Sand Springs Parks Dept. unveils new restroom facility at Pratt Civitan Park & Splashpad

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Sand Springs City leaders and Parks Department staff gathered for a ribbon cutting celebration at Pratt Civitan Park Tuesday morning. The department recently completed construction on a new restroom facility with covered patio seating.

“The citizens of Sand Springs recognized the increased popularity of Pratt Civitan Park after the recently installed splash pad, and approved this need through the passing of a GO Bond,” stated Parks Director Jeff Edwards. “Our talented staff went above and beyond their normal job duties in our commitment to providing a more enjoyable park environment, to offer this custom comfort station to the public.”

The six-month project was completed by Parks Staff instead of being contracted out in order to save taxpayers money. The climate-controlled family bathroom is ADA compliant and uses magnetic door locks. It will be open during normal Park hours from 6:00 a.m. to midnight. Also attached to the building is a new pavilion and a pressure wash station for maintenance crews to more easily service the splash pad.

The 3.6 acre park is located at 212 West 43rd Street and features basketball and tennis courts, a swing set, grills, two covered pavilions, and the city’s only functional splash pad. The park is named for the now defunct Civitan Club who previously helped raise funds for the swing bay.

Improvements are also being made at Angus Valley Park and Ray Brown Park. Case Community Park is still closed at press time due to damages sustained during the recent historic flooding that completely submerged the hundred-acre park, which includes the Rotary Super Splash Pad. That closure has significantly increased the number of visitors at Pratt Civitan in recent weeks.

Pratt Civitan’s two pavilions are free on a first-come first-served basis, or can be reserved at $20.00 per hour.

Sand Springs City Council issues continuance on controversial Dollar General location

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Possible future site for a Dollar General store.

The Sand Springs City Council took no action on a controversial ordinance to rezone a vacant lot at 2702 North State Highway 97. More than fifty local citizens showed up in opposition to a proposed Dollar General location that they feel is inappropriately located in a residential area.

Council was schedule to vote on rezoning the land from residential to commercial to allow the construction of a Dollar General store by AAB Engineering. Because the Council meeting was moved forward a week from its previously scheduled date, Dollar General representatives were unable to be present for the meeting, and requested a continuance.

Because of the lack of representation from Dollar General, and because of the absence of Vice Mayor Patty Dixon, Council voted 5-1 in favor of delaying the rezoning vote until the July 22nd meeting.

In the rezoning application, AAB Engineering points to the close proximity of a gas station, water tower, mini storage facility, church, and radio station as justification for the commercial zoning. Additionally, a 1981 plat of the land indicated that business or commercial operations would be allowed on the lot.

However, the property sits at the intersection of Pond Drive, which is entirely residential. Approximately 238 local residents signed a petition in opposition of the rezoning, citing their desire for a quiet, rural community, and fear that the construction of a Dollar General would lead to additional future development in the area.

The City of Sand Springs voted to annex the Osage County land on May 20th. The Planning Commission voted 2-2 on the rezoning application at their last week’s meeting, failing to recommend either approval or denial of the request. However, the City staff has recommended approval.

Mayor Jim Spoon remarked that he was impressed with the public turnout for the meeting, and hoped to see as many citizens at the next meeting. One citizen remarked that they would be bringing even more opposition to the next meeting.

Police Chief Mike Carter gave a presentation regarding the 2019 Policing Plan and took public comment on the subject. This is the fourth year the department has adopted a policing plan and last year’s version was awarded the International Association of Chiefs of Police Leadership in Community Policing Award.

All officers will be issued new business cards with their name, badge number, and a website address to file online compliments or complaints. Following an unscientific Facebook poll with 93% community approval, the department will no longer restrict the hiring of officers with visible tattoos.

The department recently purchased six new police bicycles. They have been used successfully to silently close in on late night burglary suspects, to patrol trails systems and crowded community events, and to teach children how to ride bikes safely.

As part of the department’s Community Policing and Crime Reduction Plan officers took 51 students from Sand Springs Public Schools to a Tulsa ropes course to participate in the Community Trust Champions project.

The 2019 Policing Plan also calls for increased traffic violation warnings in lieu of fines, an improved system of acknowledging community complaints and disciplining officers, increased training and certifications, increased transparency, collaboration with local businesses for economic development, participation in the Hispanic Affairs Commission, Autism Awareness Training, and Critical Incident Inoculation Training.

In Other News:

Council revisited a request by Councilman Brian Jackson to have a Masonic Cornerstone installed at the new Billie A Hall Public Safety Center. The motion was previously defeated at both May Council meetings.

More than a dozen Masonic Lodge members turned out in support of the resolution, and former City Councilman Dean Nichols spoke on their behalf. The measure was approved by unanimous 6-0 vote.

Council unanimously approved the Worker’s Compensation Plan through the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group with a yearly premium of $489,706.

Council unanimously approved a resolution clarifying the City’s rules regarding retention of certain public records. The resolution allows for the immediate destruction of emails, social media posts, text messages, voicemails, and browsing history, leaving their retention up to the sole discretion of the individual employees involved.

Council unanimously approved an agreement with Crawford & Associates in the amount of $50,000 for accounting and consulting services.

Council unanimously approved an agreement with Arledge and Associates in the amount of $35,875 for for financial statement audit services.

Council unanimously approved a continuance regarding a rezoning request at the former K-Mart building. Council will vote July 22nd on whether to rezone 1200 East Charles Page Boulevard from Commercial Shopping to Commercial General.

Council unanimously approved a ratification of a Memorandum of Understanding for participation in the Southwest Area Tactical Team.

Council unanimously voted to declare as surplus two 2007 John Deere backhoes for trade-in.

Council unanimously voted to purchase a Yanmar Vio-80 Compact Excavator from DitchWitch of Tulsa for $102,550, and an Interstate 50TDL Equipment Trailer for $27,750.

Council unanimously approved a resolution setting forth guidelines to assist the City in pursuing legal claims and in responding to legal claims against the City.

Council unanimously approved a resolution affirming a Declaration of Emergency following the May 2019 Flood Event. The declaration authorizes and affirms the execution of contracts, budget amendments, waivers of competitive bidding, and payments to the pursuant contracts to restore City property and equipment that was damaged during the flood. City Staff is currently estimating a budgetary impact of $1,581,600 in flood damages.

Council unanimously approved a Master Service Agreement with Motorola Solutions for recurring services related to Motorola MCC 7500 dispatch consoles.

Council unanimously approved the appointment of the following individuals to various boards and committees:

  • Mike Burdge to Council Appointment Committee.

  • Christine Hamner to Council Appointment Committee.

  • Patty Dixon to Council Appointment Committee.

  • Mike Burdge to Council Finance and Development Committee.

  • Jim Spoon to Council Finance and Development Committee.

  • Patty Dixon to Council Finance and Development Committee.

  • Patty Dixon to Council Legislative Committee.

  • Christine Hamner to Council Legislative Committee.

  • Brian Jackson to Council Legislative Committee.

  • Jim Spoon to Council Public Works Advisory Committee.

  • Beau Wilson to Council Public Works Advisory Committee.

  • Phil Nollan to Council Public Works Advisory Committee.

  • Mike Burdge to the INCOG Board of Directors.

  • Jim Spoon as Alternate to the INCOG Board of Directors.

  • Jim Spoon to the INCOG General Assembly.

