Meeting Recap: December 12, 2011

(Stillwater, Okla. / Posted Dec. 13, 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Dec. 12, 2011, for a regular meeting. 

Minutes for the meeting held Dec. 5 was approved by all.

Consent Docket.

• 2012 City Council meeting schedule. (The schedule is officially submitted to the State of Oklahoma.)
  
  Members of City Council discussed the proposed schedule, which called for two regular meetings a month (1^st and 3^rd Mondays), and if Monday is a holiday it would be moved to the following Thursday. Study sessions would be scheduled as special meetings—not regular meetings.
  
  Council discussed whether it was better to schedule study sessions and cancel them, or whether to schedule them as special meetings as necessary.
  
  In the end, Council John Bartley made a motion to approve the City Council meeting schedule as proposed, but asked for study sessions to be held at least quarterly. It passed 3 to 2. (Mayor Nathan Bates and Councilor Cody Scott voted against the motion.)

Public Comments on Agenda Items not Schedule for Public Hearing

• Four residents made comments concerning Ordinance No. 3156, which pertains to advisory boards and committees. They expressed their views concerning term limits and the need for an oath of office.

General Orders

• External Services Director John McClenny made a video presentation about the City’s pilot program that used goats for vegetation maintenance. He said the pilot program was deemed successful and that goats could be used to control vegetation in places such as Boomer Lake Dam and various rights-of-way. He indicated that staff would be coming back to Council to discuss ordinance changes that would allow those in city limits to used goats in this manner.
• Development Services Operations Director Paula Dennison presented a brief report about Resolution No.  CC-2011-16, which concerns using alternatives to asphalt and concert (permeable materials like gravel) for parking citywide.
• Authorize City Manager to pay one-time, lump sum payment to city employees. City Manager Dan Galloway said this was the third straight year without a cost-of-living adjustment. Council Joe Weaver reminded Council that when the budget was discussed earlier in the year, they wanted to make a mid-term adjustment, if it was financially possible. All agreed to make a one-time payment of $1,250 for regular full-time employees and $625 for regular part-time employees. Galloway thanked the Council on behalf of city staff.
  

Resolutions (Click here to read resolutions in full.)

• Resolution  No. CC-2011-16. A resolution that authorizes the mayor to sign and issue an election proclamation calling for a primary and general election. Approved by all.
•  Resolution  No. CC-2011-17. A resolution that amends the City’s Design and Construction Standards for driveways and parking areas. Approved by all.

Ordinances (Click here to read resolutions in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3156 (First Reading). An ordinance amending Chapter 2, Administration of Stillwater City Code, concerning advisory boards. The Council clarified that advisory board members are not officers and, therefore, are not required to take the State’s oath of office. Councilor Chuck Hopkins pointed out that removing term limits doesn’t mean that City Council has to keep reappointing them. The issue is that some boards have specific skills or knowledge and that if members are willing to serve they should have that option. The Council voted to table the ordinance until the Jan. 5 meeting.

Reports from Officers & Boards

• City Attorney requested an executive session.
• Councilor Joe Weaver asked about agenda items for the Dec. 19 meeting. It was agreed to cancel the meeting because the items were either not ready or could be postponed for a later meeting.

Council recessed for the SUA Meeting.  

Stillwater Utilities Authority Meeting Dec. 12, 2011

The meeting began with the approval of minutes for Dec. 5. Approved by all members of the authority.

Consent Docket

• Two items (the 2012 meeting schedule and purchase of a bucket truck) was approved by all.

SUA recessed for the City Council Meeting, which then recessed to an executive session.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations.  

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, at 5:30 p.m. is the Council Room.  Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting. Note: if meetings are longer than two hours, the video may be available on Stillwater’s Vimeo channel only.

Meeting Recap: December 5, 2011

(Stillwater, Okla. / Posted Dec. 7, 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Dec. 5, 2011, for a regular meeting. 

Minutes for the meeting held Nov. 21 was approved by all.

Consent Docket.

• Both items were approved by all.

Public Hearings.

• Special Planner Patty Evans presented a request for a Specific Use Permit by Quench Buds (139 S. Duck) to sell low point beer. It was approved by all.
• Special Planner Patty Evans presented a request to build a single-family home in Brook Hollow Court, which is zoned Multi-Family. Evans said there were other single-family homes in the neighborhood and that this was the last lot to be developed. It was approved by all.
• A continuation from the Nov. 7 meeting for a Map Amendment for property at 619 W. 12 Avenue to change the zoning from  P (public) to O (office). This property is the site of Washington School, Stillwater’s former segregated African American School. Councilor Joe Weaver asked if there could be an interpretive, historical display on the property and the developer said they were open to the idea. Washington School representative Karen Washington spoke about the importance of the school to Stillwater’s black community. Weaver moved to approve the zoning change. The vote originally failed 3 to 2 (Hopkins, Bartley and Scott voted no). However, the council had a “do over” and tabled the zoning request subject to call. Councilor John Bartley said he believed the parties could reach and agreement.
• Continued discussion for the Preliminary Planned Unit Development for a multi-family complex at 315 S. Hester and 614/625 W. 4th Avenue. (The public hearing was held Oct. 3 and tabled subject to call.)   Public comments from Oct. 3 included concerns about infrastructure, parking, size, density, lack of green space. The developers addressed most of the concerns, including wider sidewalks, additional bike racks, deeper set back and a pet waste area, but there was still concerns about parking. Councilor Chuck Hopkins said he would prefer to address the topic following a development study for the area southeast of campus. There was a motion from Councilor Weaver to approve the PUD and it passed 3 to 2 (Scott and Hopkins voted no).

