A review: Lyric’s ‘Concerto’ a must see
Lyric Theatre “Concerto”
Written by Alan
Olejniczak
Music by Pyotr
Tchaikovsky
Ilyich
Musical Supervisor
Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate
Directed by Michael Baron
World premier!
By Franci Hart
Theatre Critic
“Concerto,” an intensely emotional drama, combines the best of the arts that
OKC has to offer. With superlative performances by Matthew Alvin Brown (Tchaikovsky), Kris Schinske (von Meck) and Sheridan McMichael (Kotel) and musical excellence of Joad Pedro Pena Dutra on the piano and Samuel Gilles on violin, “Concerto,” as an artistic collaboration between Lyric’s Michael Baron and the OKC Phil’s Maestro Alexander Michelthwate. It
showcases Oklahoma City arts in a world premiere.
“Concerto” is based on over 1,200 letters written between Tchaikovsky and von Meck, his very wealthy patroness. The two never met, yet developed a friendship lasting over 13 years. Among the lighter moments are the two sharing their opinions, often contradictory, of Mozart, Beethoven, Wagner, Brahms and Mendelssohn.
Tchaikovsky’s troubled relationship with his protégé Kotel, who worked for von Meck, is included in the narrative, creating adult situations on stage. Woven within
this powerful story about the creation of art are musical excepts from some of the most beloved classics and of course Tchaikovsky. “Concerto” is about Tchaikovsky, his struggles with his art, finances and loves.
Schinske’s von Meck is very subtle with only slight facial expressions or slight changes of posture to express emotions. Thus, her tumultuously, emotional firing of Kotel for being caught with one of her maids is powerfully felt. Brown’s Tchaikovsky is all emotion, though never over played. He is either pulling his hair, waving his
Dear Wise Elder: I am retired, drawing Social Security benefits and on Medicare, but I still have medical bills I can’t pay. How do I apply for Medicaid in Oklahoma?
Dear Medicaid: Qualifying and applying for Medicaid in Oklahoma involves several steps. To be eligible, applicants must meet certain income and asset criteria, as well as other requirements based on age, disability, or family circumstances. Determine eligibility: Check the income and asset limits for the specific Medicaid program you are applying for, such as SoonerCare (Oklahoma's Medicaid program for low-income individuals and families). Gather necessary documents: Collect docu-
hands scowling, smiling and all of the above, contrasting nicely with Schinske’s understated performance.
McSheridan’s Kotel is slimy, untrustworthy, ambitious and it works. His use of body language is nicely done.
Bravo to the two musicians Dutra and Gilles for stellar performances of so many classical excerpts.
The magnificent set by Uldarico Sarmiento consist of two Russian rooms separated by the piano and violin stand, allowing the musicians to be on stage throughout the production, yet not detracting from the
ments like proof of identity, citizenship, income, assets, and medical expenses. Apply online or in person: You can apply through the Oklahoma Health Care Authority website or visit your local Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) office to complete the application. Seeking assistance from a Medicaid caseworker or a community organization can help navigate the process and increase the chances of a successful application. Attending a VillagesOKC GIFT workshop may connect you with professionals who can help guide the process.
- Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org, (405) 990 6637
flow of the narrative. Look for the details added to denote wealth.
Jeffrey Meek’s costumes, especially von Meck’s are a delight.
“Concerto’s” author Olejniczak worked closely with Lyric staff and the Maestro in the development of this world premiere. It is a part of Lyric’s New Works Initiative, began in 2014, whose purpose is to develop and produce new works.
“Concerto” will play at Lyric’s Plaza Theater through Oct. 1. One will be delighted with the music and mesmerized by the story. “Concerto” is a must see production.
Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, September 22, 2023, Page 10
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Editorial Page
OPINION O O UR UR S S TAND TAND OKC FRIDAY Nichols Hills Publishing Company PHONE 405-755-3311 www.okcfriday.com 10801 N. Quail Plaza Drive, OKC PO Box 20340 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 VICKI CLARK GOURLEY, CEO & Publisher ROSE LANE, Editor & Deputy Publisher MARY McCUTCHEON, Publisher’s Assistant GINA NICHOLS, Advertising Account Exec. JASON JEWELL, Production Mgr., Web & Sports
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OPINION
Editor
M EMBER OF You can have your ad here! $20 a week. Call (405) 755-3311 for
OPINION to: vicki@okcfriday.com
details.
