About Public Notice
Public notices are a cornerstone of transparent government. They ensure Nebraskans have access to the decisions, actions, and proposals that affect their families, property, and communities. From local ordinances to school board decisions, zoning changes, estate settlements, and more — public notices give every citizen the ability to stay informed and engaged.
For generations, Nebraska newspapers have delivered these notices in a way that is accessible, permanent, verifiable, and independent. In a time when information is increasingly fragmented, public notices in newspapers remain one of the most trusted and relied-on tools for keeping communities informed.
Nebraskans Strongly Support Public Notices in Newspapers
According to the 2025 Nebraska State Study conducted by Coda Ventures:
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86% of Nebraskans read public notices in local print or digital newspapers.
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86% believe newspapers serve as an independent third-party source for public notices.
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84% believe government entities should be required to publish notices in newspapers.
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Local newspapers and newspaper websites are the #1 most relied-on source for information about public notices and local government — more than social media (36%), TV (35%), radio (27%), or government websites (23%).
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81% of Nebraskans do not want public notices removed from newspapers.
This overwhelming support shows that Nebraskans value the visibility, accessibility, and accountability that newspaper-published notices provide.
Newspaper Readers Are Highly Engaged Citizens
Nebraskans who read newspapers are significantly more active in their communities:
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83% feel responsible for helping shape their community’s future.
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68% actively discuss local issues such as schools, taxes, development, and safety.
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57% contact elected officials about important issues.
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82% vote in state and national elections, and 68% vote regularly in local school board or county elections.
When public notices are easy to access, communities become more aware, engaged, and informed.