Meeting Summary
The City Commission approved the consent agenda, accepted a commissioner's resignation, and approved the VSI contract. They also approved the 2015-16 insurance policies and the city paying additional premiums for non-union employees. A motion to rescind the appointment process for the Ward One vacancy was defeated, meaning the appointment process will proceed. The proposed 2015-16 budget was presented for information and future discussion.
Key Decisions & Votes
Accept resignation of Ward One Commissioner Gary Bogel
The commission formally accepted the resignation of Commissioner Gary Bogel from Ward One.
Rescind the termination to set a process for appointment by the commission of an individual to fill the vacancy on Ward one
A motion to rescind the appointment process for the Ward One vacancy was defeated, meaning the commission will proceed with appointing an individual rather than calling for an election.
Visit Shawnee Incorporated (VSI) contract
The contract with Visit Shawnee Incorporated for tourism promotion was approved after extensive negotiation between both parties.
Award 2015-16 insurance policies to Blue Cross Blue Shield, Delta Dental, and VSP Vision
The commission approved the renewal of health, dental, and vision insurance policies with the current carriers based on the insurance work group's recommendation.
City paying additional Insurance increased premiums for non-union employees
The city agreed to absorb the increased health insurance premiums for non-union employees to mitigate the financial impact on staff, particularly those with family plans.
Shawnee Airport Authority: Consider requests for proposals for hay cutting and bailing services
The Airport Authority approved a bid for hay cutting and bailing services for 85 acres at the airport for $100, ensuring the land is maintained.
Upcoming Community Events
Youth Aviation Day
Held at the airport, provided lunches and breakfast by Gordon Cooper.
Sister Cities 25th Anniversary
Commissioner Doer will represent the city in Nikaho, Japan.
Financial Matters
Oklahoma Municipal Retirement Fund lump sum payment
Approved a lump sum payment from the defined benefit plan and refund of contributions from the defined contribution plan for Charles Huff.
Proposed Budget for 15-16
Preliminary budget for the general fund and operations was presented. Revenues are conservatively estimated with slight increases from sales tax and Hunt property. Expenses include funding for police officers (COPS grant ending), increased SMA contribution, and a new GIS position. No COLA recommended for non-union employees, but longevity/education incentives are doubled.
Sales Tax Report (April)
April sales tax was up $5,000, while state sales tax was down $8 million. Use tax saw a significant increase of $200,000 from a gas company.
Shawnee Water Park concession stand bids
No bids were received for the operation of the water park concession stand. Staff will explore options, including non-profits or city operation.
Public Comments
A citizen interrupted during commissioner comments to express concern about a city limits sign on 177 and MacArthur, claiming it was improperly placed and contributed to a death. She requested the sign be moved.
Coming Up
Tabled
- Consider bids operations of Shawnee Water Park concession stand (postponed to next meeting)
Watch For
- City Manager search process (candidate binder week of May 18th, interviews to follow)
- Union negotiations (starting next week)
- Capital and streets budget discussions (May)
Announcements
- Mayor's Proclamation of May 1, 2015, as Loyalty Day.
- Mayor's Proclamation of May 2015 as Better Hearing Month.
- Commissioner Doer complimented the improved cleanliness of the city, especially at intersections, following a trash pickup event.
- Commissioner Ag addressed and denied rumors about running for mayor and voting on tribal issues for political gain.
Agenda Summary
Consent Agenda
Approval of routine administrative items.
Citizens participation
Opportunity for citizens to address the commission.
Mayor's Proclamation - Loyalty Day
Proclamation declaring May 1, 2015, as Loyalty Day.
Mayor's Proclamation - Better Hearing Month
Proclamation declaring May 2015 as Better Hearing Month.
Consider Oklahoma Municipal Retirement Fund lump sum payment from defined benefit plan and refund of contributions from the Divine contribution plan for Charles Huff
Approval of a standard retirement fund transaction.
Discussion consideration and possible action to accept the resignation of Ward one commissioner Gary Bogel
Formal acceptance of a commissioner's resignation.
Discussion consideration and possible action to resend the termination to set a process for appointment by the commission of an individual to fill the vacancy on Ward one
Discussion and vote on whether to reverse the decision to appoint a new commissioner, potentially leading to an election.
Discussion consideration and possible action of Visit Shawnee Incorporated vsi contract discussion
Discussion and approval of a contract with Visit Shawnee Incorporated.
Presentation of proposed budget for 15-16
Initial presentation and discussion of the preliminary budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
Consider approval of insurance work group recommendation to award the 20156 insurance policies to Blue Cross Blue Shield Delta dent and vssp vision
Approval of health, dental, and vision insurance policies for city employees.
Consider City paying additional Insurance increased premiums for non-union employees
Decision on whether the city will absorb the increase in health insurance premiums for non-union staff.
Sales Tax Report
Presentation of the monthly sales tax collection figures.
Consider bids operations of Shaunie water park concession stand
Review of bids for operating the water park concession stand.
Shawnee Airport Authority: Consider approval of the consent agenda
Approval of routine administrative items for the Airport Authority.
Shawnee Airport Authority: Consider requests for proposals for hay cutting and bailing Services
Review and approval of bids for hay cutting and bailing at the airport.
Shawnee Municipal Authority: Consider approval of the consent agenda
Approval of routine administrative items for the Municipal Authority.