Public Meetings - Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

The Broken Arrow City Council convened to discuss several key initiatives, including updates on the upcoming $405–$414 million bond package, the creation of a new Citizens Engagement Academy, and approvals for various financial instruments and capital projects. The meeting also featured a unanimous vote to approve a new Drone First Responder (DFR) program and the adoption of two bond sale ordinances. The evening concluded with remarks on the success of the recent tree lighting event and upcoming holiday activities. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved as a whole without items removed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were received during the Citizens' Opportunity to Address the Council. Discussion Items - Bond Package Update (December 2025): The City Manager presented the timeline for the "Build Our Future Phase Two" bond package. The administration will present a proposal for council consideration on December 2nd, followed by a two-week layover period. If approved, the council will vote on December 16th to move forward with legal work for an election on April 7, 2026. The proposed package value has been narrowed to approximately $405–$414 million from an initial $600 million+ concept. - Citizens Engagement Academy: Council discussed a proposal to create a Citizens Engagement Academy, similar to the successful Police Academy, to educate residents on city departments, utilities, and governance. The program would target 20–25 residents annually, potentially starting in Q1 2026. Council members expressed strong support, citing the need for better public understanding of city operations. - Downtown Master Plan Advisory Committee: Council appointed members to the new advisory committee to establish a vision for downtown Broken Arrow. Nominations included city council members, planning commissioners, and representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and school district. One nominee's residence status was briefly clarified to ensure he met the participation criteria. - Rose District Plaza Design Concept: Council debated two options for the Rose District Master Plan. Option 1 features a central open lawn and stage with the pavilion relocated north along El Paso Street. Option 2 keeps the pavilion in the center and moves the lawn/stage north. After discussion regarding pedestrian flow, visibility from Main Street, and future event capacity (including the Christmas tree and concerts), Council expressed a preference for Option 1 to maximize open space and visibility, though no formal vote was taken to lock in the design concept itself, rather a lean was recorded. - Visit Broken Arrow Strategic Plan: The council reviewed a five-year tourism strategic plan developed by Clarity of Place. The plan outlines five imperatives: leveraging infrastructure, maintaining authenticity, strengthening the visitor ecosystem, expanding veterans' heritage tourism, and capitalizing on the arts/culture scene. Council approved the plan. - Drone First Responder (DFR) Program: Chief Lance Arnold presented a proposal for a contract with Brink and Motorola Solutions to deploy autonomous drones capable of flight beyond visual line-of-sight. The program boasts a 70-second average response time and can deliver medical supplies (Narcan/EpiPens). The City Manager noted that negotiations reduced the cost significantly from the initial quote. The program includes a one-year trial with no cost to the city, followed by a six-year contract for years two through six at $79,000 per drone annually. Council members expressed strong support for the program as a public safety innovation. Key Outcomes - Bond Package Authorization: Council authorized the sale of $14.5 million in 2025 General Obligation Bonds (Series A) and $2.5 million in 2025 General Obligation Bonds (Series B) via Ordinance 3899 and Ordinance 3900, with emergency clauses approved. - Bid Awards: Bids were received and approved for the sale of the $14.5 million bond series (awarded to TD Financial Products LLC at 3.669651%) and the $2.5 million bond series (awarded to TD Financial Products LLC at 3.11%). - Resolution 1721: Approved to formalize the use of electronic documents and signatures via DocuSign. - Downtown Advisory Committee: Approved the appointment of members to the Downtown Master Plan Advisory Committee. - Rose District Plaza: Council indicated a preference for Option 1 of the design concept, directing staff to proceed with further planning and costing to align with the bond project boundaries. - Drone Program: Motion to approve Contract 25-16 (specific number redacted in transcript, referred to as 25-16 in speaker text) for the Drone First Responder program passed with a roll call vote. - Expenditure Approvals: Approved expenditure of $50,000 in 2018 Prop 6 funds for the design phase of a drainage project for the 6100 Business Center; approved the award of a $565,940 construction contract to Gober Construction for water and drainage improvements on Houston Street in Old Town. Next Steps - Staff to send appointment letters to the new Downtown Master Plan Advisory Committee members. - Finalize the Bond Package presentation for December 2nd. - Develop a proposal for the Citizens Engagement Academy for Q1 2026. - Execute the Drone First Responder contract and begin the one-year trial period. - Prepare for the Holiday Parade on December 6th.

