Good morning, this is Omaha Local Pulse for Saturday, November first.

We wake up today with the city launching a key initiative. A six-month pilot program starts this morning to address homeless encampments across Omaha. City officials and community partners aim to support folks sleeping overnight on city-owned property, with the goal of connecting them to shelter and housing. If we spot an active encampment, the city asks us to call the mayor’s hotline. A ten-day notice will be posted, and outreach teams will check in every day, helping people move toward stability. By April, city leaders hope to have a blueprint for a lasting solution that balances compassion and public order.

Turning to the weather, we’re seeing a chilly but sunny fall Saturday, which is great news if we plan to head outdoors. High temperatures near Memorial Park should reach the upper fifties. A light breeze means perfect leaf-raking weather, and we can expect this dry pattern to continue through Sunday. Grab a sweater if we’re out early or staying out late, as it’ll dip into the upper thirties tonight.

At City Hall, the big conversation remains how the city will handle these new homeless response procedures and the reporting that comes with it. We’re also hearing plenty of talk about property taxes as the council considers budget tweaks ahead of the winter session.

Over in North Omaha, Big Mama’s Kitchen is stepping up to help anyone impacted by the government shutdown and the freeze in SNAP food assistance. With about one in eight Nebraskans receiving SNAP benefits, the move is vital. Starting today, Big Mama’s will offer free soup and cornbread during business hours to all in need. Owner Gladys Harrison says the goal is making sure no neighbor goes hungry while the shutdown lasts.

On the business front, local realtors have reason to celebrate. Nebraska Realty just announced it’s been recognized in the 2026 Best of Omaha awards, another sign our housing market remains strong and competitive. Interest in new listings on the west side is steady, with average home prices holding just below four hundred thousand.

We’re seeing some positive news on the jobs front, too. Several local retailers are beginning holiday season hiring, with hundreds of new openings at stores along Dodge, including distribution and seasonal customer service roles.

Looking ahead, several Veteran’s Day events are planned this week throughout town. Businesses along Farnam and Maple Streets will offer free meals and discounts to our veterans starting Thursday. If we’re downtown, keep an eye out for the parade route and expect some minor traffic changes.

In sports, let’s celebrate the Marian girls golf team, who clinched their second straight Class A state championship this week, finishing an impressive thirty-three strokes ahead of Westside. With the whole team returning, they have eyes on a third consecutive title next year. Well done to Lucy Peterson and her leadership on the green.

For entertainment, the Benson neighborhood will come alive tonight with live jazz at Reverb Lounge and haunted house events nearby, perfect for extending that Halloween spirit.

On the public safety front, the community is discussing a serious incident after an Omaha man was charged with breaking into a house and firing at responding police officers this week. His bail was set at one million dollars, reflecting the gravity of the charges. Omaha police remind us to stay alert and reach out if we see suspicious activity in our neighborhoods.

Finally, let’s spotlight a feel-good story just across the river. City Ranch in Bellevue, run by Ashley and Dan Nye, continues to grow, welcoming families for alpaca visits and unique handmade goods. Their commitment proves that even small businesses can make a big impact when rooted in community.

Thanks for tuning in today and be sure to...