  • Elizabeth Gray as Alternate to the INCOG General Assembly.

  • Mike Burdge to the INCOG Legislative Consortium.

  • Jim Spoon as Alternate to the Legislative Consortium.

  • Derek Campbell to the INCOG - Tulsa Metropolitan Area Transportation Policy Committee.

  • TJ Davis as Alternate to the INCOG - Tulsa Metropolitan Area Transportation Policy Committee.

  • Phil Nollan to the Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board.

  • Daniel Comer to the Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board.

  • Harold Neal to the Sand Springs Planning Commission.

  • Keri Fothergill to the Sand Springs Planning Commission.

  • Phil Nollan to the Sand Springs Economic Development Authority.

  • Troy Zickefoose to the Tulsa County Criminal Justice Sales Tax Overview Committee.

  • Leia Anderson to the Pogue Airport Advisory Board.

  • Rick Westcott to the Pogue Airport Advisory Board.

  • Elizabeth Gray to the Sand Springs/Sapulpa Joint Board.

  • Derek Campbell to the Sand Springs/Sapulpa Joint Board.

In the Municipal Authority meeting following City Council, Trustees unanimously approved a $31,551 Agreement Renewal with the Metropolitan Environmental Trust for administering and operating the Sand Springs Recycling Project.

Trustees unanimously approved a one-year extension to a contract with Talley Golf, who operates the pro shop, grill, golf cart rental, and other services at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge.

4th Annual Ancient Trail Trek to benefit Keystone Ancient Forest Visitors Center

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs Parks and Recreation Department and TATUR (Tulsa Area Trails and Ultra Runners) invite runners of all ages to the magnificent Keystone Ancient Forest for the 4th Annual Ancient Trail Trek! This year's event is Saturday, February 9, 2019 with gates opening at 7:00 a.m. and the first race at 8:00 a.m.

Event registration and information can be found at the City’s website at www.sandspringsok.org. Use the Explore/ Keystone Ancient Forest/ Ancient Trail Trek drop down menus to access the registration site. Registration is online only, and runners must register before the midnight deadline on February 7, 2019.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the beautiful 1,400-acre crosstimbers nature preserve, including the planned visitor center, which is currently in design.

This year's Ancient Fun Run offers a 5K, 10K and even an 8-mile run for both adults and children. The varied courses will meander over grassy trail portions, bare soil and rock. Routes will challenge runners with some downhill glides and moderate uphill challenges! Runners can glimpse wintertime views of Keystone Lake below, and might even spot area wildlife along the course!

"We’ve partnered with the TATUR group again and so we’ll have the standard electronic timing devices for accuracy and convenience for runners,” stated Jeff Edwards, Parks Director for the City of Sand Springs. "We’ve got several great courses this year and feel we have one of the best trail running venues in Oklahoma."

The race fee (including registration) is $28.00 per runner without an event T-shirt, or $40.50 per runner with an event T-shirt. Gates will open at 7:00 a.m. on the day of the race, with the first race beginning at 8:00 a.m.

Park staff and members of the Keystone Ancient Forest Trail Guide (volunteer) group will be on site to help with water and hospitality after the race. Parking is on gravel and grassy areas with porta potty service. No pets allowed.

With proceeds from this year’s race, again going towards the Keystone Ancient Forest- this year’s event can help with the planned visitor center also! The concept for the forest’s new state of the art facility will be unveiled just weeks before the race event!

Sand Springs City Council approves new parking lots for Case Park

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The Sand Springs City Council approved a new parking lot plan for Case Community Park at their regular monthly meeting.

The design, by Studio 45 Architects, provides for approximately 211 paved parking spaces in two locations, as well as curbs, guttering, and sidewalks. About 175 spots will be paved at the Jerry Adair Baseball Park, which is currently gravel.

An additional 36-space lot will be constructed at the Rotary Super Splash Pad, replacing an existing dirt parking area. A vehicular bridge was constructed over the creek during a recent park renovation, but funding didn’t allow for the completion of the project and the bridge was blocked off for pedestrian use only. The existing dirt parking area can’t be paved without the construction of an extensive retention wall.

Council approved the closure of a sixteen-foot wide alley between West 8th Street and West 7th Street and North Franklin Avenue and North Industrial Avenue. The applicant claims to currently be the only abutting land owner maintaining his share of the right-of-way, and has had to maintain the entirety of the alley. He hopes to take his case to District Court and receive ownership of the undeveloped alley so he can fence it in.

One abutting property owner objected due to her use of the alley for backyard access. Her backyard is tiered with a retention wall preventing riding lawnmower access to much of her land. City Staff recommended closing the alley while the City Planning Commission recommended maintaining it. Councilors Jim Spoon and Phil Nollan voted against the closure, while Beau Wilson, Patty Dixon, and Brian Jackson voted in favor. The closure only forfeits the City’s claim to the alley, and District Court will have the final say on whether to grant the land to the applicant or not.

William “Tom” Meshek was recognized with a Mayoral Proclamation for his fifteen years of volunteer service on the Sand Springs Development Authority.

Council approved a $30,673.00 expenditure for the purchase of a new ladder truck for the City Fire Department.

Council passed a resolution bringing the City codes in line with the recently passed State Question 783, legalizing the sale of refrigerated wine and beer at retail liquor stores.

Council approved a resolution eliminating language from Code of Ordinances Chapter 9.36 that will qualify the City for up to $20,000 in federal grants. The language does not change the intent or execution of the ban on tobacco or vapor on City property.

William “Tom” Meshek was recognized with a Mayoral Proclamation for his fifteen years of volunteer service on the Sand Springs Development Authority.

Astronomy Night at Keystone Ancient Forest set for Friday July 20

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs Parks Department along with the Broken Arrow Sidewalk Astronomers and the Keystone Ancient Forest Trail Guides invite the general public to a rare astronomy night on Friday, July 20. The gates open late at 9:30 p.m. and guests will be allowed to stay until after midnight. There will be NO hiking during this event. Trails will be closed.

An evening of star and planet gazing (weather permitting) is planned for this free event thanks to the help of the Broken Arrow Sidewalk Astronomers. This group will share as many as six high-performance telescopes (transportable) which range in size from 4-18 inch glass diameter to view the planets and stars. A brief introduction on astronomy will begin at 9:30 p.m., with viewing happening until the event concludes after midnight.

"This is a great opportunity for people to enjoy the Keystone Ancient Forest in a unique way," stated Jeff Edwards, Parks Director for the City of Sand Springs. "Even though it will be a late night to see the heavens, this is a great summer event for kids and families."

Astronomy activities will require a night free of cloudy overcast. For the latest updates on this and other hiking events, please follow the Keystone Ancient Forest FaceBook page. Pets are not allowed for this event. Porta potty service is available.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs Parks Department, contact their offices Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at (918) 246-2561 or visit www.sandspringsok.org.

Sand Springs City and Chamber of Commerce partner to create small business incubator in downtown

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The Sand Springs Municipal Authority unanimously voted Monday evening to move forward with plans for a partnership with the Sand Springs Area Chamber of Commerce. 

The City of Sand Springs will lease the old Public Works facility at 109 North Garfield to the Chamber of Commerce at an amount of $1.00 per year, giving the Chamber room to develop a business incubator in the heart of downtown.

The Chamber will sublet office space to upstart businesses at a rate lower than most downtown office space. They will also provide resources to help young businesses get to a point of profitability that they can eventually move into the large amount of vacant downtown storefronts.

