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City Council Meeting

May 30, 2017 City Council Meeting

May 30, 2017 Oklahoma City, OK
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Meeting Summary

TL;DR

The City Council meeting covered a wide range of topics, including proclamations for community events, approval of various permits, and significant discussions regarding the upcoming Geo Bond program and sales tax extensions. Key decisions included the approval of the MAPS 3 Park contract and the introduction of the Geo Bond and sales tax extension proposals, which will undergo further public hearings. A notable debate also occurred regarding a request for stop signs in a neighborhood, highlighting procedural issues and the need for broader traffic calming solutions.

Key Decisions & Votes

MAPS 3 Park Contract Award

00:46:00

The contract for the MAPS 3 Park, including the base bid and several alternates, was awarded to Downey Contracting for a total of $57.5 million, with an additional $5.7 million to be drawn from the contingency account. This includes a significant fountain and pavilion.

Approved

Revocable Permit for Juneteenth Festival

00:16:00

A permit was approved for Perry Publishing and Broadcasting to hold the Juneteenth Festival on June 17th in Washington Park.

Approved

Revocable Permit for Equality Run

00:17:00

Freedom Oklahoma received approval to host the Equality Run on June 17th in downtown Oklahoma City, expecting 500 participants.

Approved

Revocable Permit for Creek Run

00:18:00

The Quail Creek Homeowners Association was granted a permit to hold the Creek Run this weekend.

Approved

Revocable Permit for Red Earth Parade

00:19:00

A permit was approved for the Red Earth Parade to take place on June 9th in downtown Oklahoma City.

Approved

Zoning Case for Outback Steakhouse

00:49:00

A zoning case for a new Outback Steakhouse at 2402 West Memorial Road in Ward 8 was unanimously approved.

Approved

Zoning Case for Asian Restaurant

00:50:00

A zoning case for an Asian restaurant at the corner of Southwest 89th and South Penn Avenue in Ward 5 was approved.

Approved

Zoning Case for Organic Pizza Place

00:51:00

A zoning case for an organic pizza place at 2124 North Broadway in Ward 6 was approved.

Approved

Zoning Case for Mixed-Use Development

00:52:00

A large mixed-use development project on 200+ acres at 1520 South Mustang Road in Ward 3, near the turnpike extension, was approved after working with the Turnpike Authority and neighbors.

Approved

Zoning Case Deferral

00:56:00

A zoning case at 8937 South May Avenue in Ward 5 was deferred for two weeks to allow the councilman to speak with the applicant regarding property maintenance and appearance of trucks.

Deferred

Zoning Case in Ward 7

00:57:00

A zoning case at 283 Southeast 44th Street in Ward 7, changing from O2 general office and R1 single family residential to a new SPUD, was approved.

Approved

Zoning Case in Ward 4

00:58:00

A zoning case at 7500 South Anderson Road in Ward 4, changing from RC rural commercial and AE2 airport environment to a new SPUD, was approved.

Approved

Closure of South Midwest Boulevard

00:58:00

The item to close a section of South Midwest Boulevard was deferred for two weeks to June 13th.

Deferred

Parking Regulations on North Walker

00:59:00

New parking regulations, including metered spaces, were approved for the west side of North Walker in Ward 6 to increase turnover for retail.

Approved

Parking Regulations on South Hudson Avenue

01:00:00

Regulations for 2-hour parking meters were approved for the South Hudson Avenue side of the downtown park in Ward 6.

Approved

Parking Regulations on South Robinson

01:00:00

Regulations for 2-hour parking meters were approved for the west side of South Robinson from Southwest 3rd to Southwest 7th Street in Ward 6.

Approved

Fire Department Capital Needs Resolution

01:01:00

A resolution governing the fire department's capital needs and the 3/4 cent sales tax, including 208 positions and a $44.4 million budget, was approved.

