Could a small change in Omaha’s electrical code make homes safer—or simply more expensive? That’s the question stirring debate ahead of a key City Council vote that could reshape the standards for new homes across the city.
Omaha’s City Council is preparing to vote on December 9 on whether to update its electrical code—a move that could raise the cost of new construction and electrical projects by several hundred dollars. The proposal requires whole-home surge protectors, ground-fault outlets, and arc-fault breakers in all new builds and major electrical upgrades. Supporters say these measures could prevent deadly electrical accidents and fires, while critics argue they’ll push up housing costs in an already tight market.
Local electrician Jon Nebel estimates that homeowners might see about $500 added to the cost of each new project. Yet, he insists that’s money well spent: “It keeps people safe—anyone touching or using electricity. That’s not something we should cut corners on,” Nebel explained. He pointed out that Omaha hasn’t updated its electrical codes since 2017, even though modern equipment has become far safer and more efficient. “If builders don’t have to include these standards, they won’t—unless customers specifically ask and pay extra,” he added.
City Council President Danny Begley agrees that the changes aren’t luxury features but critical safety upgrades. “These are common-sense improvements,” he said. “They protect families, property, and first responders. Imagine a house fire—this system could automatically cut power from the outside, giving firefighters precious time to act more safely.”
But not everyone is convinced. Last year, former Mayor Jean Stothert vetoed a nearly identical proposal, calling it an unjustified burden on affordable housing. Those concerns persist. Councilman Don Rowe has voiced similar worries, arguing that extra costs only make it harder for residents to find homes within reach. “We’ve taken steps to address affordability, but we’re still falling short. This doesn’t move the needle in the right direction,” Rowe said.
If approved, the updated code would apply only to new construction—homeowners wouldn’t need to retrofit existing properties to meet the new standards. For supporters, that’s a fair compromise that values both safety and practicality. As Begley put it, “You can’t put a price on protecting lives and property.”
And this is where the debate heats up: Should safety improvements ever be held back because of cost concerns, or does every added dollar count in the fight for affordable housing? Where should the line be drawn between progress and price? Share your thoughts—should Omaha put safety first, or affordability?