The terms of the agreement allow for either party to cancel the lease with a 90-day written notice for any reason. The City will receive 25% of the sublease revenue, while the Chamber will keep 75% to help with their economic development projects. The City will also receive a quarterly financial report and monthly update on the occupant businesses. 

The Chamber will take possession of the building in "as-is" condition and will be doing a self-funded remodel to convert the building for their purposes. 

Chamber President Kristin Cepak says it will take the Chamber about nine to twelve months to get the incubator program off the ground. The Chamber is working with The Forge, a curriculum-based certified business incubator in Tulsa, and 36 Degrees North, to create a fully certified program through the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.

In Other News:

Council authorized City staff to apply for Programming of Tulsa Urbanized Area Transportation Alternative Funds. The City is working to construct a sidewalk along the western side of 81st West Avenue from Tenth Street to Park Road. 

Council unanimously passed Ordinance 1321 amending City zoning codes for the potential passage of State Question 788. Should medical or recreational marijuana ever be legalized in the State of Oklahoma, growers, processors, and retailers would have to apply for Specific Use Permits. 

Council unanimously passed Ordinance 1322, aligning the City with State statutes regarding underage access to tobacco. The ordinance prohibits possession or sale of vapor products to youth under age 18.

City Council approved a $165,096.00 contract renewal with Superion LLC for financial software. 

Council approved a $31,636.80 purchase order to upgrade all City employees to Microsoft Office 2016.

Council approved the purchase of 49 Dell PCs for Police, Fire, and Municipal Court departments in the amount of $37,240.

Council approved supplemental appropriations totaling $1,047,000.00 from the Municipal Authority Water Utility Fund to prefund building, golf course, museum, and park improvements. The water fund will be reimbursed when certain voter-approved bond packages are sold. 

Council approved a $29,662.27 service agreement with Motorola Solutions to upgrade Police Department communications systems.

Council approved $107,397.00 for the purchase of three 2018 Ford Police Interceptor SUV units and one 2019 Ford Taurus unmarked detective units.

Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding and $3,214.75 payment to the Indian Nations Council on Government for 9-1-1 mapping and MSAG services. 

Council approved $261,708.00 to subsidize EMSA services for the city. 

Council approved $47,485.00 to furnish the Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center and Fire Station No. 2. 

Council accepted a $29,635 bid from Candle Electric for electrical work in Case Community Park. Candle will work to replace buried electrical wiring feeding the roadway lights. They returned the lowest bid out of three companies.

Council approved a final payment of $6,860.00 to Lambert Construction for their work in building a hardened storm shelter at Case Community Center.

Council approved an agreement renewal with the Metropolitan Environmental Trust (M.e.t.) in the amount of $33,132.00 for operating the Sand Springs Recycling Program. 

Council unanimously appointed Merle Parsons to the Board of Adjustment.

Council unanimously appointed Sharon Weaver to the Sand Springs Development Authority.

Council unanimously appointed Thomas Askew and Paul Shindel to the Planning Commission. 

Council declared three residential lots as surplus, authorizing sale for residential development. The lots, located at 301 N Franklin Ave, 307 N Franklin Ave, and 505 W Broadway St, were donated in lieu of payment of liens.

Council approved $394,908.00 for the purpose of replacing Precision Approach Path Indicators and constructing a new Electrical Vault at Pogue Airport. 

Sand Springs Riverfest and Sertoma Fireworks set for July 3rd at Case Community Park

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The City of Sand Springs announced plans for the Second Annual Riverfest celebration Monday. The festival, launched in 2017 to commemorate the Grand Opening of Case Community Park, will be moved forward from September to July 3rd to coincide with the Sand Springs Sertoma Club's 21st Annual Independence Day Fireworks Show. 

"This is a family friendly event, and we want to invite people from around the Sand Springs area to come to the park, relax and enjoy a fun evening," stated Jeff Edwards, Parks Director for the City of Sand Springs. "We're truly excited to share the great lawn with everyone this year. If you've not seen it, we think you're really going to agree that this special lawn was designed for nights like this."

The annual Sertoma Club fireworks show was canceled in 2017 for the first time in its twenty-year history, due to a $6 million renovation of the park, then known as River City Park. 

Case Community Park, named for community philanthropist Mike Case, features a hundred acres of activities, including baseball, soccer, and softball complexes, a BMX track, beach volleyball, a splash pad, playground equipment, walking/biking trails, a disc golf course, Arkansas River access, fishing, horseshoe pits, a Thunder Cares basketball court, the Case Community Center, and Harper's Hut Shaved Ice. 

In addition to the usual park perks, Riverfest will also bring inflatables, live music, food trucks, and other activities. 

The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with food and free activities in the park. A patriotic bike parade (decorate your bike) kicks off at 8 p.m. near the park entrance and will lead toward the great lawn.

This will be the second year for the Independence Day Bicycle Parade, the brainchild of Joni's On The Triangle hair salon owner Joanna Sporleder. Police Chief Mike Carter organized the event to provide a family-friendly festival in lieu of the canceled Sertoma Fireworks Show. 

The Sand Springs Community Band will perform on the stage of the great lawn as the sun begins to set over the Arkansas River. Fireworks will start shortly after local sunset at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Guests are invited to travel to the park by motorized vehicle and bring lawn chairs and blankets for a picnic style evening on the great lawn. The great lawn is a two-acre well-manicured, high-performance Bermuda turf lawn with an open air stage.

Porta potties and restrooms are available. Pets are allowed but Parks staff reminds guests to please keep them on a leash. The park is also a tobacco-free zone.

Sand Springs dedicates Inez Kirk park in honor of former City Manager

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The City of Sand Springs rededicated the City-Garden Park at 101 East Broadway Street in honor of former City Manager Inez Kirk.

Kirk was the City Manager for Sand Springs from 1977 to 1986 and died in office on January 23, 1986.

Kirk's family and friends planted a pink rose bush in honor of her nickname, the Iron Rose. A group of more than thirty family members, friends, and former coworkers turned out to honor her and celebrated her life with her favorite candy, licorice. 

"This park is very special to me," said current City Manager Elizabeth Gray. "I came here and prayed before I went in for my interview (for City Manager)." 

"I remember what Sand Springs used to be compared to what it is today," said Mayor Mike Burdge. "Inez was very instrumental in changing the character and the integrity of government in Sand Springs. 

The Soccer Complex at Case Community Park was named in her honor for many years, but City leaders decided it would be more appropriate to recognize her with the park next door to the City Hall building she worked at. 

"Mom loved her family, and the people at City Hall were also her family. She loved each and every one," said Kirk's daughter, Pat McConnell. "Her passion was for this city. I can tell you that mom would be overwhelmed by the fact that the City has chosen to honor her like this, and she would be amazed at how many people still remember her and talk about her."

A look back at Sand Springs's biggest stories in 2017

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Sandites enjoy a free concert from The Rogues Five at Riverfest.

From high school athletics to a growing economy and quality of living improvements, the history books will look on 2017 as a pivotal year in Sand Springs. Here's a look back at some of the biggest stories around town. 

Jan. 19 – USDA rolls out new Rural Development loan opportunities for Sand Springs area. – Read More.

Jan. 19 - CPHS Wrestling team pins entire U.S. Grant team in fourteen minutes and two seconds, setting national record for fastest dual won entirely by pin. - Read More. 

