Public Works Committee Meeting - April 29, 2026

The Public Works Committee, chaired by Councillor Director Wright, met on April 29, 2026, to consider two appointments to city commissions, discuss the proposed Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG) franchise ordinance, and receive updates on refuse, stormwater, water, and sewer collection fees for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. No votes were taken; the meeting served as a discussion and information session.

Appointments to City Commissions

• Simone Gitten was introduced as a nominee to the Greater Tulsa Area African American Affairs Commission, filling a vacancy. She shared her background as a Tulsa Remote participant, her work in ed-tech, and community involvement. The committee expressed support, and her confirmation vote is scheduled for May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
• Fatima Linares appeared for reappointment to the Greater Tulsa Area Hispanic Latinx Affairs Commission. She has served since 2014 and chairs the education committee, organizing the Tomaji Bera Awards. She attended 9 of 11 meetings and lives in District 4. Her confirmation vote is also set for May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Discussion: Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG) Franchise Ordinance

• Sarah Davis (Council staff) provided an update on the franchise ordinance, which grants a 20-year term at a 4% rate for ONG, with additional funds going to the public ways fund for right-of-way maintenance and corridor enhancements. Key changes include ADA compliance standards (Section 307) and improved coordination for facility relocation (Section 308).
• Justin Frederick (ONG) explained the annual rate review process with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, noting that recent rate increase notices are part of that routine review and not extraordinary.
• The committee discussed the 20-year term, technology updates (removing pager/fax requirements), and the importance of ADA compliance. No vote was taken; a public hearing is scheduled for May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Discussion: Refuse, Stormwater, Water, and Sewer Fee Updates for FY 2026-2027

• Refuse (Terry Ball, TEAR): The current refuse hauling contract expires September 30, 2026, and a new contract with New Solutions begins October 1, 2026, running through 2036 with a five-year renewal option. New trucks with AI camera systems for contamination detection and service verification will be introduced. The residential rate increase is 4%, though underlying costs rose more. Backyard service will be consolidated to a single $20 fee (up from $5.36/$9.43). Optional services (additional carts, bulky waste) will see price increases. The bulky waste fee rises from $10 to $20, but remains subsidized. Green waste changes: TEAR exited the commercial green waste business; a new commercial gate opened. The residential green waste site remains free for residents. The household pollutant disposal facility set a new customer record. TEAR's fund balance is projected to decrease from $14 million to $4.5 million by FY 2030, partially due to inflation and new contracts. The committee discussed the need for public outreach on the new rates and medical exemptions for backyard service.
• Stormwater (Terry Ball): The stormwater utility rate increase is 7%, raising the monthly residential bill to $14.65 (about $0.03/day). The increase supports the 8th year of a 12-year Black & Veatch study, new staff and equipment for MS4 compliance, and capital projects. The stormwater fund relies solely on utility charges. Key projects include Hager Creek storm sewer and 43rd & Sheridan flood mitigation (FEMA BRIC grant pending). The committee discussed private vs. public ownership of detention ponds and the impact of infill development on stormwater systems.
• Water and Sewer (Eric Lee): The water rate increase is planned at 6% (up from 4% originally) and sewer at 3% (down from 5%), balancing the two funds. Major capital needs: $400 million over five years for water system expansion, including expanding AB Jewel treatment capacity and addressing pressure issues in South Tulsa. Sewer capital is $360 million over five years. The committee discussed PFAS monitoring, private sewer line issues, and the need for additional resources for repairs. The utility bill for water and sewer is expected to increase by about $3.90 per month. The cost to replace water lines has more than doubled from $20 per inch-foot to $50.

Key Outcomes

• The appointments of Simone Gitten and Fatima Linares will be voted on by the full council on May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
• The ONG franchise ordinance will be discussed at a public hearing on May 6, 2026, with a first reading and potential vote later.
• The committee acknowledged the proposed fee increases for refuse (4%), stormwater (7%), water (6%), and sewer (3%) for FY 2026-2027, but no formal action was taken. The increases will be part of the budget process.
• TEAR will provide informational materials to council members for public outreach on the new refuse rates and services.
• The water and sewer departments will present a comprehensive compensation study to the council in the coming months.