View Full Version : City Council Meeting Notes



David
12-31-2014, 09:05 AM
Just saw a link to some City Council meeting notes go by from the OKC twitter account, they are a summary put together by the city with timed links into the meeting Youtube video for various interesting presentations. Looks like a fairly new thing given the limited archive of them I was able to find.

December 30, 2014 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2014/cn123014.html)
December 16, 2014 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2014/cn121614.html)

The archive (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/)

David
01-06-2015, 12:22 PM
January 6, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn010615.html)


Permits and Events
Large public events held on public rights-of-way (City streets, sidewalks, alleys or easements) require a permit and must be approved by the Oklahoma City Council.

Council approved permits Tuesday for:

OKC Martin Luther King Jr. Coalition’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade, Jan. 19, 2015

View all permitted public events on the events calendar (http://www.okc.gov/specialevents/calendar.html).

Renovations to Speegle and Taft stadiums on pace
Architects reported to the Council on Tuesday that renovations to Speegle Stadium and Taft Stadium, City-owned stadiums used primarily for high school athletics, are continuing on pace. The stadiums are being renovated with funds from the City, Oklahoma City Public Schools and the Oklahoma City Energy FC professional soccer organization. Crumbling walls and structural issues on parts of the stadiums, which were built by the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression, have been demolished and rebuilt, and the stadiums have new press boxes, seating, concessions, bathrooms, locker rooms and artificial playing surfaces. Historical elements of the stadiums were preserved where possible, and architects consulted historical photos when planning new construction. Speegle Stadium is set to reopen this month, with Taft Stadium to follow in March. Several Oklahoma City schools will use the stadiums for athletic events, as will the Energy.

Watch presentation (http://youtu.be/LzcIFGidn8Y?t=36m31s)
Download presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/010615files/Taft%20Speegle%20Council%20Presentation%2001-06-15.pdf) (PDF)


Steelyard area receives $4M in TIF funds
The Steelyard residential development in Deep Deuce will receive more than $4 million in infrastructure development and other improvements after the Council voted Tuesday to allocate tax increment finance district (TIF) funds for the project. TIF No. 2, a TIF district in the downtown and Bricktown area, generated the $4 million in funding. TIF districts allow the City to spend a portion of property tax revenue on improvement projects in and nearby the TIF district. The Steelyard will have 250 residential units, a 355-space parking garage and at least 17,655 square feet of mixed use space. Of the TIF funds to be allocated, $1 million will be in the form of a low-interest loan to be repaid over 10 years.

Airports financial report received
The Council on Tuesday received the Airports Department’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the previous fiscal year. The report showed the City benefited from increased passenger activity, which resulted in more revenue from car rentals, parking and landing fees.
Follow the City of Oklahoma City on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/cityofokc) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/cityofokc)

David
01-20-2015, 02:37 PM
January 13, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn011315.html)


Tax investment plan for northeast Oklahoma City approved
The Oklahoma City Council on Tuesday voted to approve a tax increment finance (TIF) district to support the recently created Northeast Renaissance Urban Renewal Plan along the NE 23 corridor. The TIF district allows some property tax revenues to be reinvested within the renewal plan area for infrastructure projects and other improvements, which could help spur redevelopment and economic growth. The Council declared the area blighted last summer, and the renewal plan and TIF are part of the City’s efforts to nurture prosperity and growth along and near NE 23 between Interstate 235 and the Oklahoma River.


Watch presentation (http://youtu.be/htAhWqbVlLY?t=39m52s)
Download plan (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/011315files/northeast_plan_exhibits.PDF) (PDF)
News release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/City_Council_approves_TIF_pprogram_and_urban_renew al_plan_for_NE_OKC.html)


Body-worn camera pilot program announced
Oklahoma City Police Chief Bill Citty on Tuesday announced to the Council a pilot program for body-worn cameras on City patrol officers. The program, which will run for one year at a cost of about $405,000, will provide 100 cameras for use when patrol officers encounter people in situations like traffic stops, investigations of suspected domestic violence or any other reason. Four new employees will be hired to manage the program, comply with Open Records Act requests and maintain data storage. Citty told the Council the Police Department will test and evaluate a number of elements of body-worn camera use during the program, including holding officers accountable for turning the camera on at appropriate times.


Watch presentation (http://youtu.be/htAhWqbVlLY?t=1h34m42s)
News release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/OKCPD_Bodycamera_Pilot_Program.html)
Follow the Oklahoma City Police Department on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/okcpd) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/okcpd)


Cycling ordinance changes introduced
Oklahoma City Councilman Pat Ryan introduced proposed changes Tuesday to a City ordinance that would require cyclists passing a motor vehicle to stay at least three feet away from vehicles they are passing until the pass is complete. The proposed changes, which are set for a public hearing at the Council’s meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 20, and a vote later this month, would hold cyclists and drivers to the same standard when navigating traffic in Oklahoma City. Another proposed change would make the City’s ordinance mirror a state law that prohibits cyclists from passing motor vehicles between lanes in the same direction of travel.


Watch discussion (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htAhWqbVlLY&feature=youtu.be&t=48m28s)


Other City news you might have missed:


Residents encouraged to conserve water with rain barrels (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/Residents_encouraged_to_conserve_water_with_rain_b arrels.html)
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day City services schedule (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/Martin_Luther_King_Jr_Day_City_services_schedule.h tml)

David
01-20-2015, 02:42 PM
January 20, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn012015.html)


Council approves request for convention center hotel proposals
The Oklahoma City Council voted Tuesday to approve a request for proposals for a hotel serving the MAPS 3 Convention Center. The move allows City staff to solicit proposals from hotel operators interested in the project. The proposed hotel would likely be among the largest hotels in the city, and would primarily serve large groups of visitors in need of full-service hotel amenities when attending events at the Convention Center. The Council also voted to approve an agreement with Public Financial Management, Inc., to explore possible financing options for the hotel in the event that its construction financial participation from the City.


Watch presentation (http://youtu.be/y49UEwPs_0U?t=36m56s)
Download presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012015/Convention_Center_Hotel_Project_Updates.pdf)


Contract for new City website approved
The Council also voted Tuesday to approve a contract with Vision Technology Solutions to redesign the City’s website, okc.gov. The City’s Public Information and Marketing Department will coordinate efforts from all City departments to work with the company in building the website, which will be more user-friendly for City residents looking for information and services. The new website design will be developed this year.


Watch presentation (http://youtu.be/y49UEwPs_0U?t=18m6s)
Download presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012015/okcgov_redesign_presentation.pdf)
Download contract (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012015/okc_gov_contract.pdf) (PDF)


Age requirement lifted in May 2013 tornado relief program
A change to a disaster relief program will allow more City homeowners to repair houses damaged in the May 19, 20 or 31, 2013, tornadoes and severe storms. The program, which allows City homeowners who meet income requirements to make structural repairs, is now open to residents of any age. Up to $23,000 is available in the form of a five-year forgivable loan as part of the program, which is administered by the City’s Planning Department using federal funds. The Council voted Tuesday to approve the change.


Watch discussion (http://youtu.be/y49UEwPs_0U?t=48m45s)
Read the agenda item here for details (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012015/housing_changes.pdf)


City, Police union agree to new collective bargaining agreement
The Council on Tuesday approved a new collective bargaining agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police, the police union recognized by the City. The agreement is for one year, retroactive to the beginning of the City’s current fiscal year on July 1, 2014.


Read the agenda item here for details (http://www.okc.gov/AgendaPub/agdocs.aspx?doctype=agenda&itemid=106565)


Vote set on cycling ordinance change
A vote is set for the Council meeting Tuesday, Jan. 27, on proposed changes to the City’s cycling ordinance after a public hearing Tuesday. The Council and members of the City’s cycling community engaged in an extended discussion about the ordinance, which was introduced during the Council’s Jan. 13 meeting by Ward 8 Councilman Pat Ryan. The proposed changes would hold cyclists and drivers to the same standard when navigating traffic in Oklahoma City. Another proposed change would make the City’s ordinance mirror a state law that prohibits cyclists from passing motor vehicles between lanes in the same direction of travel.


Watch discussion (http://youtu.be/y49UEwPs_0U?t=52m18s)
Read the agenda item here for details (http://www.okc.gov/AgendaPub/agdocs.aspx?doctype=agenda&itemid=106631)
Watch discussion from the Jan. 13 Council meeting here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htAhWqbVlLY&feature=youtu.be&t=48m28s)


Other City news you might have missed:


Residents invited to open house for City’s comp plan, planokc, on Jan. 20 (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/Residents_invited_to_open_house_for_Citys_comp_pla n_planokc_Jan_20.html)
EMBARK announces service improvements (http://embarkok.com/connect/news/2015news1)
Filing for Oklahoma City Council is Jan. 28-30 (http://www.okc.gov/news/2014_12/2015_Council_Elections.html)
Will Rogers World Airport sets all-time record for passenger traffic (http://www.flyokc.com/releases/2014%20PASSENGER%20TRAFFIC%20SETS%20ALL-TIME%20RECORD.pdf)
Mayor Cornett delivers State of the City (http://www.okc.gov/council/mayor/state_of_city/2015/index.html)

David
02-03-2015, 09:40 AM
January 27, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn012715.html)


Permits and Events
Large public events held on public rights-of-way (City streets, sidewalks, alleys or easements) require a permit and must be approved by the Oklahoma City Council.

