Jason Blair Report

Financial Issues
In December 2019, Discover bank issued a judgement against Jason Blair

for failing to pay $3,054.22 in Credit Card Debt. By January 2020, the case
was dismissed with prejudice.
(Source: Cleveland County, OK District Court, Case No. CS-19-3372)
In May 2018, Lori Blair (Jason Blair’s wife), had a judgement filed against
her for $11,383.52 by Discover Bank for unpaid credit card debt. The
judgement was released on June 2018.
(Source: Cleveland County (OK) District Court, Case No. CJ-2018-7)
News Articles of Interest
In his hometown newspaper, Jason Blair was listed as a City Council

member who was absent numerous times over 2016 and 2017.
According to the article, Moore was absent in four out of twelve
meetings in 2017 as of July 2017, which would equate to missing 33% of
meetings in that timeframe.
MOORE — Minutes from a dozen city council meetings this year show all six members and the
mayor have all been present at one meeting just once so far.
In 2017, there have been 19 absences from regular city council meetings so far. That's one more
than the total from all of 2016.
Ward 3 council member Terry Cavnar holds the bulk of absences, missing seven of the 12
meetings. Jason Blair, also representing Ward 3, has missed four meetings.
Ward 1 council members Adam Webb and Danielle McKenzie have missed two each, while
Ward 2 council member Mark Hamm also has two absences. His fellow Ward 2 council member
Melissa Hunt has only one absence, as does Mayor Glenn Lewis.
2017 (12 meetings) 2016 (24 meetings)Ward 1Danielle McKenzie- 2Adam Webb- 2Ward
1McKenzie (appointed halfway through year)- 0Webb- 3 Ward 2Mark Hamm- 2Melissa Hunt-
1Ward 2Hamm- 1Hunt- 2 Ward 3Terry Cavnar- 7Jason Blair- 4Ward 3Cavnar- 7Blair- 4
Mayor Glenn Lewis- 1Mayor Lewis- 1
Lewis said tabling items is not a frequent occurrence. He noted one instance earlier this year
when it was done so Hamm would have a chance to hear about and vote on an issue."We get the
stuff ahead of time, and Brooks is really good," Lewis said. "He talks to those guys, gets their
opinions on certain items. If anyone has a problem with something, he finds out and we'll table
it. Out of respect for each other, we'll do that. We try to work it out that way where it's not a
burden."The upward trend in absences should not be alarming, Lewis said. The way
communication is set up between council members and City Manager Brooks Mitchell keeps
them all on the same page, Lewis said.
Broken down by ward, Hamm and Hunt are the most frequently seen faces at council meetings.
Ward 2 holds three absences combined, while Ward 1 has four.
The bulk lie in Ward 3, which has a combined 11 absences this year so far. Neither Blair nor
Cavnar attended the Feb. 21 and March 20 meetings.
Both Ward 3 council members attended the March 6, May 1 and June 5 meetings. In the
remaining seven, at least one was present.
Cavnar is involved in several businesses on top of his primary job running the State Farm agency
on 4th Street. He did not return a message left for him there by press time.
Lewis said these commitments combine for Cavnar, but he gets his council work done in other
ways.
"Terry's a very good businessman and in high demand for everything," Lewis said. "I want his
advice and opinions. If I need it, I can call it and get it. I know what he's thinking and how he's
going to vote. We do most of our business at the council meeting. Brooks is our go-between
guy."
Cavnar and Blair have both matched their amount of absences from 2016 this year. There were
10 meetings last year in which all of the appointed or elected council members and mayor were
present.
The Ward 1 seat currently held by McKenzie was vacant for the first 11 meetings of 2016. Both
Ward 1 and Ward 2 each had three combined absences, while Ward 3 once again led with 11 out
of 24 regular meetings.
Hamm and Lewis had one absence each in all of last year. Hunt had two, while Webb, who was
elected in the spring to the Ward 1 seat previously held by David Roberts, had three.
(Source: The American, July 6, 2017)
In 2018, Blair voted for zoning changes that put developers ahead of
residents by allowing businesses to develop close to residential
neighborhoods, causing some residents to complain.
Moore City Council twice voted to approve zoning changes that allow businesses to develop
sites near or within residential neighborhoods.
Both residents and the business developers spoke in front of council members and the public
during Monday night's regular meeting at city hall. In both cases, council sided with developers,
paving the way for an office building just north of the 12th Street and Eastern Avenue intersection
and a 24-hour service station, Excel Mart, at Poplar Drive and 27th Street.
The office building was a unanimous yes from council members. Mayor Glenn Lewis was the
only opposing vote in a 5-1 decision about the service station.
"I vote not, because I have an obligation to protect the businesses that are already here, and
there's [a gas station] just like it in front of it," Lewis said.
The gas station was a more contested issue, as Moore's Planning Commission deadlocked 4-4
when voting to approve of the plans in its January meeting. Residents say they are concerned
about the traffic it will bring to the neighborhood at all hours of the night and the potential for
crime.
"The feedback I've gotten, I don't think anyone wants this in the neighborhood," Daniel White,
who resides nearby, said. "The east half [of the property] is already zoned commercial. We're
talking a convenience store. It doesn't take four acres. Leave the neighborhood preservation
district alone."
White also brought up what he sees as a high concentration of service stations in Moore already.
"How many convenience stores do we need?" he asked council.
Neal Do is the owner of the Excel Mart planned for construction. He said the site will not allow
overnight parking, which will keep truckers from frequenting the gas station.
"Most of the professional drivers, they've already made up their mind most of the time at 100,
150 miles out," Do said. "If our facility noted that there are no showers and no overnight parking,
we've deterred a lot of those truckers. We don't want to miss the opportunity to take care of local
drivers going off of I-35 or 240 to fill up, buy food or drinks they need."
Residents also expressed concerns about the gas station either shutting down eventually or
never being constructed. They pointed to a Valero station on 89th Street that closed down. It led
to an eyesore, with litter building up and vehicles parking there for long time frames.
Do said he did take over that Valero from its original company, but they had planned to close it
down at some point. He said a Honda dealership will be moving there soon and that the Poplar
and 27th Street service station is a different kind of investment.
"The store was in a bind," Do said. "He (the owner) asked me to take over the store, so we did
have a lease on it. In our mind, that was a temporary deal.
"When you make this kind of investment, you put a lot of effort in to maintain the facility and take
care of the customers, because that's your business."
Council member Mark Hamm motioned to approve the zoning change to bring in the service
station and Jason Blair seconded.
The opposition to the office building planned near 12th Street and Eastern Avenue was quieter.
Residents in the nearby neighborhood are mainly concerned with light pollution and how it will
impact property values.
"My house is directly across the street from where this will go in," Jared Grafton said. "My main
concern is coming out every morning and seeing a wall or the backside of a business. This
neighborhood is a somewhat small neighborhood. There's a park next to my house. I don't think
it will cause any issues as far as crime is concerned, but it will cause light pollution due to
security lighting."
The Planning Commission approved the re-zoning application unanimously under the condition
that a planned four-foot fence be doubled to an eight-foot fence to cut down on light pollution.
Patricia Davidson, whose company D&D Properties is developing the site, said the four-foot
fence was agreed upon when she spoke with residents in the area. She said the idea was to build
something that went with the surrounding neighborhood.
"Our vision was to come down and build something very nice that would fit in this lot," Davidson
said. "Before, it was zoned for the duplexes. I personally have enough of those to take care of. So
we went into this vision to do an office building. Lawyers, insurance, something like that."
Council member Danielle McKenzie, who motioned to approve the rezoning application, said the
design of the building looks more like a home than an office building.
"It does look much more like a house than some businesses and office complexes," McKenzie
said. "Right now it's zoned multi-family residential, so it could be duplexes. You would still see
the back of a house or a duplex. That's what it is now."
Davidson said there are no tenants lined up to occupy the office building currently.
(Source: The American, February 6, 2018)
Dillingham Insurance
Blair works as an advisor for Dillingham Insurance. Dillingham Global LLC

has taken $20,950 in Forgiven PPP Loans.
(Source: Jason Blair Linkedin Page & https://www.pandemicoversight.gov/ppp-simple-search-
landing?pfilters=%5B%7B%22column%22%3A%22Borrower%22%2C%22operand%22%3A%22IN%22%2C%22value
s%22%3A%5B%22DILLINGHAM+GLOBAL%2C+LLC%22%5D%7D%2C+%7B%22column%22%3A%22Borrower+city%
22%2C%22operand%22%3A%22IN%22%2C%22values%22%3A%5B%22ENID%22%5D%7D%5D)
The City of Moore voted to give a nearly $500K insurance contract to

Dillingham Insurance, which Blair’s employer. Blair abstained from that
vote.
Agenda Item Number 16 being: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A PROPERTY AND CONTENTS
INSURANCE POLICY THROUGH OMAG, AN EXCESS PROPERTY AND CONTENTS POLICY THROUGH
HOMELAND INSURANCE COMPANY, AN EXCESS FLOOD POLICY THROUGH VOYAGER INDEMNITY
INSURANCE COMPANY, AND PHYSICAL DAMAGE COVERAGE FOR THE CITY’S SANITATION
TRUCKS, MOBILE COMMAND UNIT, AND FIRE TRUCKS THROUGH GREAT AMERICAN WITH A TOTAL
PREMIUM FOR ALL POLICIES IN THE AMOUNT OF $499,612 WITH RUSSELL HOLLINGSWORTH OF
DILLINGHAM INSURANCE AS AGENT. Brian Miller, Assistant City Attorney, advised that the agenda
item was for renewal of the City’s Property and Contents insurance policy. Mr. Miller stated that the
City ensures approximately $171 million in property. The renewal policy through OMAG would cover
the first $1 million in property. The Excess Property and Contents Policy through Homeland
Insurance would cover the remaining $70,000,000. Mr. Miller also requested approval of an Excess
Flood Policy through Voyager Indemnity, and Physical Damage coverage with Great American
Insurance for the sanitation trucks, mobile command unit, and beginning this year, the City’s fire
trucks. He noted that the premium for all of the policies would be $499,612. This reflected an
increase of $29,000; however, $22,000 of the increase was due to the addition of the fire trucks to
the policy. Mr. Miller advised that the fire trucks were currently ensured through the Fire Department
Insurance Program (“FDIP”) with a premium of $25,000. If the item is approved the insurance policy
would be cancelled with FDIP with an anticipated refund of $15,000. Mr. Miller advised that the City
was expecting a rebate of $29,243 from OMAG due to no property insurance claims being filed in
2020. He anticipated a similar rebate would occur since no property insurance claims had been
filed in 2021. Trustee Williams moved to approve Property and Contents Insurance Policy through
OMAG, an Excess Property and Contents Policy through Homeland Insurance Company, an Excess
Flood Policy through Voyager Indemnity Insurance Company, and Physical Damage Coverage for
the City’s sanitation trucks, mobile command unit, and fire trucks through Great American with a
total premium for all policies in the amount of $499,612 with Russell Hollingsworth of Dillingham
Insurance as agent, second by Trustee Hunt. Motion carried by majority vote.
COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES DECEMBER 20, 2021 PAGE 9 Ayes: McKenzie,
Hunt, Williams, Hamm, Lewis Nays: None Abstentions: Blair Absent: Webb Agenda Item Number 17
being: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A CYBER INSURANCE POLICY THROUGH UNDERWRITERS OF
LLOYD’S WITH A TOTAL PREMIUM OF $53,530 WITH RUSSELL HOLLINGSWORTH OF DILLINGHAM
INSURANCE AS AGENT. Brian Miller, Assistant City Attorney, indicated that there have been major
changes in the Cyber Insurance market since the last renewal. The City’s insurance agent, Russell
Hollingsworth with Dillingham Insurance, contacted approximately 8 or 9 companies to obtain a
quote for cyber insurance and all of them declined coverage because the City did not have a multi-
factor authentication process in place. The current insurance company, Underwriters of Lloyd’s
agreed to provide renewal coverage with an increase in premium from $35,000 to $53,000. Staff
would recommend renewing the policy with a premium of $53,000. Staff would obtain multi-factor
authentication around March or April 2022. At that point the City would cancel the insurance
coverage and Mr. Hollingsworth would shop the market. Mr. Miller felt that the City could then
obtain cyber insurance coverage with a premium around $25,000 to $30,000. Trustee Williams
moved to approve a Cyber Insurance Policy through Underwriters of Lloyd’s with a total premium of
$53,530 with Russell Hollingsworth of Dillingham Insurance as agent, second by Trustee Hunt.
Motion carried by majority vote. Ayes: McKenzie, Hunt, Williams, Hamm, Lewis Nays: None
Abstention: Blair Absent: Webb
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, December 20, 2021;

