Meeting Summary
The city council discussed a proposed smoking ban in public parks and other areas, ultimately voting to postpone the final decision to December 22nd. The meeting also featured a detailed presentation on the "Downtown in December" events, outlining over 28 holiday activities and attractions available throughout the city.
Key Decisions & Votes
Proposed Smoking Ban
14:55The council voted to close the public hearing and move the final vote on the proposed smoking ban in public parks, the zoo, and other public spaces to the December 22nd meeting.
Upcoming Community Events
Devon Ice Rink
At Myriad Gardens
Saturdays with Santa
Inside the rotunda, with kids activities
SandRidge Santa Run
At Leadership Square, includes 5k, 1-mile fun run, and kids dash. Benefits the organizing body and the Oklahoma Messages Project.
Free Holiday Water Taxi Rides
Thousands of riders already this year
Sonic Segway Santa
Santa drives a Segway downtown, hands out books, candy, and Sonic coupons
Lights on Broadway
In Automobile Alley, different buildings lit each year
Snow Tubing Winter Festival
At the ballpark, new decorations, live music, Santa visits on Sunday
Winter Shops
At Myriad Gardens (blue chalets on the plaza by the crystal bridge), $1 carousel rides. Shuttle available every Saturday between Winter Shops, Snow Tubing Winter Festival, and River Sport Adventures.
River Sport Adventures
Activities moved to Lower Bricktown by the Land Run Monument, includes rock climbing wall and zip line for kids.
Glitter Ball
Fundraiser benefiting Dead Center, Sunbeam Family Services, and the Oklahoma City Girls Art School. Features live music.
Lyric's A Christmas Carol
In the Plaza District
Holiday Pop-Up Shops
In Midtown (domes)
Deluxe Winter Market
Inside Leadership Square
Myriad Gardens Programming
Includes events like the Gingerbread House Workshop (popular, some sold out).
The Nutcracker, Canterbury Christmas
Production theater events
Opening Night on New Year's Eve
At Bicentennial Park
Dog Day in December party
At Midtown months, raised money.
Financial Matters
SandRidge Santa Run Proceeds
A portion of the proceeds from the Santa Run will benefit the Oklahoma Messages Project.
Glitter Ball Fundraiser
This holiday party is a fundraiser benefiting Dead Center, Sunbeam Family Services, and the Oklahoma City Girls Art School.
Public Comments
Public comments and council discussion highlighted concerns regarding the proposed smoking ban. One speaker questioned the necessity of the ban, stating it was a "solution in search of a problem" and that outdoor second-hand smoke effects are overblown. A council member referenced two constituent complaints about smoking at the Del center and cigarette butts at a sprayground.
Coming Up
Tabled
- Final vote on proposed smoking ban (December 22nd)
Watch For
- Final vote on proposed smoking ban (December 22nd)
- Councilman Jeff's sermon next week
Announcements
- Appreciation expressed to Chief City and the police department for their cooperation with John Watson, sheriff's people, and Triad members in organizing the 'grandparents raising grandchildren' party at First Presbyterian Church.
- Thanks extended to the retired firefighters for inviting council members Pettis, White, and McAtee to their annual dinner.
- Thanks given to Chief City and Deputy Chief Gesture for their fantastic presentation at the Heritage Hills annual meeting.
- Congratulations offered to the Mayor for receiving a Golden Door Film Festival Award for his documentary from New Jersey.
Agenda Summary
Discussion and Vote on Proposed Smoking Ban
Consideration of an ordinance to prohibit smoking in public parks, the zoo, and other public spaces, excluding golf courses and city streets.
Downtown in December Presentation
A presentation by Jane Jenkins and Jill DeLozier detailing the numerous holiday events and activities planned for "Downtown in December," including the Devon Ice Rink, Santa runs, water taxi rides, and various festivals.