Resolutions (Click here to read resolutions in full.)

• Resolution CC-2011-17. A resolution to support a housing tax credit application by Legacy Senior Residences. Passed by all members of council.

Appointments:

• Rebecca Chavez was appointed to the Board of Drainage Appeals.

Council recessed for the SUA Meeting.

Stillwater Utilities Authority (SUA) Dec. 5, 2011

Meeting began with the approval of minutes for the Nov. 21 regular meeting. The Board of Trustees then approved the consent docket.

General Orders.

• Rural Water Corp #3 Quarterly Report was presented in a written document.
• Water Utilities Director Anthony Daniel made a presentation about a contract for the Kaw Pipeline inspection and evaluation. He explained there were three possible phases, depending on the results of each phase. The project, if all three phases were necessary, would take three years. City Manager Dan Galloway said the inspection was a good investment for citizens. The first report is due May 1, 2012.
• Waste Management services proposals and recommendation. This item was tabled at the Nov. 21 meeting and brought back tonight. Following a discussion, the Trustees were asked to vote on staff recommendation to reject the bid proposal. It passed 4 to 1 (Trustee Nathan Bates voted to accept the proposal.)

Council recessed for the SIRA Meeting.

Stillwater Industrial and Redevelopment Authority (SIRA) Dec. 5, 2011

The only item was approval of the 2012 SIRA meeting schedule.

Meeting adjourned.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations. 

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Dec. 12, 2011, at 5:30 p.m.  Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting. Note: if meetings are longer than two hours, the video will be available on Stillwater’s Vimeo channel only.

Meeting Recap: Nov. 21, 2011

SUA Discussion:  Waste Management services proposals and recommendations

(Stillwater, Okla. / Posted Nov. 22 , 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Nov. 21, 2011, for a regular meeting. Councilor John Bartley was absent

Mayor Nathan Bates began the meeting with a moment of silence to honor OSU coach Kurt Budke, assistant coach Miranda Serna who were killed in plane crash last week.

Minutes for meetings held Oct. 28, Nov. 7, Nov. 10 and Nov. 16 were approved by all.

Consent Docket.

Item C (Lease Amendment with Hangar 1 Flight Center) was pulled off the Consent Docket by Council Cody Scott. All other items were approved.

Stillwater Regional Airport Director Gary Johnson explained that the monthly lease rate is currently around $450. There will be a CPI increase if there are adjustments.

Resolutions (Click here to read resolutions in full.)

• Resolution CC-2011-15. A resolution concerning acceptable water pressure (above 25 psi) for the Twin Tower service area located within the Rural Water Corporation #3. Passed by all members of council.

Ordinances: (Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3154 (Second Reading).   An ordinance concerning rezoning of a track of land at 750 S. Country Club Road from CG-PUD, Commercial General Planned Unit Development to RSS-PUD, Small Lot Single-Family Planned Unit Development. Passed by all members of council.
• Ordinance No. 3155 (Second Reading).   An ordinance rezoning a tract of land located at  412 South Walnut Street from RSS, Small Lot Single-Family Residential District, to RSS-PUD. Small Lot Single-Family Planned Unit Development.

Reports from Officers & Boards.

• Councilor Scott explained his vote on the Will Rogers Elementary School land swap. He voted against it by mistake.
• Mayor remained people to be careful driving during the holidays.

Council recessed for the SUA Meeting.  

Stillwater Utilities Authority Meeting Nov. 21, 2011

The meeting began with the approval of minutes for Nov. 7. Passed by all members of the authority. Trustee John Bartley was absent.

Consent Docket.

Trustee Hopkins asked to remove Item B. David Higgins later explained he wanted to rebid the trucks. The Trustee approved the re-bid and Item A, which concerned the purchase of the digger derrick truck.

General Orders

Discussion about the Waste Management services proposals and recommendations. Residents expressed opinions about curbside recycling and landfill volume. Republic Services (Allied Waste) was the only bid on the contract. Councilor Joe Weaver and Vice Mayor Chuck Hopkins voted to reject the bid, and Mayor Bates and Council Scott cited a need for more time and information. The item was tabled for the Dec. 5 meeting.

Meeting adjourned.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations.  

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Dec. 5, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. is the Council Room.  Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting. Note: if meetings are longer than two hours, the video may be available on Stillwater’s Vimeo channel only.

Special Meeting Recap: Nov. 10, 2011

Ordinances: (Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3154 (First Reading). An ordinance concerning rezoning of a track of land at 750 S. Country Club Road from CG-PUD, Commercial General Planned Unit Development to RSS-PUD, Small Lot Single-Family Planned Unit Development. Passed by all members of council.
  
• Ordinance No. 3154 (First Reading). An ordinance concerning rezoning of a track of land at 750 S. Country Club Road from CG-PUD, Commercial General Planned Unit Development to RSS-PUD, Small Lot Single-Family Planned Unit Development. Passed by all members of council.

