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United Way of the Midlands has launched the Nebraska & Iowa Tornado Relief Fund, raising over $1.1 million to assist those affected by recent tornadoes in Nebraska and Iowa. The fund allocates resources to local agencies and individuals, ensuring flexible support for families impacted by the disaster.
New evidence has emerged linking two men killed by off-duty police officers in Omaha to drug trafficking activities. Investigators found narcotics and a significant amount of cash in their vehicle, indicating their involvement in illegal drug operations connected to Mexico.
The Omaha Police Department has achieved national accreditation for the eighth time from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), reinforcing its commitment to professional excellence and community trust. In addition, the City of Omaha is investigating fraudulent emails impersonating official communications and has provided updates on storm damage cleanup efforts, including debris disposal sites.
Owners in Omaha whose properties were damaged by the April 26 tornado will not have to pay building permit fees, as the City Council unanimously voted to waive these fees. This decision affects properties within city limits and the three-mile zoning jurisdiction, supporting recovery efforts after extensive property damage was reported.
Omaha's Central Library fundraising campaign has successfully surpassed its $158 million goal, aided by a $20 million contribution from the City of Omaha. Meanwhile, the Central Park Plaza office complex is set to be transformed into a major residential development, “The Duo,” coinciding with the upcoming streetcar project.
Mayor Jean Stothert has proposed a 3.3% reduction in the property tax rate for Omaha in 2025, marking her fifth consecutive tax cut. The new tax levy will total 44.233 cents per $100 valuation, contributing to an overall 11.94% decrease in the city's tax rate over the past 11 years.
Omaha is hosting a series of public open houses to discuss the Climate Action and Resilience Plan, aimed at enhancing community climate resilience and sustainability. Additionally, nominations for the OMA Tourism Awards are now open, celebrating local tourism businesses in the area following a record-breaking year for the industry.
The Omaha Police Department has received national accreditation for the eighth time from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), affirming its commitment to professional excellence. This accreditation process includes a rigorous self-assessment and independent evaluations to ensure compliance with public safety standards. The accreditation will be effective for four years, emphasizing the department's dedication to community trust and transparency.
The completion of the Saddle Creek Retention Treatment Basin in Omaha signifies a major milestone in the city's Clean Solutions Omaha (CSO) program, aimed at reducing combined sewer overflows and improving water quality. With an estimated cost of $93.5 million, the facility is expected to significantly cut the frequency of untreated discharges into local waterways. Mayor Jean Stothert emphasized its importance in the long-term control plan for pollution reduction.
Christmas tree recycling sites in Omaha will open on December 24 and remain available until January 9, 2024, with volunteers assisting on select days. Additionally, the City of Omaha anticipates a $8 million budget surplus for 2023, primarily due to increased sales tax revenue, allowing for various city investments.