Meeting Summary
The city council meeting primarily featured budget presentations for Fiscal Year 2026 from the Public Works, Utilities, and Fire departments. No formal votes were taken on the proposed budgets. Public comments focused on concerns regarding mid-year budget adjustments impacting Parks and Recreation programs, particularly at Northwest Optimus Performing Arts Center, and proposed cuts to Embark transit routes.
Upcoming Community Events
Household Hazardous Waste Special Collections Event
Held at the fairgrounds, collected 221,000 pounds of items (ammunition, tires, computers, prescriptions) from 537 residents.
Financial Matters
Public Works FY26 Proposed Budget
Overall budget of $221 million, with operating budget remaining similar and non-operating/capital decreasing due to the completion of Better Streets Safer Cities projects. Includes reduction in asphalt materials, implementation of a crack seal program, addition of an Assistant City Engineer, and deletion of two vacant positions.
OKC Water Utilities Trust FY26 Proposed Budget
Proposed budget of $1.3 billion, primarily funded by debt construction fund proceeds ($732 million) and service charges ($517 million), with the largest portion allocated to capital improvements ($897 million).
City Utilities Department Operations Budget Adjustment
An overall 6.6% adjustment (increase of approximately $6.6 million) compared to FY25, driven by annual salary and benefit adjustments, position improvements, and increased services and supplies costs.
Fire Department FY26 Proposed Budget Changes
Overall budget increase of approximately 1.8%. Includes a $2.2 million savings from the deletion of 15 personnel from Engine 51 (absorbed internally), a $7.7 million increase for personnel-related costs, and a $1.7 million increase in fire sales tax for IT and fire station construction/remodel. Also includes the addition of one Human Resource Partner and four Mobile Integrated Health personnel.
Fire Department MAPS 4 Use Tax Allocation
Allocation of $38.2 million for apparatus purchases, with $26.9 million already encumbered for apparatus currently awaiting arrival.
Public Comments
Six citizens spoke, primarily expressing concern over mid-year budget adjustments that have led to reduced staff hours and class offerings at Parks and Recreation facilities, specifically Northwest Optimus Performing Arts Center. Speakers emphasized the vital role of these programs in youth development, community building, and preventative mental health. One citizen also raised concerns about proposed cuts to Embark transit routes, particularly Route 24, and requested a postponement of these changes.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- Scheduled budget adoption: June 3rd
Watch For
- Next budget hearing on May 27th, featuring presentations from Planning, Airports, and the Police Department
- Future discussions on restoring firefighter staffing, potentially through grant funding or other means
- Potential future bond vote in 2025 for Public Works projects
Announcements
- The Fire Department's fourth EMS transport unit was put into service this month.
- Fire Station 31 at 800 North Rockwell is expected to come online late summer or early fall.
Agenda Summary
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation led by Dr. Kelly Booker, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Abby Stewart.
Presentations and discussion of the Fiscal Year 26 proposed budget
Presentations from Public Works, Utilities, and Fire departments on their proposed budgets for the upcoming fiscal year.
Citizens to be heard
Opportunity for citizens to address the council on matters of concern.