Meeting Summary
The Norman City Council meeting commenced with the acknowledgment of November 2024 as Native American Indigenous People's Heritage Month. The Council also adopted a resolution to award the 2024 Norman Animal Welfare Volunteerism Award to Serita Wilson. Additionally, a significant federal grant of $13.7 million was announced to aid in the replacement of the North Porter Bridge.
Key Decisions & Votes
Native American Indigenous People's Heritage Month Proclamation
02:00The Mayor's proclamation designating November 2024 as Native American Indigenous People's Heritage Month in Norman was officially acknowledged by the City Council.
2024 Norman Animal Welfare Volunteerism Award
08:00A resolution was adopted to award Serita Wilson the 2024 Norman Animal Welfare Volunteerism Award for her extensive contributions to animal welfare, including championing a ban on indefinite dog tethering and founding Annie's Rescue Foundation.
Consent Docket Items 3-23
39:00A block of routine agenda items (3 through 23) was approved by unanimous consent without individual discussion.
Upcoming Community Events
Norman Open House for Land Use and Comprehensive Plans
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Young Family Athletic Center, 2202 Trey Young Drive
Norman Open House for Land Use and Comprehensive Plans
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Norman Development Center, 225 North Webster
PFLAG Norman Social and Support Meeting
7:00 PM at the East Side Library
Lazy Circles Brewing 7th Anniversary Celebration
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Lazy Circles Brewing, featuring Jeep KN Express food truck
4th Annual Chili Cook-off
3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at 405 Brewing (205 East Main Street), in partnership with 405 Animal Rescue
Norman Mardi Gras Gumbo Cook-off
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at The Gathering Place (between Lazy Circles Brewing and Stash). Cost is $20, includes live music, raffle ticket, and tasting supplies. Under 12 free.
Norman High Tigers Playoff Game
7:30 PM at Norman High School (home game) against Edmond Memorial.
Financial Matters
North Porter Bridge Replacement Grant
A federal grant from the 2023 Tribal Transportation Program Safety Funds, secured through a partnership with the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, to replace the 87-year-old North Porter Bridge.
Public Comments
Two citizens addressed the council. One speaker raised concerns about homelessness, theft, and the public education system, specifically mentioning curriculum content and mental health issues. The second speaker discussed national issues like immigration and the importance of local participation, connecting it to sustainable practices like food foresting and reducing demand for imported goods.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- Entry deadline for Norman Mardi Gras Gumbo Cook-off competitors: Tuesday, November 12th.
Watch For
- Final land use and comprehensive plan documents are expected to come to the Planning Commission for review and approval around February/March, and then to City Council for consideration and approval around April/May.
- The Community Planning and Transportation Committee meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 20th, at 4:00 PM at City Hall, to discuss public transit ridership and road construction updates.
- The city is entering a new budget cycle, with work expected in the coming months.
Announcements
- Sooner C.A.S.A. is holding a raffle for a two-story playhouse built by Bolt Construction, with proceeds supporting child abuse advocacy.
- Council member encouraged volunteering at schools to read to children and participating in programs like Antioch Church's 'Snacking & Study' for elementary and middle school students.
- PFLAG Norman will hold a social and support meeting on November 14th at 7:00 PM at the East Side Library.
- Lazy Circles Brewing will celebrate its 7th anniversary on Friday, November 15th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, featuring Jeep KN Express Filipino food truck.
- The 4th Annual Chili Cook-off at 405 Brewing (205 East Main Street) will take place on Saturday, November 16th, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, in partnership with 405 Animal Rescue.
- Norman Mardi Gras Parade organizers are hosting a Gumbo Cook-off on Saturday, November 16th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, at The Gathering Place between Lazy Circles Brewing and Stash.
- The new arcade at Sooner Mall was highlighted as a local attraction.
- The Norman High Tigers football team will play in the playoffs at home against Edmond Memorial on Friday, November 15th, at 7:30 PM.
Agenda Summary
Proclamation of November 2024 as American Indian Indigenous People's Heritage Month
A proclamation by the Mayor recognizing the contributions and diversity of Native American indigenous people in Norman.
Resolution awarding the 2024 Norman Animal Welfare Volunteerism Award
A resolution in conjunction with the Norman Animal Welfare Oversight Committee to recognize an outstanding volunteer.
Consent Docket Items 3-23
Routine agenda items grouped for a single vote.
Miscellaneous Comments
An opportunity for citizens to address the city council.
Council Announcements
Council members shared community updates and information.