https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council-
meeting/agendas/agenda_41.pdf)
The City of Moore city council voted to give a $612K insurance contract to
Dillingham Insurance. Blair was absent the day of the vote.
Agenda Item Number 15 being: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A PROPERTY AND CONTENTS
INSURANCE POLICY THROUGH OMAG, AN EXCESS PROPERTY AND CONTENTS POLICY THROUGH
HOMELAND INSURANCE COMPANY, AN EXCESS FLOOD POLICY THROUGH VOYAGER INDEMNITY
INSURANCE COMPANY, PHYSICAL DAMAGE COVERAGE FOR THE CITY’S SANITATION TRUCKS,
MOBILE COMMAND UNIT, FIRE TRUCKS AND OTHER CERTAIN VEHICLES THROUGH GREAT
AMERICAN, AND A CYBER LIABILITY POLICY THROUGH UNDERWRITERS AT LLOYD’S WITH A TOTAL
PREMIUM AMOUNT FOR ALL POLICIES IN THE AMOUNT OF $612,123.02 WITH RUSSELL
HOLLINGSWORTH OF DILLINGHAM INSURANCE AS AGENT. Brian Miller, Risk Manager, stated that
the item was for renewal of the City’s insurance on approximately $175 million worth of property.
The primary property insurance covers the first $100 million, the excess property insurance would
cover the remaining $75 million. There is also an excess flood insurance policy along with a
separate policy that covers large vehicles such as the sanitation and fire trucks. Another policy is for
cyber insurance. The policies contain the same coverage as last year. However, the premium
amount increased from $573,000 to $612,000 due to increases in property insurance in general and
two large claims filed on the sanitation trucks. However, Mr. Miller noted that it was anticipated that
the City would receive a 10% rebate, or around $35,000 to $40,000, for not having any property
claims in the past year. Trustee Webb moved to approve a Property and Contents insurance policy
through OMAG, an Excess Property and Contents policy through Homeland Insurance Company, an
Excess Flood policy through Voyager Indemnity Insurance Company, Physical Damage coverage for
the City’s sanitation trucks, mobile command unit, fire trucks and other certain vehicles through
Great American, and a Cyber Liability policy through Underwriters at Lloyd’s with a total premium
amount for all policies in the amount of $612,123.02 with Russell Hollingsworth of Dillingham
Insurance as agent, second by Trustee Hamm. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: Williams, Webb,
Hamm, Lewis Nays: None Absent: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, December 19, 2023;

meeting/2023/121922citycouncilmin-pdf.pdf)
Spending Votes
Voting to spend nearly $50K on fireworks.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT WITH ARC PYROTECHNICS, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF
$49,500 FOR THE CITY’S ANNUAL JULY 4TH FIREWORKS SHOW “CELEBRATION IN THE
HEARTLAND”. Whitney Wathen, Interim Assistant Parks and Recreation Director, requested
approval of the item and asked if there were any questions. Councilwoman McKenzie asked how
much was spent on the fireworks show last year. Mr. Wathen stated that the fee for last year was
also $49,500 for a similar show of around 24 minutes long. Councilman Webb moved to approve a
contract with ARC Pyrotechnics, Inc. in the amount of $49,500 for the City’s annual July 4th
fireworks show “Celebration in the Heartland”, second by Councilman Williams. Motion carried
unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Williams, Webb, Hamm, Blair Nays: None Absent: Hunt, Lewis
(Source: Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, February 18, 2020;

https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council/agendas/tue-feb-18-
630pm-agenda_13.pdf)
Blair voted to spend over $176K on exercise equipment.
Agenda Item Number 5 being: CONSIDER AWARDING BID NO. 2021-011 FOR THE PURCHASE AND
INSTALLATION OF CARDIO EXERCISE EQUIPMENT FOR THE STATION TO ADVANCED EXERCISE
USING OPTION 1 EQUIPMENT PROPOSAL NO. 054423 IN THE AMOUNT OF $176,591.10 AND
UTILIZING OPTION 1 FINANCIAL PLAN, FOR THREE-YEAR MONTHLY PAYMENTS. Sue Wood, Parks
and Recreation Director, recommended awarding the rebid of Bid No. 2021-011 for the purchase
and installation of cardio exercise equipment for the Station to Advanced Exercise Using Option No.
1 in the amount of $176,591.10. Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, stated that the item was to award
the bid for purchase of the equipment. Mr. Mitchell indicated that an item would be brought back
for consideration at a future meeting regarding financing of the equipment.
COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES MAY 3, 2021 PAGE 4 Councilwoman McKenzie
asked if the City leased the current equipment. Mr. Wood confirmed that the equipment was
obtained through a lease-purchase agreement. Councilman Webb moved to award Bid No. 2021-
011 for the purchase and installation of Cardio Exercise Equipment for the Station to Advanced
Exercise using Option 1 Equipment Proposal No. 054423 in the amount of $176,591.10, second by
Councilwoman McKenzie. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Lewis, Williams,
Webb, Hamm Nays: None Absent: Hunt
(Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, May 3, 2021;

Blair voted to spend over $18K in taxpayer dollars on a Christmas Tree.

Agenda Item Number 8 being: CONSIDER ACCEPTANCE OF A QUOTE FROM DEKRA-LITE IN THE
AMOUNT OF $18,981.06 FOR THE PURCHASE OF A 24’ SEQUOIA COLLECTION CHRISTMAS TREE
AND DECORATION PACKAGE FOR THE STATION. Sue Wood, Parks and Recreation, stated that staff
requested authorization to purchase an artificial Christmas tree to decorate The Station during the
Christmas holidays. Ms. Wood advised that the 24’ tree would be placed on the berm to the south
of the amphitheater for picture taking and various other holiday activities. Councilman Williams
asked if this was a budgeted item. Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, stated that although the purchase
of a Christmas tree was not specifically identified in the budget, funds had been set aside for this
type of purchase. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES NOVEMBER 16, 2020 PAGE 5
Councilman Webb moved to accept a quote from Dekra-Lite in the amount of $18,981.06 for the
purchase of a 24’ Sequoia Collection Christmas Tree and decoration package for The Station,
second by Councilman McKenzie. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt,
Williams, Webb, Hamm Nays: None Absent: Lewi
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, November 16, 2020;

https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council/agendas/mon-nov-16-
In 2023, Blair voted to spend $133K on advanced exercise equipment.

Agenda Item Number 8 being: CONSIDER AWARDING BID NO. 2024-000 “THE STATION
RECREATION CENTER FITNESS EQUIPMENT” TO ADVANCED EXERCISE IN THE AMOUNT OF
$133,765.44 FOR THE BUDGETED LEASE AND INSTALLATION OF EXERCISE EQUIPMENT AT THE
STATION. Sue Wood, Parks and Recreation, recommended awarding Bid No. 024-000 to Advanced
Exercise Equipment who submitted the lowest most responsive bid. Ms. Wood stated that
Advanced Exercise Equipment provided all the information requested in the bid specifications and
advised that Life Fitness Products would match the existing fitness equipment. She noted that staff
would like to purchase the equipment now in the hope that delivery would occur by the time the
renovations at The Station were complete. Councilwoman Griffith moved to consider awarding Bid
No. 2024-000 “The Station Recreation Center Fitness Equipment” to Advanced Exercise in the
amount of $133,765.44 for the budgeted lease and installation of exercise equipment at The
Station, second by Councilman Williams. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: Griffith, Blair,
Williams, Webb, Hamm Nays: None Absent: Hunt, Lewis
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, October 2, 2023;

In 2022, Blair voted to give a pay hike to city employees.

