall victories. These bills cut state spending and redirected those funds to property tax relief. To me, this is important because at the heart of every tax crisis is a government spending crisis. Nebraska has the 6th highest tax burden per capita in the nation – property, income, and sales tax combined. Until we seriously address government spending and cap its growth, we will continue to put band-aids on bullet wounds. While these bills do not go nearly far enough, they are steps in the right direction.

Looking ahead, I remain optimistic. Some of the ideas proposed by various senators have helped lay the groundwork for further discussions in January. While I announced earlier this year that I will not seek re-election, I am committed to continuing to advocate for meaningful tax reform and relief during my remaining time in office. As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

This week, we come together to honor and remember the life and service of Sergeant White Spotswood Goings, Jr., a true hero from our district.

White Spotswood Goings, Jr., known as “Junior,” was born on August 29, 1919, as the youngest of nine children to White S. And Ella Goings on their family farm south of Peru. He graduated from Peru Training High School in 1937 and pursued higher education at Peru State Training College for two years before answering the call of duty.

Junior joined the Army Air Corps in March of 1940 and served in the 93rd Bombardment Squadron stationed on the island of Luzon in the Philippines at Clark Field. His squadron was part of the U.S. military’s efforts to reinforce defenses in response to growing tensions with Japan. On the fateful day of December 7, 1941, while waiting for reinforcements, Junior’s unit at Clark Field faced a devastating attack by Japanese forces, coinciding with the attack on Pearl Harbor. The relentless raids led to severe losses and significant challenges.

Despite the adversities, Junior’s unit continued their mission. On December 29, 1941, a majority of his squadron relocated to Australia, but Junior’s unit moved to the Bataan Peninsula to defend against the advancement of Japan. After enduring months of conflict, the U.S. troops surrendered, and Junior, along with many others, became a prisoner of war. By the summer of 1942, he was among those at Camp Cabanatuan, where he tragically passed away on July 19, 1942. He was only 22.

Now, 82 years later, Junior’s remains have been identified through the dedicated efforts of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. Last Friday, he was buried at the Glenrock Cemetery near Brock, Nebraska.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by Sgt. White S. Goings, Jr., and remember his unwavering dedication to our nation.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509-4604; telephone 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

There’s always a temptation in government to overcomplicate issues needlessly. Maybe it
makes politicians feel more intelligent, maybe others hope by layering issues they can “hide the
ball” from voters and deflect blame. Either way, our Nebraska Legislature is staring down a
special session full of overcomplications. One of my high school volleyball coaches put it best:
Keep It Simple, Stupid.

Over the last month, details of the Governor’s plan for special session have leaked. While it
remains unclear what his final plan will be, there will be a few simple tenets that guide my
approach to this issue:

1. I take orders from District 1 and no one else.
2. Our district’s biggest political threat is a tax crisis that kills growth and forces
property taxpayers (especially farmers) to carry a disproportionate burden to
keep our rural schools open. In short: Taxes are too damn high.
3. Any proposal must directly benefit taxpayers in Southeast Nebraska to earn my
support.
4. Our schools better serve our communities when decision-making is on a local
level, not in Lincoln.
5. A government spending crisis is at the root of every tax crisis. Any tax cut plan
must include spending cuts (especially on a state level) to be sustainable in the
long term.
6. See #1.

You might have seen me calling out Governor Pillen’s draft plan online, pointing out issues with
his math (he’s off by $1 billion, at least), questioning his motives when it appears his proposal
would only cut taxes for the wealthiest landowners in the state, and hammering home my
support for working Nebraskans. The stakes of this special session are far too high for me to sit
quietly on the sidelines while billions of dollars in tax relief could be squandered. We have the
chance to make a generationally positive difference for Nebraska taxpayers. I’ll be bringing my
own proposal, as will other senators. Hopefully, we’ll be able to debate these proposals
alongside the Governor’s plan.

You have my word that I’ll be fighting for you, the taxpayers of District 1, every step of the way.
I’ll honestly share my thoughts with you and put in the extra hours of prep work to ensure our
district has a seat at the table for long-term, sustainable tax relief.

