Sand Springs Chamber Business Incubator hopes to help small businesses thrive

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Sand Springs has no shortage of retail or office space available for lease or sale. Downtown storefronts sit vacant. The 7,000 sq. ft. Shoppes of Cleveland shopping center built in 2014 has never filled up. The 15,000 sq. ft. Shops at Sand Springs built in 2017 have yet to land a tenant. Numerous other buildings around town sit empty, most notably the 84,000 sq. ft. K-Mart building on Charles Page Boulevard.

The problem? While the City has been slowly attracting big corporations to town (ie: Colton’s Steak House, Aldi Grocery Store, Starbucks, CVS, etc.) most companies with real capital want to build their own facilities. Existing vacancies are typically filled by small local businesses, and even the cheapest real estate in town can be a serious strain on an aspiring entrepreneur.

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Sand Springs, is looking to kill two birds with one stone by providing low-cost office space to upstart organizations. The goal is for those businesses to build a customer base and reliable income stream so they can eventually expand into the vacant real estate around town.

Business Incubators not only offer cheap office space, but come with many other perks as well. The Oklahoma Small Business Incubators Incentives Act exempts tenants of certified incubators from state tax liability on income earned as a result of occupancy for up to ten years.

The Sand Springs Chamber incubator will also provide co-working space, conference rooms, electronic equipment such as printers, scanners, and a fax machine, and more. There are currently twelve rooms up for lease. The largest conference room seats as many as sixteen individuals comfortably. There will even be day-passes available for individuals to come use the technology center from their laptop.

The Chamber recently acquired their new building at 109 North Garfield Avenue from the City of Sand Springs with a $1.00/year lease agreement. The facility was formerly the home of the City’s Public Works Department and currently has 2,100 sq. ft. of rentable space.

“The City has been phenomenal to work with on this,” says Cepak. “(Community Development Director) Grant Gerondale has been amazing, that man has amazing ideas.”

Mile High Designs in Sand Springs recently installed new flooring through the whole building and most of it has received fresh paint and updated fixtures.

According to Chamber President Kristin Cepak, the Chamber has received approximately $6,000 worth of in-kind community donations so far, and 85% of the updates and improvements have been made by Sand Springs businesses. Organizations such as Webco and BancFirst are branding the building and providing free office supplies and other resources for the tenants.

The Chamber has yet to release pricing for the rental spaces. For more information on the incubator or other Chamber resources, contact Cepak at 918-245-3221 or visit their website at https://sandspringschamber.com/.

City of Sand Springs announces Spirit Grant program

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs announces the creation of the Spirit Grant program, a competitive grant program intended to boost economic development in Sand Springs. Spirit Grants are designed to enhance local retail sales, tourism and strengthen community development and beautification in Sand Springs. There will be a Spirit Grant workshop later this month, with grant applications becoming available on the City of Sand Springs website (www.sandpspringsok.org) August 1.

"We're not giving money away, however this program comes close as long as we have strong projects to consider. These grants will be a strong incentive for local citizens, clubs and business to make a positive impact on our community in a short amount of time,"  stated Grant Gerondale, Community Development Director for the City of Sand Springs.

Grant applications may be submitted by individuals, businesses or groups to partially fund programs or projects designed to attract people to Sand Springs to shop, dine or recreate in the City of Sand Springs. Applications can also be submitted to enhance the outward appearance of buildings, businesses or other places in the greater Sand Springs community.

Applicants will need to commit to a 20% cash contribution in order to potentially receive an 80% Spirit Grant award from the City, which combined, will create the total grant award amount. Once the project has been completed, the applicant may submit original invoices for reimbursement from the City. Grant applications will be accepted on a quarterly basis and reviewed by city staff.

The program is looking for new events or projects and expansions of existing events or projects to primarily generate sales tax and tourism in our community. Community beautification and quality of life projects in Sand Springs are also eligible.  Projects should have a positive financial impact on the City. Ideally, projects should add value to the community in light of the cost of the grant.

"We're looking forward to seeing some great concepts and ideas from our citizens," stated Gerondale, who invites the public to attend a Spirit Grant workshop happening at 7 p.m. on July 30, at the Case Community Center. 

Successful grant applicants (upon written notice by the city) will have one year to complete the grant project and submit for reimbursement. Projects can be completed before the one year deadline, however projects not completed within the deadline risk reimbursement of funds.

Spirit Grant projects can range from as little as $500 to projects costing $5,000 or more. With that range in mind, the grant amount (80% of the total project which is reimbursable to applicants by the city) will range from $400 to a maximum of $4,000 for any single grant award. 

An applicant may receive more than one award per fiscal year, and may submit an application over multiple years.

Examples of types of Spirit Grant awards include:

  • advertising and marketing expenses designed to attract and draw tourism to Sand Springs
  • group advertising campaign to support local merchants that results in more local sales
  • community cleanup efforts
  • special event designed to increase tourism to Sand Springs
  • exterior building facade upgrade (awning/painting/landscaping/lighting of business workplace to improve outward appearance)
  • group project to provide new community facilities or improvements to existing
  • public art (murals, statuary, etc.)
  • historical interpretation or other displays relating to Sand Springs

Grant applications will be reviewed by the City. Successful grant applications will be graded on many factors, with a focus on each grant's potential to add value to the community.

For additional information, please visit our website at www.sandspringsok.org or contact the Spirit Grant Team at (918) 246-2504 or spiritgrant@sandspringsok.org

Sand Springs to unveil new downtown LED lights next Tuesday

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs will unveil its first LED (light-emitting diode) package during a commissioning event on Tuesday, April 17, in downtown Sand Springs. The LED lights will be put into service at 8:00 p.m. following a brief ceremony at 100 South Main Street at the US412 underpass. 