CONSIDER RESOLUTION NO. 44(22) ADOPTING A ONE-TIME COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT FOR
ALL FULL-TIME AND PART-TIME EMPLOYEES AS A RESULT OF HIGHER THAN EXPECTED INFLATION
AND CONTINUED RISING PRICES OF ESSENTIAL GOODS, SERVICES, AND UTILITIES. Brooks
Mitchell, City Manager, advised that Resolution No. 44(22) would authorize a one-time cost-ofliving
adjustment to help address the difference between the rate of inflation versus the cost-of-living
adjustment approved in the FY 22-23 budget. Councilman Blair moved to adopt Resolution No.
44(22) adopting a one-time cost-of-living adjustment for all full-time and part-time employees as a
result of higher than expected inflation and continued rising prices of essential goods, services, and
utilities, second by Councilwoman Hunt. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt,
Webb Nays: None Absent: Williams, Hamm, Lewis
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, November 21, 2022;

Budget
Voted in 2020 to approve the 2020-2021 Annual Budget, which spent over $107 Million.
Agenda Item Number 3 being: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF THE FY 2020-2021 ANNUAL BUDGET AND
ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 958(20). Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, stated that individual meetings
were held with the City Council for more detailed discussion regarding the proposed FY 20-21
budget in the amount of $107,912,205. Mr. Mitchell advised that a Budget Study Session was held
on May 18, 2020. The budget was posted on the City’s webpage for public inspection and a Public
Hearing held on June 1, 2020 to receive public input. Mr. Mitchell noted that no citizen comments
were received. Mr. Mitchell also advised that June use and sales tax figures were down 5.8% from
the June 2019 figures. He stated that the drop in revenues was not as much as originally anticipated
to occur with the ordered business closures due to COVID-19. He indicated that revenues would be
monitored closely over the next few months. If the figures rebound staff would discuss with Council
adding some of the capital outlay items back into the budget that were originally omitted in
anticipation of lower revenues. Councilwoman McKenzie asked what the revenue percentages were
for other municipalities within Oklahoma for the same time period. Mr. Mitchell indicated that on
average other communities experienced a decrease of 12% to 13% in revenues. Councilwoman
McKenzie moved to approve the FY 2020-2021 annual budget and adopt Resolution No. 958(20),
second by Councilman Blair. Motion to approve carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt,
Williams, Webb, Hamm, Lewis Nays: None
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, June 15, 2020;

https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council/agendas/mon-jun-15-
In 2021, Blair voted to approve the 2021-2022 Budget, which increase

spending $24 Million in one year to a total budget of $131.5 million.
Agenda Item Number 3 being: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF THE FY 2021-2022 ANNUAL BUDGET AND
ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 992(21). Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, stated that the proposed budget
in the amount of $131.5 million was posted to the City’s website and a public hearing held on May
17, 2021. Mr. Mitchell indicated that no comments were received regarding the proposed budget.
He advised that there was a $24 million increase from the FY 20-21 budget due primarily to the G.O.
Bond projects and the Costco incentive. A 2% increase in sales tax was budgeted for FY 22. Mr.
Mitchell stated that the budget contained a 1.4% COLA for non-union employees and merit
increases for all eligible employees. Also included was 13 new positions, 12 of which were in Public
Safety and 1 in Animal Control. Mr. Mitchell indicated that the budget called for an increase in
commercial sanitation rates of between $5 and $40 per month. Mr. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM
MEETING - MINUTES JUNE 7, 2021 PAGE 3 Mitchell stated that the budget contained $26 million in
capital outlay which consisted of G.O. Bond projects, renovation of the Public Works facility,
expanding the equipment storage area at Buck Thomas Park, and various vehicles and equipment.
Councilman Hamm expressed his hope that the Regional Transportation Authority would give
considerable thought regarding funding for a future commuter rail service before the City invests
additional funds in a study since the State legislature had limited the funding source to sales tax.
Councilman Blair moved to approve the FY 2021-2022 annual budget and adopt Resolution No.
992(21), second by Councilwoman Hunt. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: Blair, Hunt, Williams,
Webb, Hamm Nays: None Absent: McKenzie, Lewis. (Source: Moore City Council Meeting
Minutes, June 7, 2021; https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council-
In voting for the 2021-2022 City of Moore Budget increase, Blair would
have voted for a budget increase of over 22% from the year 2020-2021.
That’s a faster spending rate than Congress from 2020 to 2021, which only
increased spending by about 3% in that time period.
(Source: Congressional Budget Office Budget Years 2020 and 2021:
https://www.cbo.gov/publication/57170 & https://www.cbo.gov/publication/58268)
Tax Break for Cosco

Blair Voted to give tax incentives to Cosco.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF AN INCENTIVE AGREEMENT WITH COSTCO WHOLESALE
CORPORATION. Deidre Ebrey, Economic Development Director, stated that she was excited to
announce that Costco was in the process of closing on property located on the Fritts Farm for
construction of a retail store anticipated to open in the summer of 2021. The City would pay Costco
the incentive, as stated in the contract, at the time they are awarded an occupancy permit. Ms.
Ebrey noted that based on sales projections they should pay back the incentive to the City within
four to six years. She advised that Costco would employ between 150 and 200 employees at a
starting wage of $15.00 per hour, with full benefits to all full-time and part-time employees. Ms.
Ebrey indicated that the City’s bond counsel, Terry Hawkins, was in attendance at the meeting to
answer any questions. She stated that Mike Stratis with Costco would be participating by video
conference. Mayor and Council expressed their appreciation to staff for their work on the project
and to Costco for coming to Moore. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES JUNE 15,
2020 PAGE 4 Councilman Blair moved to approve an Incentive Agreement with Costco Wholesale
Corporation, second by Councilman Webb. Motion carried unanimously.
(Source: Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, June 15, 2020

630pm-agenda_15.pdf
Blair Voted to indebt the city of Moore over $5.2 Million for the Cosco tax
incentive project.
Agenda Item Number 13 being: CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 990(21) OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA, APPROVING THE INCURRENCE OF
INDEBTEDNESS BY THE MOORE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (THE "AUTHORITY") IN
THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT TO EXCEED $5,200,000 IN CONNECTION WITH THE
ISSUANCE OF ITS SALES TAX REVENUE NOTE, TAXABLE SERIES 2021B (MUNICIPAL CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT) (THE "NOTE"); PROVIDING THAT THE TRUST INDENTURE, AS AMENDED,
CREATING THE AUTHORITY IS SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE GENERAL INDENTURE, AS
SUPPLEMENTED AND AMENDED, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF SAID NOTE; WAIVING
COMPETITIVE BIDDING AND APPROVING THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE AUTHORITY PERTAINING TO
THE SALE OF SAID NOTE; APPROVING A SECURITY AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE
AUTHORITY PERTAINING TO THE DEPOSIT AND TRANSFER OF SALES TAX REVENUE; RATIFYING
AND CONFIRMING AN AGREEMENT OF SUPPORT, BETWEEN THE MOORE PUBLIC WORKS
AUTHORITY AND THE AUTHORITY WHEREBY THE MOORE PUBLIC WORKS AUTHORITY AGREES TO
TRANSFER REVENUES TO THE AUTHORITY; AND CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING
THERETO. Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, stated that Agenda Items No. 13, 14, 16, 17, 21 and 22
were companion items related to the Costco incentive in the amount of $5.2 million and the
construction of the new Public Works Facility in the amount of $4.1 million. Mr. Mitchell indicated
that Terry Hawkins, the City’s bond counsel, and Cameron Bertelli, the City’s financial advisor, were
in attendance and available to answer any questions. Bids were received on the $5.1 million Sales
Tax Revenue Note, Taxable Series 2021B ranging from the low bid from BancFirst with an interest
rate of 2.135% up to 2.47%. The bids on the $4.1 million Sales Tax Revenue Note, Series 2021C
ranged from the low bid from Armstrong Bank with an interest rate of .63% up to 1.75%.
Councilwoman McKenzie asked for the term of each bond. Mr. Mitchell stated that the Costco note
would pay-off in ten years with the option to pay it off early. The Public Works Facility note was for
four years with the option to pay it off early. He indicated that staff hoped to pay off the Costco note
after five years but felt it was unlikely the public works facility note would pay off early.
COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES MAY 17, 2021 PAGE 9 Councilman Williams
moved to adopt Resolution No. 990(21) of the City Council of The City of Moore, Oklahoma,
approving the incurrence of indebtedness by The Moore Economic Development Authority (the
"Authority") in the aggregate principal amount of not to exceed $5,200,000 in connection with the
issuance of its Sales Tax Revenue Note, Taxable Series 2021B (Municipal Capital Improvements
Project) (the "Note"); providing that the Trust Indenture, as amended, creating the Authority is
subject to the provisions of the General Indenture, as supplemented and amended, authorizing the
issuance of said Note; waiving competitive bidding and approving the proceedings of the Authority
pertaining to the sale of said Note; approving a Security Agreement between the City and the
Authority pertaining to the deposit and transfer of sales tax revenue; ratifying and confirming an
Agreement of Support, between The Moore Public Works Authority and the Authority whereby The
Moore Public Works Authority agrees to transfer revenues to the Authority; and containing other
provisions relating thereto, second by Councilman Blair. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes:
McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Lewis, Williams, Webb, Hamm Nays: None Agenda Item
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, May 17, 2021;

https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council/agendas/agenda_236.pdf)
Funding Lobbyists with Tax Dollars

In 2018, Blair voted to give over $34K to the Oklahoma Municipal League.
Quote that relates to the taxpayer-funded lobbying: “Councilwoman Hunt
indicated that OML was very active with their lobbyists working to protect
the interest of the cities throughout Oklahoma”
CONSIDER AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF $34,687.99 TO THE OKLAHOMA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE FOR
SERVICE FEES FOR FY 19; $17,344 TO BE PAID JULY 2018 AND $17,343.99 TO BE PAID JANUARY
2019. Betty Koehn, Finance Director, stated that staff was requesting authorization to pay the
Oklahoma Municipal League services fees for FY 2019. Ms. Koehn advised that the City had been a
member of OML for many years. Councilman Hamm asked how often the City utilized OML’s
services. Randy Brink, City Manager, indicated that OML provides updates on upcoming legislation
and the outcome of that legislation. Mr. Brink stated that they offer workshops and obtain input
from surrounding cities. Councilwoman Hunt indicated that OML was very active with their
lobbyists working to protect the interest of the cities throughout Oklahoma. Councilman Hamm
asked the City Manager if the City would be looking at other ways to fund items that did not pass on
the June 26, 2018 bond election. He stated that staff was requesting authorization to pay
$34,687.99 to the Oklahoma Municipal League and wondered if that money might be better used
funding a new phone system. Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, indicated that he felt that it was
important for the City to maintain its membership in OML. He stated that staff would be looking at
other ways to fund a COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING - MINUTES JULY 2, 2018 PAGE 7 phone
system, but not at the expense of terminating the OML membership. Councilman Hamm advised
that he sat on the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (“ACOG”) and felt it would be
beneficial if one of the City Council Members could serve on the OML Board. Mr. Mitchell stated
that the next time a seat becomes available on the OML Board he would bring it to the attention of
the City Council. Councilwoman McKenzie moved to authorize payment of $34,687.99 to the
Oklahoma Municipal League for service fees for FY 19; $17,344 to be paid July 2018 and $17,343.99
to be paid January 2019, second by Councilwoman Hunt. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes:
McKenzie, Hunt, Williams, Hamm, Blair Nays: None Absent: Webb, Lewis
(Source: City of Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, July 2, 2018;

https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council/agendas/mon-jul-2-
630pm-agenda_5.pdf)
In 2020, Blair voted to give over $35K in taxpayer funds to the Oklahoma
Municipal League.
Agenda Item Number 10 being: CONSIDER AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF $35,186.99 TO THE
OKLAHOMA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE FOR SERVICE FEES FOR FY 21; $17,593.50 TO BE PAID JULY 2020
AND $17,593.49 TO BE PAID JANUARY 2021 Betty Koehn, Finance Director, stated that the City had
been a member of the Oklahoma Municipal League (“OML”) for more than 20 years. OML
represents municipalities at the State Capitol and provides training and publications that benefit
cities. Staff requested authorization to continue membership with OML for another year.
Councilman Williams moved to authorize payment of $35,186.99 to the Oklahoma Municipal
League for service fees for FY 21; $17,593.50 to be paid July 2020 and $17,593.49 to be paid January
2021, second by Councilman Blair. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt,
Williams, Webb, Hamm, Lewis Nays: None