The Planning Commission convened on November 6, 2025, to review several special permits, planned unit development (PUD) amendments, and subdivision code modifications. The commission heard public testimony regarding outdoor vehicle storage and street length variations, voted unanimously on three public hearing items, and discussed staff procedural updates regarding landscape plans and cell tower approvals prior to adjournment. Consent Calendar - Approved Item 4A (single item) unanimously via roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Capurn (Wallace & Wallace Design Collective): Represented the applicant for PUD 25-1573. Expressed the intent to allow outdoor storage specifically for recreational vehicles (RVs), boats, campers, and trailers, while clarifying that the facility does not intend to store raw materials, debris, aggregate, bituminous materials, or semi-truck trailers. - Carl Graham: Represented the property owner. Confirmed the proposal is for an RV storage facility, agreed that the property is gravel, and stated that customers are discerning regarding what is stored. Clarified that the request covers only the eastern tract of PUD 193, leaving the western portion's regulations unchanged. - Commissioner (Unidentified): Expressed curiosity regarding the potential for tractor-trailer storage and sought confirmation that this was not the applicant's intent. Expressed support for the applicant's efforts to control the area and ensure appropriate use types. - Commissioner (Mindy Payne): Noted the presence of a street sweeper truck in the neighborhood and expressed appreciation for the city's maintenance efforts. Discussion Items - Item 6B (PUD 002465-2025): Staff recommended approval for a major amendment to PUD 193 to allow outdoor storage of recreational vehicles in the northern portion of the eastern tract. Commissioner discussion clarified that the amendment excludes materials and commercial semi-trailers. The project sponsor confirmed the facility would not store raw construction materials or debris. - Item 8A (Subdivision Code Modification): Staff requested a modification to Section 4.1.T to extend a cul-de-sac length from the standard 550 feet to 1,215 feet for IOS Land Company. Discussion centered on the intent for the street to become a public thoroughfare connecting to the property north. Commissioner inquiry regarding traffic calming measures (speed bumps) was addressed; staff and applicants indicated that traffic calming is not part of the current subdivision regulation modification but may be implemented later by the engineering department. - Item 9 (Staff Remarks): Commission member Rocky was absent. Staff discussed the frequency of landscape plan submissions for PUDs, noting that it varies by project type. A query regarding a 200-foot cell tower (associated with Buffalo Wild Wings) was addressed; staff clarified the tower was likely approved by the City Council on October 7th, confirming that landscaping requirements (trees) are part of the approval. Key Outcomes - Vote 1 (Item 6A - SP-002459-2025): Approved per staff recommendation (4-0). The item regarding Harvest Church (Agricultural to Commercial General zoning) was approved and will proceed to the City Council on December 2nd at 6:30 PM. - Vote 2 (Item 6B - PUD 002465-2025): Approved per staff recommendation (4-0). The amendment to allow RV storage on the eastern tract of PUD 193 was approved and will proceed to the City Council on December 2nd at 6:30 PM. - Vote 3 (Item 8A - Subdivision Modification): Approved per staff recommendation (3-1). The modification to increase the cul-de-sac length limit to 1,215 feet was approved. Jason Cohen voted "No." The item will proceed to the City Council on December 2nd at 6:30 PM. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned unanimously (4-0).