"This project was approved by our City Council a few years ago as part of our Vision 2025 community enhancement master project," stated City Manager Elizabeth Gray. "The Case Community Park was a major component of our overall project. With this light commissioning event we are pleased to offer this unique roadway lighting for our citizens and area businesses. This is another example of the Vision2025 funding program, which has enhanced quality of life efforts throughout Tulsa metro, and we wish to thank voters for their support."

The lighting system addresses one of the darkest underpass areas in Sand Springs.

It is designed to improve public safety at night, and will help bridge the pedestrian space between downtown Sand Springs businesses and the Riverwest shopping district.

"We're excited to bring this colorful, artistic light display to our community," said Community Development Director Grant Gerondale. "The LED lights have an automated calendar holding various lighting scenes which will reveal different colorized scenes throughout the year. For example you'll see red, white and blue for major holidays like Independence Day; red and green for Christmas; and the bridge underpass will go pink during Cancer awareness month in October. It's a creative way to add lighting safety and bring a splash of color to our town."

The last remaining round of Vision 2025 funding will be provide visual highway enhancements in Sand Springs. Following a vegetation clearing phase this spring, highway travelers can expect to see additional white vinyl rail fence installed around Sand Springs.

Sand Springs golf course ranked among top-ten Best Value courses in United States

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Sand Springs, OK -  The City of Sand Springs' Canyons at Blackjack Ridge Golf Course has been named one of the top golf courses not only in Oklahoma, but in the U.S. The recent rankings come from Golf Advisor (golfadvisor.com) an online golfing review source, using feedback from golfers themselves. The 2017 rankings reflect online voting by golfers around the region and the results showcase the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge as the #3 rated top golf course in Oklahoma and among the Top 10 Best Value courses in the United States.

"We've been working on the course for more than ten years, and we're pretty pleased to be noticed in this manner," stated Brian Talley, Director of Golf for the City. "Our course has added many recent improvements like new tee boxes, pond features, beautiful vistas and our greens have been consistently strong."

The Canyons is a USGA sanctioned, 18 hole course overlooking the beautiful Tulsa skyline.  Each year tens of thousands of sports tourists play the course and enjoy the Sand Springs community. Talley says there are no shortcuts in producing the consistently strong product that is the Canyons golf course.

"Many hours are spent by staff every day monitoring the greens, irrigation and nutrient inputs which come together to create a fantastic golf experience for people", Talley added. "With many choices for people to play golf, we go the extra mile with great customer service and competitive rates to keep people coming back."

The Canyons boasts natural rolling topography and small canyons laid out across the course, providing unmatched natural beauty. In recent years the course's #12 hole was voted by Tulsa World readers as one of "Tulsa's Best Holes of Golf" with its dramatic cliff setting and nearly 200' vertical drop to the green below. 

The Canyons offers memberships, tournaments and lessons from PGA professionals. To make a golf reservation call (918) 246-2606 or visit www.canyonsatblackjackridge.com. 

For more information on the Golf Advisor resource, check out: 

 https://www.golfadvisor.com/best-of/

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit  www.sandspringsok.org and www.seesandsprings.com and follow the City on Face Book for the latest updates.

City of Sand Springs announces annual Budget Fair

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Sand Springs, OK -  The City of Sand Springs announces an opportunity for citizens to provide input into annual budget priorities for the community. This year's Budget Fair will take place on Monday, January 22, 2018, from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at the Sand Springs Municipal Building, 100 E. Broadway, in downtown Sand Springs. This come and go event will take place on the second floor.

Departmental leaders including police, fire, parks, public works and more will be on-hand to listen to citizen input and help answer questions about annual operations and explain typical annual budget priorities. The Sand Springs City Council and City staff extend this important public opportunity to residents living within the corporate limits of Sand Springs to participate in the creation of the upcoming Fiscal Year 2019 Budget. The City's annual budget year begins on July 1, 2018, and runs through June 30, the following year.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit www.sandspringsok.org and www.seesandsprings.com and follow the City on Facebook for the latest updates.

City of Sand Springs looking to hire seven new employees, three new police officers

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The City of Sand Springs is currently accepting applications for three open positions, including three police officers.

The City is in need of full-time Street Driverw with a wage of up to $11.83/per-hour. Job duties include driving trucks and operating various pieces of machinery, manual labor, street repairs, and maintenance. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and a valid Oklahoma Class A commercial driver license. 

Click here for more information on the Street Driver position, or to apply.

The City is in need of three full-time CLEET-certified police officers with  wage of up to $46,371.39. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED. They must also have 64 credit hours or an Associate Degree from a regionally accredited college, or have received an honorable discharge after a minimum of two full-time active years with a branch of the military. Lateral transfers are available.

Click here for more information on the Police Office position, or to apply.

The City is looking for a part-time Community Enhancement Supervisor at a wage of $10/per-hour. Requirements include a high school diploma or GED and a valid Class D Oklahoma driver license. The position will include supervising small crews on job sites, maintaining log books pertaining to community service hours, coordinating between departments, maintaining walkways, vegetation, public restrooms, underbrush, and other City property. 

Click here for more information on the Community Enhancement Supervisor position, or to apply.

City of Sand Springs announces firework permit sales from June 12 to July 4

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Sand Springs, OK- The City of Sand Springs announced Tuesday that fireworks permits will go on sale for $20 each, beginning Monday, June 12th . Permits can be purchased in person or online this year.

