Planning board approves 16‑lot Skyline Woods proposal amid opposition citing earlier court covenant

The Omaha Planning Board voted 6–0 to approve a preliminary plat and rezoning from AG to R4 for a 16‑lot cul‑de‑sac included in a broader Skyline Woods golf‑course restoration project.

Opponents — including Robin Vance, president of the neighborhood homeowners association — said a previous Supreme Court ruling limits development of the former golf course and requested denial on that basis. Vance told the board the ruling and subdivision covenants were the primary reason residents opposed development on the parcel. “There is a Supreme Court ruling in place that states this is to be a golf course or kept as a park‑like setting,” she said.

Developer Brett Cluer and supporters argued the current proposal restores an 18‑hole course and that prior attempts at development failed; proponents described substantial private investment already underway and early membership commitments. Cluer said the golf course work was underway and forecast strong confidence the course would reopen on a rapid timetable.

Staff noted that R4 is a low‑density residential zoning that does not permit multifamily residential uses and recommended approval subject to the 12 conditions in the report. The board approved the waiver, rezoning and preliminary plat by unanimous vote.

What’s next: Conditions identified in the staff report must be addressed prior to final plat and city council review. Neighbors retain options for civil or covenant challenges outside city zoning authority.