Council approved permits Tuesday for:

Redbud Foundation’s “Redbud Classic” bicycle tour and running event, April 11-12, 2015
University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy Alumni Association’s “Adrenaline Run,” March 7, 2015

View all permitted public events on the events calendar (http://www.okc.gov/specialevents/calendar.html).

Embark bus system shows growth
Embark Director and Administrator Jason Ferbrache updated the Council on the City’s bus system, which showed sustained ridership growth in 2014 compared to the previous year. Ferbrache noted the increase was particularly significant on weekdays, where Embark expanded service in 2014. Embark buses are also showing better on-time performance, and improvements everywhere from bus stop signage to online and mobile real-time trip planning have helped to increase rider satisfaction. Embark also began new evening service Monday for weekdays on two major cross-town bus routes, the first such evening service in the City in decades.

Watch presentation (http://youtu.be/JVg2zE37CR8?t=1h55m15s)
Download presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/CM_Report_Transit_1_27_15.pdf) (PDF)
Follow Embark on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/EmbarkOK?ref=br_tf) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/EmbarkOK)


Preliminary report issued for second MAPS 3 Senior Wellness Center
Architects on Tuesday delivered their preliminary report to the Council regarding the second MAPS 3 Senior Wellness Center, planned for construction at 4021 S Walker Ave. The preliminary report describes how plans for the center meet the MAPS 3 project requirements and provides preliminary details about what the Center will be like. Construction on the Center is set to begin this year.

Download the report: Part 1 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/health_wellness_1.pdf); Part 2 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/health_wellness_2.pdf); Part 3 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/health_wellness_3.pdf) (PDF)
Follow MAPS 3 on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MAPS3OKC) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/maps3)


Council votes against proposed bicycle ordinance changes
The Council voted Tuesday to reject proposed changes to the City’s bicycle ordinance. The changes would have held cyclists and motorists to the same standard when using City streets, and also change one part of the City’s ordinance to mirror a state law. The ordinance will remain unchanged as a result of Tuesday’s vote.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/cycling_memo.pdf).
Watch the discussion and vote (http://youtu.be/JVg2zE37CR8?t=1h7m37s).
Watch the proposal’s public hearing (http://youtu.be/y49UEwPs_0U?t=52m18s) on Jan. 20, 2015.
Watch the proposal’s introduction (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htAhWqbVlLY&feature=youtu.be&t=48m28s) on Jan. 13, 2015.


Core to Shore, Central Business District committees created
Mayor Mick Cornett will appoint members to two new committees charged with considering tax increment finance (TIF) districts from the Central Business District in the heart of downtown south to the Oklahoma River. The Council voted Tuesday to create the Central Business District Review Committee, which will consider if and how new TIF districts could aid development west of N E.K. Gaylord Boulevard, east of N Western Avenue, south of W Main Street and north of the new Oklahoma City Boulevard. The Council also voted Tuesday to create the Core to Shore Review Committee, which will do the same for the area south of the new Oklahoma City Boulevard, north of the Oklahoma River, east of S Western and S Shartel avenues and west of S Lincoln Boulevard and the Oklahoma River. The Council will vote to approve the Mayor’s appointments to the committees.

Read the Core to Shore Review Committee agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/coretoshore.pdf).
Read the Central Business District Review Committee agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/centralbizdistrict.pdf).
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/JVg2zE37CR8?t=38m).


City continues after-school program partnership
The Council voted Tuesday to approve a renewed partnership between the City, Oklahoma City Public Schools and the Oklahoma Afterschool Network to provide an after-school program at F.D. Moon Academy with a focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM). The Moon Spring STEAM Academy uses Oklahoma City Public Schools facilities, as well as snacks, personnel and transportation, and the City contracts with the Oklahoma Afterschool Network to provide program oversight, data collection and funding to non-schools staff. The program runs from January to June 30.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/STEAM_memo.pdf).


January Sales and Use Tax Report issued
The City slipped to 0.05 percent behind the current fiscal year’s target for General Fund sales and use tax collections with a slightly weaker-than-expected performance before the holidays, according to a report issued Tuesday to the Council. The City collected more than $18.6 million in General Fund sales taxes in the last half of November and first half of December, which are the collections tabulated in the January report. General Fund collections missed the January target by about $48,000, leaving the City about $83,000 behind its target for the current fiscal year, which ends June 30.

Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/sales_and_use.pdf).


Hotel tax collections gain steam
City hotel tax collections for the second quarter of the current fiscal year were 1.8 percent above the target, but the City remains 1.3 percent behind the target for the year, according to a report issued Tuesday to the Council. The City has collected about $7.5 million in hotel taxes, roughly $99,000 behind its goal.

Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/hotel_tax.pdf).


December Interim Financial Report issued
City Manager Jim Couch delivered an Interim Financial Report to the Council on Tuesday, providing an early look at the City’s financial performance in the second quarter of the fiscal year. In general, the City remains in a strong financial position despite being slightly behind targets for sales, use and hotel tax collections. Couch told the Council that the recent fall in oil prices on global markets could have a long-term affect on the City if prices don’t recover as many economists and energy executives predict, but that in the short term the oil price crash could lead to increased City tax revenues because of increased spending by City residents benefiting from lower gas prices.

Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/financial_report.pdf).


Council receives Schools Trust financial report
The Oklahoma City Metropolitan Area Public Schools Trust’s audited financial report for the previous fiscal year was presented Tuesday to the Council. The Trust manages funds from the MAPS for Kids program.

Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/012715files/MAPS_for_kids_report.pdf).


Other City news you might have missed:

Councilmen McAtee and Pettis appointed to sit on National League of Cities committees (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/McAtee_and_Pettis_appointed_to_sit_on_National_Lea gue_of_Cities_committees.html)
EMBARK announces service improvements (http://embarkok.com/connect/news/2015news1)
Oklahoma City announces new Animal Welfare Superintendent (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/Oklahoma_City_announces_new_Animal_Welfare_Superin tendent.html)
Filing for Oklahoma City Council is Jan. 28-30 (http://www.okc.gov/news/2014_12/2015_Council_Elections.html)

David
02-03-2015, 02:24 PM
February 3, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn020315.html)


Request for proposals issued for Police body-worn cameras
The Council voted Tuesday to issue a request for proposals for the Police Department's body-worn cameras pilot program. Police Chief Bill Citty announced in January the pilot program would consist of patrol officers using 100 cameras for a year, with Police evaluating how to implement a permanent program. The one-year pilot program will cost about $405,000, with the bulk of the budget going to payroll for new employees required to manage the program. The Council's action Tuesday asks for formal proposals from potential equipment and service providers interested in bidding on the program.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/020315files/cameraRFPmemo.pdf). (PDF)
Watch a presentation (http://youtu.be/htAhWqbVlLY?t=1h34m42s) from the Jan. 13 Council meeting.
Read a news release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/OKCPD_Bodycamera_Pilot_Program.html) from the Jan. 13 Council meeting.
Follow the Oklahoma City Police Department on Facebook (http://www.fb.com/okcpd) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/okcpd)

Update provided on Santa Fe Depot renovation
Public Works Director Eric Wenger provided an update to the Council on the renovation of the Santa Fe Depot, which will serve as an intermodal transit hub. Renovation design plans are in the early stages, with the project expected to be complete in two years. The transit hub will help link transit modes like Amtrak and the future MAPS 3 modern streetcar, and also include retail and dining. Designs will leave room to accommodate other modes that could come to downtown Oklahoma City in the future like commuter rail and high-speed trains.

Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/fmnLSXTib1U?t=54m40s).
Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/020315files/Intermodal%20Transportation%20Hub%20-%20February%202015.pdf). (PDF)
Follow MAPS 3 on Facebook (http://www.fb.com/maps3okc) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/maps3)

Refunded bonds could save $7.2 million
The Council voted Tuesday to approve the sale of up to $75 million in general obligation refunding bonds from 2005-06, which could save the City about $7.2 million. Refunding eligible bonds allows the City to save money by refinancing at more favorable current interest rates. The City plans to sell the bonds Feb. 12.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/020315files/refundedbonds.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/fmnLSXTib1U?t=18m26s).

City establishes debt management policy
The Council also voted Tuesday to adopt an official debt management policy for the City. The policy will formalize financial practices that are largely already in use, and provide a foundation of debt management philosophies to help City leaders build on a track record of careful and prudent financial management.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/020315files/debtmanagementmemo.pdf). (PDF)
Read the policy (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/020315files/debtmanagementpolicy.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/fmnLSXTib1U?t=24m15s).