• Ordinance No. 3153 (Second Reading). An ordinance authorizing sale of a portion of the property at 1299 N. Washington Street, commonly known as Will Rogers Park. Passed by all members of council, except Councilor Cody Scott.

General Orders

• Approve contract and lease agreement for the sale of a portion of land at 1299 N. Washington Street. Passed by all members of council, except Councilor Cody Scott.
• Approve the purchase of a portion of land at 1299 N. Washington Street. Passed by all members of council, except Councilor Cody Scott.

Meeting adjourned.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations.

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Nov. 14 , 2011, at 5:30 p.m. is the Council Room. Click here for agendas.

Watch the City Council Meetings: Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting. Note: if meetings are longer than two hours, the video may be available on Stillwater’s Vimeo channel only.

Meeting Recap: Nov. 7, 2011

Meeting Recap: Nov. 7, 2011

Four public hearings were held

(Stillwater, Okla. / Posted Nov. 10 , 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Nov. 7, 2011, for a regular meeting.

The meeting began with “Pancreatic Awareness Month” proclamation and the approval of minutes from meeting held Oct. 17.

City Council approved all but one item on the consent docket. Councilor Cody Scott asked to hear more about public improvements for the Berry Creek Addition. Development Services Director Paula Dennison reported the improvements were underway for streets, water and sewer mains at 19^th Avenue and Sangre Road.

Public Hearings:

• Special Planner Patty Evans presented plans for a video display sign at Duck and 4^th Avenue for the RCB Bank. The monument sign would include video capabilities but no flash and was in compliance with existing code. Councilor Joe Weaver asked why the sign needed council approval, and Evans explained that all video signs need a special use permit because there are additional traffic issues that have to be addressed.  This was approved by all.
• Planner Tom Coots presented a Map Amendment for property at 619 W. 12 Avenue to change the zoning from  P (public) to O (office). This property is the site of Washington School, Stillwater’s former segregated African American School. Representatives from the Southern Woods neighborhood asked for council to postpone the decision because they  only recently had heard of the proposed development. The hearing will be continued Dec. 5. Passed by all members of council.
• Special Planner Patty Evans presented plans for Preliminary Planned Unit Development for a multifamily development known as 51@Tradan Heights at 750 S. Country Club Drive. Passed by all members of council.
• Public hearing regarding a request for a Preliminary Planned Unit Development for a parking lot in the RSS (Small Lot Single Family) at 412 S. Walnut Street to be used by the Epsilon Nu House. There was a discussion about drainage and traffic density and several residents (both for and against the rezoning) spoke. The rezoning was approved by all.
• Public hearing regarding a request for a Preliminary Planned Unit Development known as Aspen Heights and an associated Map Amendment for property located at 1009 N. Jardot Road and 2100/2204 E. McElroy Road. This hearing was continued from Oct. 3. After lots of public input, council discussed whether this project was looking at the best location; this was followed by a vote where "yes" mean not accept Planning Commission's recommendation. Bates was the sole vote to accept the recommendation.

General Orders

1. Financial Reports for first quarter fiscal year 2012 by Chief Financial Officer Marcy Alexander. General revenue is slightly above the 25% mark for the year, and expenditures are slightly below that mark. In the Stillwater Utilities Authority revenues are at the 36.88% mark for the year, while expenditures are at the 25% mark.
2. City Attorney Dorman explained the contract between City of Stillwater and Stillwater Public Schools (Board of Education) for the sale/purchase/lease of property on North Washington Street for the construction of the new Will Rogers School building.

Resolutions (Click here to read resolutions in full.)

• Resolution CC-2011-15. A resolution concerning acceptable water pressure (above 25 psi) for the Twin Tower service area located within the Rural Water Corporation #3. Passed by all members of council.

Ordinances: (Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3153 (First Reading). An ordinance authorizing sale of a portion of the property at 1299 N. Washington Street, commonly known as Will Rogers Park.  Passed by all members of council.

Reports from Officers & Boards.

• City Attorney Dorman requested an executive session.
• Councilor John Bartley reported that the Land Development Committee look at possibly rezoning areas to make them match their current use. They are also looking at the area south and southeast of OSU to determine if there needs to be adjustments to the zoning
• Mayor Nathan Bates asked about updating the Wellness Committee membership. He also asked for an update on the “meth ordinance.”  Dorman said they are still researching it.
• Vice Mayor Chuck Hopkins asked to remove the 4^th Avenue and Hester Street development from the table and add it to the Dec. 5 meeting agenda. Passed by all members of council.
• Bartley asked if a Land Development Ad Hoc Committee should review the need for a special use permit for video signs. Galloway agreed.

Appointments

• Board of Adjustment: John Walker and Richard ?. Passed by all members of council.
• Rural Water Advisory Board:  John Smith, Kent Bradley, Norman Durham.

Council recessed for the SUA Meeting.  Passed by all members of council.

Stillwater Utilities Authority Meeting Nov. 7, 2011

The meeting began with the approval of minutes for Oct. 17. Passed by all members of council.

Resolutions 

•  SUA-2011-10 A resolution concerning acceptable water pressure (above 25 psi) for the Twin Tower service area located within the Rural Water Corporation #3. Passed by all members of council. 

