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Council conditions approval of North 24th Street bar The Deuce on 1 a.m. initial closing, Class I license
Summary
After a public hearing and lengthy questioning about prior problems at the site, the Omaha City Council approved a motion to recommend a Class I liquor license and a 1 a.m. closing time in the first year for The Deuce at 2311 North 24th Street; the motion passed unanimously.
Willie Stennis, owner and operator of The Deuce LLC, told the Omaha City Council on April 21 that he plans an “elegant cultural entertainment hub” on North 24th Street featuring live music, spoken word and small plates, and asked the council to grant a Class C liquor license allowing sale of alcohol on- and off-premise through 2 a.m. Stennis said he lives in the neighborhood, has hired security, plans cameras and off-duty officers, and intends to be a hands-on owner.
Council members said they want the business to thrive but urged safeguards because the location has a history of policing issues. Council Member Melton, who chairs the law committee, said the prior establishment at that address generated many police calls and recommended a cautious approach: an initial Class I license (on-premise sales only) and a 1 a.m. closing time for the first year so the council and neighbors can evaluate operations. “So that’s gonna be my recommendation,” Melton said during questioning about managing late-night disruption and the importance of cameras and security.
Council Member Goodwin and others endorsed the idea of supporting Stennis while imposing a testing period. Stennis told the council he was amenable to a 1 a.m. limit during the first year and suggested limited exceptions (for example, later hours on weekends if the council agrees in the future). “I’m asking the support of this council, to allow us to continue elevating the culture and the commerce of North 24th Street,” Stennis told the council when presenting his proposal.
Melton made the on-the-record motion to amend the application to a Class I license with a 1 a.m. closing time; the council recorded a second, took a roll call and approved the amendment 7–0. With that agreement, the council recommended license approval subject to the applicant’s on-record commitments. The amendment was entered into the record at the council’s vote; the owner said he would work with neighbors and city staff to address concerns.
The council did not adopt additional operational conditions beyond the on-the-record agreement, but members emphasized that future violations could lead to additional enforcement or license action. The Deuce may return to the council in a year if it seeks an extension of hours.
