Jenks City Council and Public Works Authority Meeting Recap

This past Tuesday, the Jenks City Council and the Jenks Public Works Authority held a joint meeting. The evening kicked off with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by introductions of new staff and a spotlight on animal welfare. The council then moved into discussing various agenda items, including zoning amendments and utility relocation agreements.

Key Takeaways

• Veterans Day Banquet Success: A special banquet honoring veterans was held at Las Cabos, receiving high praise for its turnout and organization.
• Planning Commission Process: A discussion arose regarding an ordinance amendment (item 3), with a motion made to refer it back to the Planning Commission for proper review due to significant changes from the initial proposal.
• Utility Relocation Agreement: The council approved a reimbursement agreement with Oklahoma Natural Gas for utility relocation work on Elwood Avenue, with a portion of the cost covered by ODOT.
• Upcoming Events: The city announced the "Lights On" ceremony on Thursday evening and the Christmas parade on Saturday morning.

New Faces and Community Focus

The meeting began with a warm welcome to Caleb Foster, the new Animal Control Officer, who introduced himself and his canine companion, Cowboy. Cowboy, a Shepherd mix found abandoned, is now available for adoption at the local shelter. This segment highlighted the city's commitment to animal welfare.

Addressing Zoning and Planning

A significant portion of the meeting involved discussions on zoning and planning matters. Item number three, an ordinance related to an amended PUD 127, sparked a debate. Councilor Short expressed concerns about the process, noting that the proposal presented to the council differed greatly from what the Planning Commission had initially reviewed. A motion was made and passed to refer the item back to the Planning Commission for a proper hearing with the revised amendments.

Items five and six, dealing with major amendments to the comprehensive plan and zoning changes in the downtown transition overlay district, were both continued to the next meeting. This decision was made due to the absence of key staff members and the lack of pressing urgency for immediate action.

Infrastructure and Funding

The council then moved to agenda item eight, a reimbursement agreement with Oklahoma Natural Gas. This agreement is tied to the utility relocation on Elwood Avenue, a project that involves widening the road. Oklahoma Natural Gas will be relocating their gas lines, and the city will be responsible for costs associated with relocations within privately owned easements. The agreement specifies that 20% of these costs will be borne by the city, with ODOT covering the remaining 80%. The council approved this agreement, followed by the approval of Resolution number 850, which officially obligates the necessary funds for the city's portion of the relocation costs.

City Manager's Report and Upcoming Events

City Manager Mr. Shrout provided an update on upcoming city events. The "Lights On" ceremony is scheduled for Thursday evening on Main Street, and the Christmas parade will take place on Saturday morning. He also reminded everyone that City Hall offices would be closed on Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving.

Jenks Public Works Authority Meeting

Following the City Council meeting, the Jenks Public Works Authority convened. The consent agenda was approved without significant discussion. Mr. Trout, in his General Manager's report, addressed the wastewater report, noting that staff would provide more concise descriptions of the technical data to ensure clarity for council members, emphasizing that the wastewater treatment plant remains in compliance with DEQ standards.

The meeting concluded with both the City Council and the Public Works Authority adjourning.