 Reports

• Appointments: Appoint member of SUA to serve on the Smart Energy Sources (SES) Board of Directors. Vice Mayor Hopkins appointed.

Meeting adjourned.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations. 

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Nov. 14 , 2011, at 5:30 p.m. is the Council Room.  Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting. Note: if meetings are longer than two hours, the video may be available on Stillwater’s Vimeo channel only.

Meeting Recap: Oct. 24

Stillwater Industrial & Redevelopment Authority (SIRA) Oct.  24, 2011, Meeting

City Manager Dan Galloway and the Board Trustees discussed economic development. The meeting ended with Mayor Nathan Bates and City Councilor John Bartley agreeing to serve on  a SIRA retail economic  development ad hoc committee.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations 

 

 

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Oct. 30, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. Council Hearing Room. Broadcast on City of Stillwater TV on Suddenlink channel 23. Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting. Meetings longer than two hours may be available only on the City's Vimeo.com channel.

Meeting Recap: Oct. 17, 2011

Presentations by Friends of Lake McMurtry, Multi Arts Center


City Council Meeting 10-17-2011 from City of Stillwater TV on Vimeo.
The City of Stillwater's City Council Meeting held on 10-17-2011


(Stillwater, Okla. / Oct. 19, 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Oct. 17, 2011, for a regular meeting.

The meeting began with “Fall Disability Awareness Week” proclamation, and the approval of minutes from meetings held Oct. 3.

City Council approved all items on the consent docket.

Public Hearings

• The public hearing for a Preliminary Planned Unit Development for 5FiftyOne@Tradan Heights was postponed until Nov. 7.
• Council heard two people in favor of the draft Off-Street Parking Ordinance and two people against it. External Services Director John McClenny spoke about how the parking issues now are the same ones discussed 20 years ago: many difference groups needing different parking solutions; continued growth; and enforcement issues. He recommended hiring a parking consultant company to provide creative answers for Stillwater as a whole.
  
  Councilor John Bartley agreed and said that if residents can’t park on the street, can’t park on the grass, where do they park? Councilor Joe Weaver said that one solution doesn’t fit all needs.
  
  Council asked McClenny to consider hiring a parking consultant.

General Orders

• Two similar presentations were made by the Friends of Lake McMurtry (the group's president is Scott Stoodley) and the Friends of Multi Arts Center (Bill Miller). In short, the non-profit organizations made a presentation for public-private partnerships. Both proposed to take over day-to-day operations. Both presentations made the point that they had ideas that would improve/expand programming.
  
  Councilor Weaver said the idea was exciting, and Councilor Bartley agreed. McClenny was encouraged to explore this type of partnerships.
  
  Galloway said that the City would still own the facilities and they would be for public use; instead, local citizens are working together to encourage and expand public use.

Ordinances (Click here to read ordinances in full.) 

• Ordinance No. 3152 (Second Reading). An ordinance regarding remediation of chemically contaminated real property. City Attorney John Dorman reported this needed further review. Council moved to table the ordinance. Councilor Cody Scott voted no.

Reports from Officers and Boards

• Galloway reported that Quad/Graphics was closing it doors.
• Councilor Weaver was pleased that the Oklahoma WONDERtorium opened this weekend and that he was impressed with the facility.
• Mayor Nathan Bates wanted to clarify that the incentive for GMRI, Inc. (parent company of Olive Garden) concerned a tax rebated agreement and not a cash incentive.

Appointments

• Council made appointments to the Accessibility Advisory Board (Alicia Payne, Julie Miller, and Paul Sisney) and to the Planning Commission (Mike Buchert and Joe Merrifield).

Council recessed for the SUA Meeting.
Stillwater Utilities Authority (SUA) Oct. 17, 2011

Meeting began with the approval of minutes for the Sept. 12 & 19 regular meetings.
The Board of Trustees then approved the consent docket.

General Orders

• Water Utilities Deputy Director Bill Millis gave a status report on the Twin Towers in the Rural Water Service Area. The discussion revolved around what level of water pressure is acceptable to residents in this service area. The state requires 25 psi, while the City tries to provide 40 psi. SUA Director Dan Blankenship explained that adding taps would affect the level of service until changes can be made to the system.
  
  Trustee Weaver wanted to know what the long-term solution for this area is. Blankenship and Millis explained that a consultant is working on the Twin Tower area as well as the wider southwest service area.
  
  
• Update on the GRDA wholesale power contract and OG&E review of the City’s electric system.

SUA meeting adjourned for the Use Tax Oversight Committee.
 
Use Tax Committee Meeting Oct. 17, 2011

Meeting began with the approval of minutes for the July 18 regular meeting.

Review and discussion of Use Tax Revenues. CFO Marcy Alexander said revenues were down, especially in construction materials.

Meeting adjourned.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations. 

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Oct. 17, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. is a study session in Room 2073.  Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting. Note: if meetings are longer than two hours, the video will be available on Stillwater’s Vimeo channel only.

Meeting Recap: Oct. 3, 2011

Public hearing on apartment complex 

City Council Meeting 10-3-11 from City of Stillwater TV on Vimeo.
City of Stillwater's City Council Meeting held on 10-3-11

(Stillwater, Okla. / Oct. 5, 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Oct. 3, 2011, for a regular meeting.

