City Council approves measures related to infrastructure and development

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Sand Springs City Manager Elizabeth Gray provided an update on the Sheffield Crossing Development Infrastructure Construction project at Monday evening’s City Council meeting.

The City purchased 18 acres of Highway 97 frontage from OmniTrax in December of 2017, on the former site of the Sheffield Steel Mill, with the intent of constructing a commercial development. City leaders hope to attract a large lumber/hardware store as an anchor for the Sheffield Crossing development.

Craig & Keithline Inc. has developed the initial infrastructure package, including an entry roadway, traffic signals, and storm and water facilities.

Two new traffic signals will be installed on Highway 97 as part of the project. One will be located at the entrance to Sheffield Crossing, and one will be located at the future intersection of the Main Street expansion. That intersection will join Main Street and Highway 97 with the new road planned along the top of the levee in Case Community Park.

Council approved a resolution waiving competitive bidding for certain traffic signal components for the development. The project deadline has already been pushed and the City hopes to save a few weeks on the delivery and installation of the traffic signal poles by purchasing them directly.

Gray commented that the massive piles of demolition rubble currently on the site will be used as filler within the development.

A representative from the City financial department gave an update on capital projects for fiscal year 2019-2020. The Capital Projects Fund will see an increase of $9.6 million in new funding, allocated to the following projects…

  • $50,000 Golf Course Pond Improvements

  • $15,000 Downtown Tree and Sidewalk Replacements

  • $10,000 River West ROW Mowing Contract

  • $100,000 Municipal Building Remodel - Furnishings & Equipment

  • $16,000 Municipal Building Badge System Replacement

  • $7,000 Sheffield Crossing Design Costs

  • $100,000 Traffic Signal Upgrades (Highway 97 Coordination Timing)

  • $25,000 Roadway Striping

  • $10,000 Project Design Assistance

  • $30,000 Speed Humps

  • $400,000 Sheffield Crossing Boulevard

  • $780,000 Street Overlays

  • $550,000 HWY 97T Rehab (Design and Construction)

  • $435,000 81st Weset Avenue Trail Connector (Design and Construction)

  • $100,000 Pratt Interceptor (32nd Street)

  • $20,000 Broadway WL Replacement (Main to Washington)

  • $150,000 WTP Improvements

  • $150,000 Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements (Pumps)

  • $318,000 Highway 97 12” Water Ling

  • $850,000 Sheffield Crossing Water & Wastewater Infrastructure

  • $250,000 SRWCS One-Way Tank

  • $300,000 Charles Page Water BPS Upgrade

  • $300,000 East 41st Street Water BPS Upgrade

  • $150,000 Wastewater Treatment Plant VFD Upgrade

  • $50,000 Arc Flash Electrical Safety Improvements (SRWCS, WTP, WWTP)

  • $250,000 Diamondhead Tank Rehab

  • $30,000 Airport Construction Fund

  • $20,000 Fueling Thermal Upgrades

  • $15,000 Ray Brown Park Stormwater Detention

  • $1.35 million Sheffield Crossing Stormwater Infrastructure

  • $41,000 Golf Course Improvements

  • $140,000 New police vehicles

  • $50,000 Downtown Street Overlays

  • $75,500 Case Park Levee Roadway

  • $250,000 Golf Course Renovations

In other news:

SEE RELATED: City Council approves permits for two new Medical Marijuana Dispensaries

Council approved a resolution declaring the City’s intent to apply for a Community Development Block Grant from Tulsa County Community Development Urban County funds. The City expects to be allocated approximately $94,748 which will be used for a water line replacement project from 4th Street through 6th Street on Lincoln Avenue. The City will be replacing 980 linear feet of 4” cast iron line with 8” PVC line.

One of the conditions for receiving CDBG funds is that recipients must implement an action to further fair housing. To comply, Council unanimously approved a resolution proclaiming April 2019 as Fair Housing Month.

Council unanimously approved $46,769 for the purchase of park amenities from Happy Playgrounds. The funds will provide for five park benches, 30 trash can sets, and 14 picnic tables for Case Park. $6,354 will come from the existing Case Park Project fund, and $40,415 will come from the remaining 2014 GO Bond funds.

Council unanimously approved a resolution affirming Dilapidation Public Nuisance administrative hearing findings for buildings at 104 North Franklin Avenue, 810 1/2 North Franklin Avenue, 313 North Industrial Avenue, and 704 1/2 North Washington Avenue. The resolution authorizes the City to demolish the buildings on or after May 13, 2019 at the expense of the property owner.

Council unanimously approved an expenditure of $5,250 to We B Trees for stump grinding and the planting of five trees in the downtown Triangle District. The funds will be taken from the General Fund Economic Development-Marketing budget.

Council unanimously approved the Final Plat for a single-family gated subdivision on nine acres South of 51st Street and East of Skylane Drive. The Villas at Stone Creek Estates will include 39 lots on two blocks.

Council unanimously approved the appointment of Justin Tockey to the Sand Springs Development Authority for an unexpired term to July 2021. Tockey is a Charles Page High School graduate and U.S. Navy veteran. He has experience as a Development Officer for a Methodist non-profit and is currently pursuing a certification in Financial Planning. He is an active member of the Sand Springs Rotary Club, and has previously participated in the Sertoma Club and the American Legion.

Council unanimously approved the selection of Daniel Bradley as the 2019 recipient of the John M. Hess Municipal Award for Outstanding Citizenship. Bradley retired in 2018 after 38 years with the City. He spend 35 years at the Police Department, working his way up to Chief of Police before transitioning to Assistant City Manager. The award has been presented annually since 2003.

Council unanimously approved an amendment to a Franchise Agreement with CoxCom, LLC for E-911 services. The City has a non-exclusive franchise agreement with Cox for cable services, and the City collects a 5% franchise fee of approximately $220,000 per year. The amendment will provide an extension to the existing agreement for an additional five years.

Council unanimously approved the use of public funds for the following:

  • $2,100 for participation in the Oklahoma Municipal League Conference.

  • $1,310 for participation in the Mayors Council of Oklahoma.

  • $250 for participation in the OneVoice Day at the State Capitol.

  • $360 for participation in Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Open Forums.

  • $250 for participation in Oklahoma Municipal League Day at the Capitol.

