Omaha council approves Haven Express Lounge liquor license with neighborhood conditions

The Omaha City Council on June 8 approved a Class C liquor license for Haven Express Lounge (1217 Leavenworth Street) after the applicant and neighborhood representatives reached agreements limiting outdoor disturbances.

David Houghton, representing RJ Comfort Food LLC and the applicant, told the council that he met with neighbors and the SoMa Homeowners Association following concerns and negotiated conditions including: no music on the patio or outdoor area; no regular food trucks at this time; and hours of operation Tuesday through Saturday with last call at 11:30 p.m. and closure at midnight.

Houghton said roughly 20–25 residents attended a follow-up meeting and that only a small number (he estimated “2 to 4” of about 120) still opposed the license. Council members pressed for clarifications about the license footprint and any future expansion for patio service. Council member Harding confirmed the current liquor license does not include the patio and said an additional approval would be required for any expansion.

Council members expressed support after noting the applicant’s outreach. “The best thing a business owner can do is show that you're a good neighbor and that you run a good business,” the presiding council member said, adding confidence the applicant would maintain a constructive relationship with neighbors.

A motion to approve passed by roll call 7–0.

The approvals recorded on the council floor include the recorded conditions on outdoor music and a commitment to consult the neighborhood association before any future decisions about food trucks or expanded outdoor service.