2025.03.25 Jenks JAA / CC / JPWA Meeting 5PM

The Jinx JAA/CC/JPWA held a meeting on March 25th, 2025, to discuss various important items. Key topics included approving supplemental appropriations for the aquarium's large animal holding facility, updates to the unified development ordinance, and an emergency disaster declaration due to the Gem Dirt fire. The meeting also covered the city's financial news, upcoming events, and community development projects.

Key Takeaways

• Aquarium Improvements: A $400,000 supplemental appropriation was approved for the interior construction of the large animal holding facility at the Jinx Aquarium. This funding covers phase one, including waterproofing the main concrete tank, acrylic window panels, and filtration systems.
• Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Updates: The council discussed proposed changes to the UDO, specifically concerning places of assembly in the Riverfront Tourist Commercial (RTC) zoned land. A recommendation was made to exclude the aquarium campus from these changes to protect its parking and development control.
• Emergency Disaster Declaration: An emergency disaster declaration was approved in response to the Gem Dirt fire and related wildfire conditions. This allows the city manager to expedite emergency contracts and waive competitive bidding to address the immediate public health and safety concerns.
• Financial News & Development: The city received significant funding through the Oklahoma Local Development and Enterprise Zone Incentive Leverage Act, totaling over $138 million for infrastructure development in the Jinx River Entertainment District. This is considered the largest financial news in the city's 105-year history.
• Community Development: The city is applying for Community Development Block Grant funding for the Jinx Adult Activity Center (JACK) and is working on various other projects, including street improvements and the development of new businesses.

Aquarium Facility Upgrades

The meeting began with the approval of Resolution 93, a supplemental appropriation of $400,000 for the Jinx Aquarium Authority's Capital Improvements Fund. This money is designated for the interior construction of the large animal holding facility. Kenny, from the aquarium team, explained that this funding represents phase one of the project. It will cover essential work such as waterproofing the main concrete shark tank, installing acrylic window panels for the exhibit, and upgrading the filtration systems for the water makeup area. This infrastructure work is crucial before other components, like fiberglass tanks, can be installed.

Unified Development Ordinance Discussion

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing proposed updates to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), particularly concerning places of assembly in the Riverfront Tourist Commercial (RTC) zoned land. Keith Montgomery raised concerns that the proposed changes could allow other entities to access the aquarium's parking without proper agreements. He proposed that the Jinx Aquarium Authority (JA) recommend to the City Council that the aquarium campus be excluded from this specific change, while allowing it in other RTC areas. This would maintain the JA's control over its campus development and parking. The council agreed to make this recommendation.

Emergency Declaration for Gem Dirt Fire

An emergency meeting of the Jinx City Council was convened to address the Gem Dirt fire. A resolution was passed declaring an emergency due to the fire and related wildfire conditions. This declaration allows the city manager to waive competitive bidding and execute emergency contracts to manage the situation. Fire Chief Ostramm provided an update, detailing the initial response to the large mulch fire that began on March 17th. He highlighted the challenges faced due to high winds and the need for substantial water flow, which exceeded available resources. The chief also noted the deployment of additional resources from other states and the ongoing efforts to extinguish the fire, with a goal of significant extinguishment by the following day.

Financial and Development News

The city received substantial financial news with the approval of Resolution 863, acknowledging over $138 million in funds from the Oklahoma Local Development and Enterprise Zone Incentive Leverage Act. This funding is for infrastructure development in the Jinx River Entertainment District. This significant investment is expected to transform the city and benefit residents for years to come. The funds will support projects like the 106th Street extension, riverbank stabilization, pedestrian bridge improvements, and park creation.

Community Development and Events

Several community development initiatives were discussed. The city is applying for Community Development Block Grant funding for the Jinx Adult Activity Center (JACK). The meeting also highlighted upcoming events, including the annual Easter egg hunt, a fun run, and the food truck festival. The aquarium reported positive attendance and membership sales, along with receiving the Belmont Award for sustainability. The city also celebrated Arbor Week and proclaimed April as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month.

Other Business and Reports

Updates were provided on various city matters, including ongoing construction projects, sales tax performance, and business development efforts. The city manager reported on inquiries regarding Main Street businesses and parking issues, particularly concerning "The Hive." Discussions also touched upon the potential demolition of "The Hive" to create additional parking. The chamber of commerce shared updates on upcoming events, economic development initiatives, and marketing efforts, including the relaunch of their website and tourism magazine.