The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows:
Improvement, rehabilitation and repair of the City’s water system, including water lines, water well collection lines and water wells, water system equipment, utility and paving repair and relocation, easement acquisition, engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $1,210,000
PROPOSITION NO. 3 (SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Two Million
Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($2,300,000) to provide funds for the purpose of repairing, rehabilitating and improving the City’s sanitary sewer system, to include as necessary, utility and paving repair and relocation, and engineering, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
The specific projects for which the proceeds of the aforesaid bonds shall be expended, which may be accomplished through participation with other governmental agencies and others, and which may be accomplished in phases, and the dollar amounts for each project shall be as follows:
Project Description Costs
1.Repair, rehabilitate and improve approximately 9,000 linear feet of sanitary sewer lines, to include as necessary, related facilities, utility and paving repair and relocation, engineering and design. $2,200,000 The balance of said funds shall be used as follows: Sanitary sewer system improvements, to include as necessary, related facilities, utility and paving repair and relocation, engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $100,000
PROPOSITION NO.
thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
The specific projects for which the proceeds of the aforesaid bonds shall be expended, which may be accomplished through participation with other governmental agencies and others, and which may be accomplished in phases, and the dollar amounts for each project shall be as follows:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: COSTS
1.Purchase of light duty fleet vehicles for fire department, and related equipment. $100,000
2.Purchase of medium duty fire and emergency vehicles for fire department, and related equipment. $150,000 The balance of said funds shall be used as follows: Fire department improvements and equipment; and, expenses of the bond issue. $50,000 PROPOSITION NO. 5 (TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) to provide funds for the purpose of acquiring and installing technology improvements, facilities and equipment to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semiannually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
The specific projects for which the proceeds of the aforesaid bonds shall be expended, which may be accomplished through participation with other governmental agencies and others, and which may be accomplished in phases, and the dollar amounts for each project shall be as follows:
Project Description Costs
1.Acquire and install Cox drive and update Digital twin 3D mapping Software. $40,000
2.Acquire and replace two PBX phone systems at the City’s Public Works Complex and City Hall. $75,000
3. Upgrade software used for finance, utility billing, personnel, payroll, permits and licensing. $85,000
4.Replacement of mainframe computer system and upgrades. $250,000
The balance of said funds shall be used as follows:
Technology improvements; and, expenses of the bond issue. $50,000
PROPOSITION NO. 6 (PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) to provide funds for the purpose of improving and equipping the City’s Public Works Complex and facilities, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
The specific projects for which the proceeds of the aforesaid bonds shall be expended, which may be accomplished through participation with other governmental agencies and others, and which may be accomplished in phases, and the dollar amounts for each project shall be as follows:
Project Description Costs
1. Construct, install and equip additional parking canopy at the City’s Public Works Complex. $600,000
2. Construct, install and equip additional garage and storage facilities at The City’s Public Works Complex. $250,000
3. Renovate, improve and equip Public Works Administration Building at the City’s Public Works Complex. $100,000
The balance of said funds shall be used as follows:
Improvement and equipping of the City’s Public Works Complex, along with related design and engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $50,000
PROPOSITION NO. 7 (PARKS)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000), to provide funds for the purpose of improving and equipping parks, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twentyfive years from their date?
The specific projects for which the proceeds of the aforesaid bonds shall be expended, which may be accomplished through participation with other governmental agencies and others, and which may be accomplished in phases, and the dollar amounts for each project shall be as follows: Project Description Costs
1. Construct, improve and equip parking lot for Grand Boulevard Park, including related design and engineering. $150,000
2.Acquire and install security camera system for Grand Boulevard and Love Parks, and related walking trails, sport fields, and parking areas. $300,000
3.Install Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility improvements in City parks. $250,000
4.Install playground equipment at Davis Park. $75,000 The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows: Improving and equipping City parks, which may include dog waste stations, trash receptacles, landscaping, fitness equipment, related design and engineering; and, expenses
fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date? The specific projects for which the proceeds of the aforesaid bonds shall be expended, which may be accomplished through participation with other governmental agencies and others, and which may be accomplished in phases, and the dollar amounts for each project shall be as follows:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:1 COSTS
1. Purchase police vehicles and related equipment, along
prescribed by
for conducting county and state elections and the numbers and locations of the polling places and the names the persons who conduct said election shall be the same as for county and state elections, all as respectively designated and prescribed by the county election board for Oklahoma County; the polls for said special election shall be opened at 7:00 o’clock a.m. and shall remain open continuously until and be closed at 7:00 o’clock p.m.; and the returns of said election shall be made to and canvassed by the Oklahoma County Election Board as provided by law
SECTION 3. That with respect to the election to be held on October 10, 2023:
a.The Secretary of the Oklahoma County Election Board shall be notified that a special municipal election shall be held in The City of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on October 10, 2023, in order to submit to the registered, qualified voters of said City of ten (10) propositions for the issuance of general obligation registered bonds of the City in the total amount of Forty Million, Eight Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($40,850,000).
b.The exact wording of the bond issue proposition to be submitted to the registered, qualified voters of the City is set forth in Section 1 above (Propositions No.1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10).
c. The question of the approval of Propositions No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 shall be decided by voting by the qualified, registered voters who reside within the limits and boundaries of the City.
d.The special election shall be of a nonpartisan nature.
e.The election laws of the State of Oklahoma shall apply to the special election.
f. That the City Clerk is directed to immediately submit to the Oklahoma County Election Board (i) this resolution, (ii) a current certified copy of the Charter of the City as required by Section 13-109 of Title 26 of the Oklahoma Statutes (iii) a current map defining the municipal limits and ward boundaries of the City as required by Section 13-107 of Title 26 of the Oklahoma Statutes and (iv) any other information or documents which the said Secretary of the County Election Board may request.
