Oct. 10 election set for $17.6 million bond election; no tax increase associated with bond
Bartlesville residents will have the opportunity to cast their votes for several capital projects, including $12.2 million designated for street improvements, in a General Obligation Bond election Oct 10.
The bond will cover a multitude of improvements throughout the city, from upgrading streets like Adams Boulevard and Silver Lake Road, to constructing a new fire station at Hensley Boulevard and Virginia Avenue.
Other items on the project list include improvements to Pathfinder Parkway, new security lighting in city-owned parks and upgrades to the city's computer servers and battery backup units.
The funding is divided into four categories and voters will vote on each proposal separately.
Proposition 1: Public Safety Buildings and Equipment: $2,412,000
Proposition 2: Municipal Buildings and Equipment: $696,000
Proposition 3: Streets and Bridges: $12,278,000
Proposition 4: Parks and Recreation: $2,214,000
No Tax Increase for Residents
The G.O. bond issue totals $17.6 million and will fund projects over four years without increasing taxes. According to City Manager Mike Bailey, the ad valorem (property) tax, capped at 15 mils, will provide the funding.
"The City's mil levy will remain at 15 as existing bonds expire, so there is no tax increase associated with the G.O. Bond proposal," Bailey said.
In Oklahoma, municipalities often rely on general obligation bond funding for capital projects. Typically, the city holds G.O. bond elections every three to five years.
"This funding allows us to meet the expectations of our citizens by financing crucial projects," Bailey said. "These projects range from street repairs and public safety equipment to park improvements and facility upgrades, including software and other tools essential for serving our community and visitors."
More details
While the bond does not explicitly address water issues following a recent drought, the city stated that it is exploring long-term water supply options. It will likely utilize low-interest loans for such projects and pay back with Water Capital Fees.
The city has a working list of more than $100 million in capital needs, which was narrowed down by city staff and citizen committees before being finalized by the city council.
Residents can visit the city's official website for a complete list of projects and more details on voting procedures.
Voter information and deadline
The bond election is open to registered voters residing within Bartlesville city limits. Early voting will be available on Oct. 5 and 6 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Washington County Election Board (WCEB) on the fourth floor of City Hall, located at 401 S. Johnstone Ave.
Regular voting is slated for Oct 10 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at local polling places. Absentee voting is also an option, with a request deadline of Sept 25 at 5 p.m.
The deadline for eligible residents to register to vote in the special election for the G.O. Bond is Sept 15. Applications can be dropped off in person at the Election Board office or postmarked by the Sept 15 deadline.
Online registration is available for those 18 and older with a valid Oklahoma ID at the Oklahoma Election Voter Portal website.
For additional information, citizens can contact the Washington County Election Board at 918.337.2850 or visit the Oklahoma State Election Board website.
This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Bartlesville to vote on $17.6 million bond proposal Oct. 10