In 2021, Blair voted to authorize over $35K in fees to the Oklahoma

Municipal League.
Agenda Item Number 10 being: CONSIDER AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF $35,190.14 TO THE
OKLAHOMA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE FOR SERVICE FEES FOR FY 21; $17,595.07 TO BE PAID JULY 2021
AND $17,595.07 TO BE PAID JANUARY 2022. Betty Koehn, Finance Director, advised that the City
had been a member of the Oklahoma Municipal League (“OML”) for more than 20 years. OML
represents municipalities at the State Capital and provides beneficial training and publications.
Staff requested authorization to continue membership in OML for another year. Vice-Mayor Hamm
suggested the City research the possibility of representation on the OML Board of Directors when a
vacancy occurs. Councilman Williams moved to authorize payment of $35,190.14 to the Oklahoma
Municipal League for service fees for FY 21; $17,595.07 to be paid July 2021 and $17,595.07 to be
paid January 2022, second by Councilwoman Hunt. Motion carried unanimously.
COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING - MINUTES JUNE 7, 2021 PAGE 9 Ayes: Blair, Hunt, Williams,
Webb, Hamm Nays: None Absent: McKenzie, Lewis

meeting/agendas/agenda_0.pdf
In 2022, Blair voted to give over $36K to the Oklahoma Municipal League.
CONSIDER AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF $36,195.84 TO THE OKLAHOMA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE FOR
SERVICE FEES FOR FY 23; $18,097.92 TO BE PAID JULY 2022 AND $18,097.92 TO BE PAID JANUARY
2023. Betty Koehn, Finance Director, stated that the City has been a member of the Oklahoma
Municipal League (“OML”) for more than 20 years. Ms. Koehn advised that OML represents cities at
the State Capitol and provides beneficial training and publications. Staff recommended approval of
the item. Councilwoman McKenzie moved to approve payment of $36,195.84 to the Oklahoma
Municipal League for service fees for FY 23; $18,097.92 to be paid July 2022 and $18,097.92 to be
paid January 2023, second by Councilman Webb. Motion carried by majority vote. Ayes: McKenzie,
Blair, Hunt, Webb, Hamm, Williams Nays: Lewis
(City of Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, July 6, 2022;

meeting/2022/60622citycouncilminpdf.pdf)
The Oklahoma Municipal League has numerous registered lobbyists

registered in Oklahoma.
(Source: Oklahoma Ethics Commission, Registered Lobbyist List for 2024)
In 2020, Blair voted to give over $39K to the Association of Central

Oklahoma Governments.
Agenda Item Number 13 being: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF FY 2021 DUES TO THE ASSOCIATION OF
CENTRAL OKLAHOMA GOVERNMENTS (“ACOG”) IN THE AMOUNT OF $39,228. Betty Koehn,
Finance Director, stated that the item was to approve payment of the City’s annual membership
dues to ACOG in the amount of $39,228. Councilman Williams asked if the benefit from
membership was worth the cost to the City. Councilwoman McKenzie stated that ACOG was a very
active organization that did a lot of good and she felt the City got more than we pay for.
Councilwoman Hunt added that the City also benefitted by receiving grant funding on various
projects. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING - MINUTES AUGUST 3, 2020 PAGE 10 Councilman
Williams moved to approve FY 2021 dues to the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments
(“ACOG”) in the amount of $39,228, second by Councilwoman McKenzie. Motion carried
unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Hunt, Williams, Webb, Lewis Nays: None Absent: Blair, Hamm
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, August 3, 2020;

https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council/agendas/mon-aug-3-
The Association of Central Oklahoma Governments has numerous

registered lobbyists on its payroll.
(Source: Oklahoma Ethics Commission, Registered Lobbyist List for 2024)
Using Biden/Democrat ARPA Funds

Blair voted to use Joe Biden and Liberal DC Democrat-backed American
Rescue Plan Funds in the city budget.
Agenda Item Number 24 being: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A FY 21-22 BUDGET SUPPLEMENT TO
BUDGET FUNDS AND RELATED EXPENSES FOR THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT (“ARPA”),
ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR A DUMP TRUCK FOR PUBLIC WORKS, ROLL-OVER SALES TAX NOTE
FUNDING RECEIVED FOR THE NEW PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY, AND BUDGET FUNDS FOR STREET
REPAIR. Betty Koehn, Finance Director, requested approval of the following budget amendments for
FY 21-22: 1. Budget funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) and to expend the funds for
the SE Lift Station. 2. Roll over FY 21 Fire Training funds into FY 22 and budget remaining funds from
last year to fund an additional dump truck for Public Works. 3. Budget 2021C Sales Tax Note
funding received last fiscal year for the Public Works Facility project in addition to utilizing a portion
of the FY 21 excess sales tax to complete Phase I of the project. 4. Budget excess FY 21 sales tax to
repair the street at The Shops at Moore. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES JULY
19, 2021 PAGE 12 Councilwoman McKenzie moved to approve a FY 21-22 budget supplement to
budget funds and related expenses for the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”), additional funding
for a dump truck for Public Works, roll-over Sales Tax Note funding received for the new Public
Works facility, and budget funds for street repair, second by Councilman Webb. Motion carried
unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Webb, Hamm, Williams Nays: None Absent: Lewis
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, July 19, 2021;

Blair voted to spend $159K of ARPA funds on police vehicles.

CONSIDER DESIGNATING THE PURCHASE OF THREE ADDITIONAL FORD POLICE VEHICLES
TOTALING $159,360 UTILIZING THE SECOND ROUND AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT (“ARPA”)
FUNDS. Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, stated that Council previously approved the purchase of 35
police vehicles utilizing the American Rescue Plan Act funds (“ARPA”). Staff would like to add the
purchase of two detective vehicles and an additional School Resource Officer vehicle using
available ARPA funds. Councilman Hamm moved to designate the purchase of three additional
Ford police vehicles totaling $159,360 utilizing the second round American Rescue Plan Act
(“ARPA”) funds, second by Councilman Williams. Motion carried by majority vote. Ayes: McKenzie,
Blair, Hunt, Williams, Hamm Webb Nays: None Absent: Lewis (Source: City of Moore Meeting
Minutes, July 5, 2022; https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-council-
Blair voted to apply for an ARPA grant for water projects.

CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 259(22) AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION FOR THE
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT (“ARPA”) GRANT FROM THE OKLAHOMA WATER RESOURCES
BOARD (“OWRB”) FOR WATER PROJECTS. Jerry Ihler, Assistant City Manager, stated that Agenda
Items No. 17 and 18 were companion items. Mr. Ihler advised that the Oklahoma Water Resources
Board (“OWRB”) received $50 million in American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) funds for water
projects and $50 million for wastewater projects. Mr. Ihler stated that Resolution No. 259(22)
authorizes application for up to $2 million in grant funds with 50% in matching funds. Mr. Ihler
advised that the funding source for the matching funds would come from Fund 11 which contained
revenues from the 1/8 cent sales tax. The following projects were included in the application: •
Installation of a 24” waterline underneath I-35 along the south side of SW 34th to provide a second
line connecting the east to the west side of Moore. This would provide resiliency and reliability while
supporting development in the southeast part of Moore. • Expansion of the Eastern Avenue Pump
Station to improve water pressure and reliability and to help serve future development in the
southeast part of the City. • Rehabilitation of the 27th Street West Pump Station to provide better
water pressure in the northwest part of the community. Trustee Blair moved to adopt Resolution No.
259(22) authorizing the application for the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) Grant from the
Oklahoma Water Resources Board (“OWRB”) for water projects, second by Trustee Hamm. Motion
carried unanimously. Ayes: Blair, Williams, Hamm, Hunt Nays: None Absent: McKenzie, Webb,
Lewis
CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 260(22) AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION FOR THE
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT (“ARPA”) GRANT FROM THE OKLAHOMA WATER RESOURCES
BOARD (“OWRB”) FOR WASTEWATER PROJECTS. Jerry Ihler, Assistant City Manager, stated that
adoption of Resolution No. 260(22) authorized application to the OWRB for a grant award for
construction of the Southeast Lift Station Trustee Williams moved to adopt Resolution No. 260(22)
authorizing the application for the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) Grant from the Oklahoma
Water Resources Board (“OWRB”) for wastewater projects, second by Trustee Blair. Motion carried
unanimously. Ayes: Blair, Williams, Hamm, Hunt Nays: None Absent: McKenzie, Webb, Lewis
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, October 3, 2022;

Fees
Blair voted to raise utility rates by voting to approve an increase on
commercial waste rates.
CONSIDER RESOLUTION NO. 993(21) ADOPTING THE SCHEDULE OF FEES AND CHARGES;
EFFECTIVE UPON APPROVAL AND REMAINING IN EFFECT UNTIL MODIFIED, AMENDED, OR
REPEALED; AND REPEALING PRIOR INCONSISTENT FEES. Brian Miller, Assistant City Attorney,
advised that that the commercial waste rates have not been changed since 2010. Mr. Miller stated
that rates being charged to commercial businesses are less than what was being charged to the
City by our vendor. Resolution No. 993(21) would update the Fee Schedule to incorporate the new
Commercial Rate Schedule and included a clause which states that the rates would be adjusted
each year by the same percentage rate charged by the City’s vendor. Councilman Williams
confirmed that Item 7.B of the Fee Schedule which dealt a grace period in regard to delinquent
charges was removed. He also noted an error in the section immediately below 7.B referencing
Utilities in Section 2.D which should have read Section 2.E. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING -
MINUTES JUNE 7, 2021 PAGE 14 Councilman Blair moved to adopt Resolution No. 993(21) adopting
the Schedule of Fees and Charges; effective upon approval and remaining in effect until modified,
amended, or repealed; and repealing prior inconsistent fees, second by Councilman Williams.
Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: Blair, Hunt, Williams, Webb, Hamm Nays: None Absent:
McKenzie, Lewis
(Source: Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, June 7, 2021;

Blair voted to raise utility rates on residents by adopting a $1 fee to each

account.
Agenda Item Number 13 being: CONSIDER APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NO. 999(21) ADOPTING A
$1.00 FEE TO EACH RESIDENTIAL UTILITY ACCOUNT FOR THE PURPOSE OF STORM DAMAGE
CLEANUP. Betty Koehn, Finance Director, stated that residents’ experienced major tree damage
from an ice storm that occurred last winter. This resulted in an additional cost to the City for
removal of the debris. Ms. Koehn advised that Resolution No. 999(21) would add $1.00 per month to
each residential customer’s utility bill to go toward a Storm Clean-up Account to fund any similar
events which might occur in the future. Councilman Webb asked how much money would be
collected in one month. Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, estimated around $25,000. He indicated
that the funds generated would be restricted to storm cleanup. Councilman Webb asked for the
cost of the cleanup from the last ice storm. Ms. Koehn indicated the cost was around $2.8 million.
Trustee Webb moved to approve Resolution No. 999(21) adopting a $1.00 fee to each residential
utility account for the purpose of storm damage cleanup, second by Trustee McKenzie. Motion
carried unanimously. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES AUGUST 16, 2021 PAGE 8
Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Webb, Hamm, Williams Nays: None Absent: Lewis

Blair voted for a new fee on beer and liquor.

