Name                           Sarah Johnson

Occupation                   Small business owner; Volunteer & Membership Coordinator for Mode Shift Omaha

Education                     Bachelor of Journalism, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Political Affiliation        Independent

Website                       www.sj4oma.com

What are your connections to the community?

I was raised in District 1 and I opened and operated a small business, the Omaha Bicycle Company in Benson from 2012-2019. I now own that commercial property and rent to another small Black woman-owned business. I’m a founding member of Mode Shift Omaha and have deep ties to the community through my advocacy work over the past decade with that nonprofit focused on mobility equity.

What experience do you bring to the office?

As a small business owner and nonprofit volunteer coordinator, I know the importance of bringing people together to accomplish a common goal, and I know how to get things done as a team. I’ve managed a successful business and been an active member of my neighborhood community. I work hard and value honesty and accountability.

What would one of your top priorities be?

Encouraging active public participation in the city's decision making. Right now, residents get three minutes - in the middle of the afternoon, when many residents are working - to share their views before the city council votes the way they privately decided to anyway. That has to change. We have to make city council more accessible for the people.

What motivated you to run for public office?

The past year has been incredibly painful for our community, and many still feel unheard. During this time, the City Council made several important, expensive decisions on behalf of Omaha taxpayers, without their consent. Community members asked me to run because we need representatives to listen and to work in our best interest and it's not happening.

What’s the biggest issue that Omaha faces?

Racial equity. We must create a culture of inclusion and amplify the voices of historically marginalized communities. Mobility equity, accessibility and connectivity is especially important (for all residents). We have to get real about making Omaha an attractive, equitable place for smart, talented people to live and start businesses.

Is there anything else you want to tell voters?

This campaign isn't about me. It's about YOU. Over the past four years, our City Council has not done its duty to represent the people. My primary opponent is running on the same promises he committed to 12 years ago. Today, we're still waiting for progress. It's time for community-driven, proactive leadership. www.sj4oma.com will tell you more!