The start of a new year brings with it a feeling of hope and promise as the national, state, and local economies continue to flourish. New jobs and new opportunities abound for Nebraska citizens. We are gaining population and making headway retaining more of our talented young professionals here at home when they enter the workforce.

However, our state is not without its challenges.

In January, the Nebraska State Legislature convened it’s 104th session to address issues like prison reform, income and property tax rates, and unfunded state mandates passed down to cities and counties.

For the first time in nearly a decade a new chief executive begins to shape state policy through the state budget. Governor Pete Ricketts won the seat with a no-nonsense approach to rural and agriculture issues.  A former executive with TD Ameritrade, Ricketts is a businessman who brings a new energy to the office. The Governor has maintained that his number one priority will be to lower the property taxes paid by Nebraskans to their local cities, counties, and school districts.  In addition to property tax relief, he has also stressed the need to control state spending in a measured way and strengthen our educational system.

The consensus he is able to build with State Senators will be the key to a successful session.

For its part, the legislature welcomes 18 new senators to its ranks. A political analysis of the composition of the new legislature says the body will lean toward a more fiscally conservative and reform-minded view than their predecessors. It will be worth watching how this effects the overall direction of debate.

Lincoln is represented by three of the 18 new senators:  Patty Pansing-Brooks in District #28; Matt Hansen in District #26; and Adam Morfeld in District #46.

Throughout the 90-day session, look for the Lincoln Chamber to call on you for your support for various measures. Our Public Policy team will be at the Capitol representing you each day the unicameral is in session and we will advocate tirelessly on your behalf for policies that support business growth.  Your voice as a business leader can and must be heard.  Watch for action alerts from the Lincoln Chamber.  When one comes across your in-box, reach out to your senator and help them help you.

Thanks, and see you next month.


by Wendy Birdsall, President
Lincoln Chamber or Commerce
402-436-2350
www.lcoc.com


LCOC New Members


Brown Brothers Construction, Inc.

Brown Brothers Construction, Inc. is owned by Ray and Jared Brown. Brown Brothers Construction, Inc. provides commercial and industrial remodeling, additions, and new construction services. Specializing in office remodels and tenant improvements, we have been in business for eight years with 30 years of combined experience. Each of our clients gets the one-on-one attention they deserve because we believe that our customers are our greatest asset and we will not settle for less than 100% satisfaction. Contact us today for an estimate. We provide quality work at affordable prices. For more information about Brown Brothers Construction, Inc., call us at (402) 432-0808 for Ray and (402) 304-6201 for Jared.


All About Family

All About Family is now providing services to residents in Lancaster County, including Lincoln and surrounding communities, in addition to those in Cass and Otoe County.  The new company is owned by registered nurse Stephanie Petersen, and will offer non-medical services that assist seniors in living at home for as long as possible.  Services include personal cares and companionship, transportation for errands and special occasions, and general handyman tasks including maintenance and repairs.  The company’s unique model allows clients to design their own needs during an initial assessment, followed by regular evaluation as needs increase. All About Family caregivers are dedicated, loyal, family oriented, and are matched with each client through a specialized assessment system. For more information about All About Family and the services that the company has to offer, please contact owner Stephanie Petersen directly at (402) 269-8079 or via email at AllAboutFamily14@gmail.com.


The Chamber’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together.  Networking opportunities, business advocacy, and creating economic viability are critical to our success.  We encourage you to become a member and help us achieve these goals for Lincoln.  For more information, please contact our Membership Director, Kristin Holmes, kholmes@lcoc.com.