2025.03.04 Jenks CC / JPWA Meeting 6PM

This meeting of the Jenks City Council, held on March 4th, 2025, covered a range of important local issues. Key discussions included a proposed residential development, changes to land use maps, and updates on city infrastructure projects. The meeting also featured a special presentation from a local student and an update on animal welfare.

A Student's Inspiring Vision

Chloe Graves, a senior at Jenks High School, shared her future plans and a powerful message with the council. After graduating, she plans to pursue a degree in Leadership and Innovation in Science. Her goal is to become a scientist and missionary, potentially starting a nonprofit to combat sex and labor trafficking. She aims to use her scientific knowledge to rebuild communities in countries that might otherwise be inaccessible, focusing on providing essentials like water wells and sustainable farming to create jobs and prevent exploitation.

Chloe also shared a reflection on Matthew 10:39: "If you cling to your life, you will lose it, but if you give up your life for me, you will find it." She emphasized the importance of finding one's identity in faith rather than in accomplishments or external validation. Her prayer was for everyone present to cling to their identity as followers of Christ, regardless of the meeting's outcomes or personal achievements.

Animal Welfare Spotlight

Caleb Foster, the Animal Control Officer for Jenks, provided an update on the city's animal shelter. He introduced Rocket, a German Shepherd available for adoption. Currently, the shelter has four dogs needing homes, and adoption fees are waived for good matches. Foster also announced upcoming adoption events at the new mall, scheduled for the next few months, in partnership with the Humane Society of Tulsa. He highlighted the dogs available: Rocket, Toby (a pit mix known for his love of water), Brazzo (a St. Bernard mix who has been at the shelter the longest), and Creed (a six-year-old boxer who acts as the "fun police" for the other dogs).

Land Use and Zoning Discussions

The council addressed several land use and zoning matters:

• 131st and Harvard Rezoning: A proposal to amend the comprehensive future land use map from local commercial to medium-intensity single-family for a 10-acre parcel was discussed. The developer, Mr. Russell Kort, initially sought commercial zoning but now proposes a private, gated residential community with amenities like a stocked fishing pond, recreational areas, and a masonry wall. Concerns were raised about the adjacent grow facility, its potential impact on property values, and the need for adequate buffering.
• Elm Street and 106th Street Development: A significant portion of the meeting focused on a proposal to change the future land use map from parks and open space to local commercial for approximately 5 acres near Elm and 106th Streets. This also involved a major amendment to an existing Planned Unit Development (PUD) to allow for general retail, eating and drinking establishments, and multi-family residential (condominiums). The developer presented plans for a mixed-use development including retail and restaurants on elevated structures over parking, condominiums overlooking a private lake, mini-golf, simulation golf, pickleball courts, and playground areas. The project also includes six baseball fields. The potential economic impact, including significant projected sales tax and ad valorem tax revenue, was highlighted. Public comments expressed both support for the economic benefits and concerns about the scale of the development, particularly the baseball fields, and the process for public input.

Infrastructure and City Operations

• 91st Street Waterline Relocation: An agreement with Tulsa County for the design and construction of waterline relocation on 91st Street was approved. This project is part of a larger county road improvement plan, with the city's water lines needing to be moved. The agreement includes funding for design and construction, with the understanding that the county will manage the project. Concerns were raised about potential delays and the prioritization of this project versus other infrastructure needs.
• Sales Tax Performance: The City Manager reported strong sales tax collections, with February's figures being 21% higher than the previous year, marking the second-largest collection on record. This positive trend was noted as being significantly higher than other cities in the county.
• Upcoming Events: The council was informed about upcoming events, including an Employee Appreciation Day and the Jenks Chamber Day at the Capitol. The spring break period was also noted, with a change in the scheduled council meeting date from March 18th to March 25th.

Key Takeaways

• Economic Growth Focus: The council is actively pursuing developments that promise significant economic benefits through increased sales tax and ad valorem tax revenue, aiming to make Jenks a destination city.
• Balancing Development and Community Concerns: There's a clear effort to balance the desire for growth and development with addressing concerns from residents regarding traffic, noise, lighting, and the impact on existing neighborhoods.
• Importance of Public Input: While the council is entrusted with making decisions, the public's voice, as demonstrated by the turnout and comments, plays a role in shaping those decisions and ensuring transparency.
• Infrastructure Investment: Projects like the 106th Street development are seen as crucial for future city growth and economic development, requiring significant infrastructure investment.
• Student Engagement: The participation of young people like Chloe Graves in civic discussions highlights the importance of engaging the next generation in community planning and values.