John W. Ewing Jr. sworn in as Omaha mayor, outlines 'One Omaha' vision

Mayor John W. Ewing Jr. was sworn in as mayor of Omaha in a public inauguration at the city's legislative chambers; Judge Vernon Daniels administered the oath of office. In remarks that followed, Ewing framed a unifying "One Omaha" vision and listed affordable housing, intentional economic development and basic city services as administration priorities.

Ewing thanked prior officials, staff and his family, and said his 43 years of public service informed his approach. "I will work hard for this city and for a shared vision of its bright future," Ewing said. He described basic municipal services as shared needs across neighborhoods, saying, "We all want safe streets. We all want snow cleared, and we all want our garbage picked up."

The mayor emphasized confronting disparities of wealth across Omaha's neighborhoods while pursuing economic growth. He repeatedly called for unity of purpose and cooperation with the city council, department heads and residents, saying the city is stronger when districts advance together.

Ewing acknowledged former mayor Jean Stothert's 12 years of service, recognized campaign and family members in the audience, and referenced local landmarks including Gene Leahy Mall and the area between the Missouri and Elkhorn rivers as part of his vision for the city.

The inauguration program included a musical performance by Drion and a later benediction by Reverend Ryan Lewis. The ceremony also featured the swearing-in of seven city council members before the council moved on to organizational votes and routine approvals later in the meeting.

The address set the policy tone for the new administration but did not include new, binding policy votes; those matters were handled separately by the city council during the same session.