Budget transfer report issued for second quarter
The City Manager's Office provided the Council with the budget transfer report for the second quarter of the current fiscal year, which runs through June 30. The budget transfer report details funds that have been transferred between City departments.

Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/020315files/budgettransferreport.pdf). (PDF)

Economic Development Trust financial report issued
The annual comprehensive financial report for the Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust was issued to the Council on Tuesday for the fiscal year that ended June 30.

Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/020315files/OCEDTfinancialreport.pdf). (PDF)

Approved event permits
The Council approved permits Tuesday for the following outdoor events requiring the temporary closure of a City street, sidewalk, alley or easement:

OKC Metro Alliance's "Strides of March Half Marathon and Dogwood Dash 5k," March 8, 2015
McNellies Plaza Courts' "St. Patrick's Day Block Party," March 17, 2015
University of Oklahoma Community Health Alliance's "OUCHA Health Dash," March 28, 2015
View all permitted public events on the events calendar (http://www.okc.gov/specialevents/calendar.html).

Other City news you might have missed:

City Council elections are March 3 (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/City_Council_elections_are_March_3.html)
January sales tax summary (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/Oklahoma_Citys_January_sales_tax_summary.html)
Give OKC pets a valentine by adopting or volunteering in February (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/Give_OKC_pets_a_valentine_by_adopting_or_volunteer ing_in_February.html)
Western Avenue from NW 41 to NW 42 lane closure, to one-way south bound traffic only (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_01/Western_Avenue_from_NW_41_to_NW_42_lane_closure_to _one_way_south_bound_traffic_only.html)

David
02-17-2015, 02:22 PM
February 10, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn021015budgetworkshop.html)


The Oklahoma City Council met Tuesday at the Cox Convention Center for a workshop kicking off the budget adoption process for fiscal year 2016, which begins July 1. The budget workshop provides an update of the general economic outlook from the global to local level, and projections on how the City's revenue and expenses will evolve over the next several years.

The Council will consider the budget during a series of meetings beginning in May, with adoption set for June 16, 2015.

The Council resumes its normal meeting schedule next Tuesday, Feb. 17.

Follow the City of Oklahoma City on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/cityofokc) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/cityofokc) | Instagram (http://instagram.com/cityofokc)

Economist: Long-run strengths a benefit to City
Russell Evans, executive director of the Steven C. Agee Economic Research and Policy Institute at Oklahoma City University's Meinders School of Business, updated the Council on forces affecting the global, national and local economies. The recent volatility in oil and gas prices poses uncertainties in the Oklahoma City area, but long-term indicators of local strength could help the City weather the effect of a short-term challenge to the energy sector.

Modest growth expected for City revenue
The City should see revenue growth of about 2 percent in the next fiscal year, but the modest gains are accompanied by increasing expenses in some Departments, City Finance Director Craig Freeman and Budget Director Doug Dowler told the Council. A challenge facing the Council in the coming years is managing future expenses like the MAPS 3 Downtown Public Park and Modern Streetcar operating costs and Police and Fire personnel and technology needs.

Download the presentations (http://www.okc.gov/finance_tab/5%20year%20plan%20council%20workshop%20presentatio n%202015.pdf). (PDF)
Read the Five-Year Forecast (http://www.okc.gov/finance_tab/FY16%20Forecast4.pdf). (PDF)
Follow MAPS 3 on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MAPS3OKC) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/maps3)
Follow the Oklahoma City Police Department on Facebook (http://www.fb.com/okcpd) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/okcpd)
Follow the Oklahoma City Fire Department on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/OKCFD) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/OKCFD)

Other City news you might have missed:

Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s reaffirm Oklahoma City’s AAA bond rating (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/Standard_and_Poors_Moodys_reaffirm_Oklahoma_Citys_ AAA_bond_rating.html)
Big Belly expansion doubles downtown OKC recycling capacity (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/Big_Belly_expansion_doubles_downtown_OKC_recycling _capacity.html)
City Council Meeting Notes archive (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/)

adaniel
02-17-2015, 02:23 PM
David, just want to say thank you for posting these.

David
02-17-2015, 02:29 PM
February 17, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn021715.html)


The Oklahoma City Council meets at 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays on the third floor of City Hall, 200 N Walker Ave., and live broadcasts are available on Cox Channel 20, www.youtube.com/cityofokc/live (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc/live) and www.okc.gov (http://www.okc.gov/). A recording of each meeting is then added to the City's YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc).

Follow the City of Oklahoma City on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/cityofokc) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/cityofokc) | Instagram (http://www.instagram.com/cityofokc) | YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc)

First buildings added to list of abandoned properties
The Council voted Tuesday to declare 21 buildings as abandoned, the first buildings to be designated as such as part of an effort to recuperate the cost of public safety services for emergencies on abandoned property. Future calls for emergency public services to abandoned buildings will result in fees charged to the property owners. Owners would be responsible for costs up to $63 per hour per police officer and $67 per hour per firefighter. Repeated public service calls to abandoned properties put additional strain on emergency services and the resources to pay for them.


Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/abandoned%20buildings.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/3xqQU9voTbs?t=32m1s).
Follow the Police Department on Facebook (http://www.fb.com/okcpd) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/okcpd)
Follow the Fire Department on Facebook (http://www.fb.com/okcfd) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/okcfd)

Convention and Visitors Bureau report: Trends still positive
Interest in Oklahoma City as a convention and leisure tourism destination continues to grow, Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau President Mike Carrier said Tuesday during his quarterly report to the Council. Hotel-motel tax receipts through the second quarter of the current fiscal year grew by 5.5 percent to $7.5 million. Tour groups continue to visit the City at an increasing pace, and the Bureau's website traffic is skyrocketing.


Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/CVB%20presentation%20021715.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/3xqQU9voTbs?t=1h3m11s).

Disaster relief sought through partnership with Moore, state
The Council voted Tuesday to approve letters of partnership with the City of Moore and the state Commerce Department in an attempt to secure federal disaster relief funds related to the May 2013 tornadoes and flooding. The City did not receive direct federal relief funds for those storms from the Community Development Block Grant-National Disaster Resilience Competition program, but the City could benefit from the funds if they are sought in partnership with Moore and the Commerce Department. Those are the only two entities in Oklahoma eligible for those funds in relation to to the May 2013 storms. If the City is successful in seeking the money, it will be used to fund redundancy systems at the Lake Stanley Draper Water Treatment Plant, drainage projects, special needs housing, street repairs and other efforts.


Read the City of Moore agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/moore%20disaster%20relief%20memo.pdf). (PDF)
Read the Commerce Department agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/ODOC%20disaster%20relief%20memo.pdf). (PDF)
Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/CC%202-17-15%20CDBG-Disaster%20Recovery.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/3xqQU9voTbs?t=35m19s).

Industrial wastewater program and fee change proposed
City Utilities Director Marsha Slaughter on Tuesday introduced a proposed industrial wastewater pre-treatment program and fee change that will comply with new federal regulations. The federal Clean Water Act requires the City to pre-treat wastewater with extra-strong or hazardous waste, protecting treatment plants, workers and sanitary sewers. Metal finishers, centralized waste treatment facilities, hospitals and commercial laundry facilities are examples of operations most affected by the proposed program and fee changes needed to cover the cost. Medical clinics and restaurants are also affected, but to a lesser degree. Fee changes will be phased in over three years. The proposal is set for a public hearing Tuesday, Feb. 24, and potential adoption Tuesday, March 3.


Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/wastewater%20pretreatment%20memo.pdf). (PDF)
Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/COS%20Misc%20Charges%20Ind%20Pre%20Treat%20City%20 Council.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/3xqQU9voTbs?t=24m42s).
Follow the Utilities Department's Squeeze Every Drop on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SqueezeEveryDrop) | Twitter (http://twitter.com/squeezeverydrop)

Quarterly investment report issued
The City's quarterly investment report for the second quarter of the current fiscal year showed earnings of about $1.3 million. The second quarter runs from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31.


Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/QIR%20memo.pdf). (PDF)
Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/021715%20files/QIR%20full.pdf). (PDF)

Other City news you might have missed:

OKC Parks and Recreation hosts a Seussabration! for National Reading Day (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/OKC_Parks_and_Recreation_hosts_a_Seussabration_for _National_Reading_Day.html)
Lend a paw at the Animal Shelter’s cleanup day (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/Lend_a_paw_at_the_Animal_Shelters_cleanup_day.html )
City Council Meeting Notes archive (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/)

David
02-17-2015, 02:33 PM
David, just want to say thank you for posting these.

It's not a lot of effort since I'm just copying the city summary and making sure the links work. I'm mostly just hoping to encourage more people to pay attention to the council meetings since so much stuff that is important to the city and to all of us happens in them. I try to tune into the YouTube stream whenever it is live, but most of the time it isn't reporting more than a few dozen viewers.