Agenda Item Number 5 being: CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION 902(18) AMENDING THE CITY
OF MOORE SCHEDULE OF FEES AND CHARGES BY ADDING NEW BEER AND LIQUOR LICENSING
FEES; EFFECTIVE UPON APPROVAL AND REMAINING IN EFFECT UNTIL MODIFIED, AMENDED OR
REPEALED; AND REPEALING PRIOR INCONSISTENT FEES. Randy Brink, City Attorney, stated that
the proposed fee schedule amendment would implement changes to state law on the licensing and
selling of high point beer. Mr. Brink noted that the Fee Schedule COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA
MEETING – MINUTES JUNE 18, 2018 PAGE 3 attached to the resolution mistakenly struck out Item
No. 9. He stated that the fees for “Mixed Beverage Initial Fee” and “Mixed Beverage Renewal Fee”
would remain in effect. The other proposed changes to the fee schedule were correct. Councilman
Blair moved to adopt Resolution No. 902(18), second by Councilwoman Hunt. Motion carried
unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie,
(Source: City of Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, June 18, 2018;
630pm-agenda_5.pdf)
Blair voted for a resolution that increased water rates.

CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 244(18) AMENDING THE SCHEDULE OF FEES AND
CHARGES TO ADJUST CERTAIN WATER RATES EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2018 AND REMAINING IN EFFECT
UNTIL MODIFIED AMENDED OR REPEALED; AND REPEALING PRIOR INCONSISTENT FEES. Betty
Koehn, Finance Director, advised that adoption of Resolution No. 244(18) would implement an
increase in the City’s water rates effective July 1, 2018 as discussed at the May 14, 2018 Budget
Study Session. The increased revenues would fund water purchases from the City of Oklahoma
City. Trustee Webb moved to adopt Resolution No. 244(18), second by Trustee Williams. Motion
carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Williams, Webb, Hamm, Lewis Nays: None
(Source: City of Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, June 18, 2018;
630pm-agenda_5.pdf)
Blair voted to increase fees on development that would arguably drive up

the cost of buying residential, retail and commercial property.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO. 1019(23) AMENDING PART 12, CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE K,
SECTION 12-613 OF THE MOORE LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE BY AMENDING THE
TRANSPORTATION IMPACT FEE SCHEDULE FOR RESIDENTIAL, RETAIL, AND COMMERCIAL
DEVELOPMENTS. Elizabeth Weitman, Community Development Director, stated that periodically
staff reviews the Transportation Impact Fees to ensure the fee is adequate for capital improvement
projects. With the arterial roadway construction costs increasing significantly over the past several
years the current fees were determined to be too low. Traffic Engineering Consultants (“TEC”) was
consulted to work with staff in recommending fees that would take into account inflation and more
adequately address the cost to the City for arterial roadway construction. Ms. Weitman stated that
fees are collected when a developer files a final plat; however, builders are not required to pay
Transportation Impact Fees. Ms. Weitman supplied a list of Moore’s current and proposed fees as
well as a cost comparison with the City of Oklahoma City. She advised that all of the land use
categories listed included fee increases. Ms. Weitman noted that the land use categories of Gas or
Convenience Stores and Restaurant, Fast Food/Fast Casual fees did go up; however, since there is
a trend of having very small building footprints and relying more on drive-thru service, a minimum
fee of $5,000 and $4,000 respectively were proposed in order to recoup the money the City would
be spending
Councilman Blair moved to approve Ordinance No. 1019(23) amending Part 12, Chapter 5, Article
K, Section 12-613 of the Moore Land Development Code by amending the transportation impact fee
schedule for residential, retail, and commercial developments, second by Councilman Williams.
Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Williams, Hamm, Lewis Nays: None
Absent: Webb
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, February 6, 2023;

Blair voted for higher fees by voting for a resolution that would establish
an election to approve a recycling program, which would add $3.90 per
month to utility bills with a 2% increase in future years.
Agenda Item Number 3 being: CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 47(23) AUTHORIZING
THE CALLING AND HOLDING OF AN ELECTION IN THE CITY OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA, FOR THE
PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING TO THE REGISTERED QUALIFIED VOTERS OF SAID CITY THE QUESTION
OF ESTABLISHING AN INITIAL RATE FOR REQUIRED BI-WEEKLY RESIDENTIAL CURBSIDE
RECYCLING FOR $3.90 PER MONTH, WITH A TWO PERCENT (2.000%) INCREASE EACH YEAR FOR
YEARS 2 THROUGH 5; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND CONTAINING OTHER
PROVISIONS RELATING THERETO. Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, advised that the item was heard
at the February 6, 2023 City Council Meeting. At that time Council requested changes in the ballot
language regarding the proposed implementation of a curbside recycling program with Republic
Services. The language was changed to reflect a monthly fee of $3.90 per residence with a 2%
increase for contract years 2 through 5. The 2% increase would result in an additional 8 cents per
month for each contract year. He noted that although the contract with Republic included a 4%
increase the City planned to only pass on to the residents 2% of that increase. The terms of the
contract also include possible rate increases for fuel costs and the cost of separating items that
were not recycled properly. Mr. Mitchell advised that Republic has never charged a city for the
additional costs. However, if the situation did occur, he did not anticipate it being a large amount;
therefore, the City would likely be able to absorb that cost. Mr. Mitchell stated that the agenda item
was for authorization to place the question of implementing a curbside recycling program on the
May 9, 2023 ballot for consideration by the voters. It was not a vote in support of, or in opposition to,
the proposed curbside recycling program. Citizens to Speak: Barry Williams, 1061 NW 6th, stated
that the question of a recycling program had been voted down twice already and wanted to know
how much the City would be spending on the election. Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, estimated
that a typical election would cost approximately $10,000. Mr. Williams stated that ballot language
was changed from $4.30 to $3.90. He asked who would be paying the difference in cost. Mr.
Mitchell advised that if the item passed the City would utilize money saved from modifications to
the City’s recycling center to pay the difference in cost. Mr. Williams asked about the 4% increase
for contract years 2-5. Mr. Mitchell advised that the contract included a 4% increase; however, the
City would charge the residents 2%. That charge was also included in the ballot language. Mr.
Williams felt that the money that City would be contributing could be better utilized for something
else. Councilwoman Hunt stated that tax dollars are currently being used for the recycle center.
She anticipated the need to expand the facility at some point since it appears to be operating over
capacity. Mr. Williams also felt that the possibility of additional fuel or sorting costs should be
included in the ballot language since those costs could occur at some point. Mr. Mitchell explained
that those charges, if they occur, would be billed to the City. The program would be for a five-year
period and then it would be re-evaluated. Mr. Williams ended his comments by stated that he was
opposed to a mandatory pay recycling program. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING –
MINUTES FEBRUARY 21, 2023 PAGE 3 Patrice Williams, 1061 NW 6th Street, did not feel that the
City should implement a recycling program at the request of new residents who moved from a place
that had a recycling program. Ms. Williams felt that the City should acquire bids from other
companies. She did not want to pay recycling fees to make recycling more convenient for someone
else. Ms. Williams stated that she planned to vote against a proposed recycling program.
Councilman Hamm stated that he toured the recycle center where the recyclables would be taken.
He also had a video conference call with Republic Services to obtain additional information. He felt
that the constituents should have the opportunity to vote on whether or not they want a curbside
recycling program since the last time it was on a ballot was in 2016. Councilwoman Hunt stated
that the City of Mustang’s recycling program was brought up in a previous discussion. The reason
they have such a discounted rate for curbside recycling is because they also use the same
company for residential trash collection services. Therefore, the discounted rate would not be
available to the City of Moore. Councilwoman Hunt moved to adopt Resolution No. 47(23)
authorizing the calling and holding of an election in the City of Moore, Oklahoma, for the purpose of
submitting to the registered qualified voters of said City the question of establishing an initial rate
for required bi-weekly residential curbside recycling for $3.90 per month, with a two percent
(2.000%) increase each year for years 2 through 5; providing for an effective date; and containing
other provisions relating thereto, second by Councilwoman McKenzie. Motion carried by majority
vote. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Williams, Hamm, Lewis Nays: None Abstentions: Webb
CONSIDER ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1018(23) OF THE CITY OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA

AMENDING SECTION 17-209 OF CHAPTER 2 OF PART 17 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE
CITY OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA, BY ADDING REQUIRED BI-WEEKLY RESIDENTIAL CURBSIDE
RECYCLING AND ESTABLISHING A RATE THEREFOR; PROVIDING EFFECTIVE DATE FOR SAID
INCREASE SUBJECT TO VOTER APPROVAL; AND CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING
THERETO. Patrice Williams, 1061 NW 6th Street, reiterated her opinion that the City should have
obtained bids for curbside recycling. She also felt that individuals living in apartment complexes
should also be charged for the program. Councilwoman Hunt moved to adopt Ordinance No.
1018(23) of the City of Moore, Oklahoma amending Section 17-209 of Chapter 2 of Part 17 of the
Code of Ordinances of the City of Moore, Oklahoma, by adding required bi-weekly residential
curbside recycling and establishing a rate therefor; providing effective date for said increase
subject to voter approval; and containing other provisions relating thereto, second by
Councilwoman McKenzie. Motion carried by majority vote. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Williams,
Hamm, Lewis Nays: None Abstentions: Webb
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, February 21, 2023;

