Meeting Summary
The City Council meeting began with a special recognition of Charles Fowler for his significant contributions to Stillwater. The majority of the meeting was then dedicated to public comments and a presentation on the 'Complete Streets' policy, which generated considerable discussion regarding its implementation and potential impacts on existing infrastructure and transportation services, particularly for OSU buses. The Council decided to hold a study session to further discuss the 'Complete Streets' policy and address concerns raised.
Key Decisions & Votes
City Manager Search Subcommittee
01:00:00A motion was passed to appoint the Mayor and Vice Mayor to serve as the subcommittee for the search committee for the new city manager.
Tax Increment Financing District Report
01:02:00The City Attorney was authorized to distribute the TIF district report to taxing entities and publish it in the News Press, in accordance with state statutes.
Upcoming Community Events
Unmanned Aerial Systems Open Innovation Forum
Held at OSU, inviting companies, manufacturers, researchers, and industry experts to discuss drones.
9th Annual Downtown Stillwater Car and Bike Show
Classic, modified, and new cars, trucks, and motorcycles are invited to participate.
Financial Matters
ODOT Financial Commitment to Stillwater Projects
An estimated financial commitment from ODOT for various transportation projects in Stillwater over an eight-year construction work plan.
Tennis Complex Project Budget
The Council budgeted $400,000 last year for a joint effort with the Stillwater Tennis Association to build a tennis complex at Couch Park.
Public Comments
Public comments focused on the importance of 'Complete Streets' for a sustainable and healthy community, updates on ODOT's eight-year construction work plan for transportation projects, and concerns from OSU's Parking and Transportation Director and the Secretary of Transportation regarding the narrowness of lanes on Lakeview Road and its impact on bus operations and safety for all users.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- October 26th: Study session to discuss 'Complete Streets' policy further.
- November 5th: Dr. Jason Peak to speak at Oak Creek Community.
- Last week of October: Dr. Jason Peak to conduct a traveling presentation.
Watch For
- Further discussion and potential vote on the 'Complete Streets' policy.
- Updates on the texting ordinance within the city.
- More information on ODOT's future projects in Stillwater.
Announcements
- Charles Fowler Day proclaimed on September 28, 2015, recognizing his contributions to Stillwater.
- Stillwater Fire Department staff dyed their hair pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
- Dr. Jason Peak will speak at the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce on Thursday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. about the Transportation tax.
- Dr. Jason Peak will be at the League of Women Voters on Thursday, October 29th.
Agenda Summary
Pledge of Allegiance
Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Proclamation of Charles Fowler Day
Proclamation recognizing Charles Fowler for his career as a grocer, community contributions, and induction into the Chamber Hall of Fame.
Public Comment on Agenda Items Not Scheduled for Public Hearing
Public comments from Trevor J. Stewart on 'Complete Streets', Brian Taylor on ODOT's eight-year construction work plan, Steve Spradling on OSU's transportation system and concerns with narrow lanes, and Gary Ridley on 'Complete Streets' and lane width considerations.
Establish a Council Subcommittee to Conduct a Search for the New City Manager
Motion to appoint the Mayor and Vice Mayor to serve on the subcommittee for the city manager search.
Tax Increment Financing District Report from City Attorney
Presentation of the TIF district report, noting minimal activity due to the recent opening of Academy store.
Complete Streets Presentation by Transportation Director Dr. Jason Peak
Presentation on the 'Complete Streets' policy, its purpose, development process, and seeking direction from the Council on how to proceed.
Reports from Officers and Boards
Brief reports from Mr. Dorman and Mr. Blankenship.
Miscellaneous from the Counselors
Discussions on the texting ordinance, upcoming events, and updates on the tennis project and Stillwater Fire Department's breast cancer awareness efforts.