Approved

Police Department Capital Needs Resolution

01:02:00

A resolution governing the police department's capital needs and the 3/4 cent sales tax, including 250 positions and a $44.1 million budget, was approved.

Approved

Geo Bond Program Introduction

01:02:00

A resolution introducing the propositions and projects for the Geo Bonds and establishing a public hearing for June 13th was approved.

Approved

Strategic Investment Plan for Geo Bonds

01:29:00

A resolution approving the Strategic Investment Plan, including a $10 million allocation for affordable housing, within the Geo Bond program was approved 5-2.

Approved

3/4 Cent Sales Tax Introduction

01:34:00

A resolution to introduce and set a public hearing for June 13th on the 3/4 cent sales tax, with a sunset of April 1st, 2020, was approved.

Approved

Special Election Call for 3/4 Cent Sales Tax

01:35:00

A resolution to set a public hearing for June 13th and push forward the idea of calling a special election on September 12th for the 3/4 cent sales tax was approved.

Approved

Proclamation for 3/4 Cent Sales Tax Election

01:36:00

A resolution for the proclamation calling a public hearing on June 13th and a final hearing on June 20th, with the expectation of a special election on September 12th for the 3/4 cent sales tax, was approved.

Approved

Notification of 3/4 Cent Sales Tax Election

01:36:00

A resolution notifying state agencies of the intent to call an election for the 3/4 cent sales tax was approved.

Approved

Spending Plan for 3/4 Cent Sales Tax

01:37:00

A resolution outlining how the money from the 3/4 cent sales tax would be spent, with a public hearing on June 13th and final hearing on June 20th, was approved.

Approved

1/4 Cent Sales Tax Introduction

01:38:00

A resolution to introduce and set a public hearing for June 13th on the 1/4 cent sales tax for general fund operations was approved.

Approved

Special Election Call for 1/4 Cent Sales Tax

01:38:00

A resolution to authorize a special election proclamation for the 1/4 cent sales tax was approved.

Approved

Proclamation for 1/4 Cent Sales Tax Election

01:39:00

A resolution for the proclamation calling a public hearing on June 13th and a final hearing on June 20th, with the expectation of a special election on September 12th for the 1/4 cent sales tax, was approved.

Approved

Notification of 1/4 Cent Sales Tax Election

01:40:00

A resolution notifying state agencies of the intent to call an election for the 1/4 cent sales tax was approved.

Approved

Spending Plan for 1/4 Cent Sales Tax

01:40:00

A resolution explaining how the money from the 1/4 cent sales tax would be spent, going into the general fund, was approved.

Approved

Zoo Friends Membership Policy Changes

01:59:00

Changes to the Zoo Friends membership policy, including price adjustments, were approved.

Approved

Zoo Fee Adjustments

01:59:00

Adjustments to the zoo's admission fees were approved.

Approved

Resolution Approval

02:00:00

A resolution was approved without further discussion.

Approved

Claim for Sprinkler System Damage

02:10:00

A claim for $985 for damage to a sprinkler system by city employees was approved for 50% payment, with the claimant signing a waiver.

Approved (50% payment)

Claims Recommended for Denial

02:10:00

All other claims recommended for denial were approved for denial.

Approved

Claims Recommended for Approval

02:11:00

All claims recommended for approval were approved.

Approved

Rescind Previous Motion on Outdoor Activities

02:14:00

A previous motion limiting outdoor activities and concerts to three per year and ending by 11 PM was rescinded by a vote of 6-1, with the understanding that noise ordinances would be enforced.

Rescinded

Upcoming Community Events

June 2nd and 3rd

Charlie Christian International Music Festival

Jam session on June 2nd at Artspace at Untitled Gallery North (1 Northeast Third Street) and final salute on June 3rd at MBCC Suite 741 North Phillips. Celebrates Charlie Christian's 100th birthday.

June 5th through 9th

Historic Preservation Week

Commemorates the 50th anniversary of the National Historic Preservation Act. The 29th annual Statewide Preservation Conference will be held from June 7th through 9th, primarily at the Civic Center Music Hall.