Before the meeting, Mayor Nathan Bates asked for a moment of silence to remember City of Stillwater employee John Tate.

First item of the evening was approval of minutes from meetings held Sept. 12, 19 and 26, which were approved by all members of council.

City Council approved all items on the consent docket.

Public Hearings

• Special Planner Patty Evans began a discussion on a Preliminary Planned Unit Development for a new location for Honda of Stillwater at 105 S. Perkins Road/703 E. Virginia Avenue. The developer/owner agreed to several modifications, and council approved the plan pending the revisions.
  
• The Preliminary Planned Unit Development for Aspen Heights was postponed until Nov. 7.
  
• Special Planner Patty Evans also began a discussion on a Preliminary Planned Unit Development for a multi-family complex at 315 S. Hester and 614/625 W. 4th Avenue. The proposed plan includes 164 bedrooms and a 6-story parking garage. Evans said that the complex was compatible with the neighborhood, but staff lacked information to evaluate some features including parking. The developer(s) indicated that they would add a seventh story to address parking questions that a came up during neighborhood meetings.
  
  Public comments included concerns about infrastructure, parking, size, density, lack of green space.
  
  Mayor Bates asked the presenter about parking, bike rakes and city infrastructure issues. Councilor John Bartley had questions about the small setback from the street. Vice Mayor Chuck Hopkins expressed concern about the density. Councilor Joe Weaver also remarked on the high density, and he liked that the developers’ design was compatible with OSU’s modified Georgian architecture and that the intent is to have smooth transition to downtown. Councilor Cody Scott thought the project was a step in the right direction, but wanted more information. Vice Mayor Hopkins asked for the topic to be tabled subject to call. The council voted to table this item.

General Orders

• Presentation of Ordinance No. 3152 regarding remediation of chemically contaminated real property by Assistant Attorney Dennis McGrath. He explained that the ordinance referred to any property, including rental property, that had been contaminated by methamphetamine or other noxious substances to be cleaned up and receive a bill of good health by a trained and authorized clean-up company before  it can be occupied again.
  
  City manger Dan Galloway said the part of the intent was to assure people that health risks have been addressed at these properties.
  
  Vice Mayor Hopkins began a discussion about who was responsible for paying for the clean up. Councilor Scott said he supported the ordinance. Councilor Bartley agreed with the concept, but wanted to make sure the ordinance was the right solution for the problem.
  
  McGrath explained that government is responsible  for keeping residents safe, but the government can’t clean up private property. Currently, landlords are not required to notify renters if there had been contaminates on the property; this ordinance would ensure that the property was sealed until clean up was completed, explained McGrath.
  
• Request to make emergency repairs to “rock hanger” at Stillwater Regional Airport was approved.

Ordinances (Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3152 (First Reading). An ordinance regarding remediation of chemically contaminated real property. Passed by all except Vice Mayor Hopkins who abstained.

• Ordinance No. 3151 (Second Reading). An ordinance to rezone a track of land at 1001 W. 12th Ave. Passed by all members of council.

Reports from Officers and Boards

• Galloway stated the Stillwater Regional Airport received a state grant to help fund improvements.
• Councilor Bartley congratulated Stillwater on its busy weekend.
• Mayor Bates made a correction that at last meeting, he didn’t mean to say that parking on the grass dragged sediment into the sewer system but drainage system.
• Mayor Bates wants to bring the “Healthy Community” program to the Wellness Committee and discuss with them the possibility of some type of semiannual walks or runs.

Council recessed for the SIRA Meeting.

Stillwater Industrial & Redevelopment Authority (SIRA) Oct. 3, 2011 Special Meeting

Meeting began with the approval of minutes for the Aug. 22 meeting.

The Board of Trustees then approved the consent docket.

Under General Orders, the Trustees approved the Business Development Incentive Agreement with GMRI, Inc. (parent company of Olive Garden) who is considering opening an Olive Garden in Stillwater. The proposal is a tax rebate agreement.


Trustee Bartley wants to see an overall city economic development plan.

SIRA meeting adjourned, and City Council recessed for executive session.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations. 

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Oct. 17, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. Council Hearing Room. Broadcast on City of Stillwater TV on Suddenlink channel 23. Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting.

Meeting Recap: Sept. 26, 2011

Presentation on Property Maintenance Pilot Program

The Stillwater City Council held a work session at the Monday, Sept. 26 2011, meeting. Two items were discussed. 

Property maintenance pilot program

View more presentations from City of Stillwater.

Property Maintenance Pilot Program

External Services Director John McClenny gave a review of the Property Maintenance pilot program. (View the PowerPoint presentation above.) He explained that the pilot program targeted the Westwood Neighborhood and was designed to gather data about the effectiveness of ticketing and to determine resources for citywide implementation.

He said that the ticketing mechanism worked and that ¾ of nuisance violations could be addressed by the ticketing process. He explained that this code enforcement program was designed more like the Stillwater Police Department’s parking ticket system.

McClenny also said the program benefited from the public information component. For example, OSU student renters were responsive to correcting code violations once they understood there was a problem.

He explained that the ticketing nuisances should be separate from the abatement/condemnation procedure. And he would like the ticketing process moved under SPD. City Manager Dan Galloway said that the move of code enforcement to SPD wouldn’t take resources from SPD. There are vacant positions that would be moved to SPD to cover this program.

