Meeting Summary
The city council meeting's primary focus was the controversial rezoning request (PC 2012) for the "Bellam project," a proposed mixed-use development in the original mile. After extensive public input and council debate on issues like parking, drainage, and infrastructure, the motion to approve the rezoning was denied. The meeting also included positive sales tax reports, various community announcements, and recognition of city employees.
Key Decisions & Votes
Rezoning for Bellam Project (PC 2012)
97:00The City Council denied the rezoning request for the Bellam project, which proposed a Simplified Planned Unit Development (SPUD) for a mixed-use residential and commercial complex in the original mile. Concerns included inadequate parking, potential strain on aging infrastructure, and the project's compatibility with the existing single-family neighborhood.
Upcoming Community Events
Reno swimming slide early bird season passes go on sale
Crews in for Coffee 2020
Santa Fe on southeast 29th, featuring coffee, donuts, classic automobiles and motorcycles.
Covered in Color
Charles J. Johnson Park in town center.
Fire Department & Red Cross Smoke Detector Installation
Two neighborhoods in Midwest City, 9 AM - 12 PM and 1 PM - 3 PM.
Financial Matters
Sales Tax Collections
Sales tax revenue showed positive growth, with February collections up 4.2% over last year and 4.86% above projection. Year-to-date collections are 3.68% above projections.
Bulk Curbside Waste Pickup Program
A new program initiated in January has serviced 1,753 customers, providing an improved level of waste collection service.
Original Mile Sewer Line Revitalization
Ongoing program to replace aging sewer lines in the original square mile using pipe bursting technology, with funds budgeted annually.
Kitty Hawk Sidewalks
The Mayor committed to requesting $175,000-$200,000 in upcoming budget talks for the installation of sidewalks on Kitty Hawk.
Public Comments
Eight citizens addressed the council regarding the Bellam project. Public comments were largely divided, with a significant number of residents from the original mile expressing strong opposition. Concerns centered on insufficient parking, increased traffic, strain on aging infrastructure (drainage, sewer), safety for pedestrians and children due to lack of sidewalks, and the project's character not fitting the single-family neighborhood. Proponents argued for the project as a progressive step for the city, promoting economic development, increased property values, and attracting younger residents.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- Reno swimming slide early bird season passes go on sale Monday, March 2nd
- Census forms in March
Watch For
- Future discussions on infrastructure improvements (sidewalks, drainage, sewer lines) in the original mile
- Potential future proposals for the Bellam project site by the developer
- Budget talks for committing funds to Kitty Hawk sidewalks
- Impact of Jarman Junior High closing on local traffic
Announcements
- Sales tax collections are up 4.2% over last February, 3.22% above last year's collections, and 4.86% above projection for February, with year-to-date 3.68% above projections.
- Reno swimming slide early bird season passes go on sale Monday, March 2nd.
- Crews in for Coffee 2020 kicks off Saturday, April 18th at the Santa Fe on southeast 29th.
- Save the date for Covered in Color on May 9th at Charles J. Johnson Park.
- The Fire Department will work with the Red Cross to install smoke detectors in two Midwest City neighborhoods on February 12th (9 AM-12 PM and 1 PM-3 PM).
- The bulk curbside waste pickup program, started in January, has serviced 1,753 customers to date, providing a higher quality of service.
- Zone 7 will be serviced the week of February 17th, and Zone 8 the week of February 24th for bulk waste pickup; a map is available on the city website.
- The Parks and Recreation staff received compliments for the successful Daddy-Daughter Dance.
- Residents are encouraged to support Girl Scout cookie sales in February and fill out census forms in March.
- Several city employees were recognized for their service, including three retirees with a combined 80 years of experience and others receiving 20 and 25-year service awards from the Oklahoma Municipal League.
Agenda Summary
Consent Agenda
Approval of routine agenda items by a single motion.
PC 2012 - Bellam Project Rezoning
Public hearing, discussion, and consideration of an ordinance to rezone Lots 9-13, 17-18, Block 5 of the Pine Edition from low-density residential to a Simplified Planned Unit Development (SPUD) governed by high-density residential and community commercial districts, and to amend the comprehensive plan. The proposal included six three-story multi-family buildings with 34 dwelling units and potential commercial uses.
Midwest City Memorial Hospital Authority - Approval of Minutes
Approving the minutes of the regular January 28, 2020 meeting.
Midwest City Memorial Hospital Authority - Investment Policy Review
Discussion and consideration of action to relocate assets, change fund managers, or make changes in the statement of investment policy guidelines and objectives.