The Omaha City Council made significant strides in enhancing local business and community support during its meeting on December 10, 2024. Among the most impactful decisions was the unanimous approval of several Class C liquor licenses, which will facilitate the opening of new establishments in the city.

The council approved a liquor license for Bomb Taco, located at 5003 Underwood Avenue, allowing the new owners to open their doors immediately. The council expressed enthusiasm for the establishment, which is taking over a previous taco spot in Dundee. Similarly, Santoro Cantina at 8601 West Dodge Road and The Tipsy Pig at 1150 Sterling Ridge Drive also received their licenses, paving the way for their operations to commence shortly.

In a notable highlight, the council approved a Class I liquor license for Homegrown, a daytime eatery set to open at 3555 Farnam Street. This will be the first Homegrown location in Nebraska, aiming to serve locally sourced brunch items from 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM daily. The establishment is expected to contribute to the local economy and provide job opportunities.

Another significant agenda item was the approval of the preliminary plat for Dunham House, a project dedicated to providing housing for combat-wounded veterans. This initiative, backed by the Wounded Warriors Family Support organization, will be the first of its kind in the nation, offering a supportive living environment tailored to the needs of veterans. The council's approval allows for the construction of 30 living units on a 40-acre tract, with plans to expand further in the future. The project is fully funded, with construction set to begin in March 2025.

Additionally, the council discussed the Hartman Ridge project, which aims to create affordable housing by splitting a one-acre property into two parcels. This initiative is expected to provide homeownership opportunities for families within the community, further addressing the need for affordable housing in Omaha.

The meeting concluded with a strong sense of community commitment, as council members expressed their support for these projects, emphasizing their potential to enhance local quality of life and provide essential services to residents. The council's actions reflect a proactive approach to fostering economic growth and supporting vulnerable populations in Omaha.