McClenny asked Council for a consensus on direction, support for future ordinance changes and future financial commitment on abatement/condemnation.

Councilors Weaver and Hopkins said they have heard about the improved appearance in the Westwood Neighborhood from several residents.

Councilor Bartley commented that the code enforcement’s goal is to get grass cut—not collect fees. McClenny said during the pilot program all but three residents corrected the code problem without paying fines.

Mayor Bates asked about using newer technologies to help with code violations and Galloway said that was being investigated.

Councilor Scott said he wanted to make sure people’s privacy was not compromised by this process.

Parkins Ordinance Draft

The second discussion of the evening concerned a draft “parking surface (‘parking in yards’)" ordinance.

City Attorney John Dorman asked for direction concerning drafting a new parking ordinance. He explained that this is different from City Ordinance 3148, which affects Westwood only. This one addresses parking on nonpervious surfaces. There are questions concerning fees, permits and types of zoning to be included.

Everyone agreed that any parking ordinance should not be effective until Jan. 1, 2012. The Council asked for an ordinance to be drafted and a public hearing on Oct. 17. 

******

Next Meeting: Monday, October 3, 2011, at 5:30 p.m., Council Hearing Room. Broadcast on City of Stillwater TV on Suddenlink channel 23. Click here for agendas.


Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations

 

Meeting Recap: Sept. 19, 2011

Discussion on wholesale power

(Stillwater, Okla. / Sept. 13, 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, for a regular meeting.

Mayor Nathan Bates read a proclamation declaring it “Constitution Week.” Resident Mary Foster spoke on its importance.

City Council approved all items on the consent docket.

Ordinances (Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3151 (First Reading). An ordinance to rezone a track of land at 1001 W. 12th Ave. Passed by all members of council.
• Ordinance No. 3149 (Second Reading) concerns amending penalties in the new Stillwater City Code, Chapter 1, Chapter 16, Chapter 18, and Chapter 20. Legal stated this was needed to correct clerical errors and to match state statutes. Passed 4 to 1with Councilor Scott voting nay. The emergency clause also passed by all.
• Ordinance No. 3150 (Second Reading) concerns amending penalties in the new Stillwater City Code, Chapter 29. Legal stated this corrected previously deleted sections of which parts should have remained in the code. Approved by all members of council. The emergency clause also passed by all.

Reports from Officers and Boards.
City Attorney John Dorman reminded residents that the new codes are effective Saturday, Sept. 24. He also requested an executive session.

Mayor Bates reminded everyone Western Payne County Trust Authority is looking for applications to serve on the authority.

City Council adjourned for the SUA Meeting.

Stillwater Utilities Authority (SUA) Sept. 19, 2011 Meeting

Consent docket approved.

Public comment on items not schedule for public hearing. GRDA’s Michael Kiefner addressed the trustees and provided projections on wholesale power. The trustees asked Kiefner a series of questions to clarify GRDA’s position.

General Orders

•  National League of Cities’ water and sanitary sewer service line warranty program. SUA Director Dan Blankenship made a general explanation. Bryan Davis, Utilities Service Partners made a presentation. Trustee accepted staff recommendation and approved the SUA enter this agreement.
•  Update on wholesale power provider selection. Blankenship made a brief presentation about the selection process, which included that OMPA withdrew its proposal. He will continue talks with GRDA.

Resolutions

• Resolution No. SUA-2011-8 determining its intent to reimburse itself for certain capital expenditures. Passed by all trustees.
• Resolution No. SUA-2011-9 authorizing participation in the Smart Energy Source. It's a partnership between CREC, OSU and SUA to identify and address smart energy issues. Passed by all.

No reports from Officers and Boards

Adjourn

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Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Sept. 29, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. in second floor conference room. Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting.

Meeting Recap: September 12, 2011

Waste Management requests for proposals

(Stillwater, Okla. / Sept. 13, 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Sept. 12, 2011, for a regular meeting.

Approval of Minutes for meetings held Aug. 15 and Aug. 22. Both passed with Councilor Cody Scott abstaining due to his absent on Aug.22.

City Council approved all items on the consent docket.

Public hearings.

• Request for a specific use permit from AT&T for a telecommunications tower at 321 E. McElroy (behind the Community and University Credit Union).
• No requests to speak at public hearings.
• Planning Commission recommended approval of special use permit.
• Approved by all members of council.

•  Request for a map amendment from Stillwater Medical Center to rezone property at 1001 W. 12th Ave. (south of 12th Ave. between Washington and Blakley Streets  from A (Agriculture) and RSS (Small Lot Single Family) to O (Office).
• Mayor Bates asked if the area in the flood plain could be developed for single family homes. He was told that yes it could be but at a higher cost to developers.
• No requests to speak at public hearings.
• Planning Commission recommended approving the map amendment to the City Council.
• Approved by all members of council.

Ordinances (First Reading)(Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3149 concerns amending penalties in the new Stillwater City Code, Chapter 1, Chapter 16, Chapter 18, and Chapter 20. Legal stated this was needed to correct clerical errors and to match state statutes. Passed 4 to 1with Councilor Scott voting nay.
• Ordinance No. 3150 concerns amending penalties in the new Stillwater City Code, Chapter 29. Legal stated this corrected previously deleted sections of which parts should have remained in the code. Approved by all members of council.