The Broken Arrow City Council convened at 12:30 PM UTC on November 4, 2025, to review the 2026 General Obligation bond package progress, award construction contracts for Houston Street widening, approve a jail expansion Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), handle multiple zoning requests, and celebrate a credit rating upgrade by Standard & Poor's. Consent Calendar - The Consent Agenda was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Drainage and Screening Concerns: A city employee (who submitted comments via email instead of appearing) expressed concerns regarding stormwater drainage, lighting, and screening associated with the rezoning of 7.5 acres at Kenosha and ONEDA Road (BAZ 2310-2025). The applicant, Mark Grubbs, acknowledged the drainage issues, stating the preliminary plan addresses them, and confirmed that lighting and screening will meet code requirements to shield residential neighbors. - Access and Gate Concerns: A neighboring resident raised questions regarding access and development timelines for the 11.34-acre property at New Orleans Street and Lynn Lane (PUD 2428-2025). While the resident was not opposed to the development, they requested clarification on the timeline. The Planning Commission had recommended a gate to address public access to water towers; City Council members and staff noted the necessity of the gate is being reconsidered for operational reasons. - Traffic and Use Concerns: Two citizens voiced concerns regarding potential traffic impacts and specific land uses (bars, nightclubs, and medical dispensaries) for the rezoning of 2.42 acres at Washington and Lynn Lane (BAZ 2231-2025). The staff and council members proceeded without further opposition. Discussion Items - 2026 General Obligation Bond Package: The Mayor updated the council on the public forums held in October, stating that the administration will present the tentative package on December 2nd for review, with a formal action meeting scheduled for December 16th. The goal is to place the election on the April 7, 2026, ballot following a two-week public review period. - Houston Street Projects (25-1513 & 25-1514): - Item 9A: Charlie Bright recommended awarding the contract for the Houston Street widening from 23rd Street to Old Highway 51 to TriStar Construction. The bid was approximately $4 million for a half-mile widening (two to five lanes) and 2,500 linear feet of waterline work. Director Travis Small noted that TriStar offered a competitive price, coming in lower than the bidder who typically wins the most work. - Item 9B: Charlie Bright recommended awarding the contract for the Houston Street widening from Aspen Olive to Becco Contractors for a one-mile stretch. Becco was the low bidder and is also the contractor for the parallel mile project, allowing for equipment consistency. The project involves widening to five lanes with no intersection shutdowns required. - Justice Center Expansion (25-1517): Shannon Marshall presented a recommendation to accept a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) of $4,512,299 from Myers Cherry Construction for the jail renovation and expansion. The project adds 10 beds (totaling 42) and includes HVAC upgrades, a full commercial kitchen, and security improvements. Council expressed support for the upgrades while maintaining a secure environment. Two financial alternates were discussed: roofing ($356,785) and flooring ($7,345), with the potential total GMP rising to $4,876,429 if both are accepted. - Zoning & PUD Requests: - BAZ 2310-2025: The Council approved rezoning 7.5 acres from CG to CH Commercial Heavy at Kenosha and ONEDA Road to allow for smaller retail parcels (100-foot frontage vs. 200-foot). The applicant clarified the change was for frontage requirements, not intended use changes, and addressed drainage concerns. - PUD 2428-2025 & BAZ 2425-2025: The Council approved the Planned Unit Development and rezoning for 11.34 acres at New Orleans and Lynn Lane. However, the Council voted to override the Planning Commission's recommendation to mandate a gate at the Lynn Lane access point. Director Charlie Bright argued a gate would hinder staff operations and emergency access for the water tower, suggesting "Private Property" signage instead. Council members concurred, approving the PUD without the gate requirement. - BAZ 2231-2025: The Council voted to approve the rezoning of 2.42 acres from AG to CN Commercial Neighborhood at Washington and Lynn Lane, despite citizen concerns about traffic and potential nightlife uses. - PT 2421-2025: The Council voted unanimously to table the conditional final plat for Oklahoma I-Os Land Company due to a major change in the plat design (extending a cul-de-sac) that requires new Planning Commission review before a final vote. - Comp Plan 