The Ponca City Board of Commissioners met for a work session on October 18, 2021. Mayor Homer Nicholson called the meeting to order. Commissioner Chapman, Commissioner Scott, and Commissioner Taylor were in attendance. Commissioner Bodick was absent.
The City Commission declared that an emergency exists endangering health, safety and welfare such as to permit waiving of the Competitive Bidding Act and authorized an approved contractor to perform replacement work for the Bois D’Arc 24” aerial crossing for the estimated price of $1,200,000.00. In March of 2021, it was discovered that a section of the Bois D’Arc 24” aerial crossing suffered a structural failure causing several leaks. On October 14, 2021, it was discovered that the failure had become so severe as to warrant emergency repairs, as further delay would cause possible collapse, which would have an immediate effect on the health, safety, and welfare of the community. Because of this structural failure, the possibility of collapse and unpermitted discharges arise. Funding for this emergency repair will be supported by the Wastewater Collection’s operation budget.
The City Commission also discussed a proposed draft ordinance amending the City Code, Title 9, Chapter 8D, Section 2 regarding broadband rates. This item was presented to the City Commission at their regular Commission meeting held on October 11, 2021, where the City Commission directed staff to bring the item back to a work session for further discussion. Dave Williams, Technology Services Director presented Ponca City Broadband’s request to create two new service levels, specifically for Multiple Dwelling Units and Multiple Tenant Units. Discussion ensued, and the Commission requested additional time be given to the matter for further review.