Citizens who wish to purchase a permit in person may visit the Fire Administration office at City Hall during regular office hours from Monday, June 12th through Monday, July 3rd. City office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Fire Administration will remain open for lunch hour purchases during the week of Monday, June 26th through Friday, June 30th.

“This will be the second year we are offering a convenient way for our citizens to buy permits,” said Sand Springs Fire Marshal Stan Smith. “Online permit sales will be available through noon on July 4th .”

Those purchasing a permit online can visit the City’s Web site to find the link for online sales. Online purchases begin Monday, June 12th through noon on July 4th.

“Online sales are open all hours and weekends, making it an easier option for many citizens that can’t stop by City Hall,” said Smith.

City fireworks permits must be purchased by an adult age 18 or older that serves as the responsible party for activities at an individual residence. Permits are non-transferrable. Residential streets can be used as a fireworks discharge area, provided residents do not hinder traffic and clean up any debris.

Permits will be valid for July 3rd and 4th between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. and only applies to Class 1.4G Common Fireworks. The owner of the permit must supervise minors at all times during the discharge of fireworks. 

The pre-set court fine for illegally discharging of fireworks in the city limits is $154. However, a maximum fine of $500 plus court costs can be imposed for serious or repetitive violations. Fees collected from permits offset overtime costs by police and fire officials who patrol neighborhoods to assure fireworks are being discharged responsibly with a valid permit.

For further information about fireworks permits, call the Sand Springs Fire Administration Office at 918-246-2548.

This Week in Sand Springs

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Monday

  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Planning Commission - regular monthly meeting
  • 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Oklahoma Blood Institute blood drive
    • Sand Springs Church of Christ. 4301 S. 113th W. Ave, Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Adjustment - regular monthly meeting was CANCELED
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - road game
    • Bartlesville High School. 500 S Madison Blvd, Bartlesville, OK 74006

Tuesday

  • State and Federal Taxes are due
  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Girls' Golf - Union Tournament
    • Lafortune Park. 5501 S. Yale Ave. Tulsa OK 74135
  • 5:00 p.m. CPHS Slow Pitch Softball - road game
    • Union Intermediate High School. 7616 S. Garnett Rd. Tulsa OK 74012
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - home game
    • Sandite Baseball Complex. 405 W. 55th St. Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum Trust Authority - regular monthly meeting
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Girls' Soccer - home game
    • Memorial Stadium. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Band Booster Club - meeting and elections
    • Charles Page High School. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063
    • Positions up for election: President, Vice President, Secretary, Co-Treasurer, CPHS Representative. Appointed coordinator positions also open.
  • 8:00 p.m. CPHS Boys' Soccer - home game
    • Memorial Stadium. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063

Wednesday

  • Sand Springs Development Authority - regular monthly meeting

Thursday

  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Boys' Golf - 6A State Preview
    • Karsten Creek Golf Club. 1800 S. Memorial Dr. Stillwater OK 74074
  • 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Guns n' Hoses Community Challenge Blood Drive
  • 4:30 p.m. CPHS Baseball - road game
    • Cascia Hall. 2520 S. Yorktown Ave. Tulsa OK 74114
  • 5:00 p.m. CPHS Slow Pitch Softball - double header road games
    • Jenks High School. 1561 N. Birch St. Jenks OK 74037
  • 5:30 p.m. Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame dinner
    • Ed Dubie Field House. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063

Friday

  • 3:00 p.m. CPHS Choir Trip - Branson "Music in the Park" Choir Contest
  • 3:00 p.m. CPHS Track and Field - Muskogee Track Meet
    • 3200 E. Shawnee Rd. Muskogee OK 74403
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Girls' Soccer - home game
    • CPHS Memorial Stadium. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 8:00 p.m. CPHS Boys' Soccer - home game
    • CPHS Memorial Stadium. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063

Saturday

  • 9:00 a.m. 28th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival
  • 10:00 a.m. Sand Springs OKUSA Freestyle/Greco-Roman Wrestling Tournament
    • Clyde Boyd Middle School. 305 W. 35th St. Sand Springs OK 74063

This Week in Sand Springs

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Monday

  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - Home game
    • 405 W. 55th St. Sand Springs OK 74063

Tuesday

  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Boys' Golf - Bishop Kelley Tournament
    • Lafortune Park Golf Course - 5501 S. Yale Ave, Tulsa OK 74135
  • 4:00 p.m. CPHS Tennis duel
    • Edison High School, 2906 E. 41st St, Tulsa OK 74105
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - Road game
    • Union High School, 6636 S. Mingo Rd, Tulsa OK 74133
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Girls' Soccer - Home game
    • 500 N. Adams Rd, Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 8:00 p.m. CPHS Boys' Soccer - Home game
    • 500 N. Adams Rd, Sand Springs OK 74063
  • CPHS Slow Pitch Softball - Jenks Festival
    • 1610 N. Birch, Jenks OK 74037
    • 10:00 a.m. vs Broken Arrow
    • 12:30 p.m. vs Southmoore

Wednesday

  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Girls' Golf - Sapulpa Tournament
    • 1200 W. Dewey Ave, Sapulpa OK 74066
  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Tennis duel - Highway 97 Rivalry home game
    • 500 N. Adams Rd, Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 10:30 a.m. Sand Springs City Council Meeting

