Public Meetings - Omaha, Nebraska

The Omaha City Council met on November 3, 2026, to consider a variety of items including liquor license applications, rezoning requests, a major special use permit amendment, and multiple consent agenda items. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and opening remarks reminding citizens to vote in the election. The council approved most items unanimously (6-0), with one item laid over to a future meeting. Consent Calendar - Items 20 through 32 on the consent agenda were approved unanimously (6-0) after public hearings were held on October 27, 2026. - Items 33 through 48, for which public hearings were held on November 3, 2026, were also approved unanimously (6-0) with no public testimony. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 17-18 (Rezoning and MCC Overlay at 37th & Ames): Tracy McElway, a resident at 4511 North 36th Avenue, spoke in opposition to the rezoning. She expressed high concern about vehicle traffic, particularly from a steep alley with zero visibility onto North 36th Avenue. She noted recent traffic changes on Ames Avenue that divert traffic onto the alleyway, which is narrow, unpaved, and one lane. She stated she is not opposed to building affordable housing but is concerned about safety. - Item 19 (Inroads to Recovery Special Use Permit Amendment): Dustin Sutter (2701 North 75th Street) and Christy Musgrave (9228 North 52nd Avenue) spoke in firm opposition. Sutter cited negative impacts from vehicle and pedestrian traffic, emergency vehicle disturbances, lack of sidewalks, and parking issues. He submitted a petition with 13 signatures from neighbors. Musgrave noted parking problems, dangerous traffic on 75th Street, and insufficient off-street parking for visitors. - Item 52 (Puritan Manufacturing TIF Agreement): A proponent spoke in support, stating the investment is crucial for building improvements and stormwater runoff mitigation. Discussion Items - Item 6 (Liquor License - Me Tierra Mexican Restaurant): The applicant, Cynthia Rebecca Lopez Cruz, applied for a Class I liquor license for a full-service restaurant at 3623 N 129th Street. The license was approved 6-0. - Item 7 (Liquor License - Take Root Farm Stop): The applicant, Matt Johnson (via Zoom), applied for a Class D license to allow beer and wine off-sale at 5018 Underwood Avenue, focusing on locally produced products. Councilmember Festerson expressed support. Approved 6-0. - Item 8 (Liquor License Amendment - Omaha Airport/Plum Market): The applicant, Nate Hymas, described adding three storage areas on level one and deleting five areas on level two to allow other vendors to obtain their own licenses. Approved 6-0. - Items 9-15 (2501 Center Street Rezoning and Development): The applicant, Raoul Legrol, presented a comprehensive plan to rezone from R7/HI to R7/R8, approve a PUR overlay, amend the master plan from industrial to high-density residential, and approve preliminary/final plat and subdivision agreement. Councilman Hug expressed expectation that the property remain secure until demolition. Approved 6-0. - Item 16 (Rezone at 4744 N 13th Street): Lawrence Butler described plans to create three duplexes for affordable housing (≤80% AMI) in partnership with Front Porch and Omaha Inland Port Authority. The rezoning from R-435 to R5 was approved 6-0. - Items 17-18 (Rezoning and MCC Overlay at 37th & Ames): Daniel Bennett of the Omaha Municipal Land Bank explained the rezoning from R-435 to R5 and MCC overlay to prepare land bank properties for affordable housing. After public testimony about traffic, Councilmember Goodwin questioned public works and planning about responsibility for addressing alley safety. Eric England (Planning) noted that a rezoning cannot be conditioned on off-site improvements. Bob Stupey (Public Works) and Austin Rouser discussed alley access and potential one-way options. The council acknowledged the traffic concern is separate from the rezoning. Approved 6-0 with a commitment to follow up with Ryan Haas (Vision Zero) on alley safety. - Item 19 (Inroads to Recovery - Large Group Living Amendment): The applicant, Wolf Tottenbach, sought a major amendment to increase residential capacity from 24 to 28 beds at 2808 N 75th Street. Discussion revealed the facility originally had a conditional use permit for 10 beds in 2007 but had been operating at 18-24 beds without proper zoning approval. Councilmembers expressed concern about non-compliance. The facility has private fenced parking, 24-hour staffing, and provides substance abuse and mental health services. Council considered amending to a lower number (e.g., 22 or 24). A motion to lay over to the November 24, 2026 meeting was approved 6-0 to allow the law department to prepare a written amendment. - Item 49 (Mutual Tower Bonds): Ordinance to approve $115 million in special tax revenue redevelopment bonds for mutual tower mill work and 8th & Douglas garages. Approved 6-0. - Item 50 (Settlement - Catherine James vs. City): Resolution to approve a $250,000 settlement. Approved 6-0. - Item 51 (Street Improvement Property Acquisition): Ordinance to acquire private property for improvements on North 51st Street, North 50th Avenue, Norwick Drive, and DeHartman Avenue. Approved. - Item 52 (Puritan Manufacturing TIF): Ordinance to approve a tax increment financing redevelopment agreement. Approved. - Item 53 (Violence Intervention Program Grant): Ordinance to accept $526,983 from the FY2026 BURN discretionary community grants program for encompass Omaha, a hospital-based violence intervention program. Approved. - Item 54 (Radio Equipment Grant): Ordinance to accept $1,000,000 for portable P25 radios and accessories. Approved. - Item 55 (Women's Center Agreement): Ordinance to approve a $52,000 agreement with the Women's Center for Advancement, funded by the Stop Violence Against Women grant. Approved. - Non-Action Items 56-72: Noted for future agenda consideration. Key Outcomes - Liquor Licenses: All three liquor license items (6, 7, 8) were approved unanimously (6-0). - Rezonings and Development Approvals: Items 9-15 (2501 Center Street), Item 16 (4744 N 13th Street), and Items 17-18 (37th & Ames) were all approved 6-0. - Inroads to Recovery (Item 19): Laid over to November 24, 2026, for further consideration of a potential amendment to the bed count. - Consent and Non-Action Items: All consent agenda items and non-action items were approved or noted. - Financial Approvals: Bonds ($115M), settlement ($250,000), and multiple grants (totaling over $1.5 million) were approved unanimously. - Meeting Adjourned: 4:11 PM.

