Meeting Summary
The Stillwater City Council held a meeting where they adopted the conceptual plan for Block 34 and approved the creation of an implementation task force to move the project forward. They also approved the closure of a 20-foot utility easement on North Hightower Street. A public comment was made regarding concerns about a proposed rezoning for the Stillwater Medical Center.
Key Decisions & Votes
Closure of 20-foot utility easement on North Hightower Street
00:30:00The council approved the request to close a 20-foot utility easement at 1402 North Hightower Street, as there were no utilities present and the property owner was already constructing a house adjusted to accommodate the request.
Block 34 Conceptual Plan
00:48:00The council adopted the conceptual plan for Block 34, as prepared by Sparks and Associates, as a starting point for future development. This plan includes mixed-use amenities such as hospitality, retail, and green space.
Creation of Block 34 Implementation Task Force
00:58:00The council approved a resolution to create an ad-hoc task force to further develop the Block 34 conceptual plan. The task force will have latitude to make changes and recommendations, and will report back to the council.
Upcoming Community Events
Cool Classic Summer Concert Series
Held at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays, free to the public, funded by the Oklahoma Arts Council.
Chickasaw Boomer Blast
Postponed due to rain, but ultimately a success with many attendees.
Public Comments
Carla Granrose, a resident of 802 South Stanley Street, expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed rezoning by the Stillwater Medical Center for a parking lot. Her concerns included aging infrastructure, potential health hazards from demolition (lead paint, asbestos), drainage issues affecting her property, increased traffic from 18-wheelers, potential impact on water pressure, and the hospital's history as a neighbor.
Coming Up
Tabled
- Ordinance regarding grace from offered and RFS residential small district discussion (postponed to August 21st)
- Water item (postponed to August 21st)
Watch For
- Block 34 Implementation Task Force recommendations
- Discussion with Stillwater Medical Center regarding rezoning concerns
Announcements
- Russell Beatty presented two awards for the Western Road and Hall of Fame project: an American Concrete Pavement Association award and a national American Council of Engineering Consultants award, highlighting the teamwork between the city, ODOT, and OSU.
- The City Manager thanked staff, volunteers, and attendees for the successful Chickasaw Boomer Blast.
- The City Manager commended electric and water distribution teams for quickly restoring services after a significant power outage and a major water transmission line break.
- The water department is repairing and replacing nearly 50 manhole frames and lids in high-traffic areas, including 6th Avenue and Perkins Road, with the project expected to be complete by the end of the month.
Agenda Summary
Pledge of Allegiance
Led by Sonny Cooper.
Presentations
Russell Beatty presented awards for the Western Road and Hall of Fame project. A presentation for the Purple Heart award was not given as no one was present.
Consent Docket
Approved with the removal of item I.
Share Our Museum Quarterly Report (Item I removed from Consent Docket)
Councillor Zanotti praised the report, welcomed the new director, and highlighted the museum's activities and upcoming exhibits.
Public Comment on Agenda Items Not Scheduled for Public Hearing
Carla Granrose spoke about concerns regarding the Stillwater Medical Center's proposed rezoning.
Public Input regarding a request to close 20-foot utility easement on property address 1402 North Hightower Street (CCDS 17-106)
Staff recommended approval as there were no utilities in the easement.
Discussion and possible action regarding the proposed Block 34 conceptual plan
The council discussed and adopted the conceptual plan prepared by Sparks and Associates.
Consideration of the creation of an implementation task force for Block 34
A resolution was approved to create an ad-hoc task force with latitude to develop the conceptual plan.
Second reading of ordinance regarding grace from offered and RFS residential small district discussion
Postponed to August 21st to allow for conversation with the hospital regarding public concerns.
Reports from Officers
City Manager provided updates on the Chickasaw Boomer Blast, and commended electric and water department employees for their quick response to outages and breaks.