  • $1,500 for participation in the Mayoral Council of Oklahoma Board Meetings in Oklahoma City.

  • $3,500 for participation in the Tulsa Metro Chamber Washington D.C. Fly-In.

  • $2,200 to cover administrative expenses for Council/Administrative Workshops and the City Budget Fair.

  • $800 to cover City Manager/City Council Lunch Meetings.

  • $2,000 for membership in the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce.

  • $3,000 for membership in the Tulsa Metro Chamber of Commerce.

  • $535 for membership in the Homebuilders Association.

  • $4,000 for membership in the Indian Nations Council on Government Coalition of Tulsa Area Government.

  • $16,000 for membership in the Oklahoma Municipal League.

  • $500 for membership in the Mayoral Council of Oklahoma.

  • $1,000 for miscellaneous membership dues.

City Calendar:
3/30 Keystone Ancient Forest Open Hike Day
4/4-4/7 Sand Springs Community Theater presents - Aladdin
4/6 Keystone Ancient Forest Hike With Your Dog Day
4/13 30th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival
5/3 Friday Flicks Outdoor Movies - The Incredibles 2
5/3-5/4 9th Annual OK 100-Mile Yard Sale Tour

City Council approves permits for two new Medical Marijuana Dispensaries

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The Sand Springs City Council unanimously approved four Special Use Permits for medical marijuana facilities at their Monday evening meeting.

Council approved permits for a Cultivation Facility, a Processing Facility, and a Dispensary at 200 East Morrow Road. LightHeart Farms plans to open sometime in April in the building that formerly housed the historic Morrow Gill lumber yard.

Council also approved a permit for Oklahoma Harvest Health to open a Medical Marijuana Dispensary in the Wellston Park industrial center at 1104 West Wekiwa Road. In November Council approved a growing facility at the same location.

Council previously approved a slate of marijuana-related SUPs at their January meeting. Dr. Cannabis, LLC was approved for a cultivation facility and a dispensary at 3417 S. 113th W. Ave., Suite B3. Therapeutic Herbal Care, LLC was approved to open a dispensary at 1126 E. Charles Page Blvd. The Herbin’ Joint was approved to open a dispensary at 3417 S. 113th W. Ave., Suite A2.

30th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival quickly approaching

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The 30th annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday, April 13th, rain or shine. The beloved festival attracts nearly 30,000 individuals to the historic Sand Springs Triangle District every year. With nearly 150 vendor booths, live music, kids activities, and delicious foods, the event has something for the whole family.

“We’ll be sharing a wide variety of products from plant growers, vendors and craftsmen for this very special 30 year anniversary event,” stated Grant Gerondale, Community Development Director for the City. “Event goers should find even more great food options, arts and crafts and even a live pottery demonstration by budding artists at the Tulsa Boys Home.”

The public event will offer free shuttle services from Charles Page High School at 500 North Adams Road. Leashed pets are welcome. Church That Matters will provide a Kids Zone with a petting zoo, arts and crafts projects, and more.

Special 30 year commemorative Sand Springs Herbal Affair posters (11”x17”) will be available for $5.00 each as well as colorful “30 Years and Growing” Herbal Affair T-shirts for $10.00 while supplies last. All proceeds benefit the event.

“Whether you’re just looking a unique heritage tomato variety for your garden or a hand-made coffee mug for yourself or a friend, this year’s Herbal Affair should not be missed,” said Gerondale. ”Grab a friend, find some Amish chicken and noodles and kick back in our historic downtown to the tunes of some truly great local music. The Sand Springs Herbal Affair is truly one of the coolest things that happens each spring in Oklahoma.”

Event Schedule:
8:00 a.m. Sand Springs Herbal Affair opens, shuttle service begins.
8:30 a.m. Dulcimer Magic.
9:30 a.m. Monica Tayler.
11:00 a.m. Anna Massey.
12:00 p.m. Hometown Hero Award presented.
12:30 p.m. Janet Rutland and Shelby Eicher.
2:00 p.m. And Then There Were Two.
4:00 p.m. Event closes, shuttle service ends.

For a full list of vendors, click here to visit our Event Page.

Just a few blocks down the road from Herbal Affair, OkieSpice and Trade Co. will be hosting their 2nd Annual Westival event from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 501 West 2nd Street. The free outdoor event will feature free tasting of products sold at the business year round.

Click here for a full list of Westival vendors.

This Week in Sand Springs (3/24 - 3/31/19)

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Monday

Tuesday

  • 12:00 p.m. Lent Devotion Series and lunch.

    • First Presbyterian Church
      222 North Adams Road

  • 4:30 p.m. Lady Sandite Softball vs. Sapulpa.
    5:30 p.m. Double Header

    • Sapulpa Softball Field
      631 North Brown
      Sapulpa, OK 74066

  • 6:00 p.m. Winter Guard and Drum Line Parent Show.

    • Charles Page High School auditorium.
      500 North Adams Road

  • 6:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Sapulpa.
    8:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Sapulpa.

    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road

Wednesday

  • 8:30 a.m. Lady Sandite Golf at Bartlesville Tournament.

    • Adams Municipal Golf Course
      5801 Tuxedo Boulevard
      Bartlesville, OK 74006

Thursday

  • 12:30 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Tahlequah.

    • Pryor High School
      1100 Southeast 9th Street
      Pryor, OK 74361

  • 5:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Softball vs. Owasso.
    6:00 p.m. Double Header

    • Owasso High School
      12901 East 86th Street North
      Owasso, OK 74055

  • 5:30 p.m. Army of Stars Banquet.

    • HillSpring Church
      8801 West 41st Street

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO

    • American Legion - Billie A. Hall Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Friday

  • 8:00 a.m. Sandite Tennis at Muskogee Tournament.

    • Muskogee High School
      3200 East Shawnee Bypass
      Muskogee, OK 74403

  • 2:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Coweta.

    • Pryor High School
      1100 Southeast 9th Street
      Pryor, OK 74361

  • 3:45 p.m. Sandite Track and Field at 36th Annual Ram Relays.

    • Owasso High School
      12901 East 86th Street North
      Owasso, OK 74055

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. Sandite Tennis at Claremore Tournament.