The Omaha City Council met on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Councilmember Melton was absent. The council addressed routine liquor licenses, several rezonings, and multiple financial agreements. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a contested special use permit for a recovery facility and traffic safety concerns related to a proposed rezone. The meeting adjourned at 4:11 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 17-18 (Ames Avenue Rezone): Tracy McElway, a resident of North 36th Avenue, opposed the project, citing safety hazards from a steep, narrow alley with zero visibility. She argued the development would increase risks to property and pedestrians. - Item 19 (Inroads to Recovery Special Use Permit): Two residents firmly opposed expanding the facility. The first cited frequent emergency vehicle dispatches, traffic, and parking issues. The second noted dangerous traffic conditions and a lack of adequate parking for visitors. - Item 52 (Puritan Manufacturing TIF): A company representative spoke in support of the Tax Increment Financing agreement, stating it was necessary for building improvements and stormwater management. Discussion Items - Items 9-15 (2501 Center Street Redevelopment): The council approved a comprehensive rezoning and platting package. Councilmember Hug requested the applicant secure the property until demolition. - Item 16 (North 13th Street Duplexes): Developer Lawrence Butler presented plans for three affordable housing duplexes in cooperation with Front Porch and the Omaha Inland Port Authority, with units priced at or below 80% of the Area Median Income. The rezoning was approved. - Items 17-18 (Land Bank Rezone on Ames Avenue): Following public testimony, councilmembers discussed alley safety with Public Works and the Land Bank. The Land Bank agreed to explore safety improvements with the city's Vision Zero program. The rezone passed 6-0. - Item 19 (Inroads to Recovery): The facility requested a major amendment to its special use permit to house up to 28 residents, up from the 10 approved in 2007. During the hearing, it was revealed the facility had been operating with 18 to 24 residents without the necessary zoning approvals. Councilmember Hug expressed strong disappointment, stating the facility "blew through that number from the original permit from 2007, and now you're asking for forgiveness." Councilmember Rowe suggested capping the permit at the current operational level. The Law Department requested time to prepare a formal amendment. Key Outcomes - Items 6-18, 49-55, and Consent Agendas: All items were approved by a vote of 6-0. This included two liquor licenses, multiple rezonings, a $115 million bond issue, a $250,000 legal settlement, and grants for a hospital-based violence intervention program ($526,983), police radios ($1,000,000), and the Women’s Center for Advancement ($52,000). - Item 19 (Inroads to Recovery): The item was laid over to the November 24, 2026 meeting by a unanimous 6-0 vote to allow the Law Department to draft a written amendment. Several council members indicated opposition to approving the full requested increase to 28 beds.

The Omaha City Council held its regular meeting on October 28, 2026, starting at 2:01 PM. President Bagley presided with six members present (Councilmember Professorson absent). The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, remarks from Councilmember Don Rowe encouraging voter turnout for the November 3 election, and a proclamation declaring November 2026 as Ramiah Worthington Child Vehicle Safety and Protection Month. The council then proceeded through a consent calendar, public hearings, and debated a major proposed overhaul of the Omaha Plumbing Code, ultimately delaying a final vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 12–23 (Consent Agenda): Donnie R. Johnson (Johnson Question Foundation) opposed items 12–15, expressing concern about liquor licenses and wanting more city oversight. Larry Store (5015 Lafayette Ave) opposed item 20, asking whether traffic signal infrastructure included flock cameras or automated enforcement; the Law Department clarified such cameras are not permitted in Nebraska and OPD does not use flock cameras. Soleil Rodriguez (1005 N 49th St) opposed items 13 and 15, noting the high density of liquor stores in North Omaha near churches and schools; Councilmember Goodwin acknowledged the concern and noted the Law Committee is reviewing liquor license density in District 2. - Item 24 (TIF for affordable senior housing): Donnie R. Johnson opposed, requesting more funding for plumbing education in high schools. - Item 30 (Point-of-sale system for golf): Donnie R. Johnson raised a humorous concern about golf balls clogging sewers. - Item 35 (SAFER grant for firefighters): Donnie R. Johnson urged firefighters to be willing to enter creeks for water samples, referencing Navy training. - Item 38 (Plumbing code revision): Extensive testimony from both proponents and opponents. Discussion Items - Items 6–9 (Liquor license and rezoning): All passed 6–0. - Item 6: Class D liquor license for Snake Bite Liquor & Smoke (3706 N 90th St). - Item 7: Rezone from R4/DR to R4 at 804 N 143rd Ct and 805 N 143rd Plaza. - Item 8: Rezone from LO to CC at 6402 N 71st St. - Item 9: Puritan Manufacturing TIF redevelopment plan for 1302 Grace St, up to $423,477, for demolition and new facility to address flooding. Project owner Dave Waters noted the company will celebrate 100 years in 2027. - Items 10–23 (Consent agenda): Passed 6–0 after public hearing. - Items 24–37 (Various ordinances): All passed 6–0, including: - Item 24: TIF for 1053 Park Ave – 50 units of affordable senior housing (55+) at Park Ave and Pacific St, represented by Rob Woodling. - Item 25: Lab testing contract with Midwest Laboratories Inc. - Item 26: Interlocal agreement for hazardous waste collection. - Item 27: Streetscape maintenance agreement for Kiwitz subdivision. - Item 28: Property acquisition for George Miller Parkway. - Item 29: Amendment to South Streams Mixed Use District development agreement. - Item 30: Point-of-sale system for golf division ($123,840). - Item 31: Special tax revenue bonds for mutual tower garages ($115 million). - Item 32: Various purpose bonds for public facilities ($110 million). - Item 33: Highway safety grant for nightlife expansion ($122,378). - Item 34: Purchase of 100 sets of PPE bunker gear from Hyman Fire Equipment. - Item 35: SAFER grant for 18 new firefighters – Fire Chief Kathy Bossman and union president Trevor Towey expressed support, noting the grant will help staff future Fire Station 70. - Item 36: Omaha Public Library Foundation grant ($1,325,160) for four new positions for due space integration. - Item 37: Interlocal agreement for Brady/Giglio officer disclosure process (explained by Law Department). - Item 38 (Omaha Plumbing Code Revision – Major Discussion): - Planning Director Dave Fanslow and Permits & Inspections Superintendent Lei Wen presented the proposal, which revises the 2015 code to expand allowable materials (PVC, PEX-A) in commercial and multifamily buildings, change apprentice ratio from 1:1 to 2:1, allow licensed sewer contractors for demolition permits, and reduce continuing education requirements. They argued it would lower construction costs for affordable housing and align Omaha with national model codes. - Proponents included developers (DR Horton, Foundations Development), the Metro Omaha Builders Association, Front Porch Investments, and plumbing contractors. They claimed PVC can save 60–80% in material costs (e.g., $5,600 more per house in Omaha vs. Des Moines) and cited national and regional acceptance. - Opponents included Plumbers Local 16, the Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute, and several master plumbers and engineers. They raised concerns about fire safety (PVC melting/combusting, toxic smoke), long-term durability, water quality, and insufficient training under the 2:1 ratio. They argued cost savings may not reach renters and that the process was rushed without adequate transparency. - Councilmember Hug asked about fire suppression systems; it was clarified PVC is already allowed for fire sprinklers. Councilmember Goodwin questioned committee composition; the committee had 9 members (7 plumbers, 3 union, 4 non-union, plus an engineer and developer) and no formal vote. The Plumbing Board voted 5–3 and later 4–2; the Building Board Review voted 6–1 to recommend. - Councilmember Melton noted only Chicago, New York, and Omaha (plus limited Boston) restrict PVC for high-rise, and that the entire nation uses model codes. She moved to lay over the final vote to November 10, 2026, to allow further study. Motion passed 6–0. - Item 39 (Playground Boss bid appeal): The company failed to provide an electronic copy of the bid bond. The Law Department recommended denial. Motion to deny passed 6–0. - Items 40–56 (Non-action items): Placed on future agendas. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar and routine items (Items 6–37) passed 6–0. - Item 38 (Plumbing code revision) was laid over for third reading and final vote on November 10, 2026, by a 6–0 vote. - Item 39 (Playground Boss appeal) was denied 6–0. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 4:54 PM.

The Omaha City Council met on October 27, 2026, with Councilmember Festersen absent. Councilmember Don Rowe opened by welcoming the Millard South debate team and urging attendance at the November 3, 2026 election, citing about 370,000 registered voters in Douglas County. The council approved routine liquor, rezoning, and TIF items, accepted the consent agenda, heard a lengthy public hearing on proposed Omaha Plumbing Code changes, deferred that vote to November 10, 2026, and denied a bid appeal. Proclamation - The council proclaimed November 2026 as Ramiah Worthington Child Vehicle Safety and Protection Month. Ramiah Worthington, a one-year-old, died in 2023 after being left in a daycare van for approximately eight hours on a hot Omaha day. Her family spoke in remembrance, and Councilmember Don Rowe credited Sherman Wells for helping facilitate the proclamation. Consent Calendar - Items 10 and 11 had public hearings on October 20, 2026; items 12 through 23 had public hearings on October 27, 2026. The consent agenda passed 6-0. Public testimony on these items is summarized below. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 12–23: Donnie R. Johnson, identifying himself with the Johnson E. Question Foundation and North Omaha Concerned Citizen Foundation, opposed items 12 through 15 with largely off-topic remarks. Larry Store opposed item 20 and asked whether traffic signal infrastructure included flock cameras or license-plate readers; the Law Department responded that traffic-enforcement cameras used in Council Bluffs are not permitted by Nebraska law and that Omaha Police do not use flock cameras. Soleil Rader opposed items 13 and 15 because of liquor stores near North Omaha churches and schools; Councilmember Goodwin clarified those items were liquor license manager applications and said the Law Committee is reviewing liquor license density in District 2. - Item 24: Donnie R. Johnson opposed it while urging plumbing education in high schools. - Item 30: Donnie R. Johnson opposed it with off-topic comments about golf balls stuck in sewers and plumbers. - Item 35: Fire Chief Kathy Bossman and grant coordinator Mike Francis appeared as proponents, and Trevor Towie, president of Omaha Professional Firefighters, urged approval, saying the SAFER grant would address staffing needs and keep fire rigs in service. Chief Bossman said the 18 new firefighters