SECTION 4. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Resolution is, for any reason, held invalid or unconstitutional, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and independent provision and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Resolution.
SECTION 5. EMERGENCY SECTION. That by reason of the inadequacy of the streets and public utilities enumerated in Section 1 hereof, the life, health, safety and property of the inhabitants of said City are in danger and by reason of the imminent need for improving the streets and public utilities of the City, it is therefore deemed and hereby declared necessary for the immediate preservation of peace, welfare, health and safety, that said improvements shall be made and this election be held without delay, and that this Resolution shall become operative immediately; wherefore, an emergency is hereby declared to exist and this Resolution shall be in force and effect immediately from and after its passage and approval.
ADOPTED by the Council and APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, on July 11, 2023.
Sody M. Clements (SEAL) Mayor ATTEST: Amanda Copeland City Clerk STATE OF OKLAHOMA ) ) SS COUNTY OF OKLAHOMA )
I, the undersigned, the duly qualified and acting City Clerk of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and complete copy of a Resolution authorizing the calling and holding of an election for the purpose therein set out adopted by the governing body of said municipality and Transcript of Proceedings of said governing body at a special meeting thereof held on the date therein set out, insofar as the same relates to the introduction, reading and adoption thereof as the same appear of record in my office.
Notice of the schedule of regular meetings of the governing body of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma for the calendar year 2023 having been given in writing to the City Clerk of said City at 5:30 o’clock p.m. on October 11, 2022, and public notice of this meeting, setting forth the date, time, place and agenda (as attached hereto) was posted at 5:32 o’clock p.m., July 7, 2023, by posting on the City’s Internet website (www.nicholshills.net) the date, time, place and agenda for the meeting in accordance with Section 3106.2 of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes, and was posted at the place of this meeting in prominent view and open to the public twenty-four (24) hours each day, seven (7) days each week at 6:00 o’clock p.m., on July 7, 2023, each being twenty-four (24) hours or more prior to this meeting, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and State designated legal holidays, all in compliance with the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act. Further, as required by 25 O.S. § 311A(9)(b), the City made the notice of this public meeting available to the public in the principal office of the public body (6407 Avondale Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma) during normal business hours at least twenty–four (24) hours prior to the meeting.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said City on July 11, 2023.
Amanda Copeland City Clerk (SEAL)
MINUTES ADOPTING SPECIAL ELECTION PROCLAMATION AND NOTICE
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA, MET IN REGULAR SESSION IN COUNCIL CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL, ALSO KNOWN AS TOWN HALL, 6407 AVONDALE DR., IN SAID CITY ON JULY 11, 2023, AT 5:30 P.M.
PRESENT:CLEMENTS, HOFFMAN, GOETZINGER
ABSENT:NONE
Notice of the schedule of regular meetings of the governing body of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma for the calendar year 2023 having been given in writing to the City Clerk of said City at 5:30 o’clock p.m. on October 11, 2022, and public notice of this meeting, setting forth the date, time, place and agenda (as attached hereto) was posted at 5:32 o’clock p.m., July 7, 2023, by posting on the City’s Internet website (www.nicholshills.net) the date, time, place and agenda for the meeting in accordance with Section 3106.2 of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes, and was posted at the place of this meeting in prominent view and open to the public twenty-four (24) hours each day, seven (7) days each week at 6:00 o’clock p.m., on July 7, 2023, each being twenty-four (24) hours or more prior to this meeting, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and State designated legal holidays, all in compliance with the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act. Further, as required by 25 O.S. § 311A(9)(b), the City made the notice of this public meeting available to the public in the principal office of the public body (6407 Avondale Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma) during normal business hours at least twenty–four (24) hours prior to the meeting.