Plutonic Panda
02-17-2015, 06:03 PM
David, I second adaniel, thank you. OKC site is different from Edmonds, so I just haven't taken the time to get used it. I appreciate you posting these.

David
02-24-2015, 01:06 PM
February 25, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn022415.html)


The Oklahoma City Council meets at 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays on the third floor of City Hall, 200 N Walker Ave., and live broadcasts are available on Cox Channel 20, www.youtube.com/cityofokc/live (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc/live) and www.okc.gov (http://www.okc.gov/). A recording of each meeting is then added to the City's YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc).

Follow the City of Oklahoma City on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/cityofokc) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/cityofokc) | Instagram (http://www.instagram.com/cityofokc) | YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc)

Permits and Events
Large public events held on public rights-of-way (City streets, sidewalks, alleys or easements) require a permit and must be approved by the Oklahoma City Council.

Council approved permits Tuesday for:

Beck's Automotive's "Western Avenue Block Party," April 12, 2015
Oklahoma City-County Health Department Wellness NOW Coalition's "Open Streets OKC," March 22, 2015
View all permitted public events on the events calendar (http://www.okc.gov/specialevents/calendar.html).

Proposal approved for Tinker AFB water and wastewater service
The City will submit a proposal to the federal government to take over water and wastewater service at Tinker Air Force Base for the next 50 years after the Council voted Tuesday to approve a joint resolution with the Water Utilities Trust. The proposals are designed to minimize the number of Water Utilities Trust employees to operate and maintain Tinker's water systems, minimize the impact on current City Utilities customers and retain Tinker as a key employer and economic engine. Tinker is the largest employment center in Central Oklahoma. The City will either operate 23 groundwater wells or build new City water infrastructure and improve Tinker's sewers if the proposal is accepted.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/OKCWUTtinkermemo.pdf). (PDF)
Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/OKCWUTtinker.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/vmvClKvVDKE?t=22m38s).
Read an executive summary (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/OKCWUTtinkerexecsummary.pdf) of the proposal. (PDF)
Read the water proposal (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/OKCWUTtinkerwater.pdf). (PDF)
Read the alternate water proposal (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/OKCWUTtinkerwateralternate.pdf). (PDF)
Read the wastewater proposal (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/OKCWUTtinkerwastewater.pdf). (PDF)
Follow the Utilities Department's Squeeze Every Drop on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SqueezeEveryDrop) | Twitter (http://twitter.com/squeezeverydrop)

Grant funds approved for chronic homelessness project
The Council voted Tuesday to approve the use of $155,000 in federal grant money to help fund a public-private partnership to provide housing and access to services for the chronically homeless. The federal Community Development Block Grant money will help pay for site improvements like earthwork, landscaping and security systems for a Homeless Alliance project. The Homeless Alliance has raised nearly $560,000 in funding and in-kind donations to complement more than $825,000 in public funds to build a 20-unit, single room Housing First residential property. Housing First programs provide the chronically homeless with a place to live and access to services they need, which helps improve the quality of their lives and eases the burden on emergency public services. Chronic homelessness costs the City about $2.5 million per year, according to the Homeless Alliance.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/homelessnessmemo.pdf). (PDF)

Public programs at Myriad Botanical Gardens draw nearly 69,000
Public programs at the Myriad Botanical Gardens drew nearly 69,000 visitors in the last year, according to a presentation at Tuesday's Council meeting by the Myriad Botanical Gardens Foundation. Countless more came for private events, plus casual visitors enjoying the grounds and other amenities at the Gardens.

Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/MGF%202.24.15%20presentation.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/vmvClKvVDKE?t=59m55s).

Portion of Shields Boulevard renamed E.K. Gaylord Boulevard
The Council voted Tuesday to re-name a portion of South Shields Boulevard between SW 4 and the eastbound Interstate 40 off-ramp. The street will now be called South E.K. Gaylord Boulevard. It is called North E.K. Gaylord Boulevard north of the newly re-named section as the street passes through downtown.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/EKGaylordmemo.pdf). (PDF)

Councilman Ryan introduces cycling ordinance change proposal
Ward 8 Councilman Pat Ryan introduced a proposed change to the City's bicycling ordinance that would make City Code mirror a clause in the state's bicycle law, a change narrower than a different cycling proposal Councilman Ryan made in January. The change is one sentence long and would enable police officers to issue a City citation rather than pursue criminal charges if a cyclist passes vehicles between lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction. The proposal is set for a pubic hearing at the Council meeting on Tuesday, March 3, and a vote at the following Council meeting on Tuesday, March 10.

Read a full news release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/New_bicycle_ordinance_proposal_would_mirror_state_ law.html).
Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/cyclingmemo.pdf). (PDF)

February sales and use tax report shows City ahead of target
The February sales and use tax report shows the City is 1 percent above its target for General Fund revenue for the fiscal year to date, including collections 3.3 percent above target in the February reporting period. Collections in the last half of December and first half of January were about $1.5 million, which is 7.9 percent above the same period last year. Collections for the current fiscal year, which ends June 30, are about $1.7 million above the City's target.

Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/febsalestax.pdf). (PDF)

Revenue enforcement yields nearly $635,000 in six months
The City's revenue enforcement program, which seeks to capture tax revenue owed to the City but not received, yielded nearly $635,000 in the first six months of the fiscal year, far above the $247,000 program cost over the same period. The program identifies and collects revenue through methods like reviewing questionable or missing sales and use tax remittances and audits.

Read the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/022415files/revenueenforcement.pdf). (PDF)

Other City news you might have missed:

Council approves first abandoned buildings list (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/Council_approves_first_abandoned_buildings_list.ht ml)
Disaster relief funds sought through partnership with Moore, state (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/Disaster_relief_funds_sought_through_partnership_w ith_Moore_state.html)
Civic Center Music Hall makes changes to box office hours, ticket availability (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/Civic_Center_Music_Hall_makes_changes_to_box_offic e_hours_ticket_availability.html)
New bicycle ordinance proposal would mirror state law (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/New_bicycle_ordinance_proposal_would_mirror_state_ law.html)
Animal Shelter issues winter weather tips for pet owners (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/Animal_Shelter_issues_winter_weather_tips_for_pet_ owners.html)
City trout season closes February 28 (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/City_Trout_Season_closes_February_28.html)
City Council Meeting Notes archive (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/)

bradh
02-24-2015, 02:48 PM
wow that OCWUT proposal to the feds to take over water & sewer at Tinker is a big deal

adaniel
02-24-2015, 03:42 PM
For a n00b that knows nothing about this stuff, what exactly is that and why is it a big deal? Not trying to be smarmy...you actually seem really educated on this stuff.

bradh
02-24-2015, 04:30 PM
Well, selfishly I see it as a bid deal because it looks like there is a lot of work that needs to be done on water & sewer lines out there, and if left in the feds control, it would probably never be taken care of properly as needed. I skimmed through the report, and it looks like a lot of stuff out there is not up to codes.

Secondly, and maybe I'm wrong because I don't know enough about that side of it, but it could provide quite the boost in revenue for OCWUT. Should be a win/win for everyone. Also, a lot of contracts to improve that type of infrastructure that is bid through FedBizOps goes to out of town contractors who do nothing but chase federal work. If OCWUT owns the lines and lets out contracts for all that work, better chance of local contractors winning that work and putting it back into the local economy.

harp23
02-24-2015, 04:43 PM
I see where a Becks Automotive Block Party has been approved for April 12th on N Western. I thought I read recently that there will be a Western Ave. Block Party scheduled for September 19th. Are there now 2 block parties on N Western in 2015 or was the September 19th date changed to April 12th?

LakeEffect
02-25-2015, 05:39 AM
Well, selfishly I see it as a bid deal because it looks like there is a lot of work that needs to be done on water & sewer lines out there, and if left in the feds control, it would probably never be taken care of properly as needed. I skimmed through the report, and it looks like a lot of stuff out there is not up to codes.

Secondly, and maybe I'm wrong because I don't know enough about that side of it, but it could provide quite the boost in revenue for OCWUT. Should be a win/win for everyone. Also, a lot of contracts to improve that type of infrastructure that is bid through FedBizOps goes to out of town contractors who do nothing but chase federal work. If OCWUT owns the lines and lets out contracts for all that work, better chance of local contractors winning that work and putting it back into the local economy.

OCWUT, by law, has to remain revenue neutral. Shouldn't lose money, but shouldn't make money. However, you are right about the amount of local work - it could be a great increase.

bradh
02-25-2015, 11:34 AM
OCWUT, by law, has to remain revenue neutral. Shouldn't lose money, but shouldn't make money. However, you are right about the amount of local work - it could be a great increase.

Maybe revenue was the wrong term, maybe having more sources for billing, is that right?