Feb. 01 – Ray Brown Park receives $37,000 renovation. – Read More.

Feb. 11 - CPHS Wrestling team wins first-ever Dual State Championship 40-26 over Broken Arrow.  - Read More.

Feb. 25 - Riley Weir, Daton Fix, Jack Karstetter, Beau Bratcher, and Payton Scott win individual State Titles and lead Sand Springs to their first State Wrestling Championship since 1971. - Read More.

Feb. 27 - ALDI grocery store and St. Francis Warren Clinic & Urgent Care announce plans to open new locations in River West Development. ALDI is new to community, Warren Clinic is relocating from Charles Page Boulevard. - Read More.

Mar. 02 - CPHS Womens' Basketball wins Area Championship to advance to State Tournament for first time since 2011. - Read More.

Mar. 06 – Rusty Gunn elected as Board of Education President, Mike Mullins sworn into new term on Board. – Read More.

Mar. 22 – Chinowth and Cohen opens new Prattville location.

Mar. 27 - Sand Springs City Council authorizes new murals and $1.5 million Prattville Fire Station. - Read More.

Apr. 04 – Payless ShoeSource announces shuttering of Sand Springs and Sapulpa locations. – Read More.

Apr. 05 – CPHS Winter Percussion wins State Championship. – Read More.

Apr. 19 – El Maguey Mexican Restaurant relocates to new building in River West. – Read More.

Apr. 20 – Tim Wright, Larry Hurst, and Dr. Stacey Butterfield are inducted into Sand Springs Education Association Hall of Fame. – Read More.

Apr. 22 – Herbal Affair co-founder Sandi Byerly receives Hometown Hero Award. – Read More.

May 02 - Individual Career Academic Plan bill authored by Jadine Nollan is signed into law. - Read More.

May 08 - Mike Burdge elected to 12th term as Mayor, Beau Wilson elected as Vice-Mayor. - Read More.

May 12 - Morgan Ganem releases new album, Paradise. - Read More.

May 13 - Aden Baughman wins 800-meter Track State Championship, Cheyenne Walden wins eighth and ninth State Championships. - Read More.

May 13 – Sand Springs graduates 392 in Class of 2017 – Read More.

May 16 - Hannah Rose releases More Than Conquerors EP. - Read More.

May 21 - CPHS Fishing Club wins Oklahoma Bass Nation State Championship. - Read More.

May 26 – Dog and Duck Antiques opens at 21 East 2nd Street, expanding from booth space in Vintage Stables on Main. – Read More.

Jun. 01 – The Ground Floor Salon opens at Village Square.

Jun. 06 – State Senator Dan Newberry resigns seat seven months after reelection. – Read More.

Jun. 08 – OSU Medicine opens in Shops at Adams Road.

Jun. 24 – EuroMotor Extravaganza returns to Sand Springs after five-year hiatus. – Read More.

Jun. 24 – Historic Twin Cities Elementary is demolished after nearly a century. – Read More.

Jun. 26 – Sand Springs City Council evicts Round Up Club from River City Park. – Read More.

Jul. 09 - Janeway Castle Stone Estate & Venue opens in Sand Springs. - Read More.

Jul. 10 - Sand Springs's Janet Johnson named Oklahoma Teacher of the Year finalist. - Read More.

Jul. 11 - James Garrison hired as new CPHS Head Baseball Coach.- Read More.

Jul. 21 – Carter Young wins Cadet Greco-Roman National Championship. – Read More.

Jul. 29 – Aden Baughman wins National Championship in 800-meter run. – Read More.

Aug. 01 – Daton Fix wins Junior Freestyle World Championship. – Read More.

Sep. 09 – Case Community Park unveiled with all-day Riverfest celebration after $6.2 million renovation. – Read More.

Sep. 13 – Edward Jones agent Casey Loper relocates Sand Springs office to new building. – Read More.

Sep. 30 – YellowHouse Market & Boutique relocates to historic downtown Chastain’s building, buying out DejaVu Décor.

Oct. – Prattville Braums and QuikTrip are demolished, work begins on larger, newer facilities. – Read More.

Oct 11. – Colton’s Steak House and Grill breaks ground in River West development. – Read More.

Oct. 21 – CPHS Boys’ Cross Country team qualifies for State for first time in school history. – Read More.

Oct. 27 – Payton Scott sets school rushing record with 507 yards against Bartlesville. – Read More.

Nov. 02 – Stage department store relocates to former May’s Drug Warehouse building. – Read More.

Nov. 04 – It’s Just a Girl Thing Boutique opens in Prattville.

Nov. 08 - OkieSpice & Trade Co. celebrates grand opening in Sand Springs. – Read More.

Nov. 14 – Voters approve $18 million in General Obligation Bond packages. – Read More.

Nov. 14 – Democrat Allison Ikley-Freeman wins Senate District 37 seat vacated by Republican Dan Newberry. – Read More.

Nov. 28 – Downtown Sand Springs hosts inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. – Read More.

Nov. 28 – WSB Homes opens in downtown Sand Springs. – Read More.

Dec. – Philip D. Smith publishes new book, From Praha to Prague. - Read More.

Dec. 01 – Rod’s Books and Relics hosts inaugural Christmas Parade of Books. – Read More.

Dec. 12 – Sand Springs breaks ground on new Prattville Fire Station. – Read More.

Dec. 17 – The House of Hair and Boutique opens on Livi Lee’s Corner. 

Dec. 27 – YellowHouse Market & Boutique, Sarah and Kyle Baumann win inaugural Sandite Pride Christmas Light Contest. – Read More.

Dec. 29 – El Patron Cocina Mexicana opens in Shops at Adams Road. – Read More.

Sand Springs Ministerial Alliance donates $4,000 for police/fire Christmas bonuses

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Left to right: Pastors Todd Nance and Steve Allen present Fire Chief Mike Wood and Police Chief Mike Carter with a donation towards Christmas bonuses for the departments. 

The Sand Springs City Council met in a regular meeting Monday evening at the City Municipal Building. The Sand Springs Ministerial Alliance presented a check for $4,000 to Police Chief Mike Carter and Fire Chief Mike Wood to be used for Christmas bonus checks for the police and fire departments.

Carter spoke on the recent passage of five General Obligation Bond proposals and the wide margins of their approval. Proposal five was the closest vote with 58% in favor. "It was the biggest leap of faith for our community but we think it'll have the biggest payout," said Carter. 

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs voters approve new infrastructure and park improvements, economic incentives

Formerly a power plant and fire station, this building could one day be the home of a micro-brewery and restaurant. 

Council approved a promissory note between the City of Sand Springs and the Loaded Brewing Company, extending an existing note to March of 2018. The City first issued the note to SpringLoaded Brewery in 2014, allowing the brewery to make property improvements at 221 South Main Street with the goal of purchasing the building and opening a microbrewery/restaurant. The brewery has received five extensions while they continue to look for investors.

A "hardened-room" storm shelter planned for Case Community Center. 

Council approved a $45,000 purchase order for parks supplies including benches, park tables, and trash cans. The money will come from a 2014 GO Bond fund.

Council approved a change in zoning for a 39-acre section of land on the north side of 41st Street, immediately next to HillSpring Church. The property was previously zoned commercial and has undergone extensive property improvements to be used as a private residence with agricultural buildings and livestock.

