Meeting Summary
The city council received a presentation from the Xenia Institute on community dialogue regarding civility, highlighting concerns about divisiveness and offering potential ways forward. Additionally, a detailed presentation from Raftelis on a cost of services study for water and wastewater utility rates was given, with the council providing direction for further analysis on specific rate alternatives and the sequencing of future public votes.
Key Decisions & Votes
Utility Rate Study Direction
The council directed staff to proceed with further analysis on 'Alternative 2' for both water and wastewater rate structures, requested the development of a 'Goldilocks scenario' (a third option) for comparison, and decided to prioritize a public vote on water rates before wastewater rates.
Upcoming Community Events
Forum on Homelessness
1 PM to 3 PM, hosted by First Presbyterian Church and Xenia Institute, with agencies discussing local issues.
Financial Matters
Water Utility Rate Study
Discussion of proposed water rate increases (28% initially, then 23.5% annually since last increase) to fund a $395 million Capital Improvement Program over 10 years. Two alternatives were presented: 'across the board' (Alternative 1) and 'fixed charge recovery' (Alternative 2). Norman's current rates are significantly lower than comparable cities.
Wastewater Utility Rate Study
Discussion of proposed wastewater rate increases (10% in fiscal 2024, 15% in fiscal 2029) to transition from cash financing to debt financing for capital improvements. Two alternatives were presented: 'across the board' (Alternative 1) and 'fixed charge recovery' (Alternative 2). Norman's current rates, including a dedicated $0.50 sewer maintenance fee, are lower than comparable cities.
Public Comments
The Xenia Institute presented findings from four community dialogue events involving approximately 35 participants. Key concerns included increasing incivility, political divisiveness, misinformation from social media, fear of change, financial insecurity, and a perceived loss of community responsibility. Participants also expressed worry about hurtful labeling, tribalism, and a loss of confidence in government. Issues like homelessness, mental health, workforce shortages, and the decreasing affordability of living in Norman were highlighted as topics citizens want to discuss further.
Coming Up
Watch For
- Development of a 'Goldilocks scenario' (third option) for water and wastewater rates
- Public vote on water utility rates (to be prioritized before wastewater rates)
- Educational campaign for proposed water rate changes
- Professional survey to gauge public opinion on water rate changes
- Study session with Neighborhood Alliance to discuss community engagement and dialogue
- Forum on homelessness (Xenia Institute and First Presbyterian Church collaboration)
Agenda Summary
Presentation from the Xenia Institute regarding the community Dialogue on civility
David Spain and Lynn Miller from the Xenia Institute presented findings from community dialogues on incivility in Norman, discussing causes like political divisiveness, misinformation, and fear, and suggesting ways to foster better discourse and community engagement.
Presentation from Raftelis regarding the cost of services study for utility rates
Todd Cristiano and Toby Fetter from Raftelis presented a detailed study on proposed water and wastewater utility rate adjustments, including financial plans, cost of service analysis, and rate design alternatives to fund capital improvements and maintain financial health.