Council updates food-inspection code; exempts under-18s from proposed permit fee

The Omaha City Council approved an amendment of the whole to Chapter 11 (Food Inspection and Protection), updating the city’s food code for the first time in roughly two decades.

Council member Pete Festersen, a co-sponsor of the amendment, described the update as largely a modernization, removing obsolete language and aligning local rules with state requirements. The ordinance adopts a prohibition on bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods — a provision already required by state law — and adds a provision to require food-handler training every two years.

Notably, in response to concerns raised during earlier hearings, the amendment exempts anyone under age 18 from the proposed permit fee while still requiring the training. Festersen said the change aimed to reduce barriers for young people seeking entry-level food-service jobs.

The council heard that city inspectors had worked with industry stakeholders and that the Omaha Restaurant Association and hospitality groups had submitted letters of support. Festersen said he shadowed a food inspector and observed issues that would benefit from routine training.

The vote: The amendment of the whole (40d) passed on a 5–2 roll call. Council members Harding and Milton voted against the amendment; the measure otherwise carried.

Ending City staff and council members said the ordinance is intended to improve food safety while minimizing new burdens on small businesses and young workers.