OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — The line outside of the Douglas County Treasurer’s office was out the door Monday as people attempted to renew their vehicle’s registration before the deadline, which is set to expire at 11:59 p.m.
Governor Ricketts issued an executive order to aid during the coronavirus pandemic and give residents a grace period to complete their renewals, but that grace period is set to cease tonight.
“Because of the Governor’s executive order which ended on July 31, today, 30 days after that, is the last day for people to get waivers on any of the penalties for not registering their vehicles in a timely manner,” John Ewing, Douglas County Treasurer, said.
Many residents procrastinated until the last day to complete their payments and paperwork, resulting in hours-long wait.
"I was just planning on coming over my lunch hour and it was a little longer than a lunch hour so I'm just going to have to explain to my boss ‘Hey, it was a long line.' When I came it was actually down here to the steps,” Bret Heese, Douglas County resident, said.
Heese said that the process was not an enjoyable one.
“It was not a very pleasant experience. I went recently to the DMV in Sarpy County and it was a lot quicker, efficient process,” Heese said.
All physical locations where residents can complete their renewals were hectically occupied today.
“The lines are busy at all five of our customer service centers because as per normal, people wait until the last minute and don't think anybody else did,” Ewing said.
Some did not expect to be on their feet for as long as they were.
“I figured we would have to wait but I didn't think it would be quite this long,” Christie Stafford, Douglas Conty resident, said. “I’m glad we brought water. I wish we had brought a hat.”
While some residents procrastinated, others were simply not able to complete the task because of the risks due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“I put it off because I do have a little boy. I have a son and I can't be exposed to all of this right now because I don't want to get him sick. So I have been putting off a lot of things that I need to do because of COVID,” Kaisea Lucas said.
The Douglas County Treasurer’s Office is open from 9:30 to 4. If you weren’t make it in person, there are other options to complete your renewal on time. You can utilize the drop-box that stands outside of every facility, pay online, mail in your payment or call the customer service line.
“I believe in trying to keep people happy. Happy people don't stand in line so I would suggest they look at those other options rather than coming into the office,” Ewing said.