    • Claremore High School
      201 East Stuart Roosa
      Claremore, OK 74017

  • 8:00 a.m. Lady Sandite Tennis at Muskogee Tournament.

    • Muskogee High School
      3200 East Shawnee Bypass
      Muskogee, OK 74403

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Open Hike Day.

    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive

  • 10:00 a.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Booker T. Washington.
    12:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. TBA.

    • Pryor High School
      1100 Southeast 9th Street
      Pryor, OK 74361

Ongoing

  • 3/5-3/31 - All-Black Towns of Oklahoma exhibit at Charles Page Cultural and Historical Museum.

  • 3/16-6/3 - Unseen India exhibit at Charles Page Cultural and Historical Museum.

On The Horizon

  • 4/5 - Sand Springs Band Booster BINGO Night.

  • 4/6 - Hike With Your Dog Day at Keystone Ancient Forest.

  • 4/13 - 30th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival. - Read More.

  • 4/13 - 2nd Annual Westival.

  • 4/25 - 30th Annual Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame Banquet.

  • 5/3 - Incredibles 2 at Case Community Park.

  • 5/11 - Charles Page High School graduation.

  • 5/12 - Mother’s Day.

Add your event to our weekly newsletter. Email SanditePrideNews@gmail.com

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Senate Review by Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman

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The following article contains opinions from the author that do not necessarily reflect those of Sandite Pride News or its staff. To submit an Op-ed contact Sanditepridenews@gmail.com

Last Thursday was the final day for third reading of bills in the House of origin. This simply means bills not passed off the Senate floor are dead for this session. We start the next step in the legislative process as we begin to consider House bills in Senate committees. Last year, the Legislature considered 2,289 bills, of which only 324 became law. This year, 1,061 SBs and Senate Joint Resolutions have been filed, with 429 passing off the Senate floor in time for last week’s deadline.  

I currently serve on five Senate committees; Education, Appropriations, Budget & Rules, Health & Human Services and the Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services. 

Ensuring access to quality health care and mental health care services are just two of my passions and my professional experience as a mental health therapist brings a unique perspective and skillset to my role as a legislator. Focusing on the importance of mental health, I authored several measures this year that would be another step in helping students in Oklahoma schools.

Senate Bill 266 requires each school district to adopt policies related to suicide awareness and training and the reporting of student drug abuse. This includes adopting a training program and providing the program made available by the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse (ODMHSAS). Teachers, students, and administrators are granted immunity from employment discipline and civil liability for carrying out certain actions detailed by the measure. I authored this bill because it’s essential for more people to understand depression and suicidality and the importance of increasing awareness in our district and across the state. Just within our Senate district, schools report seeing an average of eight suicide notes a day. This is an eye-opening statistic that supports the need for increased education, programming and funding to address mental health care for Oklahoma’s students.

A second bill I authored this session is Senate Bill 452, which was created as a result of an interim study between the Department of Juvenile Affairs, DMHSAS and the Department of Education to create alternatives to school suspension for students. SB 452 directs school districts to consider restorative practices instead of out-of-school suspension for students who assault school personnel. Restorative practices could include community service, requiring the student to apologize, assessment for mental health, and referrals to mental health professionals and would be made available to all students of the district. The measure specifies that school districts must provide for a student’s reengagement if suspension or alternative school settings are utilized and also asks school districts to create a threat assessment for a student convicted of a violent crime.

If you are excited or concerned about any piece of legislation moving into the Senate from the House in the coming weeks; especially related to the committees I serve on, please reach out and let’s talk. Don't forget include your address so we know you are a constituent of our district. If you need help determining your Senate district, we would be happy to assist you. If you are visiting the Capitol and would like to stop by, our new office is located in Room 524.

As always, on any issue please feel free to contact my office at 405-521-5600 or at Allison.ikley.freeman@oksenate.gov. Please let me or my assistant, Audra, know if we can be of assistance to you. It is an honor to serve Senate District 37 and I look forward to continuing to represent you.  

This Week in Sand Springs (3/17 - 3/24/19)

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Monday

  • 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Community Cleanup Day.

    • Meet at the Triangle. City will provide gloves, safety vests, and trash bags. Contact 918-246-2579 to sign up.

  • 4:00 p.m. Planning Commission meeting.

  • 4:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball vs. Davidson Academy (Tate Aggie Classic).

    • Tate High School
      1771 Tate Road
      Cantonment, Florida 32533

Tuesday

  • 8:00 a.m. SCORE Women’s Leadership Breakfast.

    • Crescent Cafe
      3417 South 113th West Avenue

  • 12:00 p.m. Lent Devotion Series and lunch.

    • Legacy Chapel - Woodland Memorial Park
      1200 North Cleveland Avenue

  • 1:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball vs. Nolensville (Tate Aggie Classic)

    • Ft. Walton Beach High School
      400 Hollywood Boulevard Northwest
      Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, 32548

  • 6:00 p.m. Cultural & Historical Museum board meeting.

Wednesday

  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball vs. Navarre.

    • Navarre High School
      8600 High School Boulevard
      Navarre, Florida 32566

Thursday

  • 4:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball vs. TBA (Tate Aggie Classic).

    • Tate High School
      1771 Tate Road
      Cantonment, Florida 32533

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO

    • American Legion - Billie A. Hall Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Open Hike Day.

    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive

Ongoing

  • 3/5-3/31 - All-Black Towns of Oklahoma exhibit at Charles Page Cultural and Historical Museum.

  • 3/16 - Unseen India exhibit at Charles Page Cultural and Historical Museum.

On The Horizon

  • 4/6 - Hike With Your Dog Day at Keystone Ancient Forest.

  • 4/13 - 30th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival. - Read More.

  • 4/13 - 2nd Annual Westival.

  • 4/25 - 30th Annual Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame Banquet.

  • 5/11 - Charles Page High School graduation.

  • 5/12 - Mother’s Day.

Add your event to our weekly newsletter. Email SanditePrideNews@gmail.com

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

"Unseen India" photography exhibit opens at Sand Springs Museum

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The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum is currently hosting an exhibit from photojournalist Bernie Guzik, and the museum held a grand opening for “Unseen India” with hors d’oeuvre and a lecture from the artist.