Thursday

  • 8:00 CPHS Girls' Golf - Del City Tournament
    • Trosper GC, 2301 SE 29th St, Oklahoma City OK 73129
  • 5:00 p.m. CPHS Slow Pitch Softball - Road game
    • Bixby High School, 601 S. Riverview Dr, Bixby, OK 74008
  • 6:30 p.m. Estate Planning Seminar by Monica L. Maple
    • Green Tree Assisted Living, 4402 S. 129th W. Ave. Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 7:30 p.m. CPHS Band Spring Concert
    • Ed Dubie Field House, 500 N. Adams Rd, Sand Springs OK 74063

Friday

  • 2:30 p.m. CPHS Track and Field - Booker T. Washington Track Meet
    • 1514 E. Zion St, Tulsa OK 74106
  • 5:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - Road game
    • Broken Arrow High School, 1901 E. Albany St. Broken Arrow OK 74012
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Girls' Soccer - Road game
    • Westmoore High School, 12613 S. Western Ave. Oklahoma City OK 73170
  • 8:00 p.m. CPHS Boys' Soccer - Road game
    • Westmoore High School, 12613 S. Western Ave. Oklahoma City OK 73170

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. Case Community Park River Run
  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Girls' Golf - Frontier Valley Conference Tournament
    • Indian Springs GC, 16006 E. 131st St. S. Broken Arrow OK 74011
  • 10:00 a.m. Maxx Roofing 4th Annual Special Needs Bass Tournament
    • Mannford Lake Prairie View Boat Ramp
  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Prom

City of Sand Springs updates animal adoption and licensing fees

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The City of Sand Springs has seen an increase in pet adoptions lately. Here are two dogs currently looking for homes.

(This page features external redirects to helpful articles on adoption from a paid sponsor).

Sand Springs, OK- Dog and cat adoptions have increased substantially in recent years for the City of Sand Springs, leading to a comprehensive evaluation of the adoption process and associated fees. Beginning April 1, 2017, a pet adoption fee of $65 will be charged and cover costs for spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a general health exam prior to each animal’s adoption.

“We hope the animal adoption trend continues,” said James Adams, Animal Welfare Investigator. “Through a partnership with Spay Oklahoma, the City is able to offer low cost adoptions that include valuable veterinary medical services.”

Persons over the age of 18 are eligible to adopt dogs and cats from the animal shelter. Being a Sand Springs resident is not a requirement.

“When someone selects an animal for adoption, the City arranges for medical services,” said Adams. “Fees can be paid through Customer Service located on the first floor of City Hall. Animal Welfare staff will notify the new owner when the pet is ready for pickup.”

Residents within Sand Springs city limits will also find a simplified change in the license policy and fee for dogs and cats beginning on April 1, 2017. Licenses will cost $10 per animal and be valid for as long as the animal resides in Sand Springs. Each dog or cat will receive a tag that is registered and traceable, should the animal stray or become lost.

“Licenses provide some peace of mind to pet owners,” said Adams. “Most pet owners are reunited with their dog or cat within a day of them entering the City’s care; licensing is a simple and effective tool used to ensure that.”

Pets kept in excess of 24 hours upon contact of their owner will incur a $25 per day boarding fee. Fees cover daily boarding costs for owners who delay claiming a pet.

For more information on pet adoption, please visit

www.sandspringsok.org/animalcontrol.

Ray Brown Park renovation is complete

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Sand Springs, OK- The City of Sand Springs recently completed improvements to Ray Brown Park including new playground features, artificial grass play areas and custom concrete. The improvements were made with $37,000 in privately funded gifts to Sand Springs Park Friends and the City of Sand Springs.

“The updates include two distinct play sets for children ages five to 12 and toddlers ages two to five,” said Jeff Edwards, Parks Facilities Manager. “This makes Ray Brown Park the only park in Sand Springs with such features.”

An anonymous donor provided $32,000 and community leader, Montie Box, provided $5,000 for the project. City staff contributed over $20,000 in labor and materials over a span of several months to complete the project totaling $59,819

“It was important to update this neighborhood park to meet new maintenance standards,” said Edwards. “The artificial grass areas provide a safe play surface and new custom concrete offers multi-tiered seating.”

Updates in Ray Brown Park follow a recent trail addition and split rail fencing completed in 2014 with community volunteers and staff during a Helping Your Park Environment (HYPE) cleanup event.

For more information on Ray Brown Park, or other Parks facilities, visit the City’s Web site www.sandspringsok.org.

Nozak Consulting Group looks to help local businesses succeed

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Nozak Consulting Group
(918) 671-6352
www.nozakconsulting.com
www.facebook.com/nozakconsulting

Harper's Hut Shaved Ice & Java
(918) 671-6352
www.harpershutshavedice.com
www.facebook.com/harpers.hut

When William Nozak started Harper’s Hut Shaved Ice & Java in 2014, he changed the game in the local industry. Within a month of opening his doors he won the “Best in the World” award from Tulsa World newspaper and was often open for hours after the official closing time just trying to get the massive lines fed. Less than three years later his company has now expanded to six locations in addition to catering weddings, festivals, and other regional events.

Now, Nozak is bringing that same passion and ingenuity to a new venture that wants to help other local businesses replicate his success.  

The Nozak Consulting Group offers all the marketing tools that major corporations utilize, at a cost that small “Mom and Pop” businesses can afford. From web design and branding to social media marketing and search engine optimization, the Nozak Group wants to bring Green Country businesses into the future with innovative strategies that will allow any small town business to compete with and prepare for national franchises.

“Your website is your online brochure,” says Nozak. “Having a website is not enough, you need to optimize your website. Franchises have corporate locations with teams that do this, putting pressure on mom and pops. They will fold if they don’t do this.”