would eventually staff Fire Station 70, under construction in 2027 and expected to open in early 2028. Donnie R. Johnson made off-topic opposing remarks. - Item 38: More than two dozen people testified. Proponents included Planning Director Dave Fanslow, Permit Inspection Superintendent Lei Wen, former superintendent Anna Bespoyazny, plumbing instructor David Clements, developer Todd Easton, Barrett Plumbing, DR Horton division president Aaron Moulton, affordable housing developer Rob Woodling, mechanical engineer Chris Reed, Welcome Home's Jason Thielen, Omaha Plumbing Board member Brian Barrett, Front Porch Investments' Joshua Marshall, and the Metro Omaha Builders Association. They argued the changes align Omaha with national model codes, reduce construction costs, expand workforce training, and help affordable housing. Moulton said the same house costs about $16,800 more to build in Omaha than in Des Moines because of plumbing requirements, pricing out roughly 7,300 households. Woodling cited the city's goal of 30,000 affordable units by 2030. Opponents included Plumbers Local 16 training coordinator Ben Morgan, instructors Tyler Johnson, Robert Woodard, Joe Borough, Brian Wyatt, business manager Eric Jzinka, master plumbers David Miller, Matthew Christofferson, Jeff Estherbrook, Charlotte Pipe's Brian Helms, engineers Hari Patel and Brian South, and Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute representatives. They argued the code would weaken public safety, allow combustible plastic piping in taller and institutional buildings, reduce training and continuing education, and give developers savings that may not reach renters. Some opponents also said the review process was rushed and that a lawsuit alleges revised documents were unavailable during board consideration. Discussion Items - Items 6–9: The council approved a Class D liquor license for Snake Bite Liquor and Smoke, two rezoning requests, and the Puritan Manufacturing TIF project, each 6-0. The Puritan TIF includes up to $423,477 in assistance for a $3.6 million project at 1302 Grace Street: demolition of a dilapidated warehouse, construction of a 100-by-115-foot facility, and sanitary sewer and stormwater improvements. Owner Dave Waters said the company was established in 1927 and has been family-owned for three generations; attorney Andrew Willis said September flooding caused about $250,000 in damage and that the sewer improvements benefit the surrounding area. - Items 24–37: The council opened and closed public hearings on these items; no opponents appeared except Donnie R. Johnson's off-topic comments on items 24, 30, and 35. Notable matters included the 1053 Park TIF agreement for 50 units of senior affordable housing, a Midwest Laboratories lab-testing purchase order, a household hazardous waste interlocal agreement, a streetscape maintenance agreement, a George Miller Parkway property acquisition, a South Streams Mixed Use District development agreement amendment, a $123,840 golf point-of-sale system bid, $115 million in special tax revenue redevelopment bonds, $110 million in various-purpose bonds, a $122,378 highway-safety grant, a 100-set firefighter PPE purchase, the SAFER grant for 18 firefighters, a $1,325,160 Omaha Public Library Foundation grant, and a Brady/Giglio interlocal agreement with Douglas County. The transcript does not record a separate roll-call vote on these items before the council moved to item 38. - Item 38 – Omaha Plumbing Code revision: The proposal, developed from Mayor Ewing's affordable-housing task force, would update a code last substantially amended in 2015, allow PVC and PEX-A as alternate materials in more uses, change the apprentice ratio from 1:1 to 1:2, allow licensed residential sewer contractors to pull demolition permits, reduce continuing education from eight hours per year to eight hours per three-year cycle, and create a grace period in enforcement. Planning staff said Omaha is the only metro jurisdiction with its own plumbing code, while Sarpy County, Papillion, and Gretna use the International Plumbing Code and Bellevue, Lincoln, and the State of Nebraska use the Uniform Plumbing Code. Council follow-up brought out that the nine-member code committee was primarily plumbers; the plumbing board voted 5-3 and then 4-3; and the building board review voted 6-1. Planning staff said life safety is handled by the building and fire codes, while opponents said the plumbing code itself should not be weakened. Councilmember Melton said her research found only Chicago, New York, and San Leandro, California, with restrictions comparable to Omaha's, and that Mayor Ewing supports the changes. Councilmember Hugg questioned the continuing-education cut and removal of fire-sprinkler language; Local 16's business manager said the union invested $10.8 million in its training center and increased apprentice intake from 12 to 30. - Item 39 – Playground bid appeal: Playground Boss appealed the city's rejection of its bid for the Pheasant Run Park Playground Renovation. The city law department said the appeal admitted the company did not provide the required electronic copy of its bid bond. The council denied the appeal 6-0. Key Outcomes - Passed 6-0: Item 6 (Snake Bite liquor license), Item 7 (rezoning), Item 8 (rezoning), Item 9 (Puritan Manufacturing TIF), consent agenda items 10–23, and the motion to deny the Playground Boss bid appeal. - Deferred 6-0: Item 38 (Omaha Plumbing Code amendments) was laid over from final/third reading to November 10, 2026, after Councilmember Melton requested more time. - Non-action and adjournment: Items 40–56 were noted as non-action items to appear on a future agenda; the council adjourned on a 6-0 vote. - Note: For Items 24–37, the transcript shows public hearings and council questions but does not include separate roll-call votes.

