Meeting Summary
The city council meeting provided updates on April sales tax collections, which showed an 8.03% increase but advised caution due to economic forecasts. Progress was reported on the railroad quiet zone, the Westwood Family Aquatic Center concept received general consensus, and updates were given on the Lindsay Street construction and new water storage tank. The Utilities Department noted increasing water demand, prompting a reminder about the city's water conservation program.
Key Decisions & Votes
Westwood Family Aquatic Center Preliminary Concept
The City Council reached a general consensus on the preliminary concept and rendering for the Westwood Family Aquatic Center project during a work session.
Financial Matters
April Sales Tax Collections
Sales tax remittance for April (reflecting February sales) was up 8.03% from April 2015.
FY 15-16 Sales Tax Collections
Fiscal Year 2015-2016 sales tax collections are up approximately 3.14% above last year.
Coming Up
Tabled
- East and Central Libraries ad hoc committees and public hearings rescheduled for May
Deadlines
- 60-day comment period for the railroad quiet zone establishment (began last week)
- New elevated water storage tank to be installed and serviced by July
- I-35 northbound off-ramp closed until Fall 2017
Watch For
- Establishment of railroad quiet zones early in the fall
- BNSF to cease blowing horns two weeks after regulatory process for quiet zones
- Meeting with stakeholders and council for the Ref Tellers report in the third week of May
Announcements
- A reminder was issued about Norman's year-round odd-even water rotation lawn watering program to conserve water.
- Appreciation was extended to OU students who assisted city staff with the recycling program outreach and preparation of goodie bags.
Agenda Summary
April Sales Tax Collections
Discussion on April sales tax remittance, reflecting February sales, which was up 8.03% from April 2015. FY 15-16 collections are up 3.14% above last year, with a note of caution regarding economic downturns.
Railroad Quiet Zone
An update on the notice of intent to establish a quiet zone in Norman, initiating a 60-day comment period. The project includes 16 at-grade crossings and supplemental safety measures.
Westwood Family Aquatic Center
City Council reviewed the preliminary concept for the project in a work session, reaching a general consensus on the rendering available on the city's website.
East and Central Libraries
Ad hoc committees and public hearings have been rescheduled for May to allow consultants more time to refine schematic designs and projected costs.
Lindsay Street Updates
An update on the I-35 northbound off-ramp closure until Fall 2017, with a detour via Highway 9 to 24th Avenue SW. City staff met with affected businesses to discuss communication and operational issues during construction.
New Elevated Water Storage Tank
The new elevated water storage tank has been lifted and is expected to be installed and serviced by July, benefiting 11,000 customers with more consistent pressures and increased fire protection.
Water Demand Increasing
The Utilities Department reported an increase in water demand, reaching 12.5 million gallons per day last week, and emphasized the importance of following the year-round odd-even water rotation conservation program.
Ref Tellers Report
Final plans are being made for a meeting with stakeholders and the council regarding the Ref Tellers report, scheduled for the third week of May.