Nozak has teamed up with businesses ranging anywhere from the hundred-thousand to million-dollar profit range, and thus far his record is spotless. Nozak Consulting has received a five-star rating from every client they have worked with.

“If you’re not coming up in search engine results, you need our services. You will find it very hard to survive in a changing environment.” In addition to his own company, Nozak has also owned a pair of franchises, giving him a glimpse into how the big leagues operate. “Local SEO beats national SEO every time,” says Nozak. Search Engine Optimization utilizes keywords throughout your website that customers are most likely to use when searching for a product or service. “Big businesses don’t know the local city. By optimizing with local lingo and jargon, local owners can win their market. I can help them.”

In the three months since opening, Nozak Consulting has already had to begin looking for new employees to keep up with the demand—and business has been booming. From redesigning websites to building them from scratch, designing logos, pay-per-click campaigns, and even personnel training videos and event advertising, Nozak Consulting has everything a business needs to respond to increased pressure.

“Online marketing is the future, and it is the lifeblood of modern business."

Sand Springs churches donate $4000 to Sand Springs Police and Fire for Christmas

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs City Council recently held their regular monthly meeting and representatives from the Sand Springs Ministerial Alliance were present to present the Police and Fire Departments with a $4,000 donation for the purpose of Christmas bonuses. 

Harvest Church Pastor Steve Allen, HillSpring Church Pastor Brent Kellogg, and First Church of the Nazarene Pastor Rod Thelander presented the annual donation to Police Chief Mike Carter and Fire Chief Mike Wood. 

Oklahoma Municipal League representative Missy Dean presented awards to employees who have served the city for 25 years. Police Captain Jay Barnett, Captain Todd Enzbrenner, Lieutenant Gary Everett, Deputy Chief John Mars, Fire Driver Charles Bowman, Water/Wastewater Superintendent Kenneth Boswell, Water Maintenance Operations Supervisor Donnie Wicker, and City Clerk Janice Almy were all recognized.

Storm Water and Utilities Technician Jon Odle gave an annual address to the Council regarding the City of Sand Springs Storm Water Plan. Odle discussed the damage done by citizens dumping leaves, grass clippings, and other debris into the street and stormwater drains. He suggested the City find ways to educate the community about the subject. 

The Council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 1293 amending existing zoning code. Under new regulations, minimum aesthetic standards have been set regarding the amount of visible metal a building may be constructed of. Each side of a new building will be limited to certain percentages of visible metal, though exceptions may be granted through the Board of Adjustment. The ordinance does not apply to existing buildings and is modeled after existing regulations passed in neighboring communities. 

Council also approved Resolution No. 17-14, adopting a Safe Routes to School policy for the City of Sand Springs. The policy sets in place an outline for the City to follow when evaluating streets or other improvement projects that will provide safer and more efficient ways for pedestrians to travel to and from school. 

This was Vice Mayor John Fothergill's last meeting with City Council as he will be vacating his seat before the Spring election. The two-term Ward 4 councilman was recently approved as a chief deputy for the Tulsa County Commission and is legally unable to hold dual offices. 

Christine Hamner and Nancy Riley have filed to run for the vacant seat this Spring. Riley is a former Republican then Democratic State Senator. She also ran for Council against Fothergill and the late Pastor Terry Scott. She came in second in the primary election, defeating Scott, then lost to Fothergill in the runoff. 

Sand Springs bans electronic-cigarettes on City property, approves purchase agreement with OmniTRAX

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs City Council unanimously voted Monday evening to ban the use of electronic cigarettes on all City property, including public parks. Ordinance No. 1290, presented by City Planner Brad Bates, amends the existing City of Sand Springs Tobacco Free City Properties and Buildings Ordinance to include vapor-based products that have gained popularity in recent year. 

The City of Sand Springs has been a "tobacco-free" city since 2009 in an effort to alleviate public health concerns and promote a healthy public environment. The City qualifies as a Certified Healthy Community and Certified Healthy Business through the State of Oklahoma's Certified Healthy program, entitling it to certain grant funding through the State Health Department. To-date, the City has received $50,000 that have been used toward healthy living and improvement studies. This new amendment is a step toward Gold Level recognition from the Health Department that would qualify the City for an additional $50,000 grant.

In other news, the Council unanimously approved the Consent Agenda, which is made up of items considered to be "routine," including:

  • Approval of Resolution No. 17-07 for the 2017 City Council Election.
    • Mayor Mike Burdge (Ward 3) and Vice-Mayor (Ward 4) will both be up for reelection in 2017. Citizens do not vote for Mayor or Vice-Mayor, but vote only on City Council positions. The Council itself elects a Mayor and Vice-Mayor from within.
    • The filing period will open December 5th, 2016 and will close December 7th, 2016. Candidates must reside within the Ward they are running for election in, and must be at-minimum 25 years of age by May 1st, 2017. If more than two candidates file for an office, a primary election will be held on Tuesday, February 14th, 2017. The general (runoff) election will be held April 4th, 2017. City Council elections are non-partisan. 
  • Approval of a Traffic Enforcement Agreement between the City of Sand Springs and the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office for reimbursement of overtime and operating expenses incurred for the grant period October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017. 
    • The Sand Springs Police Department will receive a $50,000 grant from OHSO for the purpose of reimbursing overtime and operating expenses resulting from the targeting of impaired and aggressive drivers. It will also allow for a designee to travel to the Lifesavers Conference in Long Beach, California. 
  • Approval of an Emergency Management Performance Agreement between the City of Sand Springs and the Oklahoma Office of Emergency Management providing a 50/50 sub-grant portion of funds to develop comprehensive emergency preparedness for all hazards.
    • This is a routine fund-matching grant that the City has taken advantage of for nearly two decades. The City allocates $20,000 for emergency preparedness each year, and FEMA matches with a contribution of $20,000.
  • Acceptance of $20,090 from Sand Springs Park Friends, Inc.
    • This is the final portion of the $70,000 pledge by the Sand Springs Rotary Club for construction of the Rotary Super Splash Pad in River City Parks. 

