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Otoe County tables City of Omaha biosolids permit application after residents raise safety and siting concerns
Summary
After a public hearing on May 19, 2026, the Otoe County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to table a City of Omaha application to apply biosolids on county properties, citing requests to identify specific sites and secure neighbor approval; the City plans to re-present the application June 16.
The Otoe County Board of Commissioners on May 19 tabled a conditional‑use permit application from the City of Omaha that would have allowed application of biosolids to properties in Otoe County.
Chair Commissioner Jerad Sornson opened the public hearing and several residents spoke, including Andy Neels, Andy Burr, Victoria Watkins, Patrick Gress, Mayrene Thummel and Ann Boellstorff. Concerns raised during public comment included chemicals in biosolids, the proximity of applications to private wells, odors, application practices, and the need to identify precise application locations. Wayne Beal, representing the City of Omaha, answered questions during the hearing.
Commissioner Chuck Cole moved to table the application pending identification of specific sites and neighbor approval; Commissioner Parsons seconded. Commissioners voted aye (Sornson, Parsons, Crownover and Cole) and the motion carried. The transcript records that the City of Omaha will present a new application to the Board on June 16, 2026.
The Board acted on the biosolids application separately from other administrative business at the meeting. No permit was approved or denied; tabling delays a final decision until the applicant returns with site details and, per public comment, neighborhood notification and approvals.