(OTHER PROCEEDINGS)
Thereupon, the Mayor introduced Special Election Proclamation and Notice and upon motion by Councilmember Goetzinger seconded by Councilmember Hoffman said was adopted by the following vote:
AYE:CLEMENTS, HOFFMAN, GOETZINGER NAY:NONE
Said Special Election Proclamation and Notice was thereupon signed by the Mayor, attested by the City Clerk, sealed with the seal of said City, and is provided herewith. (To be published in okcFRIDAY on ___, ___, and ___, 2023) SPECIAL ELECTION PROCLAMATION AND NOTICE
I, SODY CLEMENTS, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM AS FOLLOWS:
1. Under and by virtue of Section 27, Article 10 of the Oklahoma Constitution and the Statutes of the State of Oklahoma, and the laws of the State of Oklahoma, and acts complementary, supplementary, and enacted pursuant thereto, and Resolution dated July 11, 2023, of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, authorizing the calling of an election for the purposes hereinafter set forth, as adopted and approved by the Council of said City on July 11, 2023, I, the undersigned Mayor of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, do hereby call a special City-wide election and give notice thereof to be held in the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, on October 10, 2023, for the purpose of submitting to the registered, qualified voters of said City the following Propositions:
PROPOSITION NO. 1 (STREETS)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, State of Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing its registered bonds in the sum of Twenty Eight Million Dollars ($28,000,000), to provide funds for the purpose of constructing, reconstructing, repairing and improving streets and sidewalks, including as necessary, related engineering, right-of-way acquisition, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, drainage, equipment, and intersection improvements, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
PROPOSITION NO. 2
(WATER SYSTEM)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Six Million Dollars ($6,000,000), to provide funds for the purpose of improving, rehabilitating, repairing and equipping the City’s water system, including new and rehabilitated water wells and water lines, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
PROPOSITION NO. 3
(SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Two Million
Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($2,300,000) to provide funds for the purpose of repairing, rehabilitating and improving the City’s sanitary sewer system, to include as necessary, utility and paving repair and relocation, and engineering, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially
Legals Oklahoma
22, 2023, Page 12
City FRIDAY, Friday, September
4 (FIRE) Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000) to provide funds for acquiring and equipping fire and emergency vehicles, and other fire department improvements and equipment; all to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal
of the bond issue. $225,000 PROPOSITION NO. 8 (POLICE) Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($800,000) to provide funds for the purpose of purchasing police vehicles and related equipment, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking
with expenses of the bond issue. $700,000 The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows: Acquiring and equipping police vehicles and related equipment; and, expenses of the bond issue. $100,000 PROPOSITION NO. 9 (PUBLIC WORKS VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT) Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars ($700,000) to provide funds for the purpose of purchasing public works vehicles and related equipment, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date? The specific projects for which the proceeds of the aforesaid bonds shall be expended, which may be accomplished through participation with other governmental agencies and others, and which may be accomplished in phases, and the dollar amounts for each project shall be as follows: PROJECT DESCRIPTION: COSTS 1. Purchase and equip street sweeper. $250,000 2. Purchase and equip sanitation truck. $400,000 The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows: Acquiring and equipping Public Works vehicles and equipment, which may include acquiring and equipping light duty public works vehicles; and, expenses of the bond issue. $50,000 PROPOSITION NO. 10 (TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS) Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000) to provide funds for the purpose of constructing, acquiring and installing traffic control equipment and improvements, signals, signs and devices, and related engineering, to include pedestrian crosswalk improvements, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date? The specific project for which the proceeds of the aforesaid bonds shall be expended, and the dollar amount for each project shall be as follows: Project Description Costs 1. Install and enhance pedestrian crosswalk improvements at Wilshire Blvd. and McKinley Ave., including related signage, design and engineering. $75,000 2. Install and enhance pedestrian crosswalk improvements in the 1800 Block of Guilford Ave., including related signage, design and engineering. $75,000 3.Install and enhance pedestrian crosswalk improvements at Pennsylvania Ave. and Drury Ln., including related signage, design and engineering. $75,000 The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows: Traffic control system improvements, including related design and engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $25,000 SECTION 2. That such call for said election shall be by Proclamation, signed by the Mayor and attested by the City
Proposition;
voters
Propositions Numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 above, to be voted upon, substantially as set
at the
Clerk, setting forth the Propositions to be voted upon and the specific projects under each such
the ballots for the registered, qualified
shall set forth
out in Section 1 hereof; the special election shall be held
same places and in the same manner
law
within twenty-five years from their date? PROPOSITION NO. 4 (FIRE) Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000) to provide funds for acquiring and equipping fire and emergency vehicles, and other fire department improvements and equipment; all to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date? LPXLP Continued on Page 13 CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS From Page 11
CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS
PROPOSITION NO. 5 (TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) to provide funds for the purpose of acquiring and installing technology improvements, facilities and equipment to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semiannually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
PROPOSITION NO. 6 (PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) to provide funds for the purpose of improving and equipping the City’s Public Works Complex and facilities, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
PROPOSITION NO. 7 (PARKS)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000), to provide funds for the purpose of improving and equipping parks, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twentyfive years from their date?
