City of Tahlequah

The meeting included a public comment period where the president of the chamber thanked the city for its partnership in an upcoming event. The council recognized employees for their years of service. A presentation was given by the director of Hawking Lead Job Force Center, discussing the center's efforts to support students and its ranking as one of the top JobCore centers in the country. The council also discussed and approved the renewal of the health benefit plan for the upcoming year, with no increase passed on to employees.

The meeting included a public comment session where concerns about traffic congestion and safety near a school were raised, specifically regarding the intersection of Pendleton and Moccasin. The council also recognized several fire department employees for their years of service. Discussions and actions were taken on a consent agenda, updates to the fee schedule including Cherokee Field ballpark rentals, and a resolution applying for grants to construct T-hangers at the municipal airport. Additionally, a resolution supporting participation in the Oklahoma Main Street Center and an ordinance providing for an easement closure were addressed.

The meeting included discussions and possible actions on items removed from the consent agenda, such as a utility easement. A public hearing was held regarding a special use permit application for the construction of a cell tower. The council discussed the need for the tower to improve cell service coverage and support the FirstNet program, which aims to provide dedicated network services for first responders. The proposed cell tower would also allow Cherokee County to place antenna equipment for free to improve their radio system.

The meeting included a discussion and possible action to adopt Ordinance Number 1263-2018, which proposes a new substantial hotel tax and related incentive rebate, along with a related resolution and memorandum of understanding. The council addressed questions about the proposal, including its impact on existing hotels and the possibility of combining it with a TIF district. There was also discussion about raising the overall hotel-motel tax and the potential financial benefits to the community.

The meeting included a public comment section where concerns were raised about a condemned house and related safety issues. The police chief addressed these concerns, detailing actions taken and challenges faced. The council discussed a rezoning request for a property, hearing from the owner and community members, and ultimately voted to deny the rezoning. Amendments to an ordinance prohibiting smoking in indoor public places and workplaces were presented, focusing on definitions and enforcement.