Following the Consent Agenda, the Council also unanimously passed Resolution No. 17-08, with the purpose of informing Sand Springs citizens of potential impact of State Question 777 on the ability of the City to to regulate land use activities and other potential effects. 

SQ777, also known as the "Oklahoma Right to Farm Amendment," will be on the November 8, 2016 ballot as a proposed constitutional amendment. The specific text of the question can be viewed here. Resolution 17-08, drafted by Vice-Mayor John Fothergill, reminds citizens of the role local government plays in regulating land usage and zoning according to the community desires and needs. The full resolution can be read here.

City Council unanimously approved a resolution concerning the location of the future public safety facility for the City. Resolution 17-06 was unanimously passed, authorizing the City to purchase 10 acres at a cost of $1.00 per foot from OmniTRAX. The current planned location of the facility is on the South side of Morrow Road, across the street from the Walmart Supercenter. The transaction will cost the City approximately $435,600. The purchase is not final yet, but the terms of the agreement are not expected to change. 

Stone Villa Second addition.

Council unanimously approved the final plat for the new Stone Villa addition in South Sand Springs. The addition will include 87 lots on 19.8 acres.

In Council Correspondence, Pogue Airport and Airport Supervisor Ken Madison received praise for the quality of the airport and the hospitality of the administration. 

Boy Scout Troop 507 was on hand to observe the City Council meeting and get a taste of local government.

Resolution No. 17-08 passed by Sand Springs City Council

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RESOLUTION NO. 17-08

RESOLUTION PROVIDING ESSENTIAL INFORMATION TO THE CITIZENS OF SAND SPRINGS CONCERNING STATE QUESTION 777 (SQ777), THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE OKLAHOMA CONSTITUTION, WHICH IS ON THE BALLOT FOR A STATEWIDE VOTE ON THE STATE GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT FOR NOVEMBER 8, 2016; INFORMING CITY VOTERS OF THE POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF SQ777 ON THE ABILITY OF THE CITY OF SAND SPRINGS TO REGULATE LAND USE ACTIVITIES AND TO ENACT OTHER ORDINANCES AND REGULATIONS WITHIN THE CITY FOR THE PROTCTION OF THE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE OF ITS CITIZENS; AND URGING ALL REGISTERED VOTERS WITHIN SAND SPRINGS, BEFORE CASTING THEIR VOTES ON SQ 777, TO CAREFULLY STUDY AND CONSIDER ALL THE POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF SQ 777 ON THE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE OF SAND SPRINGS RESIDENTS

WHEREAS, a core function of the City of Sand Springs, as authorized by Article 43 of Title 11 Oklahoma State Statues is to regulate land usage and zoning according to community desires and needs, through community-based processes and zoning ordinances, while protecting property rights of all citizens, and planning for the successful growth and development within city limits; and

WHEREAS, the City's authority to enact land use regulations within the City of Sand Springs is critical to the health, safety, and welfare of our community; and

WHEREAS, access to clean, high-quality potable water in appropriate quantities is also of critical importance to City of Sand Springs residents; and

WHEREAS, the preservation of soil and air quality are also valuable to Sand Springs citizens; and

WHEREAS, ensuring these various elements for its residents and businesses is one of the pre- eminent obligations of the City of Sand Springs; and

WHEREAS, providing these local governmental benefits and infrastructure to its residents, and maintaining them, is an on-going and ever-increasing financial burden for the City of Sand Springs; and

WHEREAS, the amendments to the Oklahoma Constitution proposed by SQ 777, would enact special constitutional protections and special constitutional privileges for a specific group of Oklahoma residents and Oklahoma industries (farming and ranching) provided to no other group or industry in the State of Oklahoma, at the expense of all other residents and industries; and

WHEREAS, if approved by State voters, SQ 777 would take precedence over the land-use ordinances, regulations, and plans of the City of Sand Springs, compromising its ability and statutory obligation to ensure compatibility between land uses and the appropriate development and growth within the City and to further protect the health, safety and welfare of its residents; and

WHEREAS, SQ 777 would seriously compromise the City's ability to provide an ample and safe water supply to its residents at reasonable expense; and

WHEREAS, SQ 777 would seriously compromise the ability of the State of Oklahoma, its regulatory agencies, and the City of Sand Springs to take action to manage technology that impacts industrial, farming and ranching operations potentially harmful to its residents; and

WHEREAS, under the provisions of SQ 777, if approved, Sand Springs’ efforts to fulfill its responsibility to guarantee access by its citizens to high-quality and ample quantity of water and maintain and provide efficient and appropriate delivery systems could result in extensive and expensive litigation against the City of Sand Springs merely because it is attempting to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of its residents; and

WHEREAS, passage of SQ 777 could also result in increased expenses in providing high- quality and ample water as a result of agricultural runoff, chemical treatment, and animal by-products; and

WHEREAS, SQ 777 would allow special consideration of one industry ('farming') that could set a precedent for allowing similar special considerations for any and all industries and practices in Oklahoma; and

WHEREAS, SQ 777 provides that this special consideration is guaranteed 'forever,' which precludes consideration of any unforeseen practices, treatments, or chemicals, on the obligations and ability of the State of Oklahoma and the City of Sand Springs to provide to their residents an ample quantity of high-quality water at a reasonable rate and manageable expense.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Sand Springs that they are critically concerned that State Question 777, the proposed State constitutional amendment, if approved by State voters at the Statewide election on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, could impact vital municipal land use controls and jeopardize the City's ability to meet the essential needs and requirements of its residents and to otherwise promote the health, safety and welfare of all citizens and residents of the City of Sand Springs.