Council approved a $136,000 contract with Lambert Construction Company for construction of a hardened-room (storm shelter) at Case Community Center. Lambert had the lowest of seven bids. 

Conceptual rendering for the new Fire Station No. 2 to be built in Prattville. 

The City received ten bids for the construction of Fire Station No. 2 and Builders Unlimited of Tulsa was recommended to Council by Chief Wood. The resolution passed unanimously awarding Builders Unlimited a $1.4 million contact.

Council approved a resolution to "adopt a kettle" from Salvation Army. The City will gather volunteers to man a fundraising kettle at Reasor's for a ten-hour shift.

Sand Springs voters approve new infrastructure and park improvements, economic incentives

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More than 1,500 voters in Sand Springs approved five General Obligation Bond Propositions Tuesday that will cost more than $18 million over the coming years. The bond money will be used to fund infrastructure improvements, economic incentives, increased park development, and city beautification. City officials say that the projects will be staggered so that property taxes do not exceed $13 per $1000 property value. 

Proposition One provides $1,445,000 for street overlays and repairs, plus $2,060,000 for a new roadway to be constructed over the levee separating Sheffield Crossing from Case Community Park. The proposition passed 1,060 to 466, or 69.46% in favor.

Proposition Two provides $1,137,000 for new technology upgrades for the Police Department, Fire Department, and 911 Dispatch, plus $1,133,000 for a new ladder truck and equipment for the Fire Department. The proposition passed 1,016 to 512, or 66.49% in favor.

Proposition Three provides funding for six different recreational projects. $2,060,000 would go to improvements at the Canyons at Black Jack Ridge Municipal Golf Course. $592,250 would go to paved parking at the Jerry Adair Baseball Complex in Case Community Park. $203,000 would go to improvements and repairs at the Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum. $420,500 would go to improvements in neighborhood parks with an additional $231,750 for improvements in neighborhood trails. Finally, $257,500 would go to improvements at the Keystone Ancient Forest, including a visitor's center and watchtower. The proposition passed 955 to 548, or 62.38% in favor.

Proposition Four allots $412,000 for the purchase of a new vacuum truck, $1,905,500 for City-wide beautification and landscaping, and $307,500 for City-wide technology improvements. One of the primary sites for City beautification is the Water Treatment Plant at the Southeast corner of Highway 97 and Morrow Road. Landscaping will be utilized to completely hide the facility from public view. The proposition passed 900 to 555, or 61.86% in favor.

Proposition Five will provide funding for land acquisition and incentives for new businesses. Incentives have previously been used to attract Webco, Wal-Mart, Reasor's, and Colton's Steakhouse. The proposition passed 849 to 607, or 58.31% in favor. 

City of Sand Springs strives to improve the view around town

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City contractors clearing overgrowth along the bluffs near Highway 51. (Submitted). 

The City of Sand Springs is hard at work lately, beautifying parts of the city that see major traffic in an effort to improve the town's aesthetic and hopefully attract new businesses and residents. 

The most recent project is an overgrowth removal effort along the bluffs near the Highway 51-Highway 97 intersection. Similar projects are in various stages of completion along the Sand Springs Expressway, including the Katy Trail area along Charles Page Boulevard, and the Case Community Park area along Wekiwa Road. The projects were awarded to All Elements Solutions LLC at a total bid of $51,450. The work is expected to be done by November 13th with a $300/day penalty to the contractor for delays beyond that deadline. 

This mural will also wrap around the eastern (left) side of the silo and will include city-founder Charles Page pulling back a curtain to unveil Sand Springs. 

The City also recently commissioned a pair of murals from Josh Butts Creative Services. One is halfway complete and the other has yet to have its location announced. The City authorized $49,500 total for the two projects.

The City is 95% done with with a $6.2 million renovation of Case Community Park. One of the last remaining projects outlined in the Park Master Plan is the clearing of overgrowth along the river to enhance the view.

On the ballot this November are several General Obligation Bond Proposals that will allow the City to continue its efforts on a larger scale. City officials hope to be able to use landscaping to completely hide the Water Treatment Plant on Morrow Road from view. Gardens and other landscaping features would also be installed along major thoroughfares throughout the city. 

Editorial: It's high time to beautify Sand Springs

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This Centennial Clock is one of dozens across the State, commemorating Oklahoma's hundredth anniversary. 

Sand Springs is a wonderful community. I love it here. I was born and raised in Sand Springs and I've lived here for the majority of my life, with stents in Nowata, Bartlesville, Owasso, and Norman. I'm fairly well traveled for an Oklahoman of my age. The average American has visited only twelve states and at my 23 years of age I have been fortunate enough to spend time in seventeen, not counting layovers. 

I am not a turnpike traveler. I like to go with the land, not through it. I take the two-lane highways through the small towns that the interstate forgot. I read about them as I go, I stop in the downtown districts and see the sites. I use the pokestop information on the Pokemon Go! app to find unique parks, murals, statues, and other landmarks that I might otherwise drive right by. 

One thing I'm always struck by is how little art we have in Sand Springs. We have two existing murals and one that's still being painted. We have one statue and a handful of historical markers. That's it. If you visit nearby communities right here in Oklahoma, you're inundated with art. Not just the big cities like Tulsa or Oklahoma City, which have hundreds of murals across town. Sapulpa is the size of Sand Springs and has artwork on every corner. Drumright has a mere 3,000 people and yet their town is inundated with murals. 

Sapulpa Public Art

Drumright Public Art

Cushing Public Art

Sand Springs is in a pivotal time right now. With the demolition of the old steel plant, increased commercial development in RiverWest, and new businesses investing in downtown, the town has the opportunity to build momentum and really push Sand Springs into a new era of success. With the commercial development, we should also focus on developing the aesthetic so that the town doesn't lose its identity and end up like another Owasso or Broken Arrow, indistinguishable from Tulsa. 

The following are just a few areas that I think are ripe with potential for branding Sand Springs as a beautiful destination for a weekend getaway or a unique and perfect town in which to build a family and a future.

This grassy hillside is one of many empty areas that could use a little glam in Sand Springs. This spot is located on the southern side of US64 at the intersection with Main Street. The City already has beautification projects planned for many such areas, pending the passage of General Obligation Bond Proposal No. 4 this November, though this specific site hasn't been mentioned yet. A small flower garden here would go a long way, and it doesn't need to be some big expensive government project. This is the kind of simple project that a local youth group could knock out in a single afternoon. A mix of decorative rock and perennial plants would provide a low-maintenance and quality improvement to the town's beauty.

Nothing better to follow the hillside garden than a "Welcome to Downtown Sand Springs" mural. The US64/Main Street intersection is the gateway between old and new Sand Springs. On the south side you have the RiverWest development and the upcoming Sheffield Crossing development. An eye-catching garden and mural will help usher visitors from the modern growth to the heart of the city and hopefully encourage name-brand shoppers to spend a little time among the Mom and Pop shops that make our community unique. Efforts would need to be made to seal all of the cracks in the concrete where the weeds penetrate. Overpass murals have been done excellently in other communities, such as the I-244 intersection with North Greenwood Avenue in Tulsa.

Of all the sites in Sand Springs in need of a face-lift, this needs it the most. I mean no disrespect to the property owners, but most of downtown is red brick so this sticks out like a sore thumb. This is the side of the Yesterday to Now building and the parking for Hammond Family Dentistry. The white paint has clearly been touched up in various spots over the years so none of it is one consistent shade. This is also highly visible and unobstructed, making it a wonderful spot for a mural. The length of the building would bode well for a timelapse mural of Sand Springs throughout the years. 