Taxes
In 2018, The City of Moore pushed for a bond package that would have
increase property tax increase of $8 for a home valued at $100,000.
MOORE — Residents were mostly cautiously optimistic about a series of bonds the city is putting up for a vote
later this month during a public information meeting.
While there were some misgivings at Thursday night’s meeting at The Station in Central Park, others were
positive about the proposed uses for five separate bonds totaling about $48 million. City leaders were happy
about both the turnout to the first of three scheduled meetings and the reception by voters.
“I’m for all of them. I think they all sound like good improvements,” Moore resident Chad Wilson said. “I just
came to hear the pros and cons and see if there was any reason to not do them.”
City Manager Brooks Mitchell led the meeting, making it clear to voters that they can vote for any of the five
bonds separately. In other words, it’s not a package deal; they can vote for all, some or none of them, and the
city will respond by doing what voters ask.
Each bond has a different cost, and the bulk of the money can be found in Proposition 1. It garnered most of
the attention Thursday night, as it would allocate $43,050,000 for a railroad underpass on Fourth Street and
other street improvements.
“Traffic in Moore is only going to increase,” Mitchell said.
Trains cross Fourth Street all day, and some block the crossing when they stop on the tracks. The city’s
project includes lowering Fourth Street and taking it beneath the tracks, similar to the one on 19th Street.
The amount allocated by the city also includes anticipated right of way cost, in the event the city has to buy
some or all of the land owned by businesses near Fourth Street.
Donna Box, who also said she was in favor of the propositions, owns Donna’s Razor Cuts that she knows will
have to close.
Box also will have to move, because her residence is by the business. Still, she said, it’s for the good of the
city.
“It’s something desperately needed,” Box said. “The railroad is going to do what it wants. Three weeks ago, I
watched as traffic was stopped for three hours. How am I going to run a business with that?”
Not all residents are in favor of the propositions, including the underpass. One seemed uncomfortable with
how much the bonds, if approved, will raise ad valorem taxes in the city.
The city’s current millage rate — collective property tax rate — is 15.5 percent, Mitchell said. If passed, the
city will implement the bonds in stages, and during that time, previously passed bond packages will expire.
Mitchell said, together, the five bonds would raise property taxes by a rate of $8 per month for a home valued
at $100,000.
The city’s millage rate would not exceed 16.5 percent during the time the bonds were enacted.
Senior citizens can have their ad valorem tax frozen if they meet certain criteria. In that case, their rates won’t
go up regardless, Mitchell said.
As an example, Mitchell mentioned the last bond passed by voters to build the 34th Street bridge.
“In that election, the city said the millage rate won’t go about 18 percent,” he said. “It’s at 15.5 percent now.
So the city has done a good job with staying in that range.”
Proposition 2 would use $3.14 million to improve the city’s drainage channels. Mitchell said this work would
help supply better control for mosquitoes, flooding and natural erosion.
Proposition 3 would install quiet zones at various railroad crossings. In these areas, the train would not be
allowed to blow its whistle. In turn, the city must make the crossings safer.
This bond would raise about $1.525 million for the project.
The city would purchase two street sweepers with Proposition 4, costing about $600,000. A new telephone
system for the city would come with Proposition 5 and $300,000.
A second public meeting will be hosted at 7 p.m. Thursday at Oak Ridge Elementary School, 3201 S. Santa Fe
Ave.
The third and final public meeting will be hosted at 7 p.m. June 21 at Winding Creek Elementary School, 1401
NE 12th St. (Source: The American, June 11, 2018)
Blair voted for the 2018 resolutions that increased property taxes.
Agenda Item Number 3 being: CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 897(18)
AUTHORIZING THE CALLING AND HOLDING OF AN ELECTION IN THE CITY OF MOORE,
OKLAHOMA, FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING TO THE COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM
MEETING - MINUTES APRIL 2, 2018 PAGE 2 REGISTERED QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF SAID
CITY THE QUESTION OF THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY
IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF FORTY-THREE MILLION THIRTY-NINE
THOUSAND THIRTY-THREE DOLLARS ($43,039,033) TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE
PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTING, RECONSTRUCTING, IMPROVING OR REPAIRING STREETS
OR BRIDGES IN SAID CITY; OF THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID
CITY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF THREE MILLION ONE HUNDRED
THIRTY-EIGHT THOUSAND DOLLARS ($3,138,000) TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE
PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTING OR RECONSTRUCTING CERTAIN DRAINAGE CHANNELS IN
SAID CITY; OF THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF ONE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE
THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,525,000) TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF
CONSTRUCTING AND EQUIPPING QUIET ZONES AT CERTAIN RAILROAD CROSSINGS IN
SAID CITY; OF THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($600,000)
TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACQUIRING TWO (2) MECHANICAL STREET
SWEEPERS; OF THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS
($300,000) TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACQUIRING AND INSTALLING A
NEW TELEPHONE SYSTEM; WITH ALL OF SAID IMPROVEMENTS TO BE OWNED
EXCLUSIVELY BY SAID CITY; AND LEVYING AND COLLECTING AN ANNUAL TAX, IN
ADDITION TO ALL OTHER TAXES, UPON ALL THE TAXABLE PROPERTY IN SAID CITY FOR
THE PAYMENT OF THE INTEREST AND PRINCIPAL ON SAID BONDS. Brooks Mitchell, City
Manager, requested a tabling motion for Agenda Item No. 3 stating that the item would be
addressed under Addendum Item No. 3.1. Councilman Blair moved to table Agenda Item
No. 3, second by Councilwoman Hunt. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair,
Hunt, Williams, Webb, Hamm, Lewis Nays: None Addendum Item Number 3.1 being:
CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 897(18) AUTHORIZING THE CALLING AND
HOLDING OF AN ELECTION IN THE CITY OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA, FOR THE PURPOSE OF
SUBMITTING TO THE REGISTERED QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF SAID CITY THE QUESTION OF
THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED THE SUM OF FORTY-THREE MILLION FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($43,050,000)
TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTING, RECONSTRUCTING,
IMPROVING OR REPAIRING STREETS OR BRIDGES IN SAID CITY; OF THE ISSUANCE OF
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM
OF THREE MILLION ONE HUNDRED FORTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($3,140,000) TO
PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTING, RECONSTRUCTING,
IMPROVING OR REPAIRING CERTAIN DRAINAGE CHANNELS IN SAID CITY; OF THE
ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED THE SUM OF ONE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS
($1,525,000) TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTING AND
EQUIPPING QUIET ZONES AT CERTAIN RAILROAD CROSSINGS IN SAID CITY; OF THE
ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED THE SUM OF SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($600,000) TO PROVIDE
FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACQUIRING TWO (2) MECHANICAL STREET SWEEPERS; OF
THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED THE SUM OF THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($300,000) TO PROVIDE
FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACQUIRING AND INSTALLING A NEW TELEPHONE
SYSTEM; WITH ALL OF SAID IMPROVEMENTS TO BE OWNED EXCLUSIVELY BY SAID CITY;
AND LEVYING AND COLLECTING AN ANNUAL TAX, IN ADDITION TO ALL OTHER TAXES,
UPON ALL THE TAXABLE PROPERTY IN SAID CITY FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE INTEREST
AND PRINCIPAL ON SAID BONDS. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING - MINUTES APRIL 2,
2018 PAGE 3 Brooks Mitchell, City Manager, stated that the projects included in the
proposed General Obligation Bond election would address infrastructure issues within the
City. Mr. Mitchell advised that during the 2014 G.O. Bond issue the City represented to the
citizens that the millage rate would not exceed 18 mills. He indicated that the millage rate
was currently at 15.5 mills, and the proposed plan would not raise the City’s millage rate
above 16.5 mills. He stated that this would be achieved by issuing the bonds incrementally
over the next seven years. He noted that also during the next seven years $26,975,000 in
bonds would be paid off. Mr. Mitchell stated that the propositions were drafted to have 20
year maturities from the date of issuance, instead of the typical ten years. This would
provide flexibility in adjusting the terms based on interest rates. He noted that the City
Council votes to authorize each bond issue so Council must approve any changes to the
bonds to keep the millage rate stable. Mr. Mitchell stated that capital projects of this type
were generally funded through G.O. bonds since, due to their high cost, it would be
impossible to fund them on a pay-as-you-go basis. In order to fund this through sales tax
the City of Moore would have to sustain 26% growth over each of the next seven years. He
indicated that he had checked with the congressional offices and determined that no
definitive federal funding sources were available for the projects at this time.
Councilwoman Hunt asked if the total issuance would be divided up between the different
propositions. Mr. Mitchell stated that there would be five propositions that make up the
issuance: Proposition No. 1: • Construction of an underpass for the Burlington-Northern
Santa Fe (“BNSF”) railroad tracks at the intersection of S. 4th and Broadway. • Resurfacing
of NE 12th Street between Eastern and I-35 Widening and resurfacing of SW 34th Street
between Telephone Road and Santa Fe. Resurfacing of Eastern between NE 12th and SE
4th Resurfacing of Eastern from SE 4th Street to SE 19th Street Mr. Mitchell advised that the
street projects would include 10-foot sidewalks on one side of the street and trees.
Proposition No. 2: • Reconstruction or replacement of the concrete drainage channel
between NW 12th and NW 5th . • Reconstruction or replacement of the concrete drainage
channel between NW 5th and SW 4th Mr. Mitchell stated that the drainage projects would
replace drainage channels that are over 50 years old and long past their useful life.
Replacing the channels would address maintenance, vegetation growth, and erosion
issues. Proposition No. 3: • Construct and equip a Quiet Zone at the N. 12th, Main, and SE
34th railroad crossings. Proposition No. 4: • Acquisition of two mechanical street sweepers
to maintain streets and reduce debris in the storm sewer. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING
- MINUTES APRIL 2, 2018 PAGE 4 Mr. Mitchell stated that keeping debris out of the storm
water drains would prevent water backup from creating flooding and DEQ issues from
pollutants that could get into the streams due to lack of maintenance. Proposition No. 5: •
Acquisition and installation of a new telephone system to replace the existing system
which is no longer supported by the manufacturer. Mr. Mitchell stated that the
manufacturer informed the City that they would no longer support the telephone system
after 2018. DISCUSSION: Mayor Lewis confirmed that voters could vote for any or all of the
propositions. Mr. Mitchell stated that if Council votes to call an election several Town Hall
Meetings would be held to explain the projects. Mr. Mitchell advised that Chris Gander, the
City’s financial advisor and Terry Hawkins, the City’s bond counsel were in attendance to
answer any questions. Councilwoman McKenzie clarified that the City Council was not
deciding whether to pass the bonds. The item was for approval to place the items on a
ballot for consideration by the voters at the June 26, 2018 election. Mr. Mitchell advised
that the City must give a 75-day notice to the Cleveland County Election Board when
holding an election. Mr. Hawkins stated that if the City Council voted to move forward with
the item an Election Proclamation must be published for three Thursdays preceding the
election date. The proclamation would outline the streets that would be improved. Mr.
Hawkins stated there was a Supreme Court case that prohibited bundling issues under one
proposition. He added that the Attorney General could strike down an election if the items
were bundled into one proposition; therefore, five propositions are to be considered
regarding five distinct issues. Councilwoman McKenzie stated that Proposition 1 had to do
with the 4th Street Underpass and the street projects. She stated that she had received
calls asking if there was a reason the two items were combined under one proposition
instead of being considered separately. Mr. Hawkins stated that the items could have been
listed separately but they opted to group similar items together. He added that in this case
all of the Proposition 1 issues pertained to streets. Councilwoman Hunt stated that she did
not have a problem with the street projects being considered under Proposition 1 with the
underpass. Mr. Gander commented that the way the items were categorized was pretty
common; however, the issues could be separated if that was what the City Council
wanted. Councilwoman McKenzie noted that there were five propositions but 90% of the
dollars, $43 million out of $48 million, was in one proposition. Because there was concern
expressed about the millage rate going up she felt it was important for the citizens to have
the option of picking and choosing what they want. Mr. Gander advised that the levy
reached as high as 25 mills in 1992. If the millage rate goes up to 16.5 mills versus the
current 15.5 it would only be a fraction of a one percent change. General Obligation Bond
debt is authorized and is driven with the tax rate. Every year it is recalibrated based on the
County Assessor’s assessment of property. The debt service on the bonds would then be
divided by the net assessed valuation. Mr. Gander stated that this was not an absolute plan
because things such as tornados dramatically reduce the net assessed valuation and, in
turn, reduces the number of bonds that are expected to be issued. However, the term
could be extended if there were some sort of recession. Mr. Gander stated that they would
do everything they could to prevent the tax rate from going above what was projected.
COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING - MINUTES APRIL 2, 2018 PAGE 5 Councilwoman Hunt
stated that if the G.O. Bond passed a property owner with a home valued at $100,000 home
would see around an $8.00 monthly increase. Mr. Gander agreed that would be a close
estimate since generally speaking one mill would equate to about a $10.00 a month
increase. Citizens to Speak: Lance Maxwell, 1812 NE 1st, felt the lack of an underpass at
4th Street was both a traffic and public safety concern. Although he agreed with the
proposed street projects he believed the most important issue was the underpass. He felt
a 4th Street Underpass could alleviate traffic congestion on 19th . Mr. Maxwell suggested
that if the street projects were included on the ballot the City should consider the
beautification aspects of the projects. He commented that he appreciated the sidewalks
on 4th Street but felt a protective barrier such as a median would be beneficial when
children are walking so close to a State highway with traffic speeds close to 45 mph. Trees,
sidewalk, and bike lanes would increase property values and off-set what might be a small
tax increase on the property. Mr. Maxwell voiced his support of the proposal. Councilman
Webb asked if visual information would be provided at the Town Hall Meetings. Mr. Brooks
stated that renderings would be available. Councilman Hamm asked if the Town Hall
Meetings could be held prior to a vote to hold the election. Mayor Lewis stated that there
was a deadline for providing the Cleveland County Election Board notice of a proposed
election. Councilman Hamm felt all of the projects being proposed were needed but
wanted more input into the big ticket items, especially if it would be put to a vote. Moore
Public Schools, the MooreNorman Technology Center, and the City each had large bond
issues in the past and, although this might only be an impact of $8 a month, he stated that
everything added up. He wanted an opportunity to consider the issue in more detail and felt
it was being rushed. He trusted that there was a strategy behind the way the propositions
were being presented but felt there could have been a way to split them up. Councilman
Hamm felt that in order to answer questions from the public he needed to feel confident
that he had adequate information and input. He did not want to jeopardize the confidence
that the residents of Moore have in the City. Although he expressed his confidence in the
staff and City Manager, it was a large issuance and there were some lay-offs continuing to
happen throughout the region. Mayor Lewis felt that residents were frustrated waiting for
trains to move through the City. It also created a safety issue that he felt the City had the
opportunity to fix. Councilwoman Hunt commented that the Quiet Zone was being
considered at her request. Brad Morse, 1013 Desiree Place, spoke in support of the
underpass. Mr. Morse felt that the residents spend too much time waiting for the trains. Mr.
Morse asked if Silver Star Construction be doing the work if the street projects were
approved. Mayor Lewis advised that Silver Star Construction was awarded the bid for on-
demand construction services. He stated that the Underpass project would be bid out.
Councilwoman McKenzie stated that the City bids the item out each year to ensure the City
is receiving the best pricing; however, she did feel that Silver Star had been very responsive
to the needs of the City. Chris Fox, 1025 SE 12th, expressed his appreciation for having an
inclusive discussion regarding such a large bond issue. Mr. Fox stated he was in favor of
the underpass project. He expressed appreciation to Councilman Hamm for his concern
regarding the impact of the issue to the residents. Mr. Fox also mentioned that he was in
favor of the street projects. He loved the idea of sidewalks, trees, and bike lanes. He
suggested that the City plan for the future and multimodal transit. Robert Shawn, 225 SE
4th , stated that the City performed a survey which showed 4th Street to be one of the most
highly traveled roads in Moore. He believed that the underpass issue should be considered
separately, otherwise it might fail. He asked if the cost of the projects would be divided
among the city, state, and federal government since it was a state highway. Councilwoman
Hunt stated that the City has looked into grant funds and the state is experiencing
significant budgetary problems. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING - MINUTES APRIL 2, 2018
PAGE 6 Rebecca Franklin, 239 N. Eastern, felt that the underpass was an excellent idea but
did not feel mechanical street sweepers and the phone system were necessary.
Councilwoman McKenzie commented that those items would be a separate proposition
from the underpass and could be voted on separately. Mayor Lewis noted that the street
sweeper was used to remove the salt and sand when the streets were treated following
snow and ice storms. They are also used following construction projects and to keep the
drainage systems clear. Councilman Williams advised that the City currently has street
sweepers but they do wear out over time and need to be replaced. She agreed that the
items should be separate propositions on the ballot. Ms. Franklin wanted to ensure that
road construction projects and the underpass would constructed to be handicapped
accessible. She stated that some of the intersections are technically handicapped
accessible but not handicap friendly. Mayor Lewis asked that Ms. Franklin supply a list of
the intersections so staff could look into correcting the problems. She stated that she did
not want to add to the expense by correcting the existing problems, but she did want the
new construction to be handicap friendly. Mayor Lewis wanted the intersections to be
accessible for everyone. Chris Fleming, 236 Asher Court, thanked the City Council for
having an open discussion regarding the proposed election propositions and being frank
with their opinions. Part of his job has been the redevelopment of the mid-town area in
Oklahoma City. A few of the things that have been touched on at this meeting have been
things they encountered with the Oklahoma City project. One of those items is a Quiet
Zone and the quality of life that brings. The improvements made to the crossings prevent
people from running through the railroad arms. Potential economic development in Old
Town around the railroad tracks could be improved with a Quiet Zone. Mr. Fleming stated
that they want “great streets” that are accessible for everyone. He asked that engineers
look at it from the perspective of everyone that uses different forms of transportation such
as pedestrians, automobiles, bicycles, able bodied or handicapped individuals. Things
such as ten-foot sidewalks and trees do not make a good walkable street. Jared Williams,
1056 NW 20th Street, stated that he supported each measure being proposed although the
vast majority of the items would not impact his daily life. He believed in spending more
money in order to help make the City better for his future kids and grandkids. Mr. Williams
stated that some people might agree with every proposition but they would not say yes to
everything. He recommended keeping it together although it was ultimately Council’s
decision. Mr. Williams expressed his appreciation to the City Council. Councilwoman Hunt
moved to adopt Resolution No. 897(18), second by Councilman Williams. Councilman
Hamm felt that the underpass should be considered as a proposition by itself. He
appreciated the discussion but wished there was an opportunity to hear even more before
it got to this point. Mayor Lewis asked if the wording of the propositions had been approved
by the Attorney General. Mr. Hawkins advised that the Attorney General does not approve
the wording of the items in advance. Mayor Lewis asked if there was time to change the
documents to have the underpass and street projects separate propositions. Mr. Hawkins
felt that separating the items would require calling a special meeting. The City would
propose holding the election on June 26, 2018 which is the primary election. The only other
options for an election date for the remainder of the year were August 28, 2018 which is the
run-off or November 6, 2018 for the general election. Councilman Hamm asked when the
election dates were published for the year. Mr. Hawkins indicated that the Cleveland
County Election Board sets the dates as outlined by the State legislature. Councilman
Hamm felt that the City was aware of the election dates and allowed the situation to
happen. Councilman Webb agreed with Councilman Hamm’s frustration. He felt that the
City Council needed more notice in the future. Although he supported each of the
propositions he agreed with separating the street projects and the underpass. He asked if
there was an interest in holding a special meeting. COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM MEETING -
MINUTES APRIL 2, 2018 PAGE 7 Councilwoman Hunt called for the vote. She stated that if
the motion failed the City Council could discuss the item further. A vote was taken on the
previously made motion. Councilwoman Hunt moved to adopt Resolution No. 897(18),
second by Councilman Williams. Motion carried by majority vote. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair,
Hunt, Williams, Lewis Nays: Webb, Hamm Agenda Item Number 4 being: CONSIDER
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF ELECTION PROCLAMATION AND NOTICE PERTAINING
TO THE PROPOSED GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND ISSUE. Councilman Blair moved to
authorize the execution of Election Proclamation and Notice pertaining to the proposed
General Obligation Bond issue, second by Councilman Williams. Motion carried by
majority vote. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Williams, Webb, Lewis Nays: Hamm Agenda
Item Number 5 being:
(Source: City of Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, April 2, 2018;