PROPOSITION NO. 8 (POLICE)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($800,000) to provide funds for the purpose of purchasing police vehicles and related equipment, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
PROPOSITION NO. 9 (PUBLIC WORKS VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Seven Hundred
Thousand Dollars ($700,000) to provide funds for the purpose of purchasing public works vehicles and related equipment, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
PROPOSITION NO. 10 (TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS)
Shall the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, incur an indebtedness by issuing registered bonds in the sum of Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000) to provide funds for the purpose of constructing, acquiring and installing traffic control equipment and improvements, signals, signs and devices, and related engineering, to include pedestrian crosswalk improvements, to be owned exclusively by said City, to be completed with or without the use of other funds, and levy and collect an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon all the taxable property in said City sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds as it falls due, and also to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of the principal thereof when due, said bonds to be competitively sold and bear interest at the lowest rate not to exceed ten percent (10%) per annum, payable semi-annually, and to become due serially within twenty-five years from their date?
2.The ballot setting out Propositions No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 inclusive, to be submitted to the registered, qualified voters of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, shall set out the ten (10) Propositions set forth above and shall also contain in connection with each Proposition, the following words:
For the above Proposition - Yes
Against the above Proposition – No
If the voter desires to vote for the above proposition, the voter shall complete the arrow “For the above Proposition –Yes,” or otherwise indicate a vote “for” the Proposition in the manner directed by the Oklahoma County Election Board and as permitted by law.
If the voter desires to vote against the above proposition, the voter shall complete the arrow “Against the above Proposition - No,” or otherwise indicate a vote “against” the Proposition in the manner directed by the Oklahoma County Election Board and as permitted by law.
3.Under and by virtue of 62 Okla. Stat. 2021, § 574, and Resolution dated July 11, 2023, of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, a listing of the specific projects for which the bond issue proceeds shall be expended and a further listing of dollar amounts to be expended on each specific project listed under Propositions No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 inclusive, are enumerated as follows:
Proposition No. 1 (Streets):
Project Description Costs
1. Reconstruction of 1800 Block of Windsor Pl., between Huntington Ave. and Hillcrest Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$236,691
2. Resurfacing of 6400-7700 Blocks of Western Ave., between N.W. 63rd St. and Wilshire Blvd., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$629,500
3. Resurfacing of 7600-7800 Ollie Ave., between Western Ave. and Wilshire Blvd., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$96,950
4. Reconstruction of 1200 Block of Larchmont Ln., between Trenton Rd. and Glenwood Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$909,800
5. Reconstruction of 6700 Block of Nichols Rd., between Bedford Dr. and a private drive, which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$429,900
6. Reconstruction of 1500 Block of Camden Way, between Huntington Ave., and Brentwood Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$930,350
7. Reconstruction of 1700 Block of Drakestone Ave., between Pennsylvania Ave. and Stratford Dr., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$1,021,491
8. Reconstruction of 1600 Block of Elmhurst Ave., between Nichols Rd., and Pennsylvania Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$567,840
9. Reconstruction of 1700 Block of Elmhurst Ave., between Pennsylvania Ave. and Stratford Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$918,645
10. Reconstruction of 1800 Block of Guilford Ln., between Stratford Dr. and Dorset Dr., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $834,800
11. Reconstruction of 1600 Block of Westminster Pl., between Nichols Rd. and Pennsylvania Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $1,411,683
12. Reconstruction of 1700 Block of Bedford Dr., between Kingsbury Ln. and Devonshire St., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$754,968
13. Reconstruction of 1800 Block of Drury Ln., between Pennsylvania Ave. and Bedford Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$618,891
14. Reconstruction of 6600 Block of East Grand Blvd.,between Bedford Dr. and Huntington Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$946,491
15. Reconstruction of 1200 Block of Belford Ave., between Trenton Rd. and Avondale Dr., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$702,975
16. Reconstruction of 7000 Block of Nichols Rd., between Avondale Ct. and Wilshire Blvd., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$498,423
17. Reconstruction of 1100 Block of Park Manor Dr., between Western Ave. and Trenton Rd., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$655,200
18. Reconstruction of 1100 Block of Tedford Way, between Western Ave. and Trenton Rd., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$600,600
19.Reconstruction of 6700 Block of Trenton Rd., between Tedford Way and Marlboro Ln., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $275,730
20.Reconstruction of 7100 Block of Waverly Ave., between Avondale Dr. and Wilshire Blvd., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$394,485
21.Reconstruction of 1700 Block of Westminster Pl., between Pennsylvania Ave. and Stratford Dr., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$887,250
