Meeting Summary
The Stillwater City Council meeting on November 17, 2014, included a discussion and approval of a resolution to make public parks tobacco-free, rather than an ordinance, due to state preemption laws. The council also reviewed committee reports and discussed a proposed mini-roundabout at 10th and Main Street to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. Additionally, the council addressed reappointments to the Sister Cities board and a potential splash pad project.
Key Decisions & Votes
Tobacco-Free Public Parks Resolution
01:00:00The City Council approved Resolution CC 2014-14, making public parks tobacco-free. This was chosen over an ordinance due to state preemption laws, with the understanding that it serves as a strong policy statement and educational tool.
Repealing Stillwater Convention and Visitors Board Division
01:06:00Ordinance 3285, which repeals Division Three of the Stillwater city code related to the Stillwater Convention and Visitors Board, was approved on first reading. This change is in preparation for the new contract with Red Dirt DMO.
Employee Retirement System Defined Benefit Plan Amendment
01:07:00Ordinance 3284, amending the Employee Retirement System defined benefit plan for retirees to incorporate the definition of spouse, was approved on second reading with an emergency declaration.
Sister Cities Board Reappointments
01:12:00Six individuals (Becky Herby, Nelda H, Larry Jones, John Mills, Cindy P Tree, and Carolyn Coner) were reappointed to the Sister Cities board.
Sister Cities Board Vacancy Appointment
01:12:00Judy Nelson was nominated and approved to fill a vacant term on the Sister Cities board.
Financial Matters
10th and Main Mini-Roundabout
The estimated material cost for the skeleton improvements of the mini-roundabout at 10th and Main Street, to be constructed with City forces.
Splash Pad Project
The Stillwater Community Foundation offered $11,000 in donations for a splash pad project to the city. The City Manager intends to incorporate additional funds in the upcoming budget.
Public Comments
Several citizens spoke in favor of stricter tobacco regulations in public spaces, advocating for either a resolution or an ordinance. Themes included health concerns related to secondhand smoke, the desire for smoke-free public areas, and the importance of setting a positive example for children.
Coming Up
Tabled
- Public hearing postponed to December 1st
Deadlines
- Ordinance 3285 to go into effect on December 31st, with Red Dirt DMO agreement starting January 1st
Watch For
- Branding initiative report from Stillwater Economic Development Advisory Council (SEDAC) in Q1 2015
- Land Development Code Committee items rolling into Council in Q1 2015
- Construction start of 10th and Main mini-roundabout in January, with completion by spring
- Splash pad project recommendation in the spring budget
Announcements
- Councilor Nara to be interviewed on 780 AM at 8:15 AM on November 18th
- Mayor to be interviewed on Triple Play Radio from 7-8 AM on November 19th
Agenda Summary
Pledge of Allegiance
Greta Cornforth led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Consent Docket (Items A-F)
Approval of routine items on the consent docket.
Requests to Speak for Items Not Scheduled for Public Hearing
Several citizens spoke regarding proposed city rules against smoking tobacco in public, advocating for stricter measures.
Public Hearing Postponement
A request to postpone a scheduled public hearing.
General Orders - Committee Updates
Updates were provided by the Infrastructure Committee, Quality of Life Committee, Payne County Liaison, Stillwater Public Schools Liaison, and Stillwater Economic Development Advisory Council (SEDAC).
General Orders - Discussion of Possible Traffic Roundabout at 10th and Main Street
Dr. Peak presented a proposal for a mini-roundabout at 10th and Main Street to improve safety and traffic flow, with an estimated material cost of $65,000.
General Orders - Discussion of Proposed Ordinance or Resolution Regarding Tobacco Use
Mr. Dorman provided legal context on state preemption regarding tobacco regulations, and the council discussed options for a resolution versus an ordinance.
Proposal of Resolution CC 2014-14
A resolution to make public parks tobacco-free.
Ordinance 3285 (First Reading)
An ordinance amending the Stillwater city code by repealing Division Three of the Stillwater Convention and Visitors Board.
Ordinance 3286 (First Reading)
An ordinance related to tobacco use, which the council chose not to take up.
Ordinance 3284 (Second Reading)
An ordinance amending the Employee Retirement System defined benefit plan for retirees to incorporate the definition of spouse.
Miscellaneous Items - Splash Pad Discussion
City Manager mentioned a $11,000 donation from the Stillwater Community Foundation for a splash pad and his intent to include funds in the upcoming budget.
Appointments - Sister Cities Board Reappointments
Reappointment of six members to the Sister Cities board.
Appointments - Sister Cities Board Vacancy
Appointment of Judy Nelson to fill a vacancy on the Sister Cities board.