Jacob W. Sikes, (Courtesy)
RIVERDALE — Jacob W. Sikes has officially entered the race for the District 41 Legislature.
Jacob and his family live in and are restoring the historic schoolhouse in Riverdale, a project that reflects his commitment to preserving and revitalizing rural communities.
A certified orthotist with over 25 years of experience in rural healthcare, Jacob has seen firsthand the challenges facing small-town Nebraska.
“Healthcare options are dwindling in our communities. Too often, people must travel over 100 miles for care,” Sikes says. “Medicare replacement plans have left patients stranded and doctors unable to provide necessary services. These plans must be regulated—or abandoned altogether.”
Rural Infrastructure and Economic Development
Another central focus of Sikes’ campaign is rural infrastructure and economic development.
“Fixing up our small communities makes them more attractive for businesses and helps our local economy thrive,” he says.
Sikes’ initiative, RIV (Rural Infrastructure Vitalization), proposes legislation to:
• Free up state infrastructure grant funds for villages and small towns without requiring matching contributions.
• Develop volunteer programs within District 41 to lead local infrastructure projects.
• Offer state tax credits to companies that participate in community vitalization.
• Establish a District 41 board of directors, comprised of representatives from across the district, to work directly with state and local officials on community priorities.
Property Taxes and State Mandates
The campaign will also introduce legislation to freeze property tax increases for two years. “Nebraskans have heard a lot about the property tax crisis and a lot of promised solutions, yet taxes continue to rise. By freezing increases, we take the burden off taxpayers and put the
responsibility on politicians to find long-term solutions,” Sikes explains.
Additionally, the campaign will push to limit unfunded state mandates for small communities.
“District 41 towns are financially stretched. If the state mandates something, it should fund it as well,” he adds.
Community Engagement
Sikes’ campaign will host several upcoming events, including a Poker Run highlighting District 41 towns and businesses, a summer concert series, and informal meet-and-greet gatherings. “Our campaign is focused on the people of District 41. Keep talking, send us a message, give us a call, or come to an event—we want to hear your thoughts. We want to be your voice in Lincoln,” Sikes says.