22.Reconstruction of 6600 Block of Avondale Dr., between Bedford Dr. and Huntington Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $1,544,600
23. Reconstruction of 1200 Block of Bedford Dr., between Avondale Dr. and N.W. Grand Blvd. (center), which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $858,005
24. Reconstruction of 1400 Block of Camden Way, between Bedford Dr., and Huntington Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $682,500
25. Reconstruction of 1900 Block of Guilford Ln., between Dorset Dr. and Coventry Ln., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $450,450 26. Reconstruction of 1600 Block of Huntington Ave., between Bedford Dr. and Camden Way, which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$287,742
27. Improvements and repair at the 7100 Block of Brentwood, which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $112,500
28.Improvements and repair at Drury and Nichols Road, which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $75,000
29.Reconstruction of 1800 of Westminster Pl., between Stratford Dr., and Greystone Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$1,112,475
30. Reconstruction of 1500 Block of Dorchester Dr., between Waverly Ave. and Nichols Rd., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $1,483,100
31. Reconstruction of 1600 of Dorchester Dr., between Nichols Rd., and Pennsylvania Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$839,475
32.Reconstruction of 1200 Block of Glenbrook Terr., between N.W. 63rd St. and Lenox Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $908,469
33. Reconstruction of 1100 Block of Glenwood Ave., between Trenton Rd. and Western Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $863,970
34.Reconstruction of 1400 Block of Kenliworth Rd., between Nichols Rd. and Waverly Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $1,037,400
35.Reconstruction of 1200 Block of Sherwood Ln., between Avondale Dr. and N.W. Grand Blvd. (center), which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering. $614,250
36.Reconstruction of 1600 Block of Drakestone Ave., between Westminster Pl. and Pennsylvania Ave., which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, and engineering.$610,974
The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows: Constructing, reconstructing, repairing and improving streets, sidewalks and appurtenant facilities, which may include as necessary, related intersection and drainage improvements, utility repair and relocation, traffic control improvements and devices, equipment, engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $2,196,427
Proposition No. 2 (Water System):
Project Description
Costs
1. Replace water line along Bedford Drive between N.W. Grand Blvd. (West) and Western Ave., with related water system improvements. $1,250,000
2. Drill, re-drill, rehabilitate and/or acquire and equip new and existing water wells, including as necessary, related collection lines, well sites and well site improvements including access roads, well houses, fencing, easements, water rights, related facilities, and engineering.$3,000,000
3. Construct and install water line connecting Water Well # 22 (located on the north side of the 900 Block of N.W. 63rd Street) to other water system facilities, along with related water system improvements. $500,000
4.Acquire and install pressure sensors for water system. $40,000
The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows:
Improvement, rehabilitation and repair of the City’s water system, including water lines, water well collection lines and water wells, water system equipment, utility and paving repair and relocation, easement acquisition, engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $1,210,000
Proposition No. 3 (Sanitary Sewer System):
Project Description Costs
1.Repair, rehabilitate and improve approximately 9,000 linear feet of sanitary sewer lines, to include as necessary, related facilities, utility and paving repair and relocation, engineering and design. $2,200,000 The balance of said funds shall be used as follows: Sanitary sewer system improvements, to include as necessary, related facilities, utility and paving repair and relocation, engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $100,000 Proposition No. 4 (Fire): Project Description Costs
1. Purchase of light duty fleet vehicles for fire department, and related
Description Costs
1. Install and enhance pedestrian crosswalk improvements at Wilshire Blvd. and McKinley Ave., including related signage, design and engineering. $75,000
2. Install and enhance pedestrian crosswalk improvements in the 1800 Block of Guilford Ave., including related signage, design and engineering. $75,000
3.Install and enhance pedestrian crosswalk improvements at Pennsylvania Ave. and Drury Ln., including related signage, design and engineering. $75,000
The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows:
Traffic control system improvements, including related design and engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $25,000
4.That only the registered, qualified voters of the City of Nichols HillsiH, Oklahoma, may vote upon the Propositions set forth above.
5.The polls for said special election shall be opened at 7:00 o’clock a.m. and shall remain open continuously until and be closed at 7:00 o’clock p.m.; and that absentee ballots will be authorized in connection with the conduct of the said special election as provided by law.
6.The special election to be held on October 10, 2023, shall be held at the same places and in the same manner prescribed by law for conducting county and state elections and the number and locations of the polling places and the persons who shall conduct said election shall be provided by the Oklahoma County Election Board, all as respectively designated and prescribed by the county election board for Oklahoma County, in accordance with the laws of the State of Oklahoma.
7.The officers conducting said election shall also act as counters and certify the results thereof as required by law.