There are many sites in Sand Springs that don't necessarily need a facelift, but would be fine candidates to receive murals if the community was in favor of more community artwork.
Left to right, top to bottom:

  • 21 East Broadway, owned by Montie Box Rental, currently leased by Bodley Insurance. 
  • 26 East Broadway, owned by Bekim Rexhepi LLC, leased by Napoli's Italian Eatery. This former site of the Sand Springs Trolley Depot aught to bear some reminder of its storied past.
  • 11 East 2nd Street, owned by Thomas & Sharecia Nowak Family Trust, leased by Boost Mobile.
  • 15 East 2nd Street, owned by Sand Springs Welfare Association, leased by Security Finance.
  • 100 North Main Street, owned by Tallent Electric, leased by Edward Jones and Chamber of Commerce.
  • 107 North Main Street, owned by Frank and Catherine Suraci, unoccupied. This is the first wall you see after entering downtown via Main Street.
  • 100 North Main Street, different side of aforementioned building.
  • 118 North Main Street, owned by Vazgen Minassian, leased by Doug's Rebuilders. 
  • 217 North Garfield Avenue, owned by Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. This building is probable the most visible location in downtown for a mural. 
  • 209 North Main Street, owned by IOWA LLC, occupied by Law Offices of Cynthia Phillips and Technology Consulting Services. 

This mural by Josh Butts is halfway done. The eastern side has yet to be primed due to the close proximity to power lines. 

The City of Sand Springs recently commissioned a pair of murals by Tulsa artist Josh Butts. One of these murals is about halfway finished on the abandoned Monarch Cement Co. silo just west of the Avery Drive-Highway 51 intersection. Neither the location nor the design of the second mural has been announced as of yet. City Council authorized $49,500 for the pair of them, funded by the Economic Development Capital Improvement Fund. That money is generated by a hotel tax.

SEE RELATED: City of Sand Springs commissions mural for abandoned Monarch Cement silo.

$49,500 is a lot of money to most people. It may not be a lot of money for a pair of high-quality murals, but it's a lot of money to the average Sand Springs citizen. 

I'm not advocating that the City authorize another $300,000 for murals. I'm a conservative. I believe that the government exists to provide essential services and nothing else. I love the mural being painted by Josh Butts, and I would love to see more of his work around Sand Springs, but I don't personally believe that the taxpayers should be forced to pay for it. 

Sand Springs is blessed with countless service groups and organizations. There are dozens of churches and youth groups. We have great organizations like Beautiful Living in Sand Springs, the Sand Springs Rotary Club, the Power of Partial Improvements, and hundreds of involved citizens who are constantly open to improving the community. 

The Rotary Club donated $70,000 in 2015 to help open a free public splash pad in Case Community Park. Case Community Park received a $2 million donation from Mike and Pat Case. The Rotary Club also sponsors Centennial Park where the sandy springs from which the town draws its name are located. Word of Life Church recently held a work day at Limestone Elementary where they painted several rooms throughout the facility to help the school district rebrand all their schools with black and gold. Church That Matters recently held a city-wide service day where they worked in parks, painted a bridge, worked at a shelter for victims of domestic violence, and even gave out free quarters at local car washes and laundromats.

The town has a long history of those with excess giving back to those with little. The town was born out of the charity of Charles Page, who used his wealth to open an orphanage and widows' colony. He also opened an amusement park and gave away major incentives to attract businesses to the town to provide jobs for his "children." Page had a sense of community that is still very much alive in the hearts of thousands of Sandites to this day. 

You don't have to be a millionaire oil baron to make a difference in your community. Maybe you can't commission a painting, but you can probably give five bucks towards a community enhancement fundraiser, or pick up a shovel and help plant a garden, or help pick up trash and tree debris after a thunderstorm. A few thousand people working together can get a lot done. Let's stop waiting on the City to pass bond issues and raise taxes to get things done. Let's just be involved citizens, get things done ourselves, and make this town the most unique community in the country. 

Case Community Park unveiled with all-day Riverfest celebration

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The Rogues Five reunited in their home town to headline the Riverfest celebration. 

Click here to view Riverfest photo gallery.

Riverfest appeared to go off without a hitch Saturday in Sand Springs as the community gathered together for an all-day festival celebrating one of the largest park projects in town history. Following a $6.2 million renovation, the former River City Park was officially rededicated as Case Community Park in honor of Mike and Pat Case who donated $2 million to the project. 

Fifteen hours worth of festivities provided a little something for everyone this weekend. The party kicked off at sunrise with the launching of three hot air balloons. The balloons returned later that evening and touched down on the Great Lawn, providing spectators with a light show of burning helium.

From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. the nearly two acre Great Lawn was a great parking lot for 119 entries in a car, truck, and motorcycle show. Two vehicles driven by Sand Springs native and World Champion racer Bennie Osborn were also on display. 

Representatives from the Oklahoma City Thunder basketball organization unveiled the new Thunder Cares three-on-three half court to much fanfare. Kids were able to shoot hoops with the team mascot, Rumble the Bison. Big Blast Inflatables hosted a kids' zone, and the Rotary Super Splash Pad was also open for business with a brand new playground. 

The Sand Springs Pokemon Go! club hid nearly a hundred Pokemon-themed painted rocks throughout the park for a scavenger hunt they hope will become an annual tradition. A chalk-art contest was also held, attracting a few dozen competitors.

There was plenty of food and drink available. Food vendors lined River City Park Road, including Short Bus Sandwiches, Rib Crib, El Jarocha Mexican Street Tacos, Purple People Feeder, Kona Ice, Harper's Hut Shaved Ice, Kingdom Concessions, and more. Monster Energy gave out free samples of their new soda, and Blue Bell Ice Cream passed out free vanilla cups to everyone.

The Charles Page High School Gold Pride Marching Band kicked off a ceremony to dedicate the park, followed by a mini performance of the Oklahoma! musical play. City Councilwoman Patty Dixon footed the bill for the production and starred in the performance alongside Travis Dixon, Mat Govich, Scott McQuade, Josh Westbrook, Shelby Eicher, and Ethan Eicher among others.

Local band The Rogues Five performed after the Oklahoma! production and covered classic hits from the 60s and 70s. The band is comprised of I.J. Ganem, Randy Ess, Philip Wilson, Bard Coats, and Jamie Oldaker. The band attained regional prominence during their high school days in the 1960s when they opened for The Doors. Ganem, Ess, and Oldaker have continued in the music industry ever since. Ganem and Ess's sons also performed with the band. Morgan Ganem is considered the sixth Rogue and closed out the night as a solo performer. Ess described his son, Dylan, as a Rogue-in-training. 

Morgan Ganem performed a long set of electronic dance music, including both original music and remixes of modern and classic hits. The end of his set coincided with a massive fireworks show performed by Imperial Fireworks, the company that puts on shows for the Tulsa Drillers. The younger Ganem was a hit with the kids and after playing a remix of Justin Bieber's "Despacito," the stage was overflowing with children showing off their wildest dance moves for the rest of the show. 

Pokemon Go! to the park this Saturday!

