Meeting Summary
The city council held a special meeting, the second of four, to evaluate potential Maps 4 projects. Presentations and public comments were heard on proposed youth centers, city beautification initiatives, the replacement of the State Fair Coliseum, the continuation of senior wellness centers, and the construction of a new animal shelter. The discussions highlighted community needs, economic impacts, and operational considerations for each proposal.
Financial Matters
Youth Centers Capital Investment
Proposed capital investment for four youth centers, estimated between $60 million and $80 million.
Youth Centers Operating Investment Fund
Proposed $25 million operating investment fund for youth centers, expected to yield approximately $1 million annually for staffing and enrichment.
Youth Centers Capital Fund
Proposed capital fund for youth centers, expected to yield approximately $400,000 annually for technology and facility refreshment.
Beautification Capital Investment
Proposed capital investment for city beautification projects, estimated between $15 million and $20 million.
Beautification Operating Fund
Proposed $5 million operating fund for beautification, expected to yield approximately $200,000 annually for 2-3 staff positions.
State Fair Coliseum Replacement
Estimated cost for a new Coliseum at the State Fairgrounds, with a partnership funding model including contributions from the State Fair's hotel/motel tax revenue.
State Fairgrounds Annual Sales Tax Revenue
Estimated annual sales tax revenue generated for the City of Oklahoma City from activities at the fairgrounds.
Senior Wellness Center Cost
Cost for Wellness Center number four, indicating the general cost per facility.
Animal Shelter New Facility
Estimated cost for a new animal shelter, dependent on construction timeline.
Animal Shelter Renovation Estimate
Estimated cost for renovating the existing animal shelter, which was deemed insufficient for long-term goals.
Public Comments
Public comments were overwhelmingly in favor of the proposed projects, with strong emotional appeals and personal testimonials. Speakers emphasized the positive impact of youth programs, the need for a welcoming city aesthetic, the economic benefits of the Coliseum, the importance of senior services, and the moral imperative of a humane animal shelter. Concerns were raised about funding sustainability, equitable distribution of services, and the maintenance of existing city assets.
Coming Up
Watch For
- Next Maps 4 project evaluation meetings on July 31st and August 6th.
Agenda Summary
3A: Presentation on Youth Centers
Presentation by Parks Director Doug Cupper on the need for modern youth centers to engage youth after school and during summers, address juvenile crime, and provide early childhood development opportunities. Concepts for modern facilities and funding models were discussed.
3B: Presentation on Beautification
Presentation by Mayor David Holt on the importance of city beautification, focusing on improving highly trafficked corridors, city entrance gateways, and addressing 'left behind' areas. Proposal included capital investment and a perpetually funded operating fund for beautification staff.
3C: Presentation on State Fair Coliseum
Presentation by former Mayor Ron Norick and Tim O'Toole on the need to replace the 54-year-old Jim Norick Arena at the State Fairgrounds due to its deteriorated condition. Emphasized its economic impact through tourism and the horse show industry, and proposed a new $95 million Coliseum with a partnership funding model.
3D: Presentation on Senior Wellness Centers
Presentation by Maps Program Manager David Todd on the success and remaining needs for senior wellness centers, proposing the addition of two more centers as a continuation of Maps 3 projects. Highlighted existing facilities, programming, and membership.
3E: Presentation on Animal Shelter
Presentation by John Gary and Louisa Munk on the critical need for a new animal shelter to replace the existing facility, which was not designed for life-saving. Discussed operational inefficiencies, safety concerns, high intake numbers, and the goal of achieving a 90% live release rate with a new $40-$45 million facility.