2424-2025: The Council approved changing 99.52 acres to Comprehensive Plan Level 7 (FD) to facilitate the Arrow Forge Innovation District, aimed at advanced manufacturing and technology jobs. - Easement Closures: The Council adopted Ordinances 3895 and 3896 to close 15-foot-wide easements on the Oakmont Hills LLC property, including emergency clauses. Key Outcomes - Bond Package Direction: Council received the administration's update and set a December 16th action date to move forward with the 2026 bond election, which will likely appear on the April 7, 2026, ballot. - Construction Awards: - Approved award to TriStar Construction ($4M+) for 23rd St to Old Highway 51. (Motion passed, Rollcall approved). - Approved award to Becco Contractors for Aspen to Olive mile of Houston Street. (Motion passed, Rollcall approved). - Approved Myers Cherry Construction GMP for Justice Center expansion ($4.5M base, with alternates under consideration). (Motion passed, Rollcall approved). - Zoning Approvals: - Approved BAZ 2310-2025 (Kenosha/ONEDA) with drainage/lighting compliance conditions. - Approved PUD 2428-2025 and BAZ 2425-2025 (New Orleans/Lynn Lane) subject to the amendment that a gate is NOT required at the Lynn Lane entrance. - Approved BAZ 2231-2025 (Washington/Lynn Lane). - Zoning Tables: - PT 2421-2025 (Oklahoma I-Os) was tabled pending Planning Commission review of the plat changes. - Credit Rating: Standard & Poor's upgraded the City of Broken Arrow's credit rating from Double A Negative (A-) to Double A (A+), a significant step that will reduce borrowing costs for future projects. - Administrative Recognition: City Manager highlighted the city's 23 consecutive state championships for the "Pride of Broken Arrow" band, the success of the Veterans Day parade, and the holiday kickoff schedule beginning November 13th. - Veterans Count: HR Director confirmed approximately 110 veterans (over 12%) currently serve or have served in the city's workforce of 900+ employees.

The Drainage Advisory Committee convened to review the status of Proposition Six bond funds, discuss drainage crises in three specific subdivisions, and vote on recommendations for design expenditures to mitigate flooding and protect critical infrastructure. Staff presented a financial overview of the 2018 bond, noting that while all funds are allocated, closeout procedures are underway to potentially return unspent balances. The committee then reviewed and unanimously approved three distinct drainage improvement projects. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting minutes of July 28, 2025 (Agenda Item 3). - No items were removed from the consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Leanne Lake (Resident, 1909 East Winston Street): Expressed severe frustration regarding chronic water saturation in her backyard since moving in October 2022. She testified that the builder (Shaw/Horton) failed to construct necessary drainage features, resulting in water accumulating inches from her brick porch. She noted that despite installing five drains and a pump at her own expense, her yard remains unusable for weeks after rain. Discussion Items - Proposition Six Bond Status (Staff Update): Patrick Wilson, Stormwater Division Manager, reported on the 2018 General Obligation Bond (voted at $5.5 million). He stated that 70 applications were received, 59 recommended to council, and 34 projects are now in closeout. - Staff noted that $567,169.50 is allocated for Broken Arrow Creek and $105,384.12 is unallocated "Unnamed" funds available for any basin. - Staff recommended continuing Proposition Six in the 2026 general obligation bond, with a proposed ask of roughly $5 million, alongside a $6 million Proposition 5 (stormwater) fund. - Tucson Village 2 (Subitem A, Case 25-018): Staff presented an issue where a designed 60-foot drainage swale was omitted during construction in 2020, causing 46 CFS of flow onto private property. Videos showed severe erosion, undercutting sidewalks, and spring water bubbling up due to the high water table. Residents unanimously agreed prior to this meeting that they desired help. Staff requested $65,000 for design improvements and noted that cost-sharing arrangements with the developer (Horton) are under discussion. - 6100 Center Commercial Subdivision (Subitem B, Case 25-020): Staff described a 40-year-old "Fabriform" concrete channel (fabric-lined concrete) that has deteriorated, causing erosion that threatens an existing 8-inch sanitary sewer line and overhead utility poles owned by 60 property owners (approximately 80 companies). The channel drains into Floral Haven Creek (a tributary to Hakey Creek). Due to the age of the project, it was not placed in a public easement. Property owners expressed strong support for the city's involvement in the