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Norman council sends $8 million homeless shelter bond to April ballot after extended debate
Summary
Council voted to place a $8 million general obligation bond on the April 7 special-election ballot to fund a proposed permanent homeless shelter on a 3-acre site south of the existing temporary shelter; supporters emphasized capacity and continuity, while neighbors pressed for clearer assumptions about spillover, operations and timing.
Council voted unanimously Jan. 27 to send to voters a proposal authorizing up to $8 million in general obligation bonds to construct a permanent homeless shelter on land the city purchased south of the existing Food & Shelter facility.
City staff said the project would be a purpose-built, low-barrier facility designed for roughly 100 overnight guests. Jason Olsen, director of parks and facilities, described a two-building concept totaling about 21,000 square feet that would include separated men’s and women’s dorms, family units, respite/medical rooms and program and intake space. "We are designing this to shelter about a 100 guests," Olsen said during the presentation.
City Attorney Catherine Walker said the bond request is presented as a 20-year general obligation issue and that the ordinance identifies the use of proceeds for a homeless-shelter community facility. "Shall the city incur an indebtedness of $8,000,000 for a…
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