David
03-13-2015, 02:52 PM
March 3, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn030315.html)


The Oklahoma City Council meets at 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays on the third floor of City Hall, 200 N Walker Ave., and live broadcasts are available on Cox Channel 20, www.youtube.com/cityofokc/live (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc/live) and www.okc.gov (http://www.okc.gov/). A recording of each meeting is then added to the City's YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc).

Follow the City of Oklahoma City on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/cityofokc) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/cityofokc) | Instagram (http://www.instagram.com/cityofokc) | YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc)

Permits and Events
Large public events held on public rights-of-way (City streets, sidewalks, alleys or easements) require a permit and must be approved by the Oklahoma City Council.

Council approved permits Tuesday for:

Beck's Automotive's "Western Avenue Block Party," April 12.
DG Production's "Run Lucky 5k," March 15.
Plaza District Association's "LIVE on the Plaza,"
second Friday of each month through March 2016.
Prodigal's "O'City Saint Patrick's Day Parade," March 14.

View all permitted public events on the events calendar (http://www.okc.gov/specialevents/calendar.html).

Preliminary reports approved for MAPS 3 I-44 West Trail
The Council voted Tuesday to approve preliminary reports on all three sections of the MAPS 3 I-44 West Trail, which begins construction this year. Representatives from three construction companies, each responsible for a different section, presented the reports to the Council after presenting them to the MAPS 3 Citizen Advisory Board and the board's Trails Subcommittee last week.

Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/maps3%20i44%20trail%20presentation.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/u2n-yphgeHw?t=31m46s).
Download the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/project%201%20report.pdf) for Project 1, N Meridian Avenue/Northwest Expressway to NW Grand Boulevard/NW 50. (PDF)
Download the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/project%202%20report.pdf) for Project 2, NW Grand Boulevard/NW 50 to NW Grand Boulevard/NW 19. (PDF)
Download the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/project%203%20report.pdf) for Project 3, NW Grand Boulevard/NW 19 to N May Avenue/Oklahoma River. (PDF)
Follow MAPS 3 on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MAPS3OKC) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/maps3)


Preliminary report approved for MAPS 3 Sidewalks Phase 3
The Council also voted Tuesday to approve the preliminary report for Phase 3 of the MAPS 3 Sidewalks. Phase 3 includes sidewalks in 10 locations throughout the City.

Download the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/sidewalks%20report.pdf). (PDF)
Follow MAPS 3 on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MAPS3OKC) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/maps3)


Negotiations to begin on new Police Headquarters art installation
The Council voted Tuesday to begin negotiations with California artist Gordon Huether to provide public art outside of the new Police Headquarters building under construction at 77 N Colcord Drive. City ordinances require 1 percent of the construction budget on City projects to be spent on public art. Huether will design and craft the art for the new Police Headquarters if he and the City reach an agreement.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/police%20art%20memo.pdf). (PDF)
Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/police%20art%20presentation.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/u2n-yphgeHw?t=23m47s).
Follow the Oklahoma City Police Department on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/okcpd) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/okcpd)


Permit approved for Ferris wheel plaza in Wheeler District
The Council cleared the way for a historic Ferris wheel and other amenities for the Wheeler District by approving a revocable permit Tuesday. The Wheeler District is a proposed mixed-use development between the former Downtown Airpark and the Oklahoma River between S Douglas Avenue and S Western Avenue. Humphreys Partners, the developer of the proposed district, plans to build a riverfront recreational plaza with a historic Ferris wheel from Santa Monica Pier in California and other activities. The City and Humphreys Partners plan to negotiate a more detailed permit in the future.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/wheeler%20district%20memo.pdf). (PDF)

Preliminary report approved for Central Maintenance Complex
Architects on Tuesday submitted the preliminary report for construction at the City's Central Maintenance Complex. Construction is expected to begin this summer on a General Services Administration office building and two maintenance and warehouse facilities at the Central Maintenance Facility Complex, 3738 SW 15.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/maintenance%20complex%20memo.pdf). (PDF)
Download the presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/maintenance%20complex%20presentation.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the presentation (http://youtu.be/u2n-yphgeHw?t=15m59s).

Public hearing held on proposed bicycle ordinance change
The Council held a public hearing Tuesday for a proposed change to the City's bicycling ordinance introduced by Ward 8 Councilman Pat Ryan. The change would make City Code mirror a clause in the state's bicycle law, a change narrower than a different cycling proposal Councilman Ryan made in January. The change is one sentence long and would enable police officers to issue a City citation rather than pursue criminal charges if a cyclist passes vehicles between lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction. The proposal is set for a vote at the Council meeting on Tuesday, March 10.

Read a full news release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/New_bicycle_ordinance_proposal_would_mirror_state_ law.html).
Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/030315files/cycling%20memo.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the hearing (http://youtu.be/u2n-yphgeHw?t=1h23m10s).
Read coverage in the Feb. 24 Council Meeting Notes (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn022415.html).

Council tours new Police Headquarters Building
The Council ended Tuesday's meeting with a tour of the new Police Headquarters Building, which is nearing completion on N Colcord Avenue across the street from the current headquarters. The gleaming new building is set to open this summer. Collaborative work spaces for investigators, better technology infrastructure and more space for officers are among amenities the new headquarters will offer. A companion construction project for a new Municipal Courts Building and parking garage is also planned. The exteriors of the buildings were designed with a modern look that complements the art deco style of historic City buildings nearby.

Follow the Oklahoma City Police Department on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/okcpd) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/okcpd)

Other City news you might have missed:

City Council Meeting Notes archive (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/)
2015 News Release archive (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_index.html)

David
03-13-2015, 03:04 PM
March 10, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn031015.html)


The Oklahoma City Council meets at 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays on the third floor of City Hall, 200 N Walker Ave., and live broadcasts are available on Cox Channel 20, www.youtube.com/cityofokc/live (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc/live) and www.okc.gov (http://www.okc.gov/). A recording of each meeting is then added to the City's YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc).

Follow the City of Oklahoma City on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/cityofokc) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/cityofokc) | Instagram (http://www.instagram.com/cityofokc) | YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/cityofokc)

Permits and Events
Large public events held on public rights-of-way (City streets, sidewalks, alleys or easements) require a permit and must be approved by the Oklahoma City Council.

Council approved permits Tuesday for:

Friends of Mulitsport’s “Go Girl Run,” March 22
YMCA’s “Earlywine Dash,” March 22
Oklahoma Heritage Association’s “Oklahoma Heritage Land Run,” March 28

View all permitted public events on the events calendar (http://www.okc.gov/specialevents/calendar.html).

Demolition advances for the MAPS 3 Downtown Park
The Council awarded a contract to M&M Wrecking to demolish buildings formerly used by the Salvation Army. The property is located between SW 4 and SW 5 Street between Harvey and South Hudson. The buildings are being removed to prepare the land for construction of the MAPS 3 Downtown Park.

Download the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/31015files/Salvation%20Army.pdf).
Follow MAPS 3 on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MAPS3OKC) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/maps3)

Council approves $550,000 allocation of TIF Funds for Criterion Event Center Project
The Council approved a $550,000 allocation of Downtown/MAPS Economic Development Project Plan TIF No. 2 funds for the Criterion Event Center project in Bricktown. Of the allocation, $350,000 is assistance in development financing and the remaining $200,000 will be used to resurface the alleyway adjacent to the development. The 38,000 square-foot event center will be developed by Alliance Investments. TIF No. 2 funds are used for Hotels and Commercial Development.

Download the report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/31015files/VII%20S1%20Council%20Memo%20Criterion%20Event%20Ce nter.pdf). (PDF)

City Council considers adjusting park and recreation fees
An ordinance was introduced that changes Parks and Recreation fees related to athletics, aquatics and concession sales. In all, 12 fee adjustments were recommended by the Parks Department. The public hearing will be on March 17 with final adoption scheduled for March 24. If approved, the new fees will go into effect in time for this year’s swim season, which begins May 24, 2015. The athletic fee changes would go into effect as of July 1, 2015.
The fees related to athletics were last modified in 2006 and the aquatics fees were last changed in 2007 and 2010.

Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/31015files/IX%20B%20City%20Council%20Memo%20Adjusting%20Park% 20and%20Recreation%20Fees.pdf). (PDF)
Follow the Oklahoma City Parks Department on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/okcparks) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/okcparks)

City Council rescinds authorization to purchase property for MAPS 3 convention center
City Council passed a resolution to rescind prior authorizations for the acquisition and use of eminent domain to purchase property from REHCO Downtown Development for the MAPS 3 Convention Center. The City will reopen the site selection process for the convention center in search of a location that better fits the land acquisition budget.