Guzik, who now resides in Tulsa, is a Cleveland, Ohio native and experienced musician. He graduated The Julliard School of performing arts in Manhattan, New York, and has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Cleveland Orchestra, and the Tulsa Philharmonic.

He also has extensive travel experience in areas like Kenya, Israel, and Alaska, and his new exhibit comes from a February 2017 visit to rural tribal lands in eastern India. Though he did stop by the Taj Mahal during his trip, most of his time was spent far from traditional tourist locations.

The Sand Springs Museum is located in the former Page Memorial Library in the heart of the downtown Triangle District. Built in 1929, its unique style of art deco architecture landed it on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to traveling exhibits, it also has a permanent display of the unique philanthropic and charitable history of Sand Springs.

“Unseen India” will be on display through May 31st. The museum is at 9 East Broadway Street and is open Tuesday through Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Admission is free. The museum can be reached at 918-246-2509.

Sand Springs was named Oklahoma’s “Best Place to Escape To in 2019” by Expedia, and the museum is only one of countless tourist sites in the city. From beautiful murals, scenic drives, the Arkansas River, Shell Lake, Case Community Park, and the Keystone Ancient Forest, there’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy.

Senate approves reinstatement of $5,000 tax exemption for foster parents

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OKLAHOMA CITY – With 8,000 children in state custody as of March 1, the Department of Human Services (DHS) is always in need of more foster homes to meet the needs of the children in their care. Sen. Paul Scott realizes the important role foster parents play in protecting children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect. He authored Senate Bill 893 to assist foster parents, as well as incentivize more individuals to volunteer to help Oklahoma’s children and their biological families. 

“There are thousands of children in Oklahoma’s foster care system, but sadly we don’t have enough foster families to help them all,” said Scott, R-Duncan. “Being a foster parent and opening one’s home to a stranger is one of the most selfless, admirable acts. Providing this income tax exemption is a small way we can thank them for their service in helping protect Oklahoma’s children and lessen their financial burden. Hopefully, it will also attract more foster parents as we need more safe, temporary homes to meet each child’s individual needs.”

SB 893 reinstates the $5,000 income tax exemption for a taxpayer who contracts with a child-placing agency for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2019. The taxpayer must have been under contract and providing care for at least six months or claim a pro rata exemption based on the difference. 

DHS’ goal is to have a total of 907 new approved foster homes by the end of the current fiscal year. The agency had recruited nearly 300 by the end of November. Of particular need are families who are willing to accept large sibling groups, children with mental health or other special medical needs, and teenagers.

The measure, which passed the Senate unanimously Monday evening, now goes to the House for further consideration.

Senate Review by Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman

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The following article contains opinions from the author that do not necessarily reflect those of Sandite Pride News or its staff. To submit an Op-ed contact Sanditepridenews@gmail.com

As the end of the fifth legislative week comes to a close, our focus has now shifted to hearing bills on the Senate floor. Last week was the deadline for Senate bills to be heard in committee, and at the end of that deadline there were still 511 bills in committee, with 9 failing in committee. As of the end of this week, there were 333 pending bills on Senate General Order, with 201 already passed on the Senate floor and sent to the House. Our next deadline is March 14, which is the last date for bills and joint resolutions to be heard in their chamber of origin. Any measures not heard by this date are generally considered dead for this legislative year.

Many of you know one of my strongest areas of interest and focus is mental health. Before being elected to the Senate, I worked as a mental health counselor. It’s always been my belief that it’s less expensive to address mental health issues early, so early intervention in public schools is a logical place to start. 

Oklahoma has some of the highest rates for mental illness and substance use disorders. In 2012, Oklahoma ranked third in the nation (22.4%) in any mental illness and second in the nation (11.9%) for substance abuse disorders. This means that between 700,000 and 950,000 adult Oklahomans need services, but most are not receiving the care they need to recover from their illnesses. As the years have passed, the statistics haven’t changed much, and in some regards, have grown more even more concerning.

This week, the full Senate approved Senate Bill 257, which increases the full-time employee limit from one to two employees for the State Board of Licensed Social Workers. The Board currently utilizes one full time employee and two temporary employees to supervise almost 1,500 licensed social workers. Licensure boards assist the government in fulfilling one of its main covenants to the public- protection from harm. By having specific occupations regulated through licensing government can help its citizens know when someone offering goods or services in this area is meeting basic expectations for safety of their consumers. An understaffed board translates to less thorough supervision and can lead over time to a lack of meeting the public's expectations. This change will help the State Board of Licensed Social Workers continue to meet your standards for public safety in the profession. 

It’s an honor to serve Senate District 37 and I look forward to continuing to represent you in the days ahead. As always, I welcome your input on concerns and issues. If you are visiting the Capitol and would like to stop by, our new office is located in Room 524. My office number is remains (405) 521-5600 and my email is allison.ikley.freeman@oksenate.gov. Please let me or my assistant, Audra, know if we can be of assistance to you.

Sand Springs voters overwhelmingly approve School Bond Propositions

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Voters in the Sand Springs Public School District overwhelmingly voiced their support for a pair of general obligation bond measures Tuesday.

Proposition No. 1, totaling $32.85 million, passed with 92.83% in favor. 1,774 voted yes with only 137 against.

A second proposition totaling $1.3 million passed with 91.43% in favor to provide for new school buses. The measure received 1,749 “yes” votes and 164 “no” votes.

The new bonds won’t be sold until existing bonds are paid off, so the millage rate will remain the same and property taxes will not increase.

Totaling more than $34 million, the two measures will provide funding for a number of projects, most notably the construction of a new freshman wing on the Charles Page High School campus.

The new $14.28 million building will conjoin with the high school through the existing lobby, but will keep the freshmen separate from the upperclassmen for the majority of the day. Currently more than 75% of Central Ninth Grade Center are shuttled from downtown to the high school every day for athletics and other activities.

The new wing would also include several classrooms dedicated to the district’s STEM Initiative, enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics curriculum.

$7.2 million will go to technology enhancements throughout the district. Computer software systems will be updated to protect student data and provide mobile tech support, and WiFi will be improved and expanded throughout the district.

$825,000 will go to the district’s thriving athletic programs. Memorial Stadium will get new turf, the baseball and softball fields will be regraded, and wrestling mats and other athletic equipment will also be purchased.

