Jordan Gerard

1 week ago | oklahoman.com | Jordan Gerard

Oklahoma City saw its most significant decline in sales tax collections in a single month this fiscal year, City Manager Craig Freeman told the council. The sales tax the city collects from the state is down 6.6% compared to this time last year, he said. It makes it more challenging for the city to keep up with services that are in demand, and long-term effects mean reducing services, he added.

1 week ago | oklahoman.com | Jordan Gerard

• Oklahoma City is considering an ordinance to allow homeowners to build guesthouses "by right," aiming to address affordable housing needs. • Guesthouses offer flexible housing options for extended families, single individuals, and supplemental income opportunities for homeowners. • The ordinance aims to simplify the process and reduce costs associated with building guesthouses compared to current regulations.

2 weeks ago | oklahoman.com | Jordan Gerard

• Two new members, Katrina Avers and Camal Pennington, joined the Oklahoma City Council. • Most city departments faced a 4.5% budget reduction request, while police and fire departments faced a 1.5% reduction. The Oklahoma City Council welcomed two new members and welcomed back two others. Family and friends attended in a show of support for Katrina Avers, Ward 3, and Camal Pennington, Ward 7. Both won election for their respective wards, and it’s their first time as council members.

2 weeks ago | oklahoman.com | Jordan Gerard

• Overholser Dam, rated in poor condition since 2018, needs critical repairs to prevent potential loss of life and millions in property damage. • FEMA grant funding for the dam's redesign has been withdrawn, forcing Oklahoma City officials to seek alternative funding sources. • The dam, which has a history of withstanding floods, currently has inoperable gates and structural issues that pose safety concerns.

3 weeks ago | oklahoman.com | Jordan Gerard

• Oklahoma City is taking steps to remove discriminatory language from housing covenants and plats. • A recent state law change allows for these modifications, and the city is working with its Human Rights Commission to identify and address the issue. • The process involves reviewing pre-1968 documents, many of which require manual review due to their format, and notifying homeowners of proposed changes.