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Council of the City of Sand Springs that they urge all registered voters within Sand Springs, before casting their votes on SQ 777, to carefully study and consider all the potential effects of SQ 777 on the health, safety, and welfare of City of Sand Springs residents.

ADOPTED by the Sand Springs Council on this 24th day of October, 2016. 

Everything you missed at last night's busy City Council meeting

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Mayor Burdge reads and presents a proclamation recognizing L. Merle Parsons for his service

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The City of Sand Springs held a busy City Council meeting Monday night, filled with informative presentations, recognition of service, mayoral appointments and proclamations, and much debate.

Mayor Mike Burdge read and presented a proclamation to L. Merle Parsons, recognizing his twelve years of voluntary service to the City Planning Commission. He has served as the Chairman of the Commission since 2009 and is resigning as of June 30th. 

Mayor Burdge then proclaimed the summer of 2016 to be a "Summer of Reading" in the City of Sand Springs. Click here to read the full story.

The Council approved numerous measures under the consent agenda including the use of $30,036.50 for the purchase of a Trailer Mounted Patcher for the Street Department. The patcher will allow the Street Department to maintain asphalt temperature during transportation from the plant to the repair sites, making it easier to work with and mold to the existing streets. The current process involves transportation on an open flatbed work truck, meaning the asphalt has cooled by the time it arrives and is less pliable when filling potholes. 

Parsons gives a farewell address to the Council

The Council also approved a contract of $38,597.20 to Direct Traffic Control for road striping in various sections of the city considered "average to poor." This includes sections of Park Road from Adams Road to 81st West Avenue, sections of Morrow Road from Highway 97 to Adams Road, and sections of 41st Street from Highway 97 to 129th.

The Council had scheduled to consider approval of a contract with Dewberry Architects for design of the new Public Safety Facility, but tabled it for the next meeting.

By request of Parks Director Grant Gerondale, the City approved an amended ordinance concerning overnight stay in Parks facilities. Currently, overnight camping is prohibited in City Parks. Exceptions for events such as Oklahoma Freewheel (SEE RELATED) and Chillin and Grillin Festival (SEE RELATED) must be taken to City Council. The amendment will allow for that decision to be made at the Parks staff level. The Council also approved a recommendation to close large sections of River City Park from Sunday September 4th through Monday September 5th to allow Great Raft Race organizers to properly prepare for the event and finish setup before the Labor Day launch.

Parks Director Grant Gerondale addresses the Council.

A Studio 45 representative gave a presentation showing upcoming parks projects. A full story will be posted soon. Councilman Phil Nollan gave a presentation on USDA Rural Development, a full story on that is to come. Alan Ringle of Ringle Development, LLC gave a presentation regarding his requests for de-annexation of two housing developments.

Vice Mayor John Fothergill was appointed to the District Six seat on the Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Municipal League. Councilmen Fothergill, Jim Spoon, and Beau Wilson were appointed to the Council Legislative Committee. Councilmen Fothergill, Wilson, and Nollan were appointed to the Council Public Works Advisory Committee.

Mayor Burdge was appointed to the Indian Nations Council of Governments Board of Directors with City Manager Elizabeth Gray as an alternate. Councilmen Burdge and Fothergill were appointed to the INCOG General Assembly. Mayor Burdge was appointed to the INCOG Legislative Consortium with Gray as an alternate. Councilman Brian Jackson was appointed to the INCOG Tulsa Metropolitan Area Transportation Policy Committee. 

Appointments to the Board of Adjustment, Development Authority, Personnel Board, and Parks Advisory Board were tabled for a later meeting. Councilwoman Patty Dixon and former Councilman Harold Neal were appointed to the Planning Commission.

City Financial Director Kelly Lamberson presented the regular monthly Financial Reports. According to Lamberson, overall revenue for the past month is down 2%, but the City spent 16.2% below projections. The Pogue Airport performance was up 4.5% from the prior month. 

Gray reminded the Council that Arby's is the restaurant of the month for July as part of the City's Purchase with a Purpose Campaign. 

According to Gray more than 100 homes registered with the City-Wide Yard Sale Map--double the number that participated last year. SEE RELATED.

In the Municipal Authority meeting the Board appointed Gray as an alternate to the Sand Springs-Sapulpa Joint Board and tabled the appointment of Airport Advisory Board members for a later meeting. 

The Council retired to Executive Session "for the purpose of conferring on matters pertaining to economic development within the River West development area and for the purpose of conferring on other economic development projects in which public disclosure of the matter discussed would interfere with the confidentiality of the business...(and) for the purpose of conferring on matters pertaining to appraisal or acquisition of property for economic development purposes...and for the purpose of discussion related (to) possible claims against the Tulsa County Commissioners and/or Tulsa County Sheriff concerning jail operations..."

Mayor Burdge proclaims "Summer of Reading" in Sand Springs

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

In a regular Monday night meeting of the Sand Springs City Council, Mayor Mike Burdge issued a proclamation to a representative from myON declaring a “Summer of Reading” in Sand Springs.