Other Proposition No. 1 projects include:

  • New gymnasium/storm shelter at Angus Valley Elementary.

  • Bleachers for Garfield Elementary gymnasium.

  • Electrical upgrades at Limestone Elementary.

  • Playground upgrades at Northwoods Fine Arts Academy.

  • Playground equipment for Early Childhood Education Center.

  • ADA Accessible bathroom at Pratt Elementary.

  • Removal of louvers on front windows at Clyde Boyd Middle School.

  • Kitchen equipment at all district sites.

  • Band uniforms and elementary music equipment.

  • Additional space for Drama Department.

  • Sound system upgrades to auditoriums and Ed Dubie Field House.

  • District HVAC and roofing maintenance.

  • Books and digital curriculum for all sites.

  • Media Center materials.

  • Painting, pavement, electrical, and plumbing maintenance.

This Week in Sand Springs (3/3 - 3/10/19)

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Monday

Tuesday

  • 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Election Day.

    • Sand Springs Public School District.

  • 6:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Tahlequah.
    8:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Tahlequah.

    • CPHS Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road

Wednesday

  • 12:00 p.m. Sand Springs Women’s Chamber meeting.

    • Crescent Cafe
      3417 South 113th West Avenue

Thursday

  • 2:00 p.m. No. 6 Lady Sandite Basketball vs. No. 12 Norman.

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO

    • American Legion - Billie A. Hall Post 17
      500 North Main Street

  • 7:00 p.m. Shrek: The Musical.

    • CPHS Auditorium
      500 North Adams Road

Friday

  • 9:00 a.m. OSSAA 6A Girls Basketball State Tournament Semifinals.

    • Mabee Center
      7777 South Lewis Avenue
      Tulsa, OK 74171

  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Shawnee.

    • Sandite Baseball Complex
      408 West 55th Street

  • 7:00 p.m. Shrek: The Musical.

    • CPHS Auditorium
      500 North Adams Road

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Open Hike Day.

    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive

  • 12:00 p.m. OSSAA 6A Girls Basketball State Tournament Finals.

    • Mabee Center
      7777 South Lewis Avenue
      Tulsa, OK 74171

  • 1:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Memorial.

    • Sandite Baseball Complex
      408 West 55th Street

  • 7:00 p.m. Shrek: The Musical.

    • CPHS Auditorium
      500 North Adams Road

Sunday

  • Daylight Savings Time begins.

  • 2:00 p.m. Shrek: The Musical.

    • CPHS Auditorium
      500 North Adams Road

Ongoing

  • 3/5-3/31 - All-Black Towns of Oklahoma exhibit at Charles Page Cultural and Historical Museum.

On The Horizon

  • 3/16 - Unseen India exhibit debut at Charles Page Cultural and Historical Museum.

  • 3/16 - March Town Hall with State Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman, at Pratt Library.

  • 3/23 - Pokemon Go! Community Day.

  • 4/6 - Hike With Your Dog Day at Keystone Ancient Forest.

  • 4/13 - 30th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival. - Read More.

  • 4/13 - 2nd Annual Westival.

  • 4/25 - 30th Annual Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame Banquet.

Add your event to our weekly newsletter. Email SanditePrideNews@gmail.com

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Board of Education presents award to Stephen West, Brittany Pride, and Lance Beckner

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Stephen West was presented with a Sandite Spirit Award after being nominated by Head Football Coach Dustin Kinard. Kinard, who is battling pancreatic cancer, said West was an inspiration to him this past season. West is diabetic, and not quite athletic enough to see action on the varsity team. Despite this, he still showed up to every practice and was one of the hardest working players on the team. Kinard said if West could be there giving his all, then he had to show up too.

Brittany Pride was presented with a Pacesetter Award for her work on the Central Ninth Grade Center yearbook. Pride is the yearbook teacher, and this year’s book was recognized by the publisher as one of the best in the nation. In addition to presenting Pride with an award, the publisher will also be using the CNGC yearbook as an example material for districts across the country.

Lance Beckner was presented with a Pacesetter Award in recognition of a large financial donation to the Sand Springs Special Olympics program. Beckner’s annual donation helps send student athletes to the Special Olympics in Stillwater every year.

District officials discussed the recent school grading system released by the State. According to Director of Special Services Sherry Rooks, many of the grades can be misleading due to Bell Curve grading and inconsistent criteria across school sites. For example, there are no State tests at the ninth-grade level, so the only criteria used for assessing Central Ninth Grade Center’s performance was chronic absenteeism. On top of that, the site scored an A initially, but it was dropped to a C because of the curve.

According to Track and Field Coach Mike Burdge, the City of Sand Springs Parks and Recreation Department is donating their time and expertise to construct a throwing surface for the high school discus and shot put teams.

The Board accepted the resignations of Rebecca Price and Lance Beck and the retirements of Becky Hatchett and Janie Abernathy.

The Board approved the appointments of Greg Morris as Board Treasurer, Terri Kennedy as Assistant Treasurer, and Lynne Graves as Encumbrance Clerk.

Board approved a lease agreement with the Mabee Center at Oral Roberts University for the CPHS Graduation ceremony on May 11, 2019.

Board approved the purchase of two fourteen-passenger Type-A Mini Buses, a Special Education Bus, and two 71-passenger Regular Education Buses.

Board approved the following out of state travel:

  • Shawn Beard and JJ Smith to attend the International Society for Technology Education (ISTE) Conference in Philadelphia in June.

  • Lauren Hamilton, Paige Vann, and Amy McAllister to attend the Trauma Informed School Conference in St. Charles, Missouri in June.

  • Megan Sowers, Rachel Ellis, and Sallem Tullis to attend the National I Teach 2nd Grade Conference in Las Vegas in July.

  • Chris Corbin to attend CrossFit Kids Training in Fenton, Missouri in April.

  • Andrea Campfield and Jaden Salazar to attend the National Shakefest Competition in New York City in April.

Sand Springs to vote on new school bond projects Tuesday, including new Ninth Grade Center

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Sandites will take to the polls Tuesday to voice their support or opposition of a nearly $33 million bond proposal.

The Sand Springs Public School District is hoping to pass two General Obligation Bond Propositions that would provide funding for a number of projects, most notably a new Ninth Grade Center and STEM Academy.