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The Sand Springs Pokémon Go Club is teaming up with the Sand Springs Parks Department to bring a painted rock scavenger hunt to Case Community Park Saturday morning. The event is just one of several activities that park-goers can participate in as the park celebrates a $6.2 million renovation with an all-day Riverfest.

The park opens at sunrise with a hot air balloon launch. Festival attendees will have until 3:00 p.m. to find the rocks. They can either collect the rocks and turn them in, or take a picture and leave it for someone else to find. 

A check in station will be located near the softball complex for participants to turn in rocks or tally photos. 

Riverfest will also be having a car, truck, and motorcycle show, a concert with Morgan Ganem and the Rogues Five, a sidewalk chalk-art contest, a fireworks show and other festivities throughout the day. 

Parking is limited and a $10 fee will be charged in the afternoon. 

Sand Springs Parks ANNOUNCES "Chalk-A-Thon" sidewalk art contest

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 Sand Springs, OK-Looking for a family outing at Riverfest?  Do your kids like to draw and create?  How about decorating the new Case Community Park for FREE at this year's "Chalk-A-Thon" chalk-art contest!

"We are calling on parents, grandparents, students and artists from all around the Sand Springs area to join us at this family-friendly event and get creative!" stated Sand Springs Parks' Joy Turner.  "If you like to draw, or just need to express your creative side- we have a great event for you!"

To enter, simply print off the registration form on the Sand Springs Riverfest Face Book page, or stop by the parks offices at the Case Community Center.  Register early as spaces are limited!

You'll be assigned a 10' x 10' asphalt area and colored chalk to create your masterpiece from one of four great contest categories: Case Community Park, 3D Art, Original Art and Super Hero.  Prizes will be given to winners in each category!

"Contestants are encouraged to bring a 10” X 10” tent to keep their artwork covered from the weather and to just stay cool, " added Turner, "Bring a friend and enjoy creating together in this newly finished park."

For late registration on September 9th (if spaces remain), stop by the information tent at Riverfest beginning at 8:00am.  Contestants can create their masterpiece anytime between 10:00am-4:00pm.  Judging begins at 4:00m with 1st place prize winners announced around 5:00pm.  There are many other attractions to enjoy while you wait for results.  Whether you’re a spectator or a contestant, check out Riverfest Chalk-A-Thon on Saturday, September 9th, 2017.

Sand Springs park officials announce details for upcoming Riverfest event

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Sand Springs Parks Department officials held a press event Tuesday morning at River City Park to announce the details of the upcoming Riverfest event. The park will be officially rededicated as "Case Community Park" with a Grand Opening celebration on Saturday, September 9th. City Council members will be on hand along with Mike and Pat Case, who donated $2 million to the park renovation.

"For those of you that don't know Mike Case, you should because he is a fantastic guy. He stands behind the community," said I.J. Ganem, a musician who will be performing at the event.

"About a month from now the park will be completed, and it will be open for business. We're very excited about that," said Parks Director Grant Gerondale.

The festivities will last from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and will include a car show, hot air balloons, sidewalk chalk art contest, free hot dogs, live music, fireworks, and more. 

Local band The Rogues Five will provide the entertainment for the event. The group of Sand Springs alumni charted regionally in the 1960s and opened for Jim Morrison and The Doors at the peak of their success. The band is comprised of I.J. Ganem, Randy Ess, Philip Wilson, Bard Coats, and Jamie Oldaker.

"What we tried to do as a committee in planning this party was reach out to all ages, to all genders, and I think we're doing that with the selection of these two artists," said Park Facilities Manager Jeff Edwards.

The Rogues will open up the show with classic rock music, while Morgan Ganem will perform during the evening festivities. Morgan is the son of I.J. and a prominent solo performer with residency at Safari Joe's H2O. 

(Left to right): I.J. Ganem, Morgan Ganem, Joy Turner, Jeff Edwards, Grant Gerondale.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs musician Morgan Ganem releases new album, Paradise

"It's a great community," said I.J. Ganem. "I remember actually being here at the river parks...with my father for the very first raft race...Today is actually my wife and my 36th anniversary and we had our first semi-date here." The Great Raft Race will return to the park Labor Day weekend.

"Anytime our city gets behind what we're doing, it's a big honor," added Morgan.

The Oklahoma City Thunder basketball organization will send representatives to dedicate a new "Thunder Cares" basketball court. The park renovation also features new playgrounds, horseshoe pits, an 18-hole disc golf course, improved infrastructure and parking, and additional multi-use athletic fields. The amenities are anchored around the 1.94-acre Great Lawn and amphitheater.

Parking is limited and a $10 fee will be collected in the late afternoon. The parking ticket will also serve as a raffle ticket for a television giveaway.

"We have a brand new entrance. A lot of people didn't even know we have a park here, and a lot of people didn't know how large the park is," said Edwards. "There's something for everybody...Whether Riverfest happens around this time of year, or if it happens at a different time, I think what we're going to do is build the excitement to have a large community-sized event. An all day thing that families can come out to enjoy and use the quality of life features that we have in the park for them."

Existing features within the park include the Case Community Center, Inez Kirk Soccer Complex, Jerry Adair Baseball Complex, Rotary Super Splash Pad, Will Ramsey Softball Complex, volleyball courts, a BMX track, and a rodeo arena.

The rodeo arena is slated for demolition this winter, while two new park improvements will be on the ballot in November. In a November 14 special election, Sand Springs residents will vote on five general obligation bond propositions. Proposition One calls for a new roadway to be constructed over the levee separating the park from the Sheffield Crossing development. Proposition Three will provide funds for a new paved parking lot at the baseball fields.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council approves General Obligation Bond vote for November

Professional Disc Golfers host free clinic for Sand Springs kids

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Charles Page Library hosted a free disc golf clinic Wednesday morning in Sand Springs. Librarian Richard Why and wife Tara hosted the event; both are teammates for FOSSA Disc Golf and play professional tournaments across the central United States.

The Whys have hosted the event annually for several years. The clinic started with a lecture on the fundamentals of the sport with information on local courses and stores.

The Oklahoma Disc Golf Foundation donated free discs to the event. The organization also helps cover tournament fees and travel costs for golfers under the age of 18. Fossa donated hats and mini-markers.

Following the presentation, the golfers moved outside to work on form and learn the different types of driving.

Sand Springs recently installed a new 18-hole disc golf course in Case Community Park near the BMX track and rodeo arena. 

Sand Springs City Council approves General Obligation Bond vote for November

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Sand Springs Police Chief Mike Carter discusses the department's need for updated dispatch software at a Monday night City Council meeting. (Photo: Emigh).

The Sand Springs City Council unanimously approved a series of bond propositions at Monday night’s regular monthly meeting. The five propositions will appear on the ballot November 14th at the same time as the Senate District 37 special election. Each proposition will pass or fail on its own, and will require a simple majority of 50% plus one vote.

Proposition One totals $3.505 million for the purpose of improving street conditions and constructing new roadways. “The City has always made an effort to make streets and roadways here in Sand Springs a priority,” said City Manager Elizabeth Gray. $1.445 million will be used for street overlays and repairs, while $2.06 million will go to a new roadway over the levee separating Case Community Park from the Sheffield Crossing commercial development.

Proposition Two totals $2.27 million for the purpose of purchasing new public safety equipment and software. The money will be used to replace a fifteen-year-old Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) software for the Sand Springs Police Department, as well as the Records Management System. A new ladder truck will also be purchased for the Sand Springs Fire Department. The new unit will be able to navigate tighter spaces and will have a ladder approximately 30 feet longer than the current unit.