design to protect their infrastructure and jobs, agreeing to dedicate drainage easements. Staff requested $5,000 for design improvements. - East Natchez Street and Lynn Lane (Subitem C, Case 25-019): Staff discussed a severe flooding issue in a residential area adjacent to Indian Springs Country Club and Broken Arrow Creek. During a 2.2% chance (approximately 45-year) storm event in spring, overland flow overtopped a homeowner's berm and exposed a critical 60-inch (5-foot diameter) sanitary sewer trunk line feeding the wastewater treatment plant. The current system, designed under older criteria, utilized streets as conveyance during heavy events. Staff requested $75,000 for design improvements to mitigate overland flow and protect the trunk line, ensuring the system can handle a 100-year event today. Key Outcomes - Tucson Village 2: Approved a motion to recommend to City Council the expenditure of $65,000 for drainage design improvements (Case No. 25-018). Vote: 6-0 (Hamilton, Wallace, Pickle, Parks, Mason, Hendricks). - 6100 Center: Approved a motion to recommend to City Council the expenditure of $5,000 for drainage design improvements to the 6100 Center Subdivision (Case No. 25-020). Vote: 6-0. - East Natchez/Lynn Lane: Approved a motion to recommend to City Council the expenditure of $75,000 for design of drainage improvements and protection of the sanitary sewer trunk line (Case No. 25-019). Vote: 6-0. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following the roll call vote. - Correction: Staff corrected the record stating that the crossroad culvert on 9th Street was not part of the East Natchez project, contrary to the written packet, and that only the riprap protection at that location is included.

The City of Broken Air Drainage Advisory Committee convened at 6:00 PM on October 27, 2025, to discuss three major drainage improvement projects. However, the committee confirmed it did not have a quorum and could not take any official votes or actions. Instead, staff and property owners presented detailed evidence regarding severe drainage failures in residential and commercial areas to inform future bond proposals and design studies. A special meeting will be scheduled shortly to attempt actions before the holiday season, and attendees were invited to sign in to document their support for the proposals. Public Comments & Testimony - Jerry Will (Resident, East Natchez/Lynn Lane): Expressed strong concern regarding sleepless nights during heavy rain events and stated a desire to protect his home and family. He voiced full support for any committee action to address the drainage issues affecting his property. - Kenneth Hall (Property Owner Representative, 6100 Center Commercial): Confirmed that all owners in the commercial subdivision were present and expressed 100% support for moving forward with design improvements via the 2018 bond program (Prop 6). He noted the properties have been great to work with and requested inclusion in the bond issue. Discussion Items - Tucson Village 2 Subdivision (Item 6A, 25-1123): - Presenter: Patrick Wilson (Stormwater Division Manager). - Issue: A "missing overland drainage swell" was not constructed along the southern property line during the 2021 platting. Water currently flows across yards and through fences to the street, overwhelming the street system. - Details: The area is adjacent to an unincorporated section of Tulsa County. While FEMA maps show properties removed from the floodplain post-construction, standing water and marshy conditions persist due to the lack of the designed drainage easement. - Public Input: Residents attended an informal meeting on September 4, 2025, and unanimously expressed willingness to work with the city to alleviate drainage concerns. - Proposal: Recommendation to expend funds for a drainage design study to address the missing swell. - 6100 Center Commercial Subdivision (Item 6B, 25-1123): - Presenter: Patrick Wilson and Kenneth Hall. - Issue: A 40-year-old "fabriform" concrete channel constructed in 1985 is severely deteriorated. The fabric layer is separating, allowing water to flow underneath, causing erosion, undercutting the channel, and threatening nearby utility poles and an 8-inch sanitary sewer line. - Details: The channel drains approximately 20 acres from the commercial area plus an additional 10+ acres from Commerce Crossing and parts of Floral Haven Cemetery. There is no dedicated drainage easement; the city only has access over the sewer line. Access to utilities is difficult, requiring coordination with Floral Haven or private owners. - Proposal: Recommendation to expend design funds to plan a new channel that protects utilities and secures necessary easements from individual property owners (approx. 