1. United States
2. Neb.
3. Letter

Mayor Stothert needs to step down and claim permanent residency of St. Louis. The mayor needs to maintain a physical presence in Omaha to effectively lead the city they have been elected to represent. Allowing remote work for any period risks disconnecting them from the local community and issues facing residents. As the chief executive, the mayor should be embedded in Omaha's fabric and readily accessible, not governing in an absentee arrangement. Leadership requires hands-on engagement rooted in the city itself. The proposed charter amendment enabling remote mayoral work, even temporarily, undermines the responsibilities and commitment owed to Omaha constituents.