Scott Lea

OMAHA (KPTM) --  A controversial plan to let minors into bars got the go ahead Tuesday.  Omaha's city council approved the plan, allowing minors into venues offering live music.

Under the plan, minors of any age could go to concerts at select music venues.  If patrons are under 18, they must have a notarized parental permission slip to get in the door.

A packed city council chamber listened to the controversial topic Monday.  Many in the crowd were too young to go to a bar, until after the council voted.

The council passed the ordinance by a 5-2 vote.

The new ordinance established a new kind of business, called a music venue.  Bars can apply for the designation to host all ages concerts.

"I think we've done something here for kids to offer music and let people find their personalities.  I think that's a real plus," said councilman Jim Suttle.

Under the plan, music venues must have a permanent stage, lighting, and sound system to qualify.  When venues host all ages shows, they must provide added security.

"We have (security) people stationed on our balcony and people moving throughout the crowd.  It's our job to make sure (underage drinking) isn't happening," said Jason Kulbel of Slowdown, a bar supporting the ordinance.

"I don't see a bar in business as a bar, wanting to do that," said Suttle.

City prosecutors said extra enforcement will be devoted to any new music venue.  Still, they have concerns.

"My concern is places that aren't going to care about the rules and try to use this as a way to get around the rules," said city prosecutor Marty Conboy.

Critics, like Project Extra Mile, said the plan creates a dangerous mix of teens and alcohol.  The group said it now plans to push to get the issue on the ballot.

"I don't believe parents think this is a good idea," said Diane Riibe of Project Extra Mile.  "This is a council that doesn't protect kids.  It's a council that cares about profiting and business profits in the community and unfortunately children lose."

A spokesperson for Mayor Fahey said he is expected to give his approval to the ordinance.