88 businesses on 60 parcels). - East Natchez Street and Lynn Lane (Item 6C, 25-1527): - Presenter: Patrick Wilson. - Issue: A 60-inch sanitary sewer trunk line is located in the embankment of a private pond, adjacent to a residential house. During a recent "micro burst" (2.5 inches in 45 minutes), water from Natchez Street crossed over 9th Street, jumped a man-made berm, and impacted the property. - Details: The area has 17 acres of drainage; the street itself acts as the conveyance for water from upstream subdivisions built in 1980 and 1984. Erosion has occurred previously, with riprap installed in 2021 that is now being tested by heavier flows. - Proposal: Recommendation to expend design funds to analyze the pond outlet structure and mitigate street flooding, potentially by adding inlets or piping water to a nearby concrete-lined channel. The landowner has previously expressed willingness to allow work on private property. Key Outcomes - Quorum Status: The committee lacks a quorum; therefore, no motions, votes, or authorizations were taken on any agenda items. The meeting was adjourned as an informal discussion. - Next Steps: - The committee intends to schedule a special meeting before the Thanksgiving holiday to attempt to take action on these drainage items. - Meeting frequency may shift to quarterly (last Monday of the month). - A sign-in sheet was circulated to document property owners and residents present, creating a record of public support for the bond proposals. - Bond Context: Staff and owners expressed strong anticipation for utilizing the 2018 Bond Program (Prop 6) to fund the necessary design studies and future construction once a quorum is established.

The Planning Commission convened to hear public hearings on comprehensive plan amendments and Planned Unit Development (PUD) amendments, review the upcoming annual meeting schedule, and address personnel and strategic planning matters. The meeting featured a discussion on the delays in agenda distribution and the introduction of new department leadership. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the Consent Agenda items 4A through 4D. Commissioners discussed that Item 4C would proceed to the City Council on November 17th. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Comments: No members of the public signed up to speak on the items during the public hearing periods. - Commissioner Concerns (Commissioner Gorenson): Expressed full concern regarding potential heavy truck traffic and the proximity of the proposed industrial development to a school zone. The Commissioner noted a pedestrian hybrid beacon exists but questioned if truck restrictions or weights limits might be needed. They also expressed concern about the adequacy of a narrow crosswalk near new residential apartments and inquired about lane counts and traffic analysis specifics. - Staff/Commissioner Explanation: Staff and Commissioners explained that the site is located on an arterial road near a creek turnpike and that a roundabout was recently added to the plat to accommodate truck traffic. They noted that the spine road was designed for truck access and a traffic light at the district exit is anticipated, alongside pedestrian crossings. - Commissioner Townsend: Expressed frustration with receiving agendas less than 24 hours in advance, citing internet outage issues as a compounding factor that prevented thorough review. He argued for a stricter deadline for applicants to submit information to ensure timely distribution. He also noted that receiving agendas on the Friday prior is beneficial for site visits when daylight is available. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Amendment (Comp 002424-2025): - Proposal: Request to change the designation for 99.52 acres of the AeroForge Innovation District from Level 3, 6, and floodway to Level 7 and floodplain greenway. This change aims to facilitate future Heavy Industrial zoning. - Staff Position: Recommended approval, noting the project aligns with the 2018 bond for an innovation district and offers economic growth opportunities. Staff confirmed water and sewer are available and noted the property is largely outside the 100-year floodplain, though part is within it. - Commissioner Deliberation: Commissioner Gorenson raised specific concerns about pedestrian safety near a school speed zone and potential semi-truck traffic, questioning if restrictions should be placed on the road. Staff clarified that the intersection has been widened and a roundabout is being constructed. Commissioner Payne suggested a pedestrian hybrid beacon (flasher) could be effective if one is not already present, but staff confirmed one exists. - PUD Amendment (PUD-002431-2025): - Proposal: A minor amendment to PUD 124 to reduce the western building setback from 30 feet to 28.5 feet to allow for the expansion