The current Ninth Grade Center is located at 14 West 4th Street in downtown Sand Springs. It is the oldest building in the district and is the former site of Sand Springs High School. According to district officials, more than 75% of freshmen are shuttled to the high school campus every day for classes, athletics, and other activities.

The district hopes to spend $14.28 million on a new Ninth Grade Center on the campus of Charles Page High School. The building would be partly connected to the High School through the existing lobby, but would otherwise keep the younger students separate from the upperclassmen for the majority of their day.

The new wing would also include several classrooms dedicated to the district’s STEM Initiative, enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics curriculum.

$7.2 million will go to technology enhancements throughout the district. Computer software systems will be updated to protect student data and provide mobile tech support, and WiFi will be improved and expanded throughout the district.

$825,000 will go to the district’s thriving athletic programs. Memorial Stadium will get new turf, the baseball and softball fields will be regraded, and wrestling mats and other athletic equipment will also be purchased.

Proposition No. 1 will total $32.85 million. Other Proposition No. 1 projects include:

  • New gymnasium/storm shelter at Angus Valley Elementary.

  • Bleachers for Garfield Elementary gymnasium.

  • Electrical upgrades at Limestone Elementary.

  • Playground upgrades at Northwoods Fine Arts Academy.

  • Playground equipment for Early Childhood Education Center.

  • ADA Accessible bathroom at Pratt Elementary.

  • Removal of louvers on front windows at Clyde Boyd Middle School.

  • Kitchen equipment at all district sites.

  • Band uniforms and elementary music equipment.

  • Additional space for Drama Department.

  • Sound system upgrades to auditoriums and Ed Dubie Field House.

  • District HVAC and roofing maintenance.

  • Books and digital curriculum for all sites.

  • Media Center materials.

  • Painting, pavement, electrical, and plumbing maintenance.

A second proposition totaling $1.3 million will also be on the ballot to provide for new school buses.

If the measures pass, the new bonds won’t be sold until existing bonds are paid off. The millage rate will remain the same and property taxes will not increase. However, Sand Springs property taxes will drop in the near future if voters choose not to approve the measures.

Sand Springs rock band The Sunday Finery performs first concert

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Sand Springs-based indie rock back “The Sunday Finery” played their first concert recently at the Vanguard music hall in the historic Tulsa Brady District. The band opened for Las Vegas alternative act “Amarionette.”

Formed in 2017, the band is composed of Cliff Scott and Matt Morrison on guitar, Eddie Rivera on bass, and Blake Bush on drums and lead vocals.

Sandite Pride sat down with Scott for an interview following the show.

“The first show went really great,” said Scott. “We had all of our friends there to support us. I thought there was going to be more mistakes than there actually were. We take a lot of care with preparing…we practice with in-ear monitors and a click track. (At the show) it was all just stage sound and monitors.”

“It was great to finally get these songs out because they mean a whole lot to us. It was cool to finally display those and say ‘hey, this is what we’ve been working on. This is what we’ve been telling you about for a year and a half.’”

Scott began playing guitar ate age twelve. In sixth grade he began playing euphonium in the middle school band, then in high school jazz band he played both trombone and guitar.

His first band was “The Jam Band,” which would perform contemporary and classic rock covers at high school basketball games at the Ed Dubie Field House. They also played a gig at the local Nazarene church.

After high school Scott attended Ottawa University. “That’s when I found out how much I really sucked at music,” says Scott. “I was eighteen, I had a huge ego.” He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in music with a concentration in Jazz Studies.

Scott returned to Sand Springs in 2016 and began talking with some old friends about making music. “We had been playing music together since we were in high school with our youth group.” Scott formed “Vantage Point” together with Bush, Morrison, Christian Stuckey, and Rachel Jackson. “We tried that for probably six to eight months and it didn’t really gel together.”

In the summer of 2017 Scott, Bush, and Morrison decided to try their hand at Indie Rock, adding Rivera to the lineup under their current name. Rivera is a San Diego native, but the rest of the band is all rooted in Sand Springs.

All four members of the Sunday Finery help compose the music, with Morrison, Bush, and Scott collaborating on lyrical content. “Sometimes I’ll come in with 75% of a song, or Blake will come in with 75%. Sometimes I’ll have just a line I really like.”

The band released a self-titled four track EP last year that is available on Spotify, iTunes, and other major streaming platforms. They also have another project in the works that they hope to release by the end of the year.

Scott describes the band as “under the indie rock umbrella” with elements of alternative rock, heavy metal, jazz fusion, and even contemporary worship.

Their Christian faith is a huge driver for the band. Morrison and Bush both attend Angus Church in Sand Springs and Scott plays in the worship band at CrossPoint Church.

Their Sand Springs roots are also important. “We feel a strong connection,” says Scott. “We love the town. We believe there’s a lot of talent here in Sand Springs.”

Scott also performs in Tulsa-based rock band “Handsome Sinners,” with former Sandite Jay White. The Sinners also released a new album last year titled “I’ll Be Damaged,” which can be found on Spotify, iTunes and more.

In July Scott got the opportunity to play a song with multi-platinum selling band Thirty Seconds to Mars at a packed Oklahoma City Zoo Amphitheater. Scott entered an online video contest and was selected to perform “This Means War,” a certified-Gold single that tracked No. 1 on the U.S. Alternative charts.

The Sunday Finery will play again at the Vanguard on Thursday, March 7th at 7:00 p.m. when they open for “bloom.,” a two-piece rock band from Boston. Tickets are $10 and the show is open to all ages.

Why doesn't Sandite Pride cover more high school programs?

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Why doesn’t Sandite Pride cover Debate, Academic Competition, Theater, Band, etc. like we do with sports? Don’t we care about all Sandites? Don’t all our hardworking kids deserve recognition?

I would hope it goes without saying that of course we do care, but from the outside looking in I can see why it might not seem that way. Unfortunately we only have one full time writer and there’s just not enough hours in the day at this time. Sports are a lot easier to cover for a number of reasons. 

The baseball and softball teams, for example, use an app for scoring the games that automatically uploads all of the stats online where I can access them. Cross Country and Track results are also posted online. While I try to attend as many games as possible, it’s a great convenience to be able to cover those sports remotely. 

