Upcoming City Election Propositions
Bartlesville residents will vote on five propositions during the city election on Tuesday. These questions involve three established funding programs that have backed city services and development for years.
Details from City Officials
In a discussion on COMMUNITY CONNECTION, City Manager Mike Bailey, City Engineer Michah Siemers, and Bartlesville Development Authority President Chris Batchelder noted that the ballot features three General Obligation (G.O.) Bond propositions, a renewal of the quarter-cent Economic Development Sales Tax, and a half-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax proposition. Officials reassured voters that these taxes are not permanent and must be periodically reauthorized.
General Obligation Bonds Explained
City Manager Mike Bailey stated that the first three items on the ballot consist of General Obligation Bonds funded by property taxes, capped at 15 mills, which is just over 10% of the average property tax bill. This represents a long-standing tax rate for Bartlesville citizens.
Proposition Highlights
Proposition 1: Public Safety – $1.55 million will fund new fire apparatus, including a ladder truck crucial for navigating Bartlesville’s tall buildings.
Proposition 2: Streets and Bridges – $13.1 million will improve approximately 12 miles of streets, guided by a pavement condition model updated every five years.
Proposition 3: Parks and Recreation – $2.85 million is allocated for various projects, notably $1.2 million for artificial turf at Price Field to reduce rainouts for youth sports.
Capital Improvement Sales Tax Proposal
Proposition 5 requests approval for a half-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax totaling $17 million. This funding will address additional city equipment and infrastructure needs beyond those of the G.O. Bonds, including police and fire equipment upgrades.
Economic Development Sales Tax Renewal
BDA President Chris Batchelder emphasized the quarter-cent Economic Development Sales Tax, first implemented in 1986, which voters have renewed seven times. City leaders are seeking another five-year renewal to bolster job creation and economic stability.
Impacts on the Community
The combined benefits of these propositions extend beyond infrastructure improvements. New jobs lead to families moving to Bartlesville, boosting housing demand and stimulating local spending. Bailey noted Bartlesville’s favorable location and stability as vital for its ongoing success.
Election Day is set for Tuesday, February 10, with polling open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