of existing mini-storage buildings. - Staff Position: Recommended approval, stating it is the only change, all city departments have no objections, and the property is not in a 100-year floodplain. - Commissioner Deliberation: Commissioner Townsend reiterated concerns about the late delivery of the agenda, calling it a "good excuse" for his inability to review the item fully. Staff confirmed the agenda was intended for Friday but arrived late due to applicant delays. - Planning Commission Schedule: - The Commission discussed setting meeting times for the upcoming year, debating between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM. - Positions: Commissioners Townsend, Payne, and Clempa expressed full support for the 5:30 PM slot to allow maximum public participation, while Commissioner Cohen initially suggested 1:00 PM. The consensus was to maintain the 5:30 PM time to accommodate working residents and public attendance. The schedule will be forwarded to City Council as informational. - Downtown Master Plan Advisory Committee: - Status: Staff reported the City Council approved the formation of a committee to study the area from 71st to 91st Street (Main Street to Elm and Lin Lanes). - Nomination: The Commission nominated Commissioners Mindy Payne and J. Lee Clempa to serve as the Planning Commission's representatives. - Positions: Commissioners unanimously supported their own nomination and encouraged others to participate in the 18-20 member committee expected to focus on land use, economic factors, and potential district redefinitions (e.g., "Patriot District"). - Staff Updates & Personnel: - New Hires: Staff welcomed Jane (returning employee) and Rebecca Blaine (new Planning and Development Manager) to the team. - New Orleans Square Overlay: Staff indicated a review is underway to determine if the overlay is too restrictive for developers (citing the McDonald's example) and may recommend changes or a complete revision to City Council. - Subdivision Regulations: Confirmed still under review and not yet finalized. Key Outcomes - Approved (Item 6A - Comp 002424-2025): Motion to approve the Comprehensive Plan change for AeroForge Innovation District passed with a roll call vote of 4 Yes (Townsend, Clempa, Cohen, Gorenson) and 1 No (Payne). The item will go to City Council on November 17th. - Approved (Item 6B - PUD-002431-2025): Motion to approve the minor PUD amendment for the mini-storage setback change passed unanimously (5 Yes). This item does not go to City Council. - Approved (Item 8A): Motion to approve the Planning Commission meeting schedule for the upcoming year passed unanimously. The schedule is informational for the Council. - Approved (Item 8B - Nomination): Motion to nominate Mindy Payne and J. Lee Clempa to the Downtown Master Plan Advisory Committee passed unanimously (5 Yes). - Discussion: Commissioners expressed mixed positions on the timing of agenda distribution; some supported the current Friday deadline for site visit purposes, while others argued for stricter applicant deadlines to allow for earlier review.

The Broken Arrow City Council convened on October 21, 2025, to review results from a voter preference survey regarding a potential sales tax proposition for public sports facility improvements, consider additional general obligation bond series, and address various municipal development and policy items. The meeting featured presentations on a new downtown master plan, the approval of a film festival, and the adoption of ordinances related to the Oklahoma Food Truck Freedom Act and municipal firearms carrying. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously with no items removed. Public Comments & Testimony - Survey Participation: Council members thanked the public for high turnout at the third public forum, with 3,304 survey responses (88% from registered voters) indicating support for the sports facility proposition. - Film Industry Representatives: Cassidy Loonman (Red Clay Studios) invited council members to visit the set of the "Live Like That" movie and discussed the economic impact of film incentives. - Community Members: Concerns were raised regarding potential flooding and land use (e.g., dispensaries) on a specific zoning amendment property, prompting clarification from staff that no specific use had been proposed yet. - General Public: Several speakers congratulated Vice Mayor Wimpe and City Manager Spurgeon on their induction into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Honor and promoted upcoming Veterans and Pride of Broken Arrow marching band events. Discussion Items - Item 7A: Public Sports Facilities Survey Results - Director Shannon presented survey results showing 68% of respondents support a temporary half-cent sales tax increase to fund $400 million in capital