Bartlesville Council approves transfer of 15 acres to Development Authority for industrial park

The Bartlesville City Council convened on March 3, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing the community's economic development and infrastructure. A significant decision made during the meeting was the approval of a request from the Bartlesville Development Authority (BDA) to transfer approximately 15 acres of city-owned land designated for an industrial park. This transfer is expected to streamline financing and development processes, allowing the BDA to better serve the community's economic goals.

Council members expressed that the land, while currently used for hay production, is not particularly valuable for agriculture and is better suited for industrial development. The transfer is seen as a necessary step to facilitate growth and attract businesses to the area, aligning with the economic development sales tax approved by local citizens.

In addition to the land transfer, the council discussed upcoming workshop meetings aimed at updating the city’s strategic plan and budget. The next workshop is scheduled for March 24, featuring an outside facilitator to guide discussions on aligning community priorities. This will be followed by a budget workshop on April 28, which will help set the financial framework for future projects.

The council also announced that Johnstone Park will be closed until April 1 for infrastructure improvements, part of ongoing efforts to enhance local parks. Residents can look forward to the grand opening of Kiddie Park, which is anticipated to be a major community event.

Furthermore, the city is accepting applications for a sidewalk grant program until March 15, aimed at assisting residents with sidewalk repairs. This initiative addresses the responsibility of property owners for sidewalk maintenance while providing financial support for those in need.

Lastly, a surplus auction is scheduled for March 8 at the City Operations Center, where various city-owned items, including vehicles and equipment, will be available for bidding. This auction provides an opportunity for residents to acquire useful items while also generating revenue for the city.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to fostering economic development, improving community infrastructure, and engaging residents in local governance.