Download the resolution (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/31015files/Rescinding%20auth%20for%20convention%20center.pdf) .
Read the news release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_03/M3_Convention_Center_Site.html).
Watch the hearing (http://youtu.be/Upu13EhAOac?t=51m12s).
Follow MAPS 3 on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MAPS3OKC) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/maps3)

Council approves proposed bicycle ordinance change
The Council approved the proposed change to the City's bicycling ordinance introduced by Ward 8 Councilman Pat Ryan. City Code now mirrors a clause in the state's bicycle law. The one sentence change enables police officers to issue a City citation rather than pursue criminal charges if a cyclist passes vehicles between lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction.

Read a full news release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_02/New_bicycle_ordinance_proposal_would_mirror_state_ law.html).
Read the agenda item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/31015files/XI%20A%20Council%20Memo%20Bicycle%20Ordinance%20Ch ange.pdf). (PDF)
Watch the hearing (http://youtu.be/Upu13EhAOac?t=1h6m59s).
Read coverage in the Feb. 24 Council Meeting Notes (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn022415.html).

Other City news you might have missed:

City Council Meeting Notes archive (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/)
2015 News Release archive (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_index.html)

David
03-24-2015, 07:36 AM
The council meeting stream is currently live at http://youtube.com/cityofokc/live.

David
03-31-2015, 08:42 AM
I'm just not being able to keep up with this, so I'm going to change my approach to just provide the link and a list of the topics discussed.

March 17, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn031715.html)


Council Priority Briefing held on providing a safe and secure community
Official election returns received
Application started to rename street as Plaza Mayor Boulevard
Debt policy approved for city authorities, trust


March 24, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn032415.html)


MAPS 3 Riversport Rapids Whitewater Park update presented
Street Lighting Policies amended
Fees set for City Aquatic Centers
Railroad crossing changes approved as part of "Quiet Zone" transition
Street closure approved for Science Museum of Oklahoma parking and pedestrian improvements
March Sales and Use Tax Report issued
Bond issuance approved


Also, the council meeting stream is currently live.

Dubya61
03-31-2015, 09:09 AM
Thanks, David, for putting this on the board.

David
03-31-2015, 12:09 PM
March 31, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn033115.html) (Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNu03-ZV0t8))



Greenwell appointed to MAPS 3 Citizens Advisory Board
Council approves new MAPS 3 Convention Center site study
Development assistance funds allocated to Steelyard project

hfry
04-07-2015, 09:13 AM
Interesting debate going on about sprawl on the edge of the city limits. I'm glad the council is at least aware of the issues that sprawl brings about, yet I don't think they will deny it.

David
04-14-2015, 09:06 AM
April 7, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn040715.html) (Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROB0Yxfkqe8))



Preliminary report delivered on Intermodal Transportation Hub (Report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/040715files/hub%20full%20report.pdf) | Slides (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/040715files/hub%20presentation.pdf) | Presentation (https://youtu.be/ROB0Yxfkqe8?t=33m4s))
New Bricktown logo unveiled (Slides (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/040715files/bricktown%20rebranding.pdf) | Presentation (https://youtu.be/ROB0Yxfkqe8?t=1h47m22s))

David
04-15-2015, 10:23 AM
April 14, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn041415.html) (Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqHipQQecss))


Council members sworn in for new terms (Ceremony (https://youtu.be/sqHipQQecss?t=3m))
Councilman McAtee takes turn as Vice Mayor
A few things that jumped out at me when listening to the stream on Tuesday that were not listed in the notes were a presentation (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqHipQQecss&t=35m) for a new Walmart Supercenter at I-44 & SW 104th St as well as a presentation (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqHipQQecss&t=74m7s) from the municipal counselor's office on when passing an ordinance as an emergency ordinance is allowed and/or necessary.

David
04-22-2015, 07:04 AM
April 21, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn042115.html) (Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDJ7EPwhFWM))


Chamber highlights strengths in economic development update (Video (https://youtu.be/fDJ7EPwhFWM?t=25m53s))
Greater Oklahoma City Chamber President Roy Williams touted the ongoing diversification of the local economy Tuesday in an economic development update for the Council. Williams said the diversification should help Oklahoma City weather the effects of the current energy industry slowdown. Williams said an example of the diversification is the estimated 65 jobs added to the local market each week as part of Boeing's investments here. Oklahoma City's unemployment rate has improved to 3.6 percent since the beginning of the year, good for second-best nationally for a large city, Williams said. Williams also highlighted the nearly 33,000 local jobs supported by the hospitality, travel and convention industry in detailing the need for continued growth in that employment sector.

Council voices support for Oklahoma School of Science and Math (Resolution (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/042115files/OSSM.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/fDJ7EPwhFWM?t=1h5m))
The Council voted Tuesday to issue a resolution expressing support for the Oklahoma School of Science and Math, encouraging the Oklahoma State Legislature to maintain or improve its funding. The public school, located in Oklahoma City, is among many state-funded schools and education programs that could be subject to spending cuts depending on the outcome of the current legislative session.

Baby boom spurs visitor growth at Oklahoma City Zoo (Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/042115files/City%20Council%20Update%20April%202015.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/fDJ7EPwhFWM?t=1h27m46s))
The recent baby boom at the Oklahoma City Zoo highlighted Zoo Executive Director Dwight Lawson's update Tuesday to the Council. The zoo recently celebrated the births of Achara, an elephant, and Rubi, a gorilla. The babies join a number of other recent births at the zoo, including Achara's sister Malee, Rupert the rhinoceros and a litter of African wild dogs. The Zoo welcomed more than 1 million visitors in a year for the first time in 2014.

Hotel tax collections up 5.2 percent this year (Report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/042115files/hotel%20tax.pdf))
Hotel tax collections in the current fiscal year are up 5.2 percent, according to a report issued Tuesday to the Council. The collections are slightly below the target of 5.6 percent. Hotel taxes fund convention and tourism promotion, fairgrounds improvements and sponsorship of local events. Collections in the current fiscal year are about $10.6 million.

David
05-01-2015, 02:46 PM
April 28, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn042815.html) (Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmHzsqmT-PI))


City donates paint to help paint inner-city homes
The Council voted Tuesday to donate 300 gallons of surplus paint to the Neighborhood Alliance of Central Oklahoma to help paint inner-city homes. The Alliance will use the paint June 22-25 during an effort to help give some inner-city houses a much-needed facelift.

Council approves agreement with firefighters union (Agreement (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/042815files/CBA.pdf))
The Council also voted Tuesday to approve a collective bargaining agreement with the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 157, the union that negotiates on behalf of City firefighters. The agreement is retroactive to July 1, 2014, and effective for the fiscal year ending June 30. The agreement includes an across-the-board raise of 0.93 percent and a slight increase in the amount the City pays for each firefighter enrolled in the union's health and welfare benefits.

Lincoln Park Golf Course Clubhouse ribbon cutting almost here (Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/042815files/douglincolnpresentation2015final.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/JmHzsqmT-PI?t=1h52m35s))
Parks and Recreation Director Doug Kupper provided an update Tuesday to the Council on the Lincoln Park Golf Course Clubhouse renovation, which culminates in a ribbon cutting Friday. The $2.25 million renovation was funded the 2007 General Obligation Bond issue and provided the clubhouse's full-scale renovation since its construction in 1960. The renovation should help attract lucrative tournaments and non-golf events, along with providing improved revenue from food and retail sales.

Council approves Campbell Park partnership
An affiliate of the Oklahoma City Community Foundation will soon begin to manage Campbell Park. The Council voted Tuesday to approve the partnership, under which Campbell Art Park, LLC, will operate and maintain the park, which is adjacent to the Oklahoma Contemporary Art Center currently under construction. The agreement lasts for 25 years and can be renewed by mutual consent in five-year increments. The City will remain responsible for infrastructure like sidewalks and street lighting along with major repairs, and the Campbell Art Park group will take over ground and lawn maintenance, custodial services, solid waste removal and other aspects of the park's operation.

April sales tax collections report released (Report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/042815files/sales%20tax%20memo.pdf) | News release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_04/Oklahoma_Citys_April_sales_tax_summary.html))
The April sales tax report shows General Fund collections in Oklahoma City were down 5.5 percent compared to the same month last year, missing the monthly target by 5.6 percent. The April report includes collections for the last half of February and the first half of March, which totaled about $16.6 million. That’s about $986,000 below the target. Combined year-to-date sales and use tax collections for the General Fund are below the target by 0.4 percent, which is about $961,000.

Consolidated Plan paves way for federal grant funds (Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/042815files/Consolidated%20Plan%20Presentation%202015.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/JmHzsqmT-PI?t=1h34m9s))
The Council voted Tuesday to adopt the 2015-202 Consolidated Plan and 2015-2016 First Action Year Plan, which is a prerequisite for receiving federal formula grant funds. The City uses such funds in a variety of programs to strengthen neighborhoods.