8.Unless otherwise prescribed by the Election Board of Oklahoma County, the number and location of the polling places for said election shall be as follows:
Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, September 22, 2023, Page 13 Legals
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equipment. $100,000 2.Purchase of medium duty fire and emergency vehicles for fire department, and related equipment. $150,000 The balance of said funds shall be used as follows: Fire department improvements and equipment; and, expenses of the bond issue. $50,000 Proposition No. 5 (Technology Improvements): Project Description Costs 1. Acquire and install Cox drive and update Digital twin 3D mapping Software. $40,000 2.Acquire and replace two PBX phone systems at the City’s Public Works Complex and City Hall. $75,000 3.Upgrade software used for finance, utility billing, personnel, payroll, permits and licensing.$85,000 4.Replacement of mainframe computer system and upgrades.$250,000 The balance of said funds shall be used as follows: Technology improvements; and, expenses of the bond issue. $50,000 Proposition No. 6 (Public Works Facility Improvements): Project Description Costs 1. Construct, install and equip additional parking canopy at the City’s Public Works Complex. $600,000 2. Construct, install and equip additional garage and storage facilities at The City’s Public Works Complex. $250,000 3. Renovate, improve and equip Public Works Administration Building at the City’s Public Works Complex. $100,000 The balance of said funds shall be used as follows: Improvement and equipping of the City’s Public Works Complex, along with related design and engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $50,000 Proposition No. 7 (Parks): Project Description Costs 1. Construct, improve and equip parking lot for Grand Boulevard Park, including related design and engineering. $150,000 2.Acquire and install security camera system for Grand Boulevard and Love Parks, and related walking trails, sport fields, and parking areas. $300,000 3. Install Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility improvements in City parks. $250,000 4. Install playground equipment at Davis Park. $75,000 The balance of said bond funds shall be used as follows: Improving and equipping City parks, which may include dog waste stations, trash receptacles, landscaping, fitness equipment, related design and engineering; and, expenses of the bond issue. $225,000 Proposition No. 8 (Police): Project Description Costs 1. Purchase police vehicles and related equipment, along with expenses of the bond issue.$700,000 The balance of said funds shall be used as follows: Acquiring and equipping police vehicles and related equipment; and, expenses of the bond issue. $100,000 Proposition No. 9 (Public Works Vehicles and Equipment): Project Description Costs 1. Purchase and equip street sweeper.$250,000 2. Purchase and equip sanitation truck.$400,000 The balance of said funds shall be used as follows: Acquiring and equipping Public Works vehicles and equipment, which may include acquiring and equipping light duty public works vehicles; and, expenses of the bond issue. $50,000 Proposition No. 10 (Traffic Control Systems): Project
Precinct 550413, at
Souls Family Life Center, 6404 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma Precinct 550414, at All Souls Family Life Center, 6404 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma Precinct 550415, at Christ The King Church Atrium, 8005 Dorset Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, Precinct 550422, at Christ Central Church, 2715 NW 50th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma The following precinct shall not be open for this election as there are no voters in the precinct: Precinct 550420, at Santa Fe Family Life Center, 6300 N. Santa Fe, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma WITNESS my hand as Mayor of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, and the Seal of said City, both affixed hereto in said City on July 11, 2023. Sody M. Clements Mayor (SEAL) ATTEST: Amanda Copeland City Clerk LPXLP Continued on Page 14
All
JOSEPH HARROZ,
JR.
HARROZ
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Foundation.
Started in 2004, the Wall of Fame was created to honor distinguished Putnam City alumni. Past honorees include Steve Largent, James Marsden, Elizabeth Garrett and Neal McCaleb. The Wall of Fame currently resides in the Putnam City Schools administration building as a collection of the honorees’ portraits.
Board Chair John Milner said, “The PC Foundation is proud of our community relationships and the work we do for our students, staff and families. This event allows us the chance to say thank you to our supporters and honor a new inductee, Mr. Joseph Harroz, Jr. to our Wall of Fame.”
Proceeds from the evening support critical foundation initiatives including the award-winning Communities and Schools
Together (CAST), mentorship programs, and emergency and classroom support grants.
The community is invited to attend. For more information on the event, sponsorship opportunities, and to purchase tickets visit pcf4kids.org or email alyx@putnamcityfoundation. org.
NICHOLS HILLS
voted to amend a city ordinance to allow drivers as young as 13 to operate on city streets that were once off limits. At the time the council unanimously voted to allow residents residing on Pennsylvania Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard to “drive on such streets when taking the most direct route to access other of the city’s streets where operation of golf carts is permitted.”
Prior to the ordinance amendment in 2022, Chapter 44 of City Ordinance 1213 banned golf carts on Pennsylvania Ave, Wilshire Boulevard, Western Avenue, or NW 63.
Children are currently permitted by law to drive a golf cart on city streets with the permission of his or her parent or guardians. The Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club is located at 7000 NW Grand Blvd., one block south of the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard.
“These children don’t obey the street signs and many of our citizens have narrowly escaped disaster because a child has run the stop sign causing the driver to slam on their brakes to avoid catastrophe,” said Mayor Clements. “Obviously these children don’t know state law and I’m thinking that the parents don’t know. I just don’t want to be sitting in this chair when some tragedy happens.
