It's official, but not surprising: Palermo ousted

South Omaha is looking for a new city council member.

In jail accused of federal fraud and corruption charges, Vinny Palermo was kicked off the council today, as the city now looks for his replacement.

[View our full video report above]

Six votes against Vinny Palermo, not a single vote for him.

That unanimous decision sending Omaha City Councilman Vinny Palermo, a South Omaha Democrat, packing.

In jail, accused of conspiracy, fraud, and public corruption and unable to attend council meetings for three straight months Palermo had violated a city attendance rule and refused to explain.

City Attorney Matt Kuhse: “I am unaware of any attempt or any excuse that Mr. Palermo has made to this council as to be excused.”

Even Councilwoman Juanita Johnson voted to oust Palermo, that after weeks of backing him.

NCN’s Joe Jordan, April 2023: “Wondering if you think Councilman Palermo should resign?”

Councilwoman Juanita Johnson (D): “The law says we’re innocent until we’re proven guilty. So, I think we need to wait until this plays out, Joe.”

And then earlier today, during a pre-meeting she blasted her five fellow councilmembers for "chomping at the bit" to get rid of Palermo.

Councilman Brinker Harding (R): “This is not a determination of innocence or guilt. But you know who’s chomping at the bit? Is District 4, they want representation.”

Registered voters, who have lived in District 4 for six months have 2 weeks to apply for Palermo’s seat, the council’s vote on Palermo’s replacement likely September 12^th, that while Palermo’s federal court trial appears months and months away.