With wrestling, most tournaments are also scored online. And the duals are easy to get information on when I can’t attend because 100% of wrestling stats are scoring stats that go in the book. I have a good relationship with the wrestling coaches and can easily get information when I’m unable to attend events.

Football is only ten to thirteen games a year, so that’s easy to cover. I have also been appreciative of the volleyball coaches and basketball booster club for helping to provide results for those sports. 

Fine Arts and some sports have been neglected simply due to accessibility and time constraints. For example, while the school provides an app/website with sports schedules, rosters, etc., the debate and academic comp schedules aren’t even available on the school website. Some coaches, current and past, have been difficult to communicate with.

If the coaches of the underrepresented programs were to reach out or email us info, they would most certainly get coverage. But with my 80-100 hour work weeks, I just don’t have the extra time to be attending more events or emailing/calling people to track down info and expand our coverage.

In the almost three years since Sandite Pride incorporated, it has become self sufficient, but not yet profitable enough to be able to hire a second full time writer. Our team recently decreased from four to three. One accountant, one writer, and one part time writer, whose day job has increasingly conflicted with his ability to assist in local coverage. Notice what our team is lacking: a sales person, and an assistant.

As the only full time employee, I do 95% of the writing. I attend sporting events every Tuesday and Thursday, and most weekends. I’m at Board of Education meetings, City Council meetings, public forums, community events, ribbon cuttings, etc. I have business meetings to attend, I’m constantly driving hours away to road games, and in all of that mess I also have to find enough advertising to keep the bills paid.

In light of all of that, I hope you can understand why we don’t cover everything I would like to. In a perfect world, I would have multiple full time writers working together to make sure nothing goes without coverage.

Take a look at our Wrestling homepage, and the tremendous amount of time and energy that went into compiling that information. That level of care and dedication is what I want to bring to everything in Sand Springs.

I would love to have easily accessible databases on hand for every sport, as well as debate, academic competition, theater, band, national merit scholars, and more. If I had it my way, you could type in the name of anyone who ever lived in Sand Springs and find every single life accomplishment.

But I’m only one man. I’m 24, this is my first business, and I ran it like most people run businesses, we wouldn’t be providing half the coverage that we are. The fact is, it’s a passion project, not a get-rich scheme, and I can guarantee nobody else would put half as much time and effort into it.

Any time someone from the community can send us information, photos, etc. it is greatly appreciated. Sandite Pride is very much a grassroots response to a community need, and we need the community’s help to reach our goals.

Unlike other organizations, we aren’t backed by out of state billionaires with infinite resources at our disposal. We don’t have a downtown skyscraper with dozens of writers and photographers shooting on $2000 cameras. I’m just a kid with a personal laptop and a cheap camera trying to make a difference. 

So if you think there’s something we could be doing better, please help us. If you’re attending events that we’re not at, take down some notes, snap a picture, and send it all our way! Try your hand at writing if that’s something you’re interested in.

And most importantly, if you own a business or know someone who does, encourage them to advertise with us so we can expand our team and bring even more recognition to the great people who make this town what it is. 

Senate approves pre-registration for young Oklahoma voters

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OKLAHOMA CITY – The Senate unanimously approved legislation Wednesday to ensure young Oklahomans do not miss their first elections. Sen. Jason Smalley is the author of Senate Bill 496 to allow those who are at least 17.5 to 18 years old to pre-register to vote.

“Currently, Oklahomans can’t register to vote until they’re 18 years old.  This can cause them to miss voting if their birthdays fall after the registration deadline for an upcoming election,” said Smalley, R-Stroud.  “Casting one’s first vote is such an exciting right of passage for a young person.  By allowing them to pre-register, they can actually vote on their 18thbirthday rather than waiting for their registration to be processed.”

Under SB 496, anyone who pre-registers to vote prior to their 18th birthday will be allowed to vote beginning on their birthday. 

The measure now moves to the House for further consideration.

Incumbent Patty Dixon re-elected to fourth term on City Council

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Current City Council. (Left to right): Brian Jackson, Beau Wilson, Christine Hamner, Jim Spoon, Mike Burdge, Phil Nollan, Patty Dixon.

Incumbent Sand Springs City Councilwoman Patty Dixon won reelection to the Ward 2 office Tuesday with 88.9% of the vote. Dixon defeated Caleb Nelms 64 votes to 8.

Dixon has served three non-consecutive terms on the council. She served two terms from 1990-1996, and filed unopposed in 2016 to fill a vacant seat.

Dixon’s resume includes stents on the Parks Advisory Board, Museum Association, HEAL Committee, Sertoma Club, and Oklahoma Municipal League. She is a retired employee of the Tulsa County Parks Department and owns Dixon Auto Glass with her husband, Tim. She is also a performer in the local community theater.

This Week in Sand Springs (2/10 - 2/17/19)

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Tuesday

  • 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Election Day.

    • City Council Ward 2.

    • Keystone School Board No. C-15.

  • 10:30 a.m. Build a Reader: Family Storytime/Stay and Play.

    • Charles Page Library
      551 East 4th Street

  • 6:30 p.m. No. 6 Lady Sandite Basketball vs. No. 18 Bixby.
    8:00 p.m. No. 5 Sandite Boys vs. Bixby.

Thursday

  • Valentine’s Day.

  • 5:30 p.m. Airport Advisory Board meeting.

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO

    • American Legion - Billie A. Hall Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Friday

  • 11:00 a.m. No. 5 Sandite Wrestling at OSSAA 6A-East Regional Tournament.

  • 6:30 p.m. No. 6 Lady Sandite Basketball vs. No. 18 Sapulpa (H).
    8:00 p.m. No. 5 Sandite Boys vs. No. 4 Sapulpa (H).

    • Ed Dubie Field House
      600 North Adams Road.

Saturday

  • 11:00 a.m. No. 5 Sandite Wrestling at OSSAA 6A-East Regional Tournament.

  • 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Pokemon Go Community Day.

Ongoing

  • 11/17-2/17 George Rodrigue: Shiny Happy Blue Dog exhibit. - Read More.

On The Horizon

  • 2/18 - Presidents Day.

  • 2/22 - Sand Springs Rotary Chili Cook Off.

