In a recent government meeting, the council approved several key initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and local development. The first significant action was the unanimous approval of Ordinance Number 3844, commonly referred to as the \"chicken ordinance,\" which allows residents to keep chickens in their backyards, reflecting a growing trend towards urban agriculture.
Following this, the council discussed a professional service agreement with Bonita Main Street Incorporated. This initiative is part of a broader effort to elevate the city’s status within the Oklahoma Main Street program, which aims to revitalize downtown areas. The city was designated as Oklahoma's first network-level Main Street community in 2022, and local leaders have been actively working to achieve associate-level status. This designation will provide access to various resources, including architectural services and marketing assistance, at no cost to participating businesses within the defined district.
Council members expressed strong support for the agreement, highlighting the importance of investing in the downtown area as a hub of community pride and economic activity. The initiative is expected to foster collaboration among local business owners and enhance the overall vitality of the city.
Additionally, the council approved the promotion of Firefighter Dayton Ball to Firefighter 2, recognizing his dedication and service following his two-year anniversary. This promotion aligns with the department's historical practices and acknowledges the firefighter's qualifications.
City officials also provided updates on ongoing projects, including the anticipated delivery of new fire trucks by mid-October and progress on remodeling efforts within the fire department. Code enforcement activities were also reported, focusing on property inspections and addressing violations.
Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to community development and public safety, with initiatives designed to engage residents and improve local infrastructure.