Meeting Summary
The City Council adopted a resolution for upcoming council elections, including an amendment for Ward 2. They discussed the Capital Improvements Program budget, noting a significant deficit for new projects and giving direction to staff to release approximately $1 million in reserves. The council also deliberated on the allocation of $3.75 million in remaining CARES Act funds, with a general consensus to prioritize small business micro-grants, rental and utility assistance, and setting aside a reserve for ice storm debris cleanup.
Key Decisions & Votes
Amendment to Resolution 2021-22
03:15An amendment was adopted to Section 5 of Resolution 2021-22, clarifying that elections for Ward 2 would be for the remainder of the term to expire on July 7, 2022.
Adoption of Resolution 2021-22
04:15Resolution 2021-22, which pertains to upcoming city council elections, was adopted unanimously as amended.
Release of Capital Fund Reserves
50:00Council members provided clear direction and support for releasing approximately $1 million in capital fund reserves previously set aside for the Senior Center and Robinson/Crossroads I-35 West Frontage Road projects, as these projects have secured alternative funding.
Financial Matters
FYE 2021 Capital Improvements Program Budget Deficit
The capital fund is currently in a negative position with no money available for new projects, showing a projected deficit of approximately $2.3 million for FY21 and $2.1 million for FY22.
Release of Capital Fund Reserves
Council gave direction to release approximately $790,000 reserved for the Robinson I-35 West Frontage Road and Crossroads project and $230,000 for the Senior Center project, as these projects have secured alternative funding. This would free up about $1 million to address the capital fund deficit.
Storm Debris Removal Project
An unbudgeted $7.7 million project for ice storm debris removal is underway, with the city hoping for 75-80% federal reimbursement. The estimated out-of-pocket cost, if no state reimbursement, is $1.7 million. Debris monitoring costs $1.2 million, also eligible for reimbursement.
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Funding Shortfall
The EOC project has a funding shortfall of approximately $8 million to build the facility to the desired hardened standard. The Public Safety Sales Tax Oversight Committee recommended an $8 million general obligation bond to close this gap.
Vehicle Replacement Program
The city allocates $2 million annually for vehicle replacements, but a study indicated $4.5 million per year is needed to keep the fleet up to date.
CARES Act Funds Allocation
Discussion on allocating the remaining $3.75 million in CARES Act funds, with proposals for small business micro-grants (up to $10,000), rental and utility assistance, and setting aside a reserve for storm debris cleanup.
Water Bill Late Fees
Delinquencies in water bill payments increased by approximately $900,000 in one month when disconnections for non-payment were halted. Council requested data on outstanding late fees for potential CARES Act allocation.
Public Comments
Council members relayed input from citizens and constituents regarding the need for small business relief, rent and utility assistance, concerns about mask enforcement, and the importance of addressing bridge maintenance and sidewalk issues.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- Voter approval for Street Maintenance Bond renewal by end of April 2021 to close bonds by June 30th.
Watch For
- Next Capital Budget hearing on February 16, 2021.
- Final Capital Budget presentation on May 4, 2021.
- Update on vehicle fleet leasing program by February.
- Identification of dire bridge projects by Public Works by February.
- Value-added engineering options for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) by February.
- Decision on an $8 million bond issue for the EOC.
- Decision on a sales tax rate increase for Public Safety Sales Tax to cover ongoing personnel expenses.
- Renewal of the 5-year Street Maintenance Bond program.
- Potential Bridge Maintenance Bond in 2022/2023.
- Further allocation of CARES Act funds for small business relief, rental/utility assistance, and storm debris.
- Update on Cleveland County's CARES Act funding and collaboration opportunities.
- Information on outstanding water bill late fees.
- Information on unexpended departmental allocations and funds from closed projects.
- Communication update on CDBG rental and utility assistance fund.
- Discussion on a general business license to fund a small business coordinator.
Announcements
- Filing for City Council elections for Wards 1, 3, 5, 7, and 2 (remainder of term) is from December 7th at 8:00 am to December 9th at 5:00 pm.
- The state of Oklahoma's FEMA request for ice storm damage has been submitted.
- The state has identified new funding for COVID-19 testing, and Emmy is expected to return to full walk-in testing mode within two weeks.
Agenda Summary
Resolution 2021-22
Motion to adopt or reject Resolution 2021-22, which pertains to city council elections.
Discussion regarding status of the FYE 2021 Capital Improvements program budget and preparation of FY 2022 Capital Improvements program budget in the FYE 2023 to 2026 Capital Improvements plan
Presentation and discussion on the current status of the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) budget, including a projected deficit for new projects and potential funding sources.
Discussion regarding use of Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security or CARES Act funds
Discussion on the allocation of the remaining $3.75 million in CARES Act funds for various community needs, including small business relief and storm debris cleanup.