Omaha

The Department of Veterans Affairs has shown interest in the Center Mall property near 42nd and Center, Council President Danny Begley said. A request at the September 30 meeting would delay the public hearing and vote on the property's designation until December 8, 2026. The change would push the council's decision on the site back by more than two months.

Douglas County's health director strongly recommended moving sheriff's department staff after tests found fecal matter in liquid draining from the ceiling. Sheriff's staff had raised concerns about health risks in the public waiting area. The county board must decide on a new location, which affects both staff and visitors.

Omaha Public Schools is starting a plan called Moonshot to reach 100% grade-level reading proficiency by 2030. The district is building a tracking system that looks at classroom practices and attendance, not only year-end test results. The plan sets a clear reading target for the district's students over the next four years.

Omaha faces a wet pattern this week, with more than 3 inches of rain possible through Thursday. The added rain could flood creeks, rivers and farm fields, and drier weather should arrive Friday into the weekend. Residents can expect the flood concern to last until the drier weather begins Friday.