Meeting Summary
The City Council reviewed and expressed strong support for the North Base facilities master plan, a long-range roadmap for city maintenance facilities, with an understanding of significant future costs and the need for phased implementation. Discussions also focused on the structure and appointments for the Comprehensive Plan and Strong Town ad hoc committees, with the Comprehensive Plan appointments tabled for further consideration. Additionally, the council discussed the ongoing work of the Neighborhood Alliance and the upcoming appointment to fill a vacant Ward 1 Council seat.
Key Decisions & Votes
North Base Facilities Master Plan
57:00The City Council expressed strong consensus and support for the North Base facilities master plan as a long-range roadmap for future maintenance facilities, with a formal resolution for adoption to be brought forward. This plan will guide future capital investments and land acquisition discussions.
Comprehensive Plan Ad Hoc Committee Appointments
01:08:00The Council decided to table the appointments for the Comprehensive Plan ad hoc Committee to allow more time for thoughtful consideration of candidates and the new committee structure proposed by the contractor. A cutoff date for applications was set for March 17th.
Strong Town Ad Hoc Committee Appointments
01:10:00The Council reached a consensus to move forward with the proposed appointments for the Strong Town ad hoc Committee, with minor adjustments for ward representation and to address missing applications. Final adoption is scheduled for February 28th.
Ward 1 Council Seat Appointment
01:40:00The Council reached a consensus to appoint the winner of the special election to fill the vacant Ward 1 Council seat during the next Tuesday's meeting (February 28th). The new council member will take the oath and assume the seat immediately.
Upcoming Community Events
Private Roads and Waterways Workshop
Experts teach residents on maintaining private roads and waterways.
Speed Dating with City Departments
Round tables with department heads at the library, allowing residents to discuss issues and learn about city operations.
Legal Issues for HOAs Workshop
Attorney provides presentations on legal aspects of HOAs.
Norman Neighbors Academy
Hosted at the Central Library, with breakout speakers, non-profit meet-and-greets, and free breakfast and lunch.
Financial Matters
North Base Facilities Master Plan
Estimated costs for the master plan: $75 million in today's dollars, potentially increasing to $750 million by 2053. Includes phased implementation costs.
Land Acquisition for North Base Expansion
Estimated value of University of Oklahoma land south of current property at $1.7 million, and Lindsay Yard property at $1.4 million. Potential for a land swap with OU.
Existing Fueling Station Replacement
The existing unleaded and diesel fuel station is on its last leg and requires replacement or relocation, estimated at $2 million to $2.5 million.
Neighborhood Alliance Contract
The City of Norman funds the activities of the Neighborhood Alliance.
CDBG Mid-Main Project
The CDBG program will provide extra effort and funding to organize and preserve affordability in the Original Town Site and First Courthouse neighborhoods.
Coming Up
Tabled
- Appointments for the Comprehensive Plan ad hoc Committee (to be discussed further at a future meeting, potentially a Saturday session)
Deadlines
- March 17th: Hard stop for receiving Comprehensive Plan ad hoc Committee applications
Watch For
- Formal resolution for adopting the North Base facilities master plan
- Meetings with the University of Oklahoma regarding land acquisition and Goddard Avenue access
- Exploration of financing options for the North Base master plan (e.g., federal grants, GO bonds)
- Strong Towns ad hoc Committee appointments to be finalized on February 28th
- Appointment of Ward 1 Council member on February 28th
- Comprehensive Plan contract with Garver to be brought to Council in late March or early April
- Strong Towns kickoff event next Monday (date not specified, but mentioned as next week)
Agenda Summary
Presentation of the North Base facilities master plan
Presentation by Public Works and ADG on a master plan for North Base and Lindsay Yard facilities, outlining existing conditions, proposed future layouts, and a phased implementation strategy over 30 years, including potential land acquisition and significant cost estimates.
Discussion regarding the appointments for the comprehensive plan ad hoc Committee
Presentation by the comprehensive plan contractor (Garver/RDG) on a proposed committee structure, including a steering committee and subcommittees, designed to be more effective and inclusive. Council discussed the need for more time to thoughtfully select members.
Discussion regarding the appointments for the Strong Town ad hoc Committee
Review of proposed appointments for the Strong Town ad hoc committee, with minor adjustments to ensure ward representation and address missing applications.
Discussion regarding Neighborhood Alliance
Presentation by the Neighborhood Alliance of Central Oklahoma on their mission, programs, and activities in Norman, including community workshops, the Norman Neighbors Academy, and partnerships with local organizations and businesses.
Discussion regarding the appointment to fill a vacant Ward 1 Council seat
Discussion on the process and timing for appointing the winner of the special election to fill the remainder of the vacant Ward 1 Council term.