How to Participate in the Omaha City Council Hearing

The Omaha City Council makes decisions that affect our daily lives; from housing and public safety to local services. Here is everything you need to know about testifying or submitting comments.

Omaha should choose solutions, not punishments. The Omaha City Council is considering an ordinance that would criminalize people experiencing homelessness, threatening them with fines and jail time simply for surviving in public spaces.

This won't solve homelessness, but you can speak up for real solutions like housing and supportive services. The City Council will meet on Tuesday, September 22nd at 2:00 pm. Here's how you can participate.

Speak at a Meeting (In Person)

  • Meetings are held on the 2nd floor of the City Council-City Building, 1819 Farnam Street.
  • Meetings start promptly at 2:00 pm, with doors opening about 15 minutes beforehand.
  • Print an agenda beforehand or pick one up from security staff outside of the chambers. Agendas can be found here.
  • Speaking Process:
    • - The City Clerk announces each agenda item.
    • - The City Council President will ask first for proponents (supporters) to speak, then for opponents.
    • - When it's your turn, approach the podium, state your name and address for the record, and give your remarks.
    • - Keep your comments to about 3 minutes.
  • If you bring written testimony or handouts, bring 8-10 copies (1 for the Clerk, 7 for Council members, extra for press if needed).
  • You do not need to pre-register if you attend in person.

Speak at a Meeting (Zoom)

If you cannot attend in person, you may testify by Zoom, but you must register in advance. Here is how you can register:

  • If you plan to participate via Zoom, you must register with the City Clerk by 4:30 pm on Monday, September 22.
  • Either call or email the City Clerk’s office
    • Call: (402) 444 - 5557 (and keep trying if you can’t get through right away, make sure you talk to a real person)
    • Email: cityclerk@cityofomaha.org
  • Provide your name, address, the agenda item you want to speak on, whether you are a proponent or opponent.
  • Once your registration is processes, you'll receive a confirmation email with the Zoom Meeting ID and password. If you don't receive an email, call until you do.
  • Important: Zoom is for speaking participants only. If you want to watch use this link to watch the live stream.

Submit Written Comments

If you cannot attend or register via Zoom:

  • Email your comments to cityclerk@cityofomaha.org and ask that they may be added to the official record.
  • You can also email your testimony directly to your City Councilmember.