Meeting Summary
The meeting provided updates on the city's financial status with July sales tax figures and progress on several Norman Forward projects, including the East Branch Library and Westwood Aquatic Center. Other key updates covered the Saxon Community Park, the police body camera project, and a new state law (SB 249) impacting solid waste collection safety. New council members also completed their orientation.
Upcoming Community Events
Library Ad Hoc Group Meeting
3 PM in the study session room to discuss East Branch Library progress and interior design plans.
Financial Matters
July Sales Tax Remittance
Reflects May sales, showing a small increase of almost 8% over July 2015 levels, indicating mixed signals in the local economy.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- SB 249 (Slow Down to Get Around Bill) goes into effect in November.
Watch For
- East Branch Library architectural plans to be presented to City Council on July 26 if approved by the ad hoc group.
- Demolition of the Westwood pool to begin this Thursday in preparation for the new aquatic center.
- Beta testing for police body cameras in the next 30-45 days, followed by vendor selection and a public forum.
Announcements
- SB 249, the 'Slow Down to Get Around' bill, will go into effect in November, requiring drivers to reduce speed around solid waste vehicles with flashing lights due to the high danger faced by refuse collectors.
- New City Council members have completed their orientation process, including meetings with staff, facility tours, and participation in the Oklahoma Municipal League orientation.
Agenda Summary
Sales Tax Update
Report on July sales tax remittance reflecting May sales, showing a small increase over prior year levels and mixed economic signals.
Norman Forward Communication Update
Update on communication efforts for the Norman Forward program, including quarterly reports, social media, and website updates.
Norman Forward: East Branch Library Progress
Update on the East Branch Library, with 65% of architectural plans complete, and a forthcoming ad hoc group meeting to review interior designs before presentation to City Council.
Norman Forward: Westwood Aquatic Center Demolition
Demolition of the old Westwood pool is scheduled to begin this Thursday to prepare for the construction of the new family aquatic center.
Saxon Community Park Update
Progress report on Saxon Community Park, including grading for a new park road extension, clearing of the fitness trail, and plans for fitness equipment installation and cross-country trail maintenance.
Police Body Camera Project Update
Update on the police body camera project, including the RFP process, current work with three vendors, upcoming beta testing, and plans for a public forum.
State Bill 249 (Slow Down to Get Around)
Information on SB 249, a state bill effective in November, requiring reduced speeds around solid waste vehicles to protect collectors, who face significant occupational hazards.
City Council Orientation Update
Report on the successful completion of orientation for new City Council members, including staff meetings, facility tours, and OML training.