Meeting Summary
The City Council approved a resolution supporting the Oklahoma City School Compact to foster community ownership and improve education, and designated Crystal Lake as a city park for public safety and future development. They also denied a citizen's claim for flood damage, citing legal restrictions and lack of confirmed city fault. The Animal Welfare Department reported significant progress in 2015, including a 70% live release rate.
Key Decisions & Votes
Oklahoma City School Compact
28:50A resolution to support a new framework for education support, involving collaboration between the school district, foundation, United Way, Chamber, and City to direct resources and expertise, initially focusing on literacy.
Crystal Lake Designation
30:20A resolution to designate Crystal Lake as a city park, enhancing youth protection and allowing for future inclusion in Geo Bonds, without altering City Care's operational contract.
Flood Damage Claim Denial
39:50A claim by Thomas Webb for property damage due to alleged city-caused drainage issues was denied based on state law limitations, the one-year tort claims act, and lack of confirmed city fault.
Upcoming Community Events
Puppy Adoption
2811 Southeast 29th Street (Animal Shelter), Oscar and Angel (and other animals) available for adoption.
Oklahoma Bicycle Club Bulletin Board Installation
Lake Hefner (Stars and Stripes entryway), a bulletin board advising runners and bicyclists on maps, events, safety, trail etiquette, and health advice.
Financial Matters
2007 Bond Refinancing
Resolution to establish a financing plan to refinance bonds from the 2007 issue.
Claims Recommended for Denial (Item 9J)
A claim for flood damage by Thomas Webb, alleging city-caused drainage issues, was denied.
Public Comments
Joe Sge Nelson advocated for investing in the city's bus and trolley system over a costly rail system, emphasizing its accessibility, flexibility, and benefit to the community. He also criticized local media for biased reporting.
Coming Up
Tabled
- Appointment of Andy Coach to the Golf Commission (Item 3B)
- Executive Session Item 9H
- Executive Session Item 9I
Watch For
- Future discussions on OG&E's vacant land downtown
- Future Geo Bond for Crystal Lake Park
Announcements
- Pastor Eddie Brewer and his wife Claudia were welcomed to Oklahoma City.
- The Tower Theater lights turned on Friday evening, marking progress on 23rd Street.
- Thoughts and prayers were extended to the community of Do (Dover) after their high school was lost in a fire.
- The new health clinic for city employees has opened downtown, offering prompt and professional service.
- The Animal Welfare Department's 2015 Annual Report highlighted a 70% live release rate, a 35% decrease in disease, a 99% increase in online donations, and the establishment of the 'Patrons for Oklahoma City Animal Shelter' organization.
Agenda Summary
Item 3B
Appointment of Andy Coach to the Golf Commission.
Item 4A
Receive the Journal of Council Proceedings for January 5th.
Item 4B
Approve the Journal of Council Proceedings for December 22nd.
Item 5
Request for uncontested continuances for numerous items under 9b1, 9c1, and 9d1, which were stricken due to re-notification, owner removal, new owner, or owner securing property.
Oklahoma City Municipal Facilities Authority (OC MFA)
Review of claims and payroll for the OC MFA.
Oklahoma City Public Property Authority (OC PPA)
Review of claims and payroll for the OC PPA.
Oklahoma City Environmental Assistance Trust (OC EAT)
Review of claims and payroll for the OC EAT.
Consent Docket
Various items grouped for a single vote, including a resolution for refinancing 2007 bonds to save $3.3 million and an announcement about a bulletin board at Lake Hefner.
Concurrence Docket
Various items grouped for a single vote.
Item 9A
Final hearing on an item introduced by Mark Cranenburg of the airport.
Item 9B
Public hearing regarding dilapidated structures.
Item 9C
Public hearing regarding unsecured structures.
Item 9D
Public hearing regarding abandoned buildings.
Item 9E
Public hearing regarding removal of property from the abandoned building list.
Item 9F
Resolution to declare support for the Oklahoma City School Compact.
Item 9G
Resolution to designate Crystal Lake as a city park.
Item 9H
Item requiring Executive Session.
Item 9I
Item requiring Executive Session.
Item 9J
Claims recommended for denial, including a claim from Thomas Webb regarding flood damage.