David
05-12-2015, 12:22 PM
May 5, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn050515.html) (Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaSm6-0DX4c))


Proposed 2016 City budget introduced (Video (https://youtu.be/XaSm6-0DX4c?t=3h13m3s) | Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/FY_16_Budget_Overview_May5_p.pdf) | News Release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_05/Oklahoma_City_Council_receives_proposed_budget_for _fiscal_year_2015_2016.html) | Budget Book (http://www.okc.gov/finance/BudgetDocs/Proposed_FY16_Budget.pdf))
City Finance Director Doug Dowler on Tuesday introduced the proposed City budget for the 2016 fiscal year. The Council will spend the next several meetings considering the budget, and could make amendments to it before its expected adoption at the end of June. The $1.25 billion proposed budget will fund the City's operations from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016.

Contract for online auction services could earn City $1M (Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/online%20auction%20memo.pdf) | News Release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_05/Online_auctions_bring_big_bucks_for_OKC.html))
The City could earn at least $1 million in the next fiscal year by auctioning surplus property online. The Council voted Tuesday to approve a one-year contract with GovDeals.com through the National Joint Powers Alliance to auction surplus City property. Selling items through online auctions allows the City to access the national and sometimes even international marketplace, which may fetch a better price for certain items than selling them locally. For example, the City recently sold an old barge worth about $1,600 on the local scrap metal market for $20,000 to an Alaskan buyer through an online auction.

City to negotiate development agreements with Boeing, Paycom (Boeing Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/boeing%20memo.pdf) | Paycom Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/paycom%20memo.pdf))
The Council also voted Tuesday to initiate negotiations on Economic Development Agreements with The Boeing Company and Paycom Software Inc. In such agreements, the City typically provides economic incentives for companies that create new quality jobs locally. Paycom, which already has economic development agreements with the City related to more than 1,000 current or future employees, expects to need an additional 423 local employees in the coming years. The jobs come with an average first-year wage of about $51,000, and Paycom will construct a new building at their current headquarters to accommodate them. Boeing expects to make capital investments of about $80 million over the next three years as it adds 900 local jobs with an average first-year wage of $90,000.

Survey results in for solid waste management service alternatives (Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/solid%20waste%20memo.pdf) | Survey Summary (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/solid%20waste%20survey%20summary.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/XaSm6-0DX4c?t=18m43s) | Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/OCEAT%2003-15_Presentation_2015-05-03_Final_Delivered_v2_Deliverable%204e%20and%207i. pdf))
Consultants delivered survey results to the Council on Tuesday regarding potential alternatives to the City's current methods of solid waste management. Alternatives considered included adding recycling for rural customers and changing the type of recycling available to all customers. In general, the survey showed OKC residents are supportive of more recycling capabilities, but are reluctant to switch to "pay-as-you-throw" solid waste collection models.

Convention and Visitors Bureau issues quarterly report (Video (https://youtu.be/XaSm6-0DX4c?t=2h12m17s) | Report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/CVB%20report.pdf))
Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau President Mike Carrier delivered his quarterly report to the Council on Tuesday, revealing that OKC's tourism numbers continue to be trending in the right direction. The bureau has booked 12 future horse shows through the first three quarters of the current fiscal year, which should generate an estimated $150 million in direct spending. That's 81 percent of the bureau's annual goal.

Update delivered on City Council Priorities (Video (https://youtu.be/XaSm6-0DX4c?t=2h34m30s) | Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/FY15CPUpdate_Finance_and_Neighborhoods_Final.pdf))
The Council received an update Tuesday on two of its six official Priorities: Maintain Strong Financial Management and Promote Thriving Neighborhoods. Finance Director Craig Freeman reported the City's financial position remains strong thanks to thoughtful management policies. Planning Director Aubrey Hammontree highlighted efforts to help needy families buy and rehabilitate homes, and Development Services Director Bob Tener discussed the abandoned buildings program's effect on saving money on emergency services and improving nearby home values.

Quarterly Investment Report released (Report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/QIR%20report.pdf) | Report Attachments (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/050515files/QIR%20report%20attachments.pdf))
The most recent Quarterly Investment Report was delivered to the Council on Tuesday, showing the City's amortized earnings for the quarter as $1.49 million. The annualized return for the quarter of 0.58 percent is reflective of the short-term interest rate remaining near zero since 2008.

David
05-15-2015, 03:28 PM
May 12, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn051215.html) (Video (https://youtu.be/PFmDM7M1OaM))


Council convenes as Finance Committee (Video (https://youtu.be/PFmDM7M1OaM?t=2m41s) | Overview (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051215files/FY_16_Budget_Overview_May12.pdf) | Budget Book (http://www.okc.gov/finance/BudgetDocs/Proposed_FY16_Budget.pdf) | New Release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_05/Oklahoma_City_Council_receives_proposed_budget_for _fiscal_year_2015_2016.html))
The Council convened Tuesday as the Finance Committee to continue consideration of the proposed City budget for the 2016 fiscal year, which begins July 1. The Council will hold Finance Committee meetings every other week until the middle of June, when the budget is set for adoption. Tuesday's meeting started with a budget overview presentation, followed by budget presentations for the Information Technology, Police and Fire departments. The following Finance Committee meetings will feature presentations from other departments.

Information Technology proposed budget features data center (Video (https://youtu.be/PFmDM7M1OaM?t=12m5s) | Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051215files/IT_budget_presentation_FY16DRAFTComp.pdf))
The proposed budget for the Information Technology Department includes a new data center for the City's servers and data management. The City's digital storage needs increased by almost half in just one year as technological advancements and storage demands continue.

Body-worn camera funds included in proposed Police budget (Video (https://youtu.be/PFmDM7M1OaM?t=49m38s) | Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051215files/15-16%20Police%20Budget%20PowerPoint.pdf))
The proposed Police Department budget includes 26 new police officer positions and funding for the City's pilot program for body-worn cameras. Work is ongoing to develop policies and procedures for the program, which will cost about $340,000 for new civilian employees and contract services for the one-year pilot program.

Proposed budget for Fire includes 21 new positions (Video (https://youtu.be/PFmDM7M1OaM?t=2h10m) | Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051215files/2016%20Budget%20Presentation.pdf))
Oklahoma City will have 21 new firefighters if the Fire Department's budget wins Council approval. The budget proposal also includes funds for facility maintenance and records management software. The Fire Department's goals include responding to fire calls in the City's outlying areas within seven minutes 70 percent of the time by fiscal year 2018.

David
05-27-2015, 10:04 AM
May 19, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn051915.html) (Video (https://youtu.be/j28heUUDcj8))


Council funds study regarding multi-modal transit on Classen (Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/classen%20memo.pdf))
The Council voted Tuesday to approve a $10,000 contract with the University of Oklahoma's Institute for Quality Communities to perform a study on multi-modal transportation options on Classen Boulevard between W Reno Avenue and NW 23. OU students and faculty will work with the City's Commercial District Revitalization Program and the Urban Land Institute of Oklahoma to deliver a report recommending short- and long-term strategies to improve transportation, mobility, safety, walkability and bikeability on Classen.

Report delivered on Capitol Hill Library renovation and expansion (Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/capitol%20hill%20memo.pdf) | Full Report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/capitol%20hill%20report.pdf) | Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/City%20Council%20Pres%20-%20PrelimReport.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/j28heUUDcj8?t=50m4s))
Architects delivered a preliminary report Tuesday on the design of the Capitol Hill Library renovation and expansion, which is set for a construction start this winter. The library will get a significant interior and exterior renovation along with improved infrastructure, furniture, fixtures and equipment.

Tennis Center improvements to include indoor courts (Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/tennis%20center%20memo.pdf) | Full Report (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/tennis%20center%20report.pdf) | Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/OKC%20Tennis%20Center%20-%20Final%20Plans%20-%20City%20Council%20-%20051815.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/j28heUUDcj8?t=1h3m41s))
The Council also received an update Tuesday on the improvements to the Oklahoma City Tennis Center. The preliminary report details the climate-controlled indoor courts, and also smaller courts for children and improvements to outdoor courts.

Artists sought for new Police headquarters art (Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/call%20to%20artists.pdf) | Call to Artists (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/call%20to%20artists%20document.pdf))
The Council approved a Call to Artists Tuesday for art in the interior of the new Police headquarters, which is set for completion later this year. The City has $40,000 for art in the interior of the new building as part of the City's 1 percent for Art ordinance. The ordinance requires the City to spend 1 percent of the construction budget for City facilities on art.

Lightning Creek drainage improvements plan moves forward (Agenda Item (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/051915files/lightning%20creek%20memo.pdf))
The City will soon seek bids from contractors to take the next steps in drainage improvements for the Lightning Creek area. Construction is expected to begin later this year on a drainage basin near SW 29 and S Santa Fe Avenue, which should help alleviate drainage issues along Lightning Creek. The creek is one of the most flash flood-prone waterways in the City.