Report from City Manager Dan Galloway. He will be attending a national city mangers conference next Monday, so Director Dan Blankenship will sit in for him at the meeting.

Mayor thanked all who participated in the 9/11 ceremonies.

City Council adjourned for the SUA Meeting.

Stillwater Utilities Authority (SUA) Sept. 12, 2011 Meeting

Approval of Minutes for meetings held Aug. 15 and Aug. 22. Both passed with Councilor Cody Scott abstaining due to his absent on Aug.22.

Consent Docket: Mayor Bates asked to discuss items A and B.

• Item A: Contract award for a utility cut street patching. Engineering Manager Jason Peek said there was only one bid on the contract by a local company.
• Item B: Bid recommendation for the purchase of a new regenerative air street sweeper. Operations Manager David Higgins explained that the street sweeping program is a component of the storm water management program. The City sweeps the streets on a rotating basis and collects more than 2,000 cubic yards of waste a year. The department has increased it public education to inform the public about sweeping schedules and its benefits.

Next under General Orders, Higgins also made a presentation of solid waste management services request for proposals. In short, Higgins said he would like to see proposals concerning the City’s solid waste and recycling collections. He proposed four different schedules that included everything from complete privatization to any number of variations. The goal is to see what would be the best waste collection system for Stillwater.

Higgins said after the City receives the proposals, then the SUA trustees could make informed decisions. The trustees wanted to make sure the proposals included curbside recycling to see if it was affordable. Higgins said Stillwater residents enjoy superior customer service and that any proposal would have to address that need as well.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations  

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Next City Council Meeting: Monday, September 19, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. Council Hearing Room. Broadcast on City of Stillwater TV on Suddenlink channel 23. Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting.

Meeting Recap: August 22, 2011

Westwood overlay ordinance passed on second reading

(Stillwater, Okla. / Aug. 22, 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Aug. 22, 2011, for a regular meeting.

First up, Council was asked to approve the Fiscal 2012 contract between the City of Stillwater and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 102 (FOP). City Manger Dan Galloway said negotiations have been going on several months, and the FOP’s full membership recently voted to approve the written contract. All of the council members voted to approve the contract. Councilor Scott was absent.

Next thing on the agenda was the Westwood ordinance.

Ordinances (Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3148 concerns the Westwood overlay and off-street parking. To answer a public comment, City Attorney Dorman explained that the ordinance only referred to the Westwood neighborhood. He also explained that the emergency clause is used to enact something quickly that affects health, safety or public welfare. It simply means that the ordinance doesn’t have to wait 30 days to be enacted. The intent is for the Westwood Overlay and its parking district are to begin on the same date. It was approved by all of council, except Councilor Scott who was absent.

City Council recessed for the SUA Meeting.

Stillwater Utilities Authority (SUA) Aug. 22, 2011 Meeting

The SUA Board of Trustees approved one item on the consent docket: Utility Relocation Agreement with Oklahoma Department of Transportation associated with Harrington Bridge. Councilor (Trustee) Scott was absent.

Next was a presentation and discussion concerning the Kaw pipeline assessment report. Water Utilities Director Anthony Daniel and Jason Consultants/Pure Technologies (Columbus, Ohio) presented.

In short, Pure Technologies can assess 100 percent of the Kaw pipeline’s 36 miles without shutting down the pipeline. They can use the data they collecte and make recommendations for actions to repair or replace potions of the pipeline with minimal service interruption.

Councilor (Trustee) Weaver asked about risks associated with this type of technology. The consultant explained that there challenges gathering data from a pipeline without inline valves and there were issues concerning areas with high water pressure, but both were not major concerns.

Anthony asked if the SUA trustees would authorize him to negotiate the cost and scope of the project. 

Councilor (Trustee) Bartley asked about the budget and City Manager Galloway said the funds would come from the water capital fund, which is where the increases in the water rates have been deposited. Galloway said everyone wants to know the state of the Kaw pipeline and this is the best way to find out. All present authorized Daniel to proceed. Councilor (Trustee) Scott was absent.

Mayor (Trustee) Bates said he appreciated the presentation.

SUA meeting recessed for the Stillwater Industrial & Redevelopment Authority Special Meeting.

Stillwater Industrial & Redevelopment Authority (SIRA) Aug. 22, 2011 Special Meeting

The Board Trustees approved the Business Development Incentive Agreement with Bradford Plaza Capital Venture. The sales tax incentive is meant to help revitalize the shopping district and bring new stores to Stillwater.

City Council recessed for executive meeting.

END

Recap by Sherry Fletcher, Marketing and Public Relations  
 

*****

Next City Council Meeting: Monday, Sept. 12, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. Council Hearing Room. Broadcast on City of Stillwater TV on Suddenlink channel 23. Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting.

Meeting Recap: August 15, 2011

Stillwater City Council discusses off-street parking

(Stillwater, Okla. / Aug. 15, 2011) — The Stillwater City Council met Monday, Aug. 15, 2011, for a regular meeting. Council approved the minutes of Aug. 1 regular meeting and the executive meeting.

All three items on the consent docket passed without discussion.

