April 27, 2016 City Commission Meeting

Here's a summary of the recent City Commission retreat in Shawnee, Oklahoma:

Announcements

• Potential water and sewer rate adjustments could go into effect as early as 📅 2017.
• The city aims to consolidate all departmental Capital Improvement Plans and the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (last updated 📅 2005) into one comprehensive master plan document over the next year.

Key Discussions & Staff Direction

• City-Owned Properties:
  • Former CVB Property: The City Commission reached a consensus to sell the former CVB property, originally purchased for a tourism visitor center. Funds from the sale will be reallocated for other tourism-related purposes, such as improvements at the Expo facility, as Visit Shawnee Inc. will now be co-housed with the Chamber of Commerce downtown.
  • Regional Park Property (160 acres): Discussion on the 160-acre regional park property on Westtech Road revealed no clear consensus. Some commissioners wish to retain the property for future use (5-10 years), while others prefer to sell it to fund improvements at existing park locations. The property currently lacks funding for a large-scale athletic facility.
• Fire Station #2 Rehabilitation: There was a clear consensus to diligently move forward with getting Fire Station #2 on Bryan Street back in operation. The station has been closed for approximately six months due to structural issues. The goal is to ensure permanent repairs for long-term operation, as the station serves a critical area including retirement communities, nursing facilities, and schools. In the interim, the old fire station on East Main Street has been rehabilitated and is currently housing at least two firefighters 24/7.
• Comprehensive City Master Plan: The Commission discussed the need to integrate the existing Comprehensive Land Use Plan (last updated in 📅 2005) and various departmental Capital Improvement Plans into one comprehensive master plan document. This initiative, expected to be completed over the next year, aims to provide clear long-term vision, identify funding needs, and inform future commissions and the public.

Financial Matters 💰

• Water and Sewer Rates: The Commission discussed implementing modest annual increases of 2-3% in water and sewer rates. This proactive approach aims to avoid drastic rate hikes experienced historically, covering rising material, contractor, and personnel costs. No decision has been made, but any changes would likely not take effect until 📅 early 2017.
• Water System Infrastructure: A recently delivered Water Master Plan confirms an adequate water supply for many years. However, the city faces the challenge of an aging infrastructure system, requiring substantial investment in existing water and sewer infrastructure, including the water treatment plant and two sewage treatment plants.
• Hotel Motel Tax: The existing 5% hotel motel tax was reviewed. These funds are statutorily restricted for tourism-related activities, primarily supporting Visit Shawnee Incorporated for marketing and event promotion. The tax is predominantly paid by outside visitors, having minimal financial impact on Shawnee residents.

Agenda Summary Table