David
05-27-2015, 10:12 AM
May 26, 2015 (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/cn052615.html) (Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbQsqj3XfqQ))


Council convenes as Finance Committee (Budget Book (http://www.okc.gov/finance/BudgetDocs/Proposed_FY16_Budget.pdf) | News Release (http://www.okc.gov/news/2015_05/Oklahoma_City_Council_receives_proposed_budget_for _fiscal_year_2015_2016.html))
The Council convened Tuesday as the Finance Committee to continue consideration of the proposed City budget for the 2016 fiscal year, which begins July 1. The Council will hold another Finance Committee meeting June 9, and is set to adopt the budget June 16. Tuesday's meeting started with the Public Works Department budget presentation, followed by budget presentations from the Utilities and Airports departments. The June 9 meeting will feature presentations from the Development Services, Parks and Recreation, Public Transportation and Parking, and Planning departments.

Public Works budget includes $47.5M for street, drainage projects (Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/052615files/FY%2015-16%20PW%20Proposed%20Budget%20Presentation%20May%2 02015.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/tbQsqj3XfqQ?t=2m38s))
The proposed budget for the Public Works Department includes $47.5 million for street, traffic and drainage projects. Numerous widening, resurfacing and other projects are planned for the upcoming fiscal year, many of which are part of the nearly $500 million in 2007 general obligation bond issue projects for streets and drainage. The Public Works Department oversees 8,171 lane miles of roads within Oklahoma City's 621-square mile area. Other Public Works projects for the next fiscal year include work on Project 180, putting the finishing touches on the new Police Department headquarters, the City Hall lawn renovation and the Intermodal Transportation Hub linking the MAPS 3 Modern Streetcar with rail service.

Water main replacements, extension next for Utilities Department (Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/052615files/Utilities%20Department%20FY16%205-26-15.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/tbQsqj3XfqQ?t=38m11s))
The Utilities Department plans to replace or extend nearly 40 miles of water mains in OKC during the next fiscal year. The water main projects join improvements to the City's water treatment plants and wastewater system upgrades as highlights of the department's proposed budget for the 2016 fiscal year. Adding additional compressed natural gas-powered side-loading trash trucks is also planned for the next year.

Will Rogers World Airport anticipates passenger record in FY 2016 (Presentation (http://www.okc.gov/councilnotes/2015/052615files/2016%20City%20Council%20final%203.pdf) | Video (https://youtu.be/tbQsqj3XfqQ?t=1h2m12s))
Will Rogers World Airport is edging ever closer to two million passengers per year, with nearly 1.97 million passengers expected to set a new record in the next fiscal year. A highlight of the Airports Department's proposed budget for next fiscal year is the scheduled completion of the $5.3 million consolidated rental car facility, which is on S Meridian Avenue north of the airport. Several other projects are helping the airport to meet continued rising demand.

Plutonic Panda
10-29-2015, 05:50 PM
5 takeaways from this week's Oklahoma City Council meeting | News OK (http://newsok.com/5-takeaways-from-this-weeks-oklahoma-city-council-meeting/article/5456847)

Plutonic Panda
01-05-2016, 08:36 AM
Looks like OKC is going to vote to protect the LGBT community similar to what Norman did. This is very good news!

Oklahoma City To Vote On LGBTQ Housing Protections - News9.com - Oklahoma City, OK - News, Weather, Video and Sports | (http://www.news9.com/story/30886550/oklahoma-city-to-vote-on-lgbtq-housing-protections)

David
01-05-2016, 10:06 AM
And it passed 5 to 4. The no votes are a little disappointing, as was the rationale behind some of the debate by the council beforehand, but at least it passed. It's notable that of the four or five residents who spoke before the vote, nobody opposed it.

Pete
01-05-2016, 11:00 AM
And it passed 5 to 4. The no votes are a little disappointing, as was the rationale behind some of the debate by the council beforehand, but at least it passed. It's notable that of the four or five residents who spoke before the vote, nobody opposed it.

Who voted against it and why?

LocoAko
01-05-2016, 11:14 AM
Who voted against it and why?

https://twitter.com/LauraEastes_OKC/status/684410409260953600



Laura Eastes
‏@LauraEastes_OKC
Ordinance passed 5 to 4 with Greiner, McAtee, Greenwell and Stonecipher voting against.


Some hints as to why...

https://twitter.com/benfelder_okc/status/684407147036151808



Ben Felder
‏@benfelder_okc
On Jan. 5, 2016, Councilman Stonecipher says there has not been enough debate over protecting LGBT citizens from housing discrimination.


https://twitter.com/benfelder_okc/status/684407445699952640



Ben Felder
‏@benfelder_okc
Stonecipher says this is an issue for Congress.


https://twitter.com/benfelder_okc/status/684414879587909632



Ben Felder
‏@benfelder_okc
Stonecipher said this was an issue for the federal government. Once again, you play the local control card as you see fit.


https://twitter.com/benfelder_okc/status/684414288761507840



Ben Felder
‏@benfelder_okc
Larry McAtee was the only one to vote against that was outspoken with his disapproval of same-sex marriage and relationships.


https://twitter.com/benfelder_okc/status/684414584770281472



Ben Felder
‏@benfelder_okc
Greenwell said he was "disturbed" by the idea of taking away a landlords right to be against same-sex relationships.


I don't want to derail this thread too politically, but I can't roll my eyes hard enough at Greenwell's logic here.

Pete
01-05-2016, 11:18 AM
Holy cow, that is really disappointing from Greenwell in particular.

checkthat
01-05-2016, 11:21 AM
Who voted against it and why?

You could probably guess but Greiner, Stonecipher, Greenwell, and McAtee voted Nay. There is a very lengthy discussion, about an hour, and I have not had the chance to watch the entire thing. Seems like Stonecipher wants to be able to debate the other side of the issue more and Greenwell seems to imply protections already exist. Will watch later but here is the link to the start of the discussion:

https://youtu.be/hfFOdxXslfI?t=3485

LocoAko
01-05-2016, 11:36 AM
Good thoughts and summary from Ben Felder on the issue, I think.

https://www.facebook.com/btfelder/posts/10206893360684069

TheTravellers
01-05-2016, 11:41 AM
Stonecipher, man, voted against him with good reason, he does *seem* open to discussion about it, though I wonder how real his openness is...

ljbab728
01-05-2016, 11:35 PM
I'm not sure exactly what this means based on what I see in the article, but:

Council includes LGBT protections in Oklahoma City's housing discrimination ordinance | NewsOK.com (http://m.newsok.com/council-includes-lgbt-protections-in-oklahoma-citys-housing-discrimination-ordinance/article/5470753)


Ward 2 Councilman Ed Shadid, the sponsor, said the council should consider restoring the city's Human Rights Commission as well.
Once Shadid's amendment had passed, the council voted unanimously to adopt the updated ordinance.

JohnH_in_OKC
01-07-2016, 12:10 AM
Tuesday night, I luckily tuned in to channel 20 and saw a replay of this historic vote of Oklahoma City's City Council. One cogent remark made by Pete White who said it was a dispute between a minority group of people asking for their constitutional rights vs a group of people who thinks land ownership gives them the right to decide to whom they can rent their property. Pete White voted to affirm the rights of LGBT people. If you click on the Oklahoman's video coverage of the Council, Pete White's comments start at :30 minutes and then at :52 minutes he presents the challenge that both sides have concerning their constitutional rights: City Council Approves LGBT Housing Protection (http://m.newsok.com/video/4686778381001)

Even though I'm not an LGBT, I applaud our council members and mayor for this historic vote. Dr. Ed Shadid is my City Council representative and he is the author of this amendment.

David
01-07-2016, 07:05 AM
From all the time I've spent watching the stream, Pete White is probably my favorite council member.

Pete
01-07-2016, 07:15 AM
From all the time I've spent watching the stream, Pete White is probably my favorite council member.

I spoken with him many times and completely agree.

Super sharp guy who has a great passion for Oklahoma City and has devoted a good chunk of his life serving the community.

baralheia
01-07-2016, 10:37 AM
I'm extremely glad that this passed, and that Pete White is my ward's council member. It's most definitely a step in the right direction.

Sadly, the dissenting votes are getting coverage in national news sources, painting our city in a pretty bad light even though the ordinance passed. Oklahoma official opposes LGBT housing protections because gays might try living over his garage (http://www.rawstory.com/2016/01/oklahoma-official-opposes-lgbt-housing-protections-because-gays-might-try-living-over-his-garage/)

Plutonic Panda
01-07-2016, 11:37 AM
I'm extremely glad that this passed, and that Pete White is my ward's council member. It's most definitely a step in the right direction.

Sadly, the dissenting votes are getting coverage in national news sources, painting our city in a pretty bad light even though the ordinance passed. Oklahoma official opposes LGBT housing protections because gays might try living over his garage (http://www.rawstory.com/2016/01/oklahoma-official-opposes-lgbt-housing-protections-because-gays-might-try-living-over-his-garage/)So I noticed religion is already included in the protection against discrimination. I wonder how he would view an atheist renting an apartment owned by a Christian?

Very sad to see that we are getting this kind of PR though it is deserving. I am glad to see it passed but at the same time appalled at how many members voted against it.