https://www.cityofmoore.com/sites/default/files/uploads/city-
council/agendas/mon-apr-2-630pm-agenda_8.pdf)
In 2021, Blair voted to put a new property tax on ballot in the City of Moore.
This new tax was for an animal shelter and would cost residents $8.6
Million.
Agenda Item Number 3 being: CONSIDER ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION NO. 997(21)
AUTHORIZING THE CALLING AND HOLDING OF AN ELECTION IN THE CITY OF MOORE,
OKLAHOMA, FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING TO THE REGISTERED QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF
SAID CITY THE QUESTION OF THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN
AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF EIGHT MILLION SIX HUNDRED FORTY THOUSAND
DOLLARS ($8,640,000) TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTING,
RECONSTRUCTING, IMPROVING OR REPAIRING STREETS OR BRIDGES IN SAID CITY; OF THE
ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF SAID CITY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE
SUM OF EIGHT MILLION TWO HUNDRED TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($8,210,000) TO PROVIDE
FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTING AND EQUIPPING OF A NEW ANIMAL SHELTER;
WITH ALL OF SAID IMPROVEMENTS TO BE OWNED EXCLUSIVELY BY SAID CITY; AND LEVYING AND
COLLECTING AN ANNUAL TAX, IN ADDITION TO ALL OTHER TAXES, UPON ALL THE TAXABLE
PROPERTY IN SAID CITY FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE INTEREST AND PRINCIPAL ON SAID BONDS.
COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES AUGUST 16, 2021 PAGE 3 Brooks Mitchell, City
Manager, advised that presentations were given at the July 19, 2021 City Council Meeting regarding
design of a proposed animal shelter and street projects. Mr. Mitchell stated that construction of a
new animal shelter had been discussed for some time and recent weather conditions caused
damage to the City’s streets which must be repaired. The proposed G.O. Bond would provide
necessary funding for the projects. He indicated that he had several discussions with Chris Gander,
the City’s financial advisor, who believed that the City could remain at 16.5 mills as Council
previously requested. However, he noted there was a possibility that staff might request
authorization to enter into a short-term loan that would later be repaid with an additional
drawdown. Councilwoman Hunt stated that citizens have commented that bonds were approved
for the 4th Street Underpass and the 12th and Eastern Avenue projects but they have not seen any
sign of the projects moving forward. She felt it was important that presentations at any future town
hall meetings include an update on the projects with anticipated completion dates. Councilwoman
Hunt added that she was aware that the project were progressing with work occurring behind the
scenes; however, it was difficult for the citizens to see that. Councilman Webb moved to adopt
Resolution No. 997(21) authorizing the calling and holding of an election in the City of Moore,
Oklahoma, for the purpose of submitting to the registered qualified electors of said City the
question of the issuance of General Obligation Bonds of said City in an amount not to exceed the
sum of Eight Million Six Hundred Forty Thousand Dollars ($8,640,000) to provide funds for the
purpose of constructing, reconstructing, improving or repairing streets or bridges in said City; of the
issuance of General Obligation Bonds of said City in an amount not to exceed the sum of Eight
Million Two Hundred Ten Thousand Dollars ($8,210,000) to provide funds for the purpose of
constructing and equipping of a new Animal Shelter; with all of said improvements to be owned
exclusively by said City; and levying and collecting an annual tax, in addition to all other taxes, upon
all the taxable property in said City for the payment of the interest and principal on said Bonds,
second by Councilwoman Hunt. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Webb,
Hamm, Williams Nays: None Absent: Lewis
(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, August 16, 2021

