Meeting Summary
The city council approved the closure of a section of Fifth Avenue between Walnut and Pine Street, with several conditions, to allow a sorority to expand its facilities. The decision was made after a public hearing where residents expressed concerns about parking and access, and the sorority highlighted its need for more space. Additionally, the Stillwater Utility Authority approved a bid for new engine generator units for the power generation station, selecting a more efficient, albeit initially more expensive, option due to long-term cost savings and higher capacity payments.
Key Decisions & Votes
Closure of Fifth Avenue
00:54:00The city council approved the closure of Fifth Avenue between Walnut and Pine Street to facilitate the expansion of a sorority, with five conditions including the provision of easements for utilities and private access, and the construction of an alley with a 10-foot setback from adjacent structures.
Engine Generator Unit Bid
01:21:00The Stillwater Utility Authority approved the bid from Wartsila North America for three 8.76 megawatt engine generator units for the new power generation station. This decision was based on a Net Present Value analysis showing the units to be the lowest cost to own over the long term due to higher efficiency and capacity payments, despite a higher initial base bid.
Financial Matters
Quarterly Financial Reports
The accounting supervisor presented the fourth-quarter financial reports, noting that revenues exceeded budgeted estimates and expenditures were held within budget targets. The general fund revenues were 97% of the original budget, and overall city expenditures were 89% of the estimate. Sales tax revenues were higher than anticipated, leading to increased transfers to the Utility Authority and half-cent sales tax fund.
Engine Generator Units Purchase
The estimated cost for the purchase of the engine generator units is approximately $32.95 million, which is about $1 million less than the initial project estimate of $70 million for the entire power generation station.
Public Comments
Public comments primarily focused on the proposed closure of Fifth Avenue. Supporters of the closure, mainly representatives of the sorority, emphasized the need for expansion to accommodate more members and provide adequate parking. Opponents, primarily adjacent property owners, raised concerns about the impact on property values, parking availability, and the design and functionality of the proposed alleyway, particularly regarding its width, material, and proximity to existing homes.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- Stillwater Utilities Authority final reports available end of October
- City reports available end of December
Watch For
- Future discussions on the design and construction of the alleyway for Fifth Avenue closure
- Negotiations of terms and conditions for the engine generator unit purchase agreement
Announcements
- City Council standing committee reports will have updates in the next quarter.
- Liaison with Payne County has attended meetings to maintain relationships and stay informed on county matters.
Agenda Summary
Consent Docket - Approval of Minutes
Approval of the minutes from the meeting on August 4th.
Public Hearing - Closing of Right-of-Way of Fifth Avenue
Public hearing and discussion regarding the request to close a portion of Fifth Avenue between Walnut and Pine Street.
City Council Standing Committee Reports
Verbal and written reports from various city council standing committees.
Quarterly Financial Reports
Presentation and discussion of the city's fourth-quarter financial reports.
Ordinance 3276 on First Reading
An ordinance closing streets and unoccupied utility easements within an area bounded generally by 12th Avenue, Lind's Addition, and Washington Street.
Ordinance 3278 on First Reading
An ordinance amending the Stillwater city code regarding pedestrians soliciting rides or business, adding exceptions, permit requirements, and penalties.
Reports from Officers and Boards
Updates from city officers and boards.
S.U.A. Consent Docket
Approval of two items on the Stillwater Utility Authority consent docket.
S.U.A. Bid Recommendation
Recommendation for the approval of a bid for new engine generator units for the New Power Generation station.