Council places on file resolution urging Omaha delegation on HR 5356 after members call it premature
Summary
Council placed on file (5–2) a proposed resolution asking Nebraska’s congressional delegation to support HR 5356 — a proposal to charter a national infrastructure bank — after multiple council members said it was premature for the council to take a position on a bill still in multiple committees.
The council considered a resolution asking Nebraska’s congressional delegation to support H.R. 5356, legislation that would charter a federally backed national infrastructure bank to finance large projects. Council Member Harding outlined concerns that the bank would expand federal involvement, could duplicate existing programs and might add to federal liabilities; he urged alternatives such as streamlining permitting and public‑private partnerships.
Council Member Melton said the council historically avoids voting on pending congressional bills and described the resolution as premature because the bill remains in multiple House committees and is likely to change; Melton and other members emphasized the mayor's office or individual council letters as customary channels for expressing local views on federal legislation. Council members Roe and others also said they were not ready to endorse the bill as presented. The council voted 5–2 to place the resolution on file rather than approve it.
