In the wake of the unfortunate collapse of Red Way Airlines, our community was given a stark glimpse into the complexities of public fund management and the challenges of sustaining vital public services. The state auditor's characterization of the investment in Red Way Airlines as "a riverboat gamble with public money" encapsulates the gravity of the oversight and the profound implications of such financial decisions. The direct financial loss, though significant, pales in comparison to the broader implications for Lincoln's connectivity and economic vitality. This moment, as challenging as it is, presents us with an opportunity to reflect, reassess, and redefine our approach to fostering economic growth and infrastructure development in our beloved city.
Lincoln's need for an airport offering nationwide flights is undeniable. The vibrancy of our local economy, the dynamism of our businesses, and the spirit of our community demand a level of connectivity that matches our ambition. The evidence is clear: our local commercial activity is more than sufficient to support flights to major cities across the country. Currently, the absence of such connectivity forces our businesses into inefficient compromises, with employees losing nearly half a day's work traveling through Omaha for flights. This not only increases travel times but also imposes unnecessary operational inefficiencies on our local enterprises. A poignant example comes from a local employer, who noted that if flight costs from Lincoln were within $300 of those from Omaha, they would invariably choose the convenience of flying from Lincoln. This sentiment underscores a broader consensus within our business community on the value of enhanced local travel options.
The fallout from Red Way Airlines' failure extends beyond the immediate financial loss; it has eroded confidence and made the journey to securing a reliable airline service for Lincoln even more daunting. Yet, it is in the face of such adversity that our resolve is tested and our commitment to our community's future is most crucial. As we navigate this challenging landscape, it is imperative that we look forward with determination and a clear strategy for rebuilding and enhancing our city's connectivity and economic resilience.
In the short term, Lincoln's businesses and residents may need to continue relying on Omaha for more cost-effective air travel options. This is not a permanent solution but a temporary measure as we lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and prosperous future. Our immediate focus must be on healing and rebuilding, but our eyes must remain fixed on the horizon, on the vast potential of what Lincoln can achieve with the right infrastructure in place.
For the long term, the path forward involves a fundamental shift in how we approach economic development and public investment decisions. The lesson from Red Way Airlines is clear: we need leadership that embodies a business-minded approach to governance—an approach that asks the right questions, evaluates risks intelligently, and prioritizes the sustainable growth of our community. This doesn't mean we shy away from ambitious projects or innovative solutions; rather, it means we pursue them with a greater sense of responsibility, diligence, and community engagement.
I do not claim to have all the answers. No single person does. However, I bring to the table a willingness to listen, learn, and lead with humility. I understand the value of asking when I don't know and the importance of drawing on the collective wisdom and expertise of our community. My commitment is to foster an environment where informed decision-making and strategic investments pave the way for growth, prosperity, and enhanced connectivity for Lincoln.
The journey to securing a vibrant future for Lincoln's airport and our broader economy is not just about infrastructure; it's about building bridges—between government and business, between innovation and tradition, and between today's challenges and tomorrow's successes. It requires a collaborative effort that leverages the strengths and insights of our diverse community.
As we move forward, our focus will be on cultivating relationships with established airlines, exploring innovative partnerships, and ensuring that our infrastructure investments are both strategic and reflective of our community's needs. We will prioritize transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, ensuring that the voices of Lincoln's residents and businesses are heard and valued in the decision-making process.
The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but it is also filled with opportunity. Now, more than ever, we need leaders who are not just visionaries but pragmatists—individuals who can translate ambitious goals into tangible results. We need a leadership that understands the intricacies of economic development, values the input of its citizens, and is committed to the stewardship of public resources.
This is a call to action for all of us who believe in Lincoln's potential. It's a call to support leaders who approach governance with a business-minded sensibility, who are not afraid to ask tough questions, and who are dedicated to building a brighter, more connected future for our city. Together, we can turn the lessons of the past into the foundations of a thriving, vibrant Lincoln that stands as a beacon of economic growth and community connectivity