What The Future Holds

By Gordon Hopkins“Well, I guess I’ll have more time for fishing.”That was incumbent Gale Pohlmann’s first words after learning the results of the election for Jefferson County Commissioner, District Two.He was defeated by challenger Danielle Schwab.Pohlmann has served two terms in the role and will complete eight years as commissioner when this term is up. In addition, he also serves as the secretary for the executive committee of SENDD (Southeast Nebraska Development District) and as chair of Region V Systems and Apace (formerly Region V Services) governing boards. When asked what happens next, Pohlmann told FJN, “First the SENDD executive committee, since I was on that committee as a commissioner representing Jefferson County I will no longer be eligible to be on the SENDD Governing Board. I was just in a phone call today with Tom Bliss, and the executive committee members are up for reappointment now, so he wasn’t sure about whether I would continue for now till the end of the year or be replaced. We have a meeting on the 29th, so we will discuss it then with the rest of the group. After the end of my term, I will not be able to stay with the organization.”As for Apace, Pohlmann said, “I will be able to finish the year as Chairman of the Region V Systems/Apace Governing Boards until the end of the year when my commissioner term is ended. Then I will be replaced by either Danielle (Schwab), Mark (Schoenrock), or Mike (Dux) depending on how they determine which boards they want to be on. More than likely Danielle will take my place on these boards that I am vacating. I’m a representative from the Governing Board of Region V Systems for the Behavioral Health Advisory Committee, so someone else from the governing board will be appointed to take that position. Technically that will end my staying with those organizations at that time.” However, that will likely not end Pohlmann’s involvement with politics. Earlier this year, he testified in front of the Nebraska Legislature, advocating for the county and, in particular, behavioral health services.Governor Jim Pillen recommended a $15 million cut to the behavioral health aid base in fiscal year 2024 and 2025 as part of the biennial budget adjustment. Pohlmann was one of several government officials that spoke in opposition to the proposed cut at the Appropriations Committee of the Nebraska Legislature. Pohlmann testified, “This reduction of funds for behavioral services is in direct contrast with what we know is a behavioral health crisis occurring statewide. As a county commissioner, we see it in our jail population with individuals waiting in our county jails for spots to open up at the Lincoln Regional Center (LRC).” Pohlmann told FJN, “As I still will have interest in the mental health/substance use disorder issues, I will probably follow how the Legislature and the Governor impact the budget of Region V Systems. If needed I will continue to support them in making contacts with Senators.”FJN reached out to Schwab and asked if she planned to take over Pohlmann’s seat on any of the boards he will be vacating. As of press time, she has not responded.In the meantime, Pohlman said, “I will finish out my term taking road concerns, etc., from the citizens here in my District. That will not change.”

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