June 17th

Juneteenth Festival

To be held in Washington Park from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

June 17th

Equality Run

Fifth annual run in downtown Oklahoma City, with proceeds benefiting LGBTQ Youth and HIV/AIDS. Expecting 500 participants. More information at FreedomOklahoma.org.

This weekend

Creek Run

Hosted by the Quail Creek Homeowners Association.

June 9th

Red Earth Parade

To be held in downtown Oklahoma City, featuring costumes, dancing, and food.

Financial Matters

MAPS 3 Park Contract

Awarded to Downey Contracting for the base bid and alternates, with an additional $5,755,461.50 from the contingency account.

$57,500,000

One Oak Pipeline Tree Mitigation

Donation from One Oak for tree loss and park improvements due to natural gas pipeline construction through Route 66 Park.

$54,000

Emergency Solutions Grant

Extension of time for a grant application, allowing leftover funds from last year to be expanded for homeless services.

Fire Sales Tax Fund Budget (FY17)

Proposed budget for the 3/4 cent sales tax fund for fire department needs, including 208 positions and various projects.

$44,400,000

Police Sales Tax Fund Budget (FY17)

Proposed budget for the 3/4 cent sales tax fund for police department needs, including 250 positions and various projects.

$44,100,000

Geo Bond Program (16 Mills, 10 Years)

Proposed bond issue for 336 projects across various categories, not increasing the current tax rate.

$967,400,000

3/4 Cent Sales Tax (27 Months)

Temporary sales tax extension to fund street resurfacing, streetscapes, sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails.

$180,000,000

1/4 Cent Sales Tax (Permanent)

Permanent sales tax extension to support general fund operations, including police, fire, and other city services.

$26,000,000 (annually initially)

Economic and Community Development (Geo Bond)

Allocation within the Geo Bond program for job creation incentives and affordable housing.

$60,000,000

Affordable Housing (Geo Bond)

Allocation from the Economic and Community Development Geo Bond proposition for affordable housing programs.

$10,000,000

Zoo Membership and Admission Fees

Proposed increases to zoo admission prices and membership fees to meet higher animal care standards, maintain facilities, and enhance guest experiences.

Sales and Use Tax Report (May)

Sales tax was up by approximately $500,000 (2.6%) over last year, and use tax was up by approximately $1.5 million, partly due to Amazon collecting sales tax.

Public Comments

5 citizens spoke

Public comments included concerns about the allocation of Geo Bond funds, particularly regarding parks, golf clubhouses, and economic development incentives for large corporations, with a call for more focus on community needs and small businesses. There was also a complaint about city employees damaging a sprinkler system during water line repairs and a complaint about police involvement in a vehicle purchase dispute. One citizen praised the mayor and city departments for their work.

Geo Bond allocation and priorities Economic development incentives for large corporations vs. small businesses Affordable housing Zoo pricing and accessibility City employee conduct and property damage Police department actions Public safety and city services

Coming Up

Tabled

  • Zoning case at 8937 South May Avenue (deferred to June 13th)
  • Closure of South Midwest Boulevard (deferred to June 13th)

Deadlines

  • June 6th: Final budget workshop
  • June 13th: Public hearing for Geo Bond program and sales tax extensions
  • June 20th: Final hearing and hopeful adoption of Geo Bond and sales tax election calls
  • September 12th: Special election for Geo Bond and sales tax extensions

Watch For

  • Further discussions and public input on the Geo Bond program and sales tax extensions
  • Development of policies for the affordable housing component of the Geo Bonds
  • Potential for new traffic calming solutions in neighborhoods beyond stop signs
  • Clarification on Amazon's sales tax collection and its impact on city revenue

