Council tables resolution to name downtown ‘Railway District,’ asks attorney to draft ordinance

The McAlester City Council tabled action on a resolution to designate a portion of downtown as the Railway District and directed the city attorney to draft an ordinance specifying how such districts should be created and governed.

Staff said the Planning Commission had recommended designating a geographic area that could be called the Railway District; the commission proposed expanding the area to include the farmers market down Choctaw Avenue to Sixth Street. Supporters told council the name would help brand the commercial corridor, tie into the city’s rail history, and assist volunteers’ marketing efforts. ‘‘We really wanted to come up with a name that we can brand that wouldn't just be about people in McAlester but also get people outside of McAlester interested,’’ applicant representative said.

Opponents and several downtown business owners, speaking at the public hearing, said some businesses were not contacted or did not consent and expressed concern about a small group making a decision for others. One speaker urged council to poll affected property and business owners confidentially before deciding.

After extended discussion about precedent, tourism impacts and fairness, Councilor Boatwright moved to table the resolution until the city attorney could prepare a draft ordinance; Councilor Stone seconded. The roll call vote recorded majority support; the mayor abstained. Councilors also encouraged interested downtown business owners and property owners to provide written input to the city attorney.

Councilors and staff said a drafted ordinance would be routed through the Planning Commission and published for the required notice period before returning to council for final action; staff estimated the ordinance process could take several weeks to two months depending on required notices and hearings.