“The community, family and school, play (a) critical role in their children’s school success from birth through career and college readiness…the educational success of Sand Springs’s children is essential for the future of the city.”

According to the proclamation, “students who read four to six books a month during the summer months are significantly less likely to experience academic loss than students who don’t read…Access to books is crucial to a child’s success. Sand Springs Public School in partnership with Muscogee Creek Nation provides students with access to myON, providing them with twenty-four hour access to more than 8,000 digitally enhanced books.”

myON is an imprint of Capstone Publishers, a Minnesota-based company that seeks to help “children develop a love of reading and learning, no matter their ability level…” The Muscogee Creek Nation Literacy Program has partnered with myON since 2013 to “help with challenges that our students might face in regards to being proficient in reading, comprehension and vocabulary.”

To read the full proclamation, click here.

 SEE RELATED: Tulsa County Library Summer Reading Program encourages reading at all ages

Montie Box honored at Salvation Army banquet

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Montie Box is honored by the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club with an award.

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club of Sand Springs honored longtime Sand Springs entrepreneur and philanthropist Montie Box with a banquet at Hillspring Church Tuesday night. The event also served as a fundraiser for new playground equipment for the Salvation Army facility. 

Stan Clark, founder and owner of Eskimo Joe's, was the keynote speaker, and several other community leaders also spoke at the Army of Stars Banquet. 

Eskimo Joe's founder Stan Clark was the keynote speaker at the Army of Stars Banquet.

Advisory Council Chairman Bob Anderson introduced the man of honor and read off his seemingly never-ending list of accomplishments. Box was then presented proclamations from the City of Sand Springs and the State of Oklahoma from Mayor Mike Burdge and Councilman Phil Nollan, respectively. Nollan presented the State proclamation on behalf of his wife, District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan, who was away at the Capitol. Senator Dan Newberry also gave an address honoring Box. 

Attendance at the event was $40 a chair and had more than 100 in attendance. The event concluded with a silent auction that generated more than $4,000 in addition to donations taken earlier in the night. 

Morgan's Relax Packs are handcrafted customizable heat/cold packs designed for maximum relief at affordable pricing.

Montie Box is a long-time Sand Springs resident with more than half a century of real estate experience. He founded Montie Box Co. in 1958 after graduating from Oklahoma A&M, now Oklahoma State University. He served in the army during the Korean Conflict with the rank of First Lieutenant. 

In 1973 he was named Oklahoma Realtor of the Year. In 1988 he was awarded the Sand Springs Education Association Friend of Education recognition. He was a founding member of the Sand Springs Education Foundation in 1990. In 1992 he was given the honor of life membership on the Tulsa Boys' Home Board of Directors as well as the SS Education Foundation. That same year he was inducted into the Sand Springs Education Hall of Fame. In 1995 he was named Sand Springs Hometown Hero. In 1998 he received the Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of Realtors, which is considered to be the highest honor a realtor can receive and he is a member of the NAR Hall of Fame.

Senator Dan Newberry addresses the crowd and honors Montie Box. Newberry is currently running for reelection against outgoing Superintendent Lloyd Snow.

He served as a regent for Tulsa Community College from 1995-2006 and was the Chairman from 1996-1997. In 2009 he received the Vision in Education Award from TCC. 

His involvement with the Salvation Army goes back 61 years. He was instrumental in getting the new facility built in 1978 at its current location in Sand Springs. He is a life member of the Sand Springs Advisory Council, which is a prestigious appointment only available to members with a minimum of 15 years of outstanding service. He is a former coach and manager of Tulsa and Sand Springs Pee Wee Wrestling and he has served as Ringmaster at the Tulsa State Fair Livestock Auction. 

Lieutenant David Brittle also announced that Box had been confirmed as the 2016 recipient of the prestigious William Booth Award, which is one of the highest honors given by the Salvation Army. He will receive that award in the near future.

City of Sand Springs announces five new pharmacies to open in River West development

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Staff Reports

In a controversial move, the City of Sand Springs has approved the building of five new pharmacies in the River West shopping center. City Councilman Michael Phillips confirmed the decision in a statement to the press Friday morning.

“I’ve always said, you can never have too many pharmacies. They’re really the ultimate convenience and shopping experience. Not only do they cure your colds, they also offer greeting cards, snacks, children’s toys, and magazines. That’s basically all you need in life.”

The vote passed 6-1 with the lone dissenting voice coming from Councilman Jim Spoon, who owns two Spoon Drug locations in Sand Springs. “This is an obvious attempt to get back at me for not bringing a dessert to the City Council Christmas party,” said Spoon. “I honestly intended to, I just forgot! Ever since then, none of the other Councilors ever invite me over for poker night!”

Despite Spoon’s protests, Vice-Mayor John Fothergill was adamant that the decision was strictly in the best interests of the town. “Competition breeds success. With these five new pharmacies joining CVS in the development, our town is sure to begin thriving like never before.”

Mayor Mike Burdge was unavailable for comment as he is currently attempting to be the first man to run across the Pacific Ocean.

April Fools!

Sand Springs Splash Pads to open May 1st; several new parks improvements

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STAFF REPORTS

The citizens of Sand Springs have been eagerly awaiting the completion of the new splash pads in River City Parks and Pratt Civitan Park since construction began about a year ago, and it's finally time for the new features to open in one month. In addition to the splash pads themselves, the city also used the installation as an opportunity for renovation, beautifying and improving the areas around them. New handicapped parking has been added in River City, accompanied by a new pedestrian bridge to cross the creek. The splash pads will be open from May through September from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Pratt Civitan

River City