Meeting Summary
This city council meeting featured a candidates forum for Stillwater's City Council seat three, with candidates Slade Melius and John Wetteland. Key topics of discussion included infrastructure improvements, zoning, multimodal transportation, the future of the Boomer Lake power plant, and the city's recycling program. Both candidates emphasized the importance of citizen engagement and addressing community needs.
Financial Matters
General Obligation Bond
Discussion on the potential for a general obligation bond to fund infrastructure development, with a focus on ensuring voter approval after a previous bond failed.
Infrastructure Earmark
The council recently approved a $26 million earmark for infrastructure improvement projects, which are moving from design to construction phase.
Quarter-cent Sales Tax
Both candidates support the quarter-cent sales tax for county roads, shifting focus from jail construction to transportation infrastructure.
Million Dollar Grant Allocation
Discussion on how a hypothetical $1 million grant would be spent, with suggestions ranging from school safety improvements and sidewalks to investing in Block 34 for downtown revitalization.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- February 11th: Election Day for City Council
Watch For
- Construction phase of $26 million infrastructure projects
- Developments regarding the Boomer Lake power plant property
- Recommendations from the recycling task force
- Progress on the 6th Street widening project
Announcements
- Voters can vote early on Thursday and Friday at the Payne County Administration Building for local elections. Photo ID is required.
Agenda Summary
Candidate Opening Statements
Candidates Slade Melius and John Wetteland introduced themselves and their backgrounds.
Infrastructure Issues (Roads, Sewer, Water Lines, Sidewalks)
Discussion on the need for infrastructure improvements, particularly addressing flooding and dangerous sidewalks. The possibility of a general obligation bond was raised.
Zoning and Specific Use Permits
Discussion on streamlining the specific use permit process to make it more affordable and efficient for developers.
Quarter-Cent Sales Tax for County Roads
Candidates expressed support for the quarter-cent sales tax to fund county road improvements.
Citizen Engagement and Economic Development (Love Our Stillwater, Envision Stillwater)
Candidates discussed the importance of citizen-led initiatives for economic development and improving quality of life.
Recycling Program
Discussion on the challenges and importance of continuing the city's recycling program, including the role of the recycling task force.
Marijuana Dispensaries and State Preemption
Candidates discussed the proliferation of marijuana dispensaries and the limitations imposed by state preemption on local control.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety (Multimodal Transport, Sidewalks, Crosswalks)
Discussion on improving infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, including ADA compliant sidewalks, continuous networks, and painted crosswalks.
Boomer Lake Power Plant Property
Discussion on the future use of the Boomer Lake power plant property, with suggestions for an entertainment/restaurant venue.
Lighting Outside City Hall
A question was raised about improving lighting outside City Hall, with candidates prioritizing other safety and infrastructure needs.
City's Relationship with University, County, and School System
Discussion on the importance of open communication and collaboration between the city and other local entities, including the Stillwater Reinvestment Plan (TIF).
Widening 6th Street
Discussion on the state highway department's plans to widen 6th Street, acknowledging the necessity for traffic flow but expressing concerns about impact on businesses.
Candidate Closing Remarks
Candidates provided their final statements, reiterating their commitment to serving the city and listening to citizens.