  • 2/22-2/23 - OSSAA State Wrestling Tournament.

  • 2/23 - Hike With Your Dog Day - Keystone Ancient Forest. - Read More.

  • 2/27 - Storm Spotter Workshop - Read More.

  • 3/5 - Sand Springs School District Bond Election. - Read More.

  • 3/10 - Daylight Savings Time Begins.

  • 4/13 - 30th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival. - Read More.

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  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

This Week in Sand Springs (2/3 - 2/10/19)

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Monday

  • 12:00 p.m. Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Open Forum.

    • Tulsa Technology Center
      924 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 5:30 p.m. Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board Meeting.

  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Education Meeting.

Tuesday

  • 6:30 p.m. No. 6 Lady Sandite Basketball vs. No. 14 Bartlesville.
    8:00 p.m. No. 5 Sandite Boys vs. Bartlesville.

  • 7:00 p.m. No. 5 Sandite Wrestling vs. Bixby.

    • Bixby High School
      601 South Riverview Drive
      Bixby, OK 74008

Wednesday

  • 12:00 p.m. Sand Springs Women’s Chamber Meeting.

    • Crescent Cafe
      3417 South 113th West Avenue

Thursday

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO

    • American Legion - Billie A. Hall Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Friday

Saturday

  • 7:00 a.m. Fourth Annual Ancient Trail Trek.

  • Dual State Wrestling Tournament.

    • 12:00 p.m. Semifinals
      6:30 p.m. Finals

    • Firelake Arena
      18145 Old Rangeline Road
      Shawnee, OK 74801

Ongoing

  • 11/17-2/17 George Rodrigue: Shiny Happy Blue Dog exhibit. - Read More.

On The Horizon

  • 2/15-2/16 - OSSAA 6A-East Regional Wrestling Tournament.

  • 2/16 - Pokemon Go! Community Day.

  • 2/18 - Presidents Day

  • 2/22 - Sand Springs Rotary Chili Cook Off.

  • 2/22-2/23 - OSSAA State Wrestling Tournament.

  • 2/23 - Hike With Your Dog Day - Keystone Ancient Forest

  • 2/27 - Storm Spotter Workshop - Read More.

  • 3/10 - Daylight Savings Time Begins.

  • 4/13 - 30th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival

Add your event to our weekly newsletter. Email SanditePrideNews@gmail.com

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Sand Springs City Council approves permits for city's first marijuana dispensaries

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Police Chief Mike Carter was recognized for 25 years of service at Monday’s City Council meeting.

Medical Marijuana took center stage at Monday night’s Sand Springs City Council meeting.

Specific Use Permits (SUPs) were approved for a medical marijuana cultivation facility, as well as a dispensary, owned by Dr. Cannabis, LLC at 3417 S. 113th W. Ave., Suite B3. An SUP was also granted to Therapeutic Herbal Care, LLC to open a dispensary at 1126 E. Charles Page Blvd.

Council denied an SUP to David Dietrich for the purpose of opening a cultivation facility at 15208 W. Weaver Road. The facility would have been located in a predominately residential area, and numerous neighbors requested that Council deny the permit. At a recent Planning Commission meeting, nearby residents cited concerns about the effect that a cultivation facility would have on the neighborhood’s water pressure.

Nature’s Candy Dispensary was subject of discussion surrounding their name. The organization agreed to legally do business as Nature’s Apothecary at a Planning Commission meeting earlier this month, due to objections to the use of the word “candy” in regards to a medicinal substance. New objections were raised by Councilman Jim Spoon to the use of the word “apothecary.” According to Spoon, businesses dealing in marijuana are banned from using the word “apothecary” by the Oklahoma Board of Pharmacy. A motion was approved to award an SUP to the business on conditions that they not use any terms relating to pharmacy or candy. The dispensary will be located at 3417 S. 113th W. Ave., Suite A2.

In other news:

Oklahoma Municipal League representative Pam Polk presented a certificate to Police Chief Mike Carter in recognition of 25 years of service. Fleet Technician Michael O’Dell was not present, but will also be receiving the award.

Council unanimously voted to approve a resolution of support for the Sand Springs Public Schools’ General Obligation Bond Propositions 1 & 2. The propositions total $32,850,000 and will provide funding for transportation equipment and the construction of a new Ninth Grade Center and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Academy on the grounds of Charles Page High School. The measures will go to a vote of the people on March 5th.

Council unanimously voted to affirm dilapidation public nuisance hearing findings for a fire-damaged residential building at 405 West 7th Street.

Council unanimously voted to approve a Beautification Wall project at the City’s Water Treatment Plant on the corner of Highway 97 and Morrow Road. The funding for the project was passed by voters as a G.O. Bond measure in November of 2017. Council awarded the construction project to Crossland Construction Company, Inc. in the amount of $1,113,807.60. Council also awarded an administration and inspection contract to Keithline Engineering Group, PLLC in the amount of $98,118.87.

Council approved an ordinance authorizing the City of Sand Springs Police Department to remove individuals from private and public properties, without involving the property owner. The measure gives property owners the ability to inform the department of individuals banned from their property, and authorizes officers to remove that individual without first establishing contact with the property owner. This also includes nonspecific entities, such as bans on loitering or semi truck parking.

Council approved an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to determine individual salaries.

Council approved a $250,000.00 Title Sponsorship agreement with the Sharna and Irvin Frank Foundation, including naming rights and expanded hours with paid staff at the Keystone Ancient Forest visitors’ center. Voters approved funding for construction of a visitors’ center in a 2017 G.O. Bond election, but the sponsorship agreement will provide additional funding for increased visitors hours and a larger facility.

Council approved $100,322.00 for the purchase and instillation of communication equipment for the Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center.

Council approved granting an easement to OmniTrax for railroad property abutting the upcoming Main Street project in downtown. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation will be bidding the project in February of this year, with construction set to begin soon after. Main Street will be rebuilt from 1st Street south to its current terminus, with a new section of road connecting Main Street west to Highway 97. A new frontage road will also be built to connect Main Street to the Lincoln Avenue On-Ramp onto Highway 412.

OmniTrax operates the Sand Springs Railway, which runs railways across Main Street, Morrow Road, and Highway 97. The easement will allow the railway to continue normal operations throughout the construction project.