Meeting Summary
The city council held its fourth special meeting to hear presentations on potential MAPS 4 projects. Key proposals included a $42 million mental health initiative, a $37-72 million multi-purpose stadium, and a $100 million innovation district. Council members also introduced ideas for an aquarium/canal extension and a robotics program. Public comments showed strong support for mental health and the innovation district, with mixed but passionate views on the stadium, and discussions on project funding, sustainable design, and community accountability.
Upcoming Community Events
Women's World Cup watch party
Hosted by OKC Energy FC at Together Square, drew a massive and diverse crowd.
Boeing's high school internship program
Zach Tyler participated due to his involvement in a robotics program.
OKC Dodgers STEM Day
Robotics teams participated in a demonstration at the Bricktown Ballpark.
Oklahoma Cine Latino Film Festival
Celebrated its fifth year in historic Capitol Hill.
Financial Matters
Mental Health Initiative (MAPS 4 Capital)
Total capital request for a restoration center, two additional crisis centers, and single-site supportive housing.
Mental Health Initiative (Annual Operating Expenses)
Projected annual operating costs for the proposed mental health facilities.
Multi-purpose Stadium (MAPS 4 Capital - Option 1)
Lower-cost option for an 8,000-seat stadium with a nominal stage.
Multi-purpose Stadium (MAPS 4 Capital - Option 2)
Higher-cost option for a 10,000-seat stadium with shade structures, premium amenities, and a large stage for major concerts.
Innovation District (MAPS 4 Capital)
Total capital request for Innovation Hall, Henrietta B. Foster Center renovation, Booker T. Washington Park renovation, and connectivity projects.
Innovation Hall Construction
Estimated cost for the standalone Innovation Hall building.
Henrietta B. Foster Center Renovation
Estimated cost for renovating the center into a minority small business and entrepreneurship hub.
Booker T. Washington Park Improvements
Estimated cost for renovating the park with practice fields, courts, trails, and a food truck court.
Connectivity Projects (Innovation District)
Estimated cost for the 10th Street bridge expansion and other pedestrian/bicycle connectivity.
Innovation District Operations Fund (Endowment)
Requested endowment to support extensive operations and programming for Innovation Hall and the Foster Center.
Aquarium and Canal Extension (MAPS 4 Capital)
Estimated cost for a new aquarium and extending the Bricktown Canal.
Use Tax for Public Safety
Annual amount currently allocated from use tax for police and fire equipment, vehicles, and technology replacement.
MAPS 4 Annual Revenue Estimate
Rule of thumb for annual revenue from a one-cent temporary sales tax over a 7-8 year span.
Public Comments
Public comments were diverse and passionate, with strong support for mental health initiatives, emphasizing the human cost of untreated illness and the need for community-based solutions. The multi-purpose stadium proposal garnered significant support, particularly from the soccer community, youth sports advocates, and those seeing it as an economic driver and unifying force. However, some expressed skepticism about public funding for sports venues and emphasized prioritizing human needs and existing infrastructure. The innovation district received support for its potential to diversify the economy, create jobs, and connect with surrounding neighborhoods, though concerns were raised about ensuring equitable access and avoiding displacement. General themes included the need for state financial participation in city projects, accountability for outcomes, and addressing core community needs like drainage and food deserts.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- MAPS 4 election no later than December 10, 2019.
- Council meeting to call for election by September 24, 2019.
Watch For
- Future discussions on a bond election for drainage needs (beyond current GO bonds).
- Further conversations regarding funding for the county jail (outside of MAPS 4).
- Development of a formal MAPS 4 proposal for voter consideration.
Announcements
- The judiciary committee's new penalty reduction program for bench warrants has seen 183 cases resolved since August 1st.
- A portion of a highway in Ward 7 will be dedicated to the late Senator E. Melvin Porter.
- A grocery store in the northeast quadrant (73111 zip code) has closed, and a health task force (neokcfood.com) is working to provide transportation, food, and other services to affected residents.
Agenda Summary
3a: Mental Health
Presentation on a comprehensive mental health initiative for MAPS 4, including a restoration center, additional crisis centers, and transitional housing. Emphasized community-based treatment, jail diversion, and cost savings.
3b: Multi-purpose Stadium
Presentation on a multi-purpose outdoor stadium to host professional sports (soccer, rugby, lacrosse), high school championships, and concerts. Two options were presented with varying costs and capacities.
3c: Innovation District
Presentation on developing an innovation district to foster an ecosystem for new ideas, job creation, and economic diversification. Proposed Innovation Hall, a minority small business center, park renovation, and connectivity improvements.
3d: Other Projects by Council Members
Council members presented additional project ideas: an aquarium and canal extension, and a robotics program for youth.
3e: Overview of Format, Timing, Revenue Estimates, Sustainable Design, One Percent for Art
Discussion on the proposed format (one-cent temporary sales tax, single ballot), timing (December election), revenue estimates ($120M/year), sustainable design principles, and the city's one percent for art ordinance.
4: Citizens to be Heard
Public comments on various MAPS 4 proposals and general city issues.