improvements (transportation, public safety, parks) over five years. - Counselor Green expressed full support for the proposition, citing the immediate need for facility improvements and the desire for construction to begin within five years rather than a decade. - Council deliberated on adding this as a potential eighth proposition alongside six existing bond items. Staff noted that if passed, design would begin immediately. - Item 9B: New Municipal Services Building Subcommittee - Director of Engineering Construction Charlie Bright proposed selecting two council members to serve on a subcommittee for the new city hall design at Washington and Main Street. - Council members expressed varying positions: Councilor Green expressed a desire to serve on the committee to stay informed on the design process, while others preferred reviewing recommendations from the full council periodically rather than attending weekly technical meetings. - A motion was passed to appoint Councilors Lisa (Green) and Justin to the subcommittee to engage in real-time design decision-making. - Item 9C/D: Bond Series Authorization - Council discussed the remaining 2026 obligation bond package, aiming to reduce the total from $600 million to $404 million based on community priorities. - Resolution 1711 (Series 2025 A, $13.795M) and Resolution 1712 (Series 2025 B, $2.5M for drainage) were approved to proceed toward a December closing. - Item 9F: Broadband Provider Regulation - Assistant Attorney General Trevor Burrus clarified that the City can regulate broadband providers via permit fees but generally cannot impose franchise fees on pure information service providers (like Metronet) without a franchise agreement, as Oklahoma Constitution grants telephone companies (telecommunications providers) statewide franchises. - Councilor Green expressed strong support for increasing accountability and permitting fees for all right-of-way users to address issues with sinkholes and lack of restoration. - Councilor Spurgeon expressed caution regarding franchise fees, noting that such fees are passed on to consumers and may increase bills for non-franchised customers if not applied equitably. - Staff was directed to review permitting fees and potential right-of-way rental fees. - Item 9G/H: Film Festival and Incentives - Proposal Approvals: The council approved a $50,000 grant from hotel tax funds for the inaugural Broken Arrow Film Festival & Convention and a film rebate of up to $53,750 for the production "Live Like That Movie LLC." - Presenters expressed strong positions that these events will significantly boost tourism, local spending, and community culture without requiring future city general tax dollars. - Item 9I: Comprehensive Plan Amendment - Proposal Approval: A change to the comprehensive plan designation from Level 3 to Level 4 for 2.42 acres at Washington and Lin Lane Road was approved, aligning with surrounding CN (Community Neighborhood) commercial designations. - Staff clarified that the property is currently unplatted and intended to be marketed for commercial use, with specific zoning to be determined by a future rezoning request. - Item 10 & 11 (Ordinances): - Ordinance 3980 (Downtown Master Plan): Council approved the formation of a 18-20 member committee to study the next phase of the Rose District development. - Ordinance 3898 (Food Truck Freedom Act): Adopted to comply with state law. - Ordinance 3897 (Concealed Carry for Officials): Adopted to recognize the 2025 state law change allowing elected officials to carry concealed firearms. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed: Authorization to add a potential eighth proposition to the April 7, 2026 ballot to fund public sports facility improvements via a half-cent sales tax, pending final package formulation by January 2026. - Appointment: Councilors Lisa (Green) and Justin appointed to the Municipal Services Building Subcommittee. - Resolutions Approved: Resolution 1711 ($13.795M) and Resolution 1712 ($2.5M) for General Obligation Bonds Series 2025 A and B. - Grants Approved: $50,000 for the Broken Arrow Film Festival Convention and up to $53,750 in incentives for "Live Like That" movie production. - Ordinances Adopted: 3894 (Food Truck Freedom Act), 3897 (Concealed Carry), and 3898 (Downtown Master Plan Committee formation). - Direction Given: Staff to investigate permit fees and right-of-way occupancy fees to increase accountability for utility providers (e.g., Metronet, Windstream). - Committee Formation: 18-20 member Downtown Master Plan committee to be finalized with two representatives per council member and other stakeholders. - Administrative: New Economic Development Director Travis Stevens introduced; Vice Mayor Wimpe and City Manager Spurgeon honored as Military Hall of Honor inductees.