Public Comment

• Resident Vera Long commented on Ordinance No. 3147 concerning the adoption of the new code for the City of Stillwater. She cautioned councilors to review it in more detail before passing it.
• Westwood Neighborhood’s Mark Lambert and Ron Beer addressed Ordinance 3148. They were concerned about allowing up to 40 percent of the front lawn to be paved. Both thought 40 percent was excessive.

Public Hearing
Receive public input regarding a request from Candace Gfeller for closing a portion of alley at 211 W. 11th Ave. Gfeller can’t close the sale on the property because part of the house spills over onto the alley where various utilities run. Planner Patty Evans explained that approving the closure of the alley would create difficulties when making utility repairs. Staff did not recommend closing the easement. City Council asked City Attorney John Dorman to look for possible solutions and the topic was tabled, subject to call. This was approved by all.

General Orders

• City of Stillwater quarterly financial report. Chief Financial Officer Marcy Alexander was out, so City Manager Dan Galloway made remarks. He stated that FY2010-2011 ended in the black—just barely. The City was 1.87 percent below budget; however, he wanted to point out that in the past two months sales tax receipts were 6 percent below this time last year. Galloway felt this would be evened out in the next few months.
• Adoption of the Design Criteria and Construction Standards. Brandon Neal made a short presentation about the process and the standards themselves. He first explained that the standards being discussed were in regards to general earthwork, easement work, stormwater collection and clean and waste water design criteria and construction standards. He thanked local builders, the ad hoc committee and others who shared their insight and, ultimately,  improved the code being considered. Neal said that the Design Criteria and Construction Standards would come back before Council in about six months with other recommendations. Provisions could be modified at that time. Following a question by Councilor Cody Scott, Director Paula Dennison explained that Building and Trade Codes were not part of the document being considered at Monday’s meeting. Councilor Joe Weaver appreciated the work of staff and local builders who worked together to develop the document.

Resolutions (Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Resolution CC-2011-9: A resolution to adopt the Design Criteria and Construction Standards. This was passed by all.
• Resolution CC-2011-14: A resolution to establish a parking district within the Westwood Neighborhood. This was passed by all.

Ordinances (Click here to read ordinances in full.)

• Ordinance No. 3138: An ordinance amending city code to address off-street parking.  Paula Dennison first answered a question from the last City Council meeting concerning parking on University Ave. She said that staff recommended allowing on-street parking on University from Ridge to Orchard Street. Also discussed was staff recommendation to have a sliding scale for the amount of paving that would be allowed in front yards by city code. Councilor Joe Weaver said that a percentage chart was a good solution to the problem. Councilor John Bartley asked about circle drives, and Dennison said that circle drives were allowed under current city code.
  
  She reminded everyone that the city manager could establish and enforce parking on one side of the street without further action. However, Ordinance No. 3138 was the first step in creating a parking overlay district. Details would come later and residents would have 30 days to make comments.  This was approved by all.
• Ordinance No. 3146: An ordinance regarding rezoning a tract of land located at 601 and 602 S. West St. This was passed by all.
• Ordinance 3147: An ordinance calling for the adopting and enacting of a new city code. City Attorney John Dorman explained that there were “empty codes,' which are reserved for future growth. He also reminded everyone that copies of the new code have been available for the public to view at city hall and the library. He stated that all the codes in the new code have been voted on by City Council; nothing was being added that hadn’t been voted on. Councilor Scott expressed concern about the level of fines. Dorman said that the last time City Council adjusted fines was 2002. All but Councilor Scott approved the ordinance.

Miscellaneous items from City Manager.
The NewsPress conducted a Reader’s Choice Award and the City of Stillwater was recognized in several categories; in fact, the City of Stillwater was the only multi-award winner:

• Lakeside Golf Course: Favorite Golf Course
• Multi Arts Center: First Place Art Gallery
• Stillwater Arts Festival: First Place Local Event/Festival
• Boomer Lake Park: First Place Park
• Strickland Park : Honorable Mention Park

 
Miscellaneous items from City Council

• Councilor Scott welcomed students back to town.
• Councilor Bartley reminded all that public school starts Friday and to pay attention to school speed zones
• Mayor Bates encouraged council to speak their minds, even if they have different opinions than the rest of council
• Kaw Water Line discussion is a topic for an upcoming meeting.

Questions & Inquiries

• Mayor Bates asked about progress made concerning a possible meeting with Stillwater Utilities Authority and Grand River Dam Authority and Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority. Galloway said they have been asked to submit a list of concerns, which have not been received yet.

City Council recessed for the SUA Meeting.

Stillwater Utilities Authority Aug. 15, 2011 Meeting

Minutes for the Aug. 1, 2011, meeting were approved by all trustees.

General Orders

• Rural Water Advisory Board provided its quarterly report. There was no comments or questions.
• Stillwater Utilities Authority quarterly financial report was made by City Manager Dan Galloway.  He stated that SUA finished the year in the black with expenditures  at 96.16 of the total budget.

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Next City Council Meeting: Monday, August 22, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. Council Hearing Room. Broadcast on City of Stillwater TV on Suddenlink channel 23. Click here for agendas. 

Watch the City Council Meetings:  Videos of Stillwater City Council meetings are made available on the City of Stillwater's YouTube.com channel within five days of the meeting.