From Page 1 ARENA
“We’ve got to tighten this thing down
and make sure parents are responsible enough to keep these kids from driving these vehicles unsafely,” she said. “We are getting darn close to having a tragedy occur.”
City Manager Shane Pate said one of the challenges the city faces is awareness of the law.
“People say they don’t read the paper or notices in utility bills,” he said. “We put it on our website and email and the children aren’t reading those, and neither are their parents.
“State law is really quite adequate,” he continued. “I think registration is going to be the key thing and to spell out that we’re going to abide by state rules, if not more.”
The Nichols Hills Police Department and councilmembers have received reports of children driving recklessly with them “hanging off all parts of the vehicle.” Children are running stop signs, doing donuts in the street and in city parks.
“We see these golf carts with nine kids hanging off of them!” Pate said.
“Police have said if you see one driving unsafely to call them. We need to clamp this down,” Mayor Clements told the council. “I was actually in favor of saying we can’t have golf carts on the streets, hut I think there are enough lawabiding citizens that would be hurt by that so it’s probably not a good idea.”
Clements reported to the council that the cities of Guthrie and Edmond seem to have come up with rules that deal with the current controversy in Nichols Hills.
“Registering golf carts in the city would let us know where they are and who owns them,” she said. “The main thing is knowing which parents are allowing this behavior.”
Current city ordinances say, “a police officer, upon finding a person in violation of this section may ascertain the name and address of such person and warn that person that he is in violation of this section and direct that person to comply.”
Police Chief Steven Cox reported to the council that “over the last month our officers have found young drivers on the road after dark.”
He encourages parents with questions about the use of golf carts on city streets to reach out to his office.
“I want to see a license plate or permit for these vehicles. That would help us enforce the law,” said Chief Cox, “and maybe even pull their permit to drive the vehicle on the road if they don’t follow the rules.”
Golf carts are currently prohibited from operating on city streets a half hour after sunset or a half hour before sunrise or at any other time when there is not sufficient light or visibility to clearly see the golf cart at a distance of at least 500 feet. Drivers are required to follow all traffic laws and may not exceed 25 mph.
The ordinance states that if a person who “refuses to follow such directions may be punished by a fine as established in the city fine schedule.”
The council has instructed city staff to continue to research what other cities have done to combat this problem.
From Page 1
The move comes after 14 months of public discussion and collaborative dialogue between Oklahoma City leaders and the leadership of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The plan for the new arena and the commitment from the Thunder is conditional on passage by Oklahoma City voters on Dec. 12 of a temporary one-cent sales tax that does not raise taxes. The temporary tax is to start after the conclusion of MAPS 4.
A simple majority of the council is required to place the project in front of voters later this year. A simple majority of voters is also required for passage.
The Thunder’s long-term agreement to stay in Oklahoma City expired earlier this year. However, the Thunder has shown its commitment to
the city by exercising a shortterm extension to allow for a collaborative process to develop a long-term arena solution.
In less than three years from now, there is going to be no legal agreement in place to retain the Thunder in OKC, and it will take years to design and construct a new arena, bringing urgency to the need for a commitment this year.
The city’s current arena is the smallest in the NBA by square footage; it has the second-smallest capital investment of all NBA arenas, and at 21 years old, it is increasingly within range of the oldest arenas in the entire NBA.
The Paycom Center is not capable of securing a longterm lease with an NBA team.
Completion of a new arena and retention of the city’s big league status guarantees the city can continue to receive the benefits it has enjoyed since the Thunder’s arrival in 2008, city officials said. With
the arena, Oklahoma City also maintains its regional competitive position to attract the other major concerts and events that use the arena, retains the international brand and identity of being a big league city, enjoy the community unity the Thunder has brought OKC and the philanthropy that the NBA has delivered to countless causes in the community, they said.
These thoughts were first raised publicly by Mayor Holt over a year ago, in July 2022.
In the mayor’s State of the City address this summer, Holt emphasized the necessity of a new arena.
“Our current downtown arena once represented us well in the world of entertainment and sports, but those days fade and at this point we’re mostly succeeding on sheer grit,” Holt said in his address. “Our management team at the arena is doing a great job marketing us for concerts and shows, but the
building itself is a growing liability.”
The project cost for the new arena is to be a minimum of $900 million. Funding would come from the temporary tax, at least $70 million from MAPS 4 that was previously earmarked for OKC’s downtown arena and a $50 million contribution by the owners of the Oklahoma City Thunder toward the publicly owned arena.
The city and the Thunder agree that their intent is to open the arena in time for the 2029-2030 NBA season, if not sooner.
Holt said a new arena would continue to unite the city.
“... We will still come together as ‘one OKC’ to cheer our team, with a passion that unites us as a community,” he said. “Families will make memories together, kids will dream, and one day we’ll hoist a trophy in Scissortail Park.”
by Gabby James
JM JOURNAL