Proposition Three totals $3.765 million for the purposes of beautifying, renovating, and generally improving public parks, lands, recreational facilities, etc. $592,250 will go to paving the parking lot at the Jerry Adair Baseball Complex inside Case Community Park. $203,000 will go to Museum building improvements, $420,500 will go to park improvements, $231,750 will go to neighborhood trail improvements, $2.06 million will go to improvements at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge, and $257,500 will go towards improvements at the Keystone Ancient Forest. KAF improvements will include a watch tower and a new visitor’s center.

Proposition Four totals $2.625 million for the purpose of improving municipal facilities and assets. $412,000 will go to purchasing a vacuum truck, $1.9055 million will go to City-wide beautification and landscaping, and $307,500 will go to City-wide computer hardware and software upgrades. According to City officials, the current vacuum truck is utilized daily and is one of the most heavily used piece of equipment in the city.

Part of the beautification and landscaping funds will go to the City Water Treatment facility on the corner of Morrow Road and Wilson Avenue. “We want to make sure that we don’t have an eyesore that people can see anymore,” said Gray. "The water tower is coming down, it’s already funded. The water treatment facility isn’t going to be moved, it’s just too expensive. We want to make sure that our city looks as good as it can.”

Proposition Five totals $6.180 million will go to acquisition, improvement, and development of lands for future economic development projects. “Our citizens still have wants that they want to see locally, and we want to see that happen,” said Police Chief Mike Carter. “Look no further than Walmart and Webco. Those would not have happened if the City didn’t have those resources.”

Under the proposal, the city millage rate will be kept to $13 per $1,000 of property value. According to City officials, the most Sand Springs citizens have ever paid was $13.5. “Even when we go to 13 mills, our millage rate will be below Bixby, Jenks, Sapulpa, Broken Arrow, and Tulsa,” said Councilman Phil Nollan. “It was intentional,” added Mayor Mike Burdge. 

In other news:

Council approved a renewal of their ten-year sales tax rebate agreement with Reasor’s, LLC. The 1% agreement caps at $2 million and is currently at $1.022 million after five years.

Council approved a $251,708 annual subsidy of EMSA services.

Council approved a contract of up to $190,000 with Dewberry Architects for expenses relating to the new Public Safety Facility.

Council approved the closure of the Southern half of Case Community Park from Sunday, September 3rd through Monday, September 4th. The park will serve as the launching point for the Great Raft Race that Monday. The park will also be closed to normal operations on September 9th and 10th due to the Riverfest Grand Opening event. 

Council approved a transfer of $20,000 for a sidewalk improvement project in Concord Estates.

Council approved an ordinance rezoning the formerly-planned Arms Estates housing addition from RS-2 to RS-3. Arms Estates was originally planned in 1958 but ceased development after a single home. The property is located between East 31st Place and East 32nd Place off South 113th West Avenue.

Alan Betchan of AAB Engineering plans on developing a twelve-lot subdivision named Rivercrest. The new zoning allows the lots to be as little as 60 feet wide, as opposed to 75 feet minimum under RS-2. The lots are expected to be about 70 feet wide and 9,000 square feet. The addition will include single-story homes approximately 1800 square feet, and two-story homes approximately 2200 square feet. They are expected to range from $200,000 to $300,000.

Council voted to create an exemption from the Sand Springs Parks Fee for new buildings on lots that have been previously developed as residential.

Council voted to approve current plans for a hardened room (storm shelter) to be constructed at the Case Community Center. Preliminary designs have been drafted by Studio 45 for a 40x14 room with an occupancy load of 97, able to withstand 250 mph winds. “This is simply a place for occupants of the building, this is not a community shelter” said Parks Director Grant Gerondale. The project will go to bid this fall.

Council awarded a $715,710 contract to Circle P Welding, Inc. for the replacement of the South McKinley Hills Water Storage Tank.

Councilman Brian Jackson announced the acquisition of several surplus books from the National Library of Congress that have been gifted to Sand Springs Public Schools.

The Sand Springs Museum Association will hold an annual meeting on August 5th that is open to the public from 11:00 a.m. to noon. Connie Fisher, a museum volunteer and nationally acclaimed storyteller, will provide entertainment.

Editorial: River City Park doesn't need a renovation

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It's about fifteen till noon with a heat index of 89 degrees and a steady breeze to combat the humidity. I'm on my weekly trek through River City Park, taking photos of the construction progress, and I'm reminded that although all the hype is around the new projects in the park, the existing features are already worth the trip.

I parked by the Jerry Adair Baseball Complex, named for one of Sand Springs's greatest athletes, and rebuilt just a few years ago thanks to countless community donations and volunteer hours after a devastating tornado.

It is the West Side Alliance 3V3 tournament weekend so the soccer fields are packed. This is normal for Sand Springs. The WSA is one of the largest and most active soccer programs in the state.

The shaved ice banners are flying and the splash pad is open. A massive contribution from the Rotary Club and the nonprofit concession stand ran by WSA volunteers offer one of the best places in Sand Springs for kids to cool down and hang out.

Once you pass the hubbub of the Inez Kirk Soccer Complex, the park begins to quiet down.

The River City Trail winds along the river and with a little TLC along the shoreline, the park could easily be the premier viewing destination of the Great Raft Race 

I'm passing The Great Lawn and the new playground facilities now. For now the great lawn is a great mess, but soon enough it'll be a beautiful site to host concerts, festivals, and other community gatherings.

I stop at the playground to snap some pics and do a little playing of my own. It has been a year since Pokémon Go debuted, but it has managed to maintain its appeal for those of us who spent our childhood playing the games, collecting the cards, and watching the show. I battle the Gym located in the playground, then continue walking and hatching Pokémon eggs.

The restrooms are being updated and modern art is littered along the perimeter of the lawn. A minuteman stands to watch over the grounds, the mascot of Sand Springs. The amphitheater is exciting. I look forward to many great concerts here.

Once you pass the great lawn there's a boat ramp to the rive. The dam is open and the river is running. Not as uncommon as it used to be, but still a treat compared to the sandbars we're so used to. 

Volleyball courts have been here for ages, the Horseshoe pits have been relocated, and a Thunder Cares Basketball Court is being built.

I'm getting into the back of the park now. The Will Ramsey Softball Complex, the rodeo arena, the BMX track, and the disc golf course. Round Up Club volunteers are currently painting the facility in hopes of reversing a City Council decision to demolish it at the end of the season. The new disc golf course is nice. I've played it a couple of times now. 

I have reached the end of the park where it terminates beneath the Arkansas River bridge. The trail goes up the levee and meets Katy Trail allowing you to go into Prattville or back to Tulsa. The trail system will take you all the way to the new Gathering Place and beyond, though I don't see why anyone in Sand Springs would need to go that far when we have such a beautiful park right here.

Though the new additions are welcome, and the park has always had its flaws, the bones of the park will be the same in September as they were a year ago. Packed soccer, baseball, and softball fields. Tulsa's only BMX track, a uniquely wooded disc golf course, nearly a mile of river shore, playgrounds, a splash pad, and a well-paved and shaded trail. 

The $6 million renovation will bring improvements and additions to Sand Springs's flagship park, but a simple Saturday morning stroll more than shows that River City Park doesn't need a renovation to be one of Sand Springs's greatest assets.