The Omaha City Council met on October 20, 2026, in the Legislative Chambers. Councilmembers heard opening flood-recovery remarks, approved a series of liquor licenses and land-use items, discussed sidewalk snow-removal assessments and a large sewer design amendment, and held public hearings on park funding and the downtown soccer stadium redevelopment agreement. All items acted on by roll call were approved 5-0. Opening Remarks - Councilmember Hutt described the recent '500-year flood' and its impacts, saying about 143 homes in her district were affected and that Lowell Home Park in Councilmember Roe's district was also hit. She thanked recovery volunteers, including Union Adventist University students and alumni, saying they had up to 35 people on the ground and helped 20 families remove flood-affected drywall and materials. She urged donations to the Salvation Army. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - Item 6: Class I liquor license for La Peep restaurant at 1501 Mike Fahy Street, Suite 100, approved 5-0. - Item 7: Class D liquor license for Hut Discount Store No. 19 at 5434 North 103rd Street, approved 5-0 after the applicant joining by Zoom overcame audio problems. - Item 8: Liquor license addition for Cedar Creek Coffee and Art at 2060 Elkhorn Drive, lower-level outdoor area, approved 5-0. - Item 9: Preliminary plat for The Overlook at Flanagan Lake, northwest of 180th and Ida Streets, approved 5-0. - Item 10: Special use permit for a daycare in the R3 district at 4847 South 107th Street, approved 5-0. - Item 11: Street improvement district 2026-01 for Shirley Circle from South 80th Street east to its terminus, approved 5-0. - Consent agenda items 12-15, with public hearings held October 6, 2026, approved 5-0. - Items 16-51, a public hearing block that included sidewalk snow-removal contracts and other routine items, were approved 5-0. No members of the public testified as proponents or opponents on that block. Public Comments & Testimony - For item 52, one opponent said he normally supports the administration but expressed concern about administration of the amendment. - For item 54, Ed Fox, a Union Omaha season ticket holder and spouse of a sponsor, spoke in favor, praising the club's community. Hunter Fangmeyer, president of the Omaha Parliament supporters group, also spoke in favor, citing free tailgates, watch parties at Cunningham's and Blackstone, and fundraising for Football for the World. - Item 53 drew no public testimony. Discussion Items Sidewalk Snow Removal (Item 23, part of Items 16-51) - Councilmember Melton called Steve Ruby of Public Works to explain how the city assesses property owners when sidewalks are not cleared. After snow operations end, owners have about 24 hours to clear their walks; if a complaint is made and a notice is posted, they have another 24 hours. The city does not proactively patrol; it responds only to complaints. - Melton read rates from the contract attachment, including a $4-per-square-foot rate for trace amounts, a $3.16-per-linear-foot rate for trace to 5.99 inches of snow, and up to $6.90 per linear foot for deeper snow. Ruby said rates are set through an annual bidding process and are paid to contractors, not retained by the city. - Ruby said Public Works manages more than 5,000 lane miles of streets and would rather residents clear walks themselves, hire someone, or get neighbor help. He noted the city is adding flags, Facebook notices, and outreach this year to improve notice. Sewer Infrastructure Amendment (Item 52) - Jim Tyler of Public Works presented amendment No. 1 to the professional services agreement with Wade Trim Associates for the Northeast Omaha high-rate treatment basin and associated projects, in the amount of $17,950,125 from the sewer revenue fund. - The amendment is not for overruns; it revises and expands Wade Trim's scope to fast-track two of four construction packages before the new downtown soccer stadium and surrounding development on the former Union Pacific property are built. Package one is a 72-inch conveyance sewer running about 70 feet underground in rock, valued at about $20 million. Package two is a diversion structure and screening facility at 11th and Izzard Streets, valued at about $45 million. Total project cost was estimated at $250-300 million. - In response to a question from Councilmember Festerson, Tyler said the engineering contract was awarded through a qualifications-based selection process and that the amendment funds additional design and construction-administration services, not the same services at higher cost. The item passed 5-0. Park Funding from Omaha Community Foundation (Item 53) - The council held a public hearing on an ordinance to accept and disburse $4,890,000 from the Omaha Community Foundation for park properties. Councilmember Festerson said he was supportive and described it as about $5 million in philanthropic funding matching the city's enhanced $5 million parks commitment. - Dan Cedar, assistant director for parks and recreation, said about $1.3 million is going to neighborhood park renovations at Lake James, McKinley, Autumn Heights, and Pheasant Run, with other improvements at additional sites. About $2 million is going to facilities, pool, HVAC, plumbing, window, and recreation-center repairs. - Cedar said the funding reduced open park maintenance work orders from more than 200 at the end of 2025 to about 27, with 18 work orders currently open in 2026, and improved average turnaround from about 45-50 days to about 18 days. Assessments of roughly 200 parks by Kimley Horn and of about 96 facilities are also underway or being procured. - No vote was taken on item 53; Festerson said he looked forward to supporting it the following week. Downtown Soccer Stadium Redevelopment Agreement (Item 54) - The council held a public hearing on an ordinance approving a redevelopment agreement with Downtown Soccer Stadium, Inc., for property northeast of 11th and Izzard Streets. Presenters included Deputy Chief of Staff Marco Floriani, attorney David Levy, Union Omaha CEO Gary Green, COO/GM Alexis Pulos, and MECA President/CEO Adam Strait. - The project is described as a total investment exceeding $316 million on 25 acres of former industrial land. The development includes a stadium for Union Omaha men's soccer and a future professional women's franchise, plus about 300-350 apartments and retail south of the stadium. With Future Forward and Millwork Commons, area housing could reach 1,000 units over the next 5-10 years. - The agreement includes a 30-year stadium lease. The approximately $140 million stadium would be funded by about $23 million in team equity, city land plus $10.5 million in infrastructure, and about $106.5 million in city-issued lease purchase and revenue bonds repaid by team rent, incremental sales and property taxes, naming rights, signage, and other project revenues. Annual debt service was projected to stabilize at about $7.3 million in 2033, with about $675,000 in annual excess for reserves. The project is projected to create 270 jobs and $430 million in local economic output over 25 years. - MECA expressed full support and is working on shared-parking agreements. Union Omaha reported more than 50,000 fans at matches this season, 25-plus community watch parties, nearly 3,000 students and educators at a free match, and the club's first international friendly. - Councilmembers Festerson and Melton spoke in support, praising the financing structure, downtown integration, and future women's team. No opponents testified. No vote was taken; the item was expected on a future agenda. Key Outcomes - Approved 5-0: Items 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, consent agenda items 12-15, the block of public-hearing items 16-51, item 52, and the non-action items acknowledgment for items 55-84. - Items 53 and 54 were public hearings/discussion only; no votes were taken. - Items 55-84 were noted as non-action items to be placed on a future agenda; the council approved the related motion 5-0. - The meeting adjourned at 3:02 p.m.