Let’s keep it simple, shall we?

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and
Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at
Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509-4604;
telephone 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

As Independence Day approaches, it is a time for our communities to come together and celebrate the birth of our great nation. This day is not just about fireworks and barbecues; it is a time to reflect on the freedoms we cherish and the sacrifices by those who came before us.

Our local celebrations are a testament to the spirit and gratitude of our community. In Nebraska City, you can find a family-friendly celebration including a parade, live music, cornhole, food vendors and a fireworks display. Meanwhile, Brownville hosts its annual 4th of July celebration with a freedom run, a dog show, a parade, and plenty of food and music, ending the day with a fireworks display.

In addition to these events, keep in mind that there may be other gatherings in our community. Every neighborhood feels the energy of Independence Day as families and friends get together to honor our nation’s history and values.

As we celebrate this Fourth of July, let us remember the things that unite us as Americans. I hope your Independence Day is full of joy and pride, whether you’re spending it with family, going to an event, or simply enjoying the fireworks.

I also want to extend a big thank you to those who serve our country every single day- our military personnel, first responders and our healthcare workers. Your dedication and service keeps us safe and healthy and we are incredibly grateful for your contributions. It is because of your commitment that we are able to celebrate this Fourth of July in peace and security.

Wishing you all a safe and happy Independence Day! As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509-4604; telephone 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

Did you get your new property tax valuations in the last week or so? Me too.

Let’s talk about it in this week’s column.

There are two parts of your property tax bill: your property’s valuation and the levee at which your local taxing entities can set their tax rate.

Your valuation is based on the market value of your home. The state requires residential property to be valued by the assessor at 92-100% of market value. Some argue that people purchasing homes or farmland above market value are artificially inflating the market, causing us all to pay higher taxes. There’s something to that, sure, but it’s far from the whole story.

Valuations aren’t the key part of this puzzle. As a conservative Republican, I generally demand the government stay out of the free market, especially when it comes to private property. If you are of the belief that property valuations are more of a reflection of the free market, then there’s one other place to turn to explain high property taxes: levees.

Nebraska prides itself on local control, especially when it comes to funding things like schools, cities, NRDs, etc. The state does not collect any property tax. Your property tax rates are set by local elected officials (like school board members, NRD reps, and city council members) under the belief that you can have more day-to-day contact with your local elected official to demand more transparency when it comes to where your tax dollars are being spent. Yes, it’s an imperfect system riddled with state and federal unfunded mandates, but overall- it makes sense. Your neighbor, or you, for that matter, should probably know the needs of your community better than some guy pushing papers in Lincoln or D.C.

However, the system only works if elected officials are held accountable. For far too long, too many people have divorced their high taxes from where their dollars are going and the elected officials who decide those rates. Local control only benefits the community and the taxpayers if the local elected officials are responsive to the concerns of taxpayers.

Pointing vaguely in the direction of Lincoln and shouting, “It’s the state’s fault!’ does not cut it when your local elected officials are the ones making the call on your tax rates. It rings especially hollow when you consider the billions in federal and state tax dollars poured into covering extra COVID costs for local entities and, on the state side, to fund local entities so they cut property taxes.

If your property valuation went up this year and your local taxing entities did not proportionately drop their levee to cover the increase, they raised your property taxes. It’s okay to reach out to your local elected officials and ask, “Why?” It’s their job to work for you! Perhaps they have a good reason. Maybe they don’t. That’s up to you, as a voter, to decide.

The system of local control only works when there is accountability.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

Last week’s primary elections came and went, with the top vote-getters advancing to the November elections. Thank you to our poll workers and election officials who serve and protect our free and fair elections. Thank you, as well, to those whose road to the November elections ended on Tuesday night. Putting your name in the public square to stand for election takes courage and commitment to service, regardless of the outcome.