Announcements

  • Pastor DL Crawford and Avery Chapel AME Church recognized for after-school programs in Northeast Oklahoma City.
  • Morris McRaven's Trio performed early for council members, celebrating Charlie Christian's Music Festival week.
  • Proclamation for Charlie Christian International Music Festival Days on June 2nd and 3rd.
  • Proclamation for Historic Preservation Week from June 5th through 9th, including the 29th annual Statewide Preservation Conference.
  • New ownership of outlet malls along I-40, with excitement for potential growth.
  • Homeless Alliance recognized for their work with the Emergency Solutions Grant.
  • National Register nominations for Uptown Theater and Uptown Medical Building (122 North Hudson) and Langston Medical Group Clinic (1214 North Hudson).
  • Discussion on LED light expansion in the city, with OG&E working on tariff establishment.
  • City Manager's report on May sales and use tax, showing positive trends and Amazon's contribution to use tax revenue.

Agenda Summary

Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance

Led by Pastor DL Crawford and Councilman Griner.

Information Only

Proclamation: Charlie Christian International Music Festival Days

Proclaiming June 2nd and 3rd as Charlie Christian International Music Festival Days.

Information Only

Proclamation: Historic Preservation Week

Proclaiming June 5th through 9th as Historic Preservation Week.

Information Only

Item 3: Appointments

Motion on appointments to various boards and commissions.

Approved

Item 4a: Receive Journal for May 9th, 16th, and 23rd

Receiving the journal of council proceedings for specified dates.

Approved

Item 4b: Approve Journal for May 2nd

Approving the journal of council proceedings for May 2nd.

Approved

Item 5: Request for Uncontested Continuances

No requests for uncontested continuances.

No Action

Item 6a: Revocable Permit - Juneteenth Festival

Request from Perry Publishing and Broadcasting to hold the Juneteenth Festival on June 17th in Washington Park.

Approved

Item 6b: Revocable Permit - Equality Run

Request from Freedom Oklahoma to hold the Equality Run on June 17th in downtown Oklahoma City.

Approved

Item 6c: Revocable Permit - Creek Run

Request from Quail Creek Homeowners Association to hold the Creek Run.

Approved

Item 6d: Revocable Permit - Red Earth Parade

Request for the Red Earth Parade on June 9th in downtown Oklahoma City.

Approved

Oklahoma City Municipal Facilities Authority (OCMFA)

Recess council meeting to convene as OCMFA for three items.

Approved

Oklahoma City Public Property Authority (OCPPA)

Adjourn OCMFA and convene as OCPPA for six items, including preliminary engineering report for Civic Center sound system upgrades.

Approved

Oklahoma City Environmental Assistance Trust (OCEAT)

Convene as OCEAT for two items.

Approved

Concurrence Docket

Discussion and vote on items on the concurrence docket, including a study on swimming in reservoirs and a wastewater agreement with Moore.

Approved

Presentation: MAPS 3 Park Contract Award

Presentation on the MAPS 3 Park contract award to Downey Contracting.

Information Only

Item 9a1: Zoning Case - Outback Steakhouse

ABC issue in Ward 8 for a new Outback Steakhouse at 2402 West Memorial Road.

Approved

Item 9a2: Zoning Case - Asian Restaurant

ABC issue in Ward 5 for an Asian restaurant on Southwest 89th Street.

Approved

Item 9a3: Zoning Case - Organic Pizza Place

ABC issue in Ward 6 for an organic pizza place at 2124 North Broadway.

Approved

Item 9a4: Zoning Case - Mixed-Use Development

Zoning case at 1520 South Mustang Road in Ward 3 for a large mixed-use development.

Approved

Item 9a5: Zoning Case Deferral

Zoning case at 8937 South May Avenue in Ward 5, deferred for two weeks.

Deferred

Item 9a6: Zoning Case - Ward 7

Zoning case at 283 Southeast 44th Street in Ward 7, changing to a new SPUD.

Approved

Item 9a7: Zoning Case - Ward 4

Zoning case at 7500 South Anderson Road in Ward 4, changing to a new SPUD.

