OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – A former Omaha city councilman who spent more than a year in federal prison believes the city is punishing a local business over a case of mistaken identity.
For its part, Public Works says it is justified in rejecting the bid because the councilman’s previous actions put the city at risk.
Bid rejected over contractor’s history
Last month, the city rejected a bid from an Omaha business offering tree and stump removal services. Public Works said Vinny’s Tree Service “does not meet the intent of a responsible contractor.”
The arborist for Vinny’s Tree Service is Vinny Palermo, a former Omaha city councilman who spent 18 months in federal prison. Investigators said he betrayed the trust of the community and abused his public office for personal gain…