Turnout was not as high as projected by the Secretary of State’s office- perhaps thanks to the lack of many competitive primaries outside of more local races. Since both Dennis Schaardt and Bob Hallstrom advanced to the November elections to represent Southeast Nebraska in our Legislature, I’ve been asked several times if I’ll be making an endorsement in the race. I won’t be endorsing either Bob or Dennis for several reasons- most importantly because I think they’d both do a solid job of representing District 1 in Lincoln.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned during my campaign in 2020 came from a higher-ranking elected official who graciously refused to endorse either candidate in my race because the official had positive relationships with each candidate. It’s always a bit of a disappointment to be turned down, but the message attached to the rejection stuck with me.

“While I appreciate you and your opponent reaching out for my support, I find myself in the awkward position of hoping both of you somehow emerge with a win in November. I know whichever one of you works the hardest, consistently provides a listening ear to constituents, and best outlines your vision for your region will walk away victorious. My endorsement (or lack thereof) probably won’t tip the scales much and shouldn’t stand in the real work of earning the votes of your constituents.”

I embraced that message wholeheartedly by knocking 15,000 doors and hosting events in every town across our district, even outside of election years. I hope to have a positive relationship with whoever finds themselves getting sworn in at the Legislature next January. Looking at the splits from primary night, it seems like it will be a competitive race. Both candidates have a lifetime of experience and service in Southeast Nebraska. Both know how our state government works. Both also have clearly defined visions for their representation of District 1.

Dennis and Bob are both strong candidates to represent our district- in my mind, at least. My prayer is that whoever emerges victorious in November- in any election on your ballot- works to earn your vote and serve their future constituents selflessly and tirelessly.

Serving as your state senator for six years has been the privilege of a lifetime. You’ll be in good hands with either Bob or Dennis as your next representative in Lincoln.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.

Father Time caught up with our 108th Legislature in dramatic fashion on April 18, with LB 1402 (a bill to empower parents to choose the school of their choice for their child, regardless of income) passing with 33 votes and Governor Pillen’s tax shift bill, LB 388, running out of steam before the finish line.

LB 388, promised by some as a “magic bullet” for fixing our tax system, faced strong opposition from fiscal conservatives immediately. Among other complaints, LB 388 would have only cut property taxes for those failing to note that they are property owners on their tax returns, definitions of new taxes on “pop and candy” would have forced Mom & Pop grocery stores to hire compliance officers, and the bill’s numbers were kept afloat by an unconstitutional tax on digital advertising. The only other state to pass this digital ad tax, Maryland, is buried under dozens of lawsuits and has been forced to pay back the taxes collected with interest.

There’s a big difference between passing a bill you claim to provide tax relief and actually cutting taxes. LB 388 was never properly calibrated to provide structural property tax relief. It was the equivalent of treating someone with a bullet wound to their leg with a Band-Aid on their pinkie.

Never mind the biggest problem of all: Nebraska’s high taxes come from a spending addiction not addressed in LB 388. Nebraska has the 6th highest taxes per capita in the country. LB 388 would have been a net tax increase with flimsy (if any) new spending controls. After watching his plan fail, Governor Pillen challenged the Legislature to come back in a special session with new proposals.

I’m game for it. Here’s my plan:
1. Cut spending.
2. Broaden the sales tax base to eliminate exemptions unfairly picking winners and losers AND cut the overall sales tax rate. Any revenue left over should go directly towards property tax cuts.
3. Remove obsolete unfunded mandates which add costs to our local government. Governor Pillen estimates over 20% of local government costs could be cut by simply trimming the fat of unfunded mandates. Let’s start there.
4. If the state government is going to provide local taxing entities with money intended to cut taxes, those funds should be used to cut taxes dollar-for-dollar with no exceptions.
5. Provide more foundation aid to our rural schools, but again under the directive that it’s used for dollar-for-dollar tax cuts.
6. Cut spending.

I’m ready to present real property tax relief solutions in a special session. Nebraskans are some of the most over-taxed people in the country, while the state government adds insult to injury with out-of-control spending and hollow proposals like LB 388.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.