Approved

Item 9b: Closure of South Midwest Boulevard

Item deferred from earlier, regarding the closure of a section of South Midwest Boulevard.

Deferred

Item 9c1: Parking Regulations - North Walker

Establishes parking regulations on the west side of North Walker in Ward 6.

Approved

Item 9c2: Parking Regulations - South Hudson Avenue

Establishes parking regulations on South Hudson Avenue in Ward 6.

Approved

Item 9c3: Parking Regulations - South Robinson

Establishes parking regulations on South Robinson in Ward 6.

Approved

Item 9d: Public Hearing - Dilapidated Structures

Public hearing regarding various dilapidated structures.

Approved

Item 9e: Public Hearing - Unsecured Structures

Public hearing regarding various unsecured structures.

Approved

Item 9f: Public Hearing - Abandoned Buildings

Public hearing regarding various abandoned buildings.

Approved

Item 9g: Public Hearing - Removal from Abandoned Buildings List

Public hearing regarding removal of properties from the abandoned buildings list.

Approved

Item 9h: Public Hearing - Fire Department Capital Needs

Annual public hearing on the fire department's capital needs and 3/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9i: Public Hearing - Police Department Capital Needs

Annual public hearing on the police department's capital needs and 3/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9j: Introduction of Geo Bond Program

Introduction of propositions and projects for the Geo Bond program and setting a public hearing.

Approved

Item 9k: Strategic Investment Plan for Geo Bonds

Presentation and approval of the Strategic Investment Plan, including affordable housing, for the Geo Bond program.

Approved

Item 9l: Ordinance for 3/4 Cent Sales Tax

Introduction and setting of public hearing for an ordinance establishing the 3/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9m: Resolution to Authorize Special Election Proclamation (3/4 Cent)

Resolution to authorize a special election proclamation for the 3/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9n: Special Election Proclamation (3/4 Cent)

Special election proclamation for the 3/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9o: Resolution to Notify Election Board (3/4 Cent)

Resolution to notify the election board of the special election for the 3/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9p: Resolution of Intent (3/4 Cent)

Resolution outlining the council's intent for the use of the 3/4 cent sales tax funds.

Approved

Item 9q: Ordinance for 1/4 Cent Sales Tax

Introduction and setting of public hearing for an ordinance establishing the 1/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9r: Resolution to Authorize Special Election Proclamation (1/4 Cent)

Resolution to authorize a special election proclamation for the 1/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9s: Special Election Proclamation (1/4 Cent)

Special election proclamation for the 1/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9t: Resolution to Notify Election Board (1/4 Cent)

Resolution to notify the election board of the special election for the 1/4 cent sales tax.

Approved

Item 9u: Resolution of Intent (1/4 Cent)

Resolution outlining the council's intent for the use of the 1/4 cent sales tax funds.

Approved

Item 9v: Appeal of Traffic Commission Decision (Stop Signs)

Discussion and vote on whether to hear an appeal regarding the installation of 19 stop signs in a neighborhood.

No Action (4-4 tie on motion to deny appeal)

Item 9w: Zoo Friends Membership Policy Changes

Approval of changes to the Zoo Friends membership policy.

Approved

Item 9x: Zoo Fee Adjustments

Approval of adjustments to zoo admission fees.

Approved

Item 9y: Resolution Approval

Approval of a resolution without Executive Session.

Approved

Item 9z: Claims Recommended for Denial

Discussion and vote on claims recommended for denial, including one for sprinkler system damage.

Approved (one claim partially paid, others denied)

Item 10: Claims Recommended for Approval

Vote on claims recommended for approval.

Approved

Item 11a: Rescind Previous Motion on Outdoor Activities

Motion to rescind a previous council motion regarding limitations on outdoor concerts and activities.

Rescinded

City Manager Reports

Report on May sales and use tax revenue.

Information Only

Citizens to Be Heard

Public comments from citizens on various topics.

Information Only