Housing isn’t just about having a roof over your head. It’s about dignity, security, and opportunity. But far too many families in Omaha are forced to live in conditions that no one should have to endure.

You’ve seen the headlines about City View. You’ve seen the images. It was a tragedy that never should have happened. But let me be clear. City View is just the tip of the iceberg. There are properties just like it in every district of Omaha quietly waiting to become the next crisis.

That’s why before I left the City Council, I fought to introduce and pass a landlord registry ordinance because up until that point, you couldn’t even tell who owned what property. Slumlords were able to hide in the shadows while families suffered. That had to change.

I’ve been inside these homes. I’ve seen conditions even worse than what you saw at City View. I’ve walked into apartments where the roaches were so comfortable they might as well have pulled up a chair at the dinner table. I’ve seen families, hardworking people, seniors, single mothers, and children living in spaces that no human being should have to accept.

That’s why I fought so hard. That’s why I pushed for accountability, for better housing policies, and for stronger protections for renters because housing is not a luxury. It’s a right.

And I’m not done fighting.

I’m stepping back in because I refuse to let what happened at City View happen again. We need leaders who will stand up, call out bad landlords, and demand safe, affordable housing for every resident of Omaha. We can’t let this slide. We can’t look away.

If we want a better future, we have to fight for it together. Will you join me?

Part II State of North Omaha will be Saturday, Feb. 8th at Omaha North High School
Register here.