The Omaha City Council met on October 20, 2026, to address agenda items including liquor licenses, a street improvement district, snow removal contracts, park funding, and a downtown soccer stadium redevelopment agreement. The meeting opened with recognition of a recent flood and volunteer efforts. Opening Remarks - Councilmember Hutt noted that a "500-year flood" had impacted 143 homes in the Cairn Western addition, with utility service cut to 123 homes. He thanked volunteers, including Home Depot, Steamfitters Local 464, and Union Adventist students and alumni, for their assistance and encouraged donations to the Salvation Army for ongoing recovery. Consent Calendar - Items 12 through 15 were approved without discussion by a vote of 5 to 0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 52 (Wade Trim Amendment): Marty (address 2709, last name unclear) spoke as an opponent, questioning the administration of the contract. - Item 54 (Soccer Stadium Redevelopment): Ed Fox (5511 Harney Street, season ticket holder) voiced strong support for the stadium, citing the unique community built by Union Omaha. Hunter Fangmeyer (2719 North 65th Street, President of Omaha Parliament) also spoke in favor, emphasizing community investment and the organization's 501(c)(3) work. Discussion Items - Item 23 – Snow Removal Assessments: Councilmember Melton led a discussion with Steve Ru of Public Works regarding snow removal bids. Ru explained that after a snow operation ends, property owners have 24 hours to clear sidewalks. If a complaint is filed, a notice is posted, allowing another 24 hours. Failure to comply results in contractor removal billed at rates determined by bid: $4 per square foot for trace amounts, $3.16 per linear foot for 0-5.99 inches, and $6.90 per linear foot for 6+ inches. Melton noted that charges can exceed $600 for long frontages during heavy snow. Ru emphasized that the city does not profit, and urged citizens to clear walks or assist neighbors, particularly for ADA accessibility and school routes. - Item 52 – Northeast Omaha High Rate Treatment Basin Amendment: Jim Tyler (Public Works) presented an amendment to the contract with Wade Trim Associates totaling $17,950,125. The funds will accelerate design and construction of two of four construction packages to align with the downtown soccer stadium timeline, including a 72-inch conveyance sewer ($20 million) and a diversion structure ($45 million). The overall project cost is estimated at $250-300 million. The council approved the amendment 5-0. - Item 53 – Park Improvement Funding from Omaha Community Foundation: Dan Cedar (Parks and Recreation) outlined the use of $4,890,000 in philanthropic funds, matched by city investments. Key allocations include $1.3 million for neighborhood park renovations, $2 million for facilities and pool repairs, reduction of work order backlog from over 200 to 27, and two assessments of parks and facilities. Councilmember Festerson expressed support, noting improved maintenance turnaround (18 days vs. 45-50 days previously). No vote was recorded. - Item 54 – Downtown Soccer Stadium Redevelopment Agreement: Representatives from the city, Union Omaha, and MECA presented the project. Highlights include a $140 million stadium, 300-350 mixed-use apartments, and a 30-year lease. Financing includes $23 million in team equity, $10.5 million in city infrastructure, and $106.5 million in bonds paid by rent, incremental taxes, and naming rights. The stadium is expected to open in 2028, creating 270 jobs and generating $430 million in local economic output over 25 years. Councilmembers Festerson and Melton voiced support. Public hearing was closed; no vote taken. Key Outcomes - Items Approved (all 5-0): - Item 6: Class I liquor license for La Peep restaurant. - Item 7: Class D liquor license for HUT discount store 19 (revisited after Zoom technical issues). - Item 8: Liquor license addition for Cedar Creek Coffee and Art. - Item 9: Preliminary plat for The Overlook at Flanagan Lake. - Item 10: Special use permit for a daycare at 4847 South 107th Street. - Item 11: Street improvement district for Shirley Circle. - Consent agenda (Items 12-15). - Omnibus approval Items 16-51, including snow removal contracts, after discussion of Item 23. - Item 52: Amendment to Wade Trim agreement for high-rate treatment basin. - Items 55-84: Placed on future agenda as non-action items. - Items Discussed, No Vote: - Item 53: Park improvement funding ($4,890,000). - Item 54: Downtown soccer stadium redevelopment agreement. - The meeting adjourned at 3:02 PM.

The Omaha City Council convened on September 29, 2026, at 3:27 PM (adjourned). The meeting opened with a tribute to Marilyn Rowe (mother of Councilmember Don Roe, died September 23 at age 90) and recognition of Omaha by Design's 25th anniversary. A proclamation declared October 2026 as Black Maternal Health Month. Most agenda items were approved unanimously, including several liquor licenses and rezoning requests. The major discussion focused on a proposed ordinance to reduce residential parking minimums (Item 35), which drew extensive public testimony. A controversial layover of Item 50 (related to a CRA designation for the Center Mall property) passed 5–2 after debate about potential VA interest. Consent Calendar - Items 14–19 (public hearing held September 22) were approved 7–0 without discussion. - Items 20–33 (public hearing held on September 29) were approved 7–0 after Holly Barrett (Executive Director, Omaha Downtown Improvement District) spoke in support of Item 20, describing it as a long-needed improvement for a downtown business. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 35 – Parking Minimum Reduction: - Proponents: - Zeke Rouse (Spark, policy analyst): Supported, citing cost savings of $10,000–50,000 per parking space and alignment with AARP age-friendly goals. - Kenny Okibo (Omaha by Design, executive director): Supported, noting that the change can facilitate affordable housing on constrained sites and aligns with complete streets policy. - Jonathan Spellman (MX Development Group): Supported, stating it lowers housing costs and provides flexibility for narrow lots. - Representative from Ars in common housing (nonprofit developer at 1340 Park Avenue): Supported, citing successful projects (Hanscom, Popelton) with 1:1 parking ratios. - Todd Nichols (resident, 5119 Underwood Ave): Supported, arguing current requirements do not match actual demand and that reduced parking can increase density and fiscal sustainability. - Marsha Marshall (Front Porch Investments, policy manager): Supported, stating that parking minimums add $5,000 per surface spot and that the ordinance aligns with the Housing Affordability Action Plan. - Albert Pizzocchi (Metro Omaha Builders Association): Supported, emphasizing flexibility for builders. - Lucas Though (3727 N 108th St): Supported, calling it a step toward building for people instead of cars. - Noam (501 Park Ave): Supported, noting that 23% of downtown Omaha is parking lots and that reduced parking can promote transit and affordability. - Opponents: - Jerry Johnson (17534 V St): Opposed, stating Omaha is a “car town” and that reducing minimums will turn neighborhoods into parking lots. He argued affordable housing is a “myth” due to high costs. - Larry Store (5015 Loft Ave): Opposed, stating that current parking minimums are not enforced and that new buildings with TIF already create congestion. - Item 12–13 (Rezoning at 2646 Y St): Hugh Murphy (employee, Barnhart Crane & Rigging, 14504 Jefferson St) spoke as a proponent, noting heavy industrial uses nearby but no objection to residential development. - Item 20 (Downtown improvement): Holly Barrett (Omaha Downtown Improvement District) spoke as a proponent, thanking the council for supporting a complicated project involving multiple agencies. Discussion Items - Item 35 – Residential Parking and Setback Amendments: Eric England (Planning Department) presented the ordinance, which reduces the minimum parking requirement from 2 spaces per unit to 1 space per dwelling unit citywide, allows front-yard parking to count, reduces setbacks for parking lots on arterial streets, and makes other adjustments. He noted that over 170 cities have removed minimums and that the change is a recommendation from the Housing Affordability Action Plan and Mayor’s Housing Task Force. Councilmembers Goodwin, Festerson, Roe, and Harding asked clarifying questions about maximums (none set), driveway parking (previously not counted, now allowed), and neighborhood congestion. The public hearing was closed; the vote is scheduled for a later meeting. - Item 50 – Postponement of Public Hearing and Vote on Center Mall CRA: Councilmember Festerson moved to lay over the public hearing and vote to December 8, 2026, but later amended to December 15, 2026, to accommodate Councilmember Melton’s schedule. Councilmember Harding opposed, arguing that a willing buyer and seller have a purchase agreement and that delaying could jeopardize the deal. He also stated that the VA (Veterans Administration) has not made a formal offer or signed a letter of intent. Councilmember Melton expressed concern about interfering with a private sale. Matthew Kuzi (Law Department) advised that the VA’s expressed interest warrants delay to avoid potential futility. Councilmember Hugg supported the layover, noting that the developer has a 4–5 year buildout and that a 60-day delay is not significant. The motion to lay over to December 15 passed 5–2. - Item 36 – Workforce Housing TIF Agreement (Fort Circle): Bridget Hadley (Planning) and Laycia Goodwin (Holy Name Housing) presented a project introducing six new workforce housing units at 24th and Fort Streets. The homes are smaller footprint with one-car garages, fitting infill lots typical of East Omaha. No public opposition. - Items 37–38 – Levi Carter Park Improvements: Items 37 (disbursement from Omaha Parks Foundation, $4,529,600) and 38 (change order for construction contract) were approved without public testimony. Key Outcomes - Items 6–10 (Liquor Licenses): All passed 7–0. - Item 6: El Castillo Lounge (1802 Vinton St) – Class C - Item 7: Bottles and Brews (10745 Mockingbird Dr) – Class C - Item 8: Hunan Fusion (2405 S 132nd St) – Class C - Item 9: Azure Cocktail Bar (11732-11736 West Dodge Rd) – Class I - Item 10: Pizon’s Pizzeria (15605 West Center Rd) – Addition of party room and outdoor area - Items 11–13 (Rezoning): All passed 7–0. - Item 11: 3460-3464 Ruggle St – R4.35 to R5 (no public testimony) - Items 12–13: 2646 Y St – Rezone from HI to R7 and approve PUR overlay (with proponent testimony) - Items 34–36: All passed 7–0 (item 34: interlocal agreement with Ralston for sewer improvements; item 35: public hearing held, no vote yet; item 36: TIF agreement for Fort Circle workforce housing) - Items 37–38 (Levi Carter Park): Approved 7–0 without public testimony. - Items 39–46 (Business Improvement District assessments): Approved 7–0. - Items 47–49 (Various ordinances): Approved 7–0. - Item 50 – Layover to December 15, 2026: Passed 5–2 (Hug, Melton, Festerson, Goodwin, President Aye; Roe and Harding No). The public hearing and vote are postponed. - Items 51–56 (Non-action items): Placed on future agenda, motion passed 7–0.

The Omaha City Council met on September 29, 2026, at 6:41 PM CT. The meeting opened with a moment of remembrance for Marilyn Rowe, a longtime advocate and mother of Councilmember Don Rowe, who passed away on September 23 at age 90. Councilmember Goodwin recognized Omaha by Design’s 25th anniversary and announced award winners. A proclamation was issued for Black Maternal Health Month (October 2026), presented by IB Black Girl, highlighting disparities in maternal health outcomes for Black women. The council then considered several liquor license applications, rezoning ordinances, a major parking reform ordinance, tax increment financing (TIF) agreements, and a debated layover on a Community Redevelopment Authority (CRA) designation for the Center Mall due to interest from the Veterans Administration (VA). Consent Calendar - Items 14–19: Public hearings held on September 22, 2026. Approved unanimously (7-0). - Items 20–33: Public hearings conducted on September 29. Only Holly Barrett, Executive Director of the Omaha Downtown Improvement District, spoke in support of Item 20 (a carriage business improvement project in the Old Market). All items approved 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 35 – Residential Parking Minimums Reduction: Sixteen speakers testified. Proponents (14 speakers) included: Eric England (Planning Department), Zeke Rouse (Spark, policy analyst), Kenny Okibo (Omaha by Design), Jonathan Spelman (MX Development Group), Sherry Arst (Common Housing), Todd Nichols (resident), Marsha Marshall (Front Porch Investments), Albert Pizzocki (Metro Omaha Builders