Article about Animal Shelter below. Cites residents will see a “people
may see a slight fluctuation in property tax.”
Nov. 21—Moore is set to receive a new comprehensive $8.2 million animal shelter following the passage of a
bond earlier this month.
The future home for Moore Animal Welfare is S I-35 Service Road, east of the interstate and south of SW 34th
Street.
The 15,040-square-foot shelter will include separate areas for adoption and intake, multi-purpose training
room, quarantine rooms, administrative offices, better air ventilation systems, a medical suite, animal food
preparation area and more room for cats and dogs.
Groundbreaking and completion dates are yet to be determined, but the facility could be ready to go by the
end of 2023, Mitchell said.
Shelter Manager John Fryrear said Moore Animal Welfare has operated out of its current 3,200-square-foot
shelter for over 20 years.
The city's population going from 41,138 in 2000 to 62,793 in 2020 has the shelter at 3900 S I-35 Service Rd
spatially maxed out, he said.
Moore City Manager Brooks Mitchell said the city weighed the decision between expanding the current
shelter and building a new one in recent years, but their lot north of Indian HIlls Road doesn't have the space
required for all of the necessary improvements.
"There is wear and tear on the cages and on the concrete, as it's a 22-year-old facility," Mitchell said.
The current shelter holds 29 dogs and nine cats. As of Wednesday, they are housing 30 dogs and 17 cats.
"Right now, we're doubling open cages," Fryrear said. "We're even housing cats in the dog sections."
Fryrear said more spaces means the ability to save more animals and to house significantly more dogs and
cats.
The adoption section capacity will be 28 cats and 47 dogs. The animal hold section capacity will be 20 cats
and 29 dogs.
Fryrear said overcrowding at the current shelter means an ever-present concern for the outbreak of sickness.
Separate areas for adoption and intake will create an environment more conducive to disease control.
Dedicated ventilation systems for both areas should also prevent the spread of illness, Fryrear said.
A medical suite at the future shelter will be a space for animals to recover from surgery and other veterinary
care.
"If an animal comes in sick or injured, we will be able to house them separately from intake and adoption,"
Fryrear said. "You worry about kennel cough, upper respiratory disease, because once that hits, it just keeps
going and your whole shelter is affected."
Fryrear said the new shelter will be more centrally located in Moore, allowing for convenient access from the
city's residents, just off I-35.
"A lot of people have a hard time finding us and we got a ton of calls from people who say they passed us,"
Fryrear said. "We will be facing the west, so people driving down I-35 will be able to see our beautiful building
that citizens helped pay for."
Fryrear looks forward to the completion of the facility, and the opportunity to invite the public to see how their
tax dollars benefited animals in need of shelter and care.
Mitchell said as the city issues the bonds, they get repaid through the property tax. The city has a certain
amount of dollars in bonds outstanding with principal and interest payments due every year.
After the county assessor looks at property valuations, Mitchell said they take the estimate of needs for the
various cities and create the millage rate, a collective property tax rating. The City of Moore's property tax
rating is currently 15.4, he said.
"We will issue these bonds in increments where their millage rate won't exceed 16.5., so people may see a
slight fluctuation in property tax, but it will be minimal because we'll have the millage rate fluctuate within a
narrow range," Mitchell said. "Over the next few years, part of the property tax that they pay to the City of
Moore will go to repay these bonds." (Source: The Norman Transcript, November 21, 2021)
Blair voted for higher sales taxes by authorizing two resolutions that
extended a sales tax in the City of Moore.
CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 30(22) AUTHORIZING THE CALLING AND HOLDING
OF AN ELECTION IN THE CITY OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA, FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING TO
THE REGISTERED QUALIFIED VOTERS OF SAID CITY THE QUESTION OF AUTHORIZING THE
EXTENSION OF AN EXISTING ONE-HALF OF ONE PERCENT (0.50%) SALES TAX AND PROVIDING
THE USE THEREOF; CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING THERETO. Brooks Mitchell, City
Manager, advised that adoption of Resolution No. 30(22) would authorize the holding of an election
to consider the extension of the ½ cent sales tax for an additional four years. Mr. Mitchell stated that
70% of the sales tax revenues would go toward residential street repair, 20% for public safety
equipment, and 10% for public safety operations. He added that sales tax revenue was a critical
funding source in the annual budget. Councilwoman Hunt confirmed that the election was to renew
the existing ½ cent sales tax and was not to approve a new tax. Councilman Blair moved to adopt
Resolution No. 30(22) authorizing the calling and holding of an election in the City of Moore,
Oklahoma, for the purpose of submitting to the registered qualified voters of said City the question
of authorizing the extension of an existing one-half of one percent (0.50%) sales tax and providing
the use thereof; containing other provisions relating thereto, second by Councilwoman Hunt.
Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Williams, Hamm, Webb Nays: None
Absent: Lewis
Agenda Item Number 4 being: CONSIDER ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1015(22) OF THE CITY
OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA AMENDING THE CITY OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA SALES TAX ORDINANCE
[ORDINANCE NO. 60, AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE NO. 331(83), AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE
NO. 470(88), AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE NO. 551(06), AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE NO.
677(10) AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE NO. 780(14), AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE NO. 888(18)] TO
PROVIDE FOR THE RENEWING OF THE LEVYING AND ASSESSING OF AN EXISTING ONE-HALF OF
ONE PERCENT (0.50%) SALES TAX UPON THE GROSS RECEIPTS OR PROCEEDS DERIVED FROM
ALL SALES TAXABLE UNDER THE SALES TAX LAW OF OKLAHOMA; FIXING EFFECTIVE DATE AND
DATE OF TERMINATION; PROVIDING THE PURPOSE OF SAID ADDITIONAL SALES TAX; MAKING
PROVISIONS SEVERABLE; CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING THERETO. Brooks Mitchell,
City Manager, advised that the proposed item was a companion to Agenda Item No. 3. Ordinance
No. 1015(22) amends the City’s Sales Tax Ordinance by renewing the existing ½ cent sales tax
effective upon approval by the voters at the November 2022 election. Councilwoman Hunt moved
to approve Ordinance No. 1015(22) of the City of Moore, Oklahoma amending the City of Moore,
Oklahoma Sales Tax Ordinance [Ordinance No. 60, as amended by Ordinance No. 331(83), as
amended by Ordinance No. 470(88), as amended by Ordinance No. 551(06), as amended by
COUNCIL/MPWA/MRM/MEDA MEETING – MINUTES AUGUST 15, 2022 PAGE 3 Ordinance No.
677(10) as amended by Ordinance No. 780(14), as amended by Ordinance No. 888(18)] to provide
for the renewing of the levying and assessing of an existing one-half of one percent (0.50%) sales tax
upon the gross receipts or proceeds derived from all sales taxable under the sales tax law of
Oklahoma; fixing effective date and date of termination; providing the purpose of said additional
sales tax; making provisions severable; containing other provisions relating thereto, second by
Councilman Blair. Motion carried unanimously. Ayes: McKenzie, Blair, Hunt, Williams, Hamm,
Webb Nays: None Absent: Lewis


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Financial Issues

In December 2019, Discover bank issued a judgement against Jason Blair

In his hometown newspaper, Jason Blair was listed as a City Council

Mayor Glenn Lewis- 1Mayor Lewis- 1

(Source: The American, July 6, 2017)

"How many convenience stores do we need?" he asked council.

(Source: The American, February 6, 2018)

Blair works as an advisor for Dillingham Insurance. Dillingham Global LLC

The City of Moore voted to give a nearly $500K insurance contract to

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, December 20, 2021;

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, December 19, 2023;

(Source: Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, February 18, 2020;

(Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, May 3, 2021;

Blair voted to spend over $18K in taxpayer dollars on a Christmas Tree.

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, November 16, 2020;

In 2023, Blair voted to spend $133K on advanced exercise equipment.

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, October 2, 2023;

In 2022, Blair voted to give a pay hike to city employees.

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, November 21, 2022;

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, June 15, 2020;

In 2021, Blair voted to approve the 2021-2022 Budget, which increase

Tax Break for Cosco

(Source: Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, June 15, 2020

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, May 17, 2021;

Funding Lobbyists with Tax Dollars

(Source: City of Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, July 2, 2018;

(Source: Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, June 15, 2020

In 2021, Blair voted to authorize over $35K in fees to the Oklahoma

(Source: Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, June 7, 2021

(City of Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, July 6, 2022;

The Oklahoma Municipal League has numerous registered lobbyists

(Source: Oklahoma Ethics Commission, Registered Lobbyist List for 2024)

In 2020, Blair voted to give over $39K to the Association of Central

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, August 3, 2020;

The Association of Central Oklahoma Governments has numerous

(Source: Oklahoma Ethics Commission, Registered Lobbyist List for 2024)

Using Biden/Democrat ARPA Funds

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, July 19, 2021;

Blair voted to spend $159K of ARPA funds on police vehicles.

Blair voted to apply for an ARPA grant for water projects.

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, October 3, 2022;

(Source: Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, June 7, 2021;

Blair voted to raise utility rates on residents by adopting a $1 fee to each

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, August 16, 2021;

Blair voted for a new fee on beer and liquor.

Blair voted for a resolution that increased water rates.

Blair voted to increase fees on development that would arguably drive up

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, February 6, 2023;

CONSIDER ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1018(23) OF THE CITY OF MOORE, OKLAHOMA

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, February 21, 2023;

(Source: City of Moore City Council Meeting Minutes, April 2, 2018;

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, August 16, 2021

(Source: City of Moore Meeting Minutes, August 15, 2022;

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