Association), Lucas (resident), Noam Alberg (resident), and others. They argued reducing minimum parking from 1.5–2 spaces per unit to 1 space per unit would lower housing costs (citing $5,000–$50,000 per space), increase flexibility for developers, and promote density and walkability. They noted over 100 previous Planned Unit Redevelopment (PUR) overlays used a 1:1 ratio successfully, and that the change would not prevent developers from building more parking if desired. Opponents (2 speakers): Jerry Johnson (1753 V St) and Larry Store (5015 Loft Ave) argued Omaha is a “car town,” that affordable housing is a myth, and that reduced parking would lead to street congestion and enforcement issues. - Item 36 – Workforce Housing TIF (Fort Circle): Two proponents testified. Lacia Goodwin (Holy Name Housing) described six new construction units at 24th and Fort Streets with a “narrow ranch” typology (3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1-car garage) on 40–50 foot lots, noting that such projects currently require Zoning Board of Appeals waivers for setbacks and parking. - Items 37–49: No public testimony. All approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 50 – CRA Designation for Center Mall (2002 S 24th St.): A layover motion was made by Councilmember Festerson to postpone the public hearing and vote from October 6 to December 8, 2026. Councilmember Harding opposed, arguing a willing buyer and seller had a purchase agreement and that the VA had only expressed informal interest, not a formal letter of intent—calling further delay “tortious interference.” Councilmember Melton requested the date be moved to November 24 to accommodate her schedule. After discussion, the motion was amended to December 15, 2026, to allow a full council vote. Councilmember Harding voted no. Key Outcomes - Liquor Licenses (Items 6–10): Approved 7-0 for El Castilla Lounge (1802 Vinton St), Bottles and Brews (10745 Mockingbird Dr), Hunan Fusion (2405 S 132nd St), Azure Cocktail Bar (11732-11736 W Dodge Rd), and Pizon’s Pizzeria (15605 W Center Rd). - Rezoning (Items 11–13): Approved 7-0: Item 11 rezoned 3460–3464 Ruggles St from R-435 to R5; Items 12–13 rezoned 2646 Y St from HI to R7 with a PUR overlay. - Consent Agenda (Items 14–33): Approved 7-0. - Interlocal Agreement (Item 34): Approved without opposition — ordinance to approve interlocal with Ralston for sewer improvements. - Parking Minimums Reduction (Item 35): Public hearing held; first reading ordinance. Vote scheduled for a future meeting. - Workforce Housing TIF (Item 36): Public hearing held; ordinance to approve TIF redevelopment agreement for Fort Circle project. - Parks Funding (Items 37–38): Approved 7-0: $4,529,600 from Omaha Parks Foundation for Jerry Parks Youth Football Complex, and change order 8 (guaranteed maximum price) for Levi Carter Park activity/sports complex. - Business Improvement Districts (Items 39–46): Approved 7-0 for Benson, Blackstone, Alcorn, Little Bohemia, North 24th St, North Saddle Creek, and South Omaha BIDs. - Administrative Items (Items 47–49): Approved 7-0: Title change for General Services Manager to Administrative Services Manager; $191,158 DEA forfeiture for OPD overtime; bid acceptance for library cleaning services. - Item 50 – CRA Designation Layover: Motion passed 5-2 (Harding and Melton dissenting) to lay over public hearing and vote to December 15, 2026.

- Opening: Councilmember Amy Melton recognized Suicide Prevention Month, noting that one person dies by suicide every 16.2 minutes, that two-thirds of people who die by suicide suffer from depression, and sharing the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 and NAMI.org. - Item 6 – 2027 property tax request: Approved 7–0. - Item 7 – Class I liquor license, Medis, 10317 Pacific St: Public hearing held; applicant representatives Christopher Chafey and Leslie Dixon appeared by Zoom. No opponents. Approved 7–0. - Item 8 – Liquor license, Dozendig, 18010 R Plaza: Applicant Amanda Priority, owner, appeared. No opponents. Approved 7–0. - Items 9–12 – Chance Ridge replat, preliminary/final plat, and subdivision agreement: Considered together. Applicant Kyle Vole (EMAY Consulting) and developer Billy Douglas explained the minor replat and the future indoor soccer facility and commercial uses. No opponents. Approved 7–0. - Consent agenda items 13–18: Public hearings had been held September 15, 2026. Approved 7–0. - Consent agenda items 19–24 and 26: Public hearings held that day; no testimony. Approved 7–0. - Item 25 – Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program local match agreement with MAPA: Removed from consent agenda for discussion. Public hearing held. Opponent Larry Storr questioned the program. Councilmember Goodwin and MAPA Executive Director Mike Helgerson discussed the $1.5 million USDOT grant, the roughly $189,000 city match, community engagement, planning, and preliminary engineering phases. Councilmember Goodwin also highlighted historical highway-related displacement in North Omaha, including 1,100 families displaced by eminent domain in the 1970s and 1980s. Councilmember Melton asked about budgeting and supported the item. Approved 7–0. - Item 27 – Vacation of a portion of South 26th Street ROW: Public hearing held; no testimony. - Item 28 – Major amendment to the Gender Creek Mixed Use District development agreement: Public hearing held. Proponent Brendan Findle (Lamper Nearson) appeared for the applicant. No opponents. - Item 29 – Vinton Silos TIF redevelopment agreement: Public hearing held. Proponents included Bridget Hadley (City Planning), Larry Store, and Patrick Mason (DICON Corporation). Store said the area has been severely blighted and he strongly supported the project. No opponents. - Item 30 – Interlocal agreement with the City of Friend for keynote services: Public hearing held. Proponent Melody Simzac (Big Regino) spoke in support. No opponents. - Item 31 – Lease agreement with the University of Nebraska for parking near UNO/Nebraska Village/Baxter Arena: Public hearing held; no testimony. - Item 32 – Interlocal agreement with Metropolitan Community College for shared library automation services, May 2026–April 2031: Public hearing held; no testimony. - Non-action items 33–53: Placed on a future agenda for public hearing and vote; no action taken at this meeting. - After the non-action items statement, a roll call was taken and passed 7–0. The meeting adjourned at 2:26 p.m.