OKC Mayor Race 2014

[mkjeeves]

Ask jeeves...

Improving masstrans is the be all end all holistic plan for the city? 4 year and 20 year, where we are where we want to be and how we are going to get there. Got it.

[heyerdahl]

What kind of investment are you going to make at 122nd and MacArthur or similar outlying area to 'repent' for investing in downtown? (Seems like that's what is being requested)

How is that investment going to get the same type of return as a similar investment in a downtown district or urban core neighborhood?

The fact is, the suburban neighborhoods were never designed to be resilient places that we can reinvest in. They were designed to fall apart and they're doing a great job. The natural progression of time will ensure that one day those areas are somehow redeveloped- probably starting with tearing down strip malls and increasing density on commercial corridors. But for now, those areas are not going to be attracting interest from the new generation of potential citizens. Limited resources will go further in the urban core.

[mkjeeves]

^ there's another example. No answer other than spend it downtown.

[heyerdahl]

^ there's another example. No answer other than spend it downtown.

Or core neighborhoods, where it will actually make a difference. You can put a beautiful plaza and nice Project 180 street all the way down 122nd. See what happens.

[warreng88]

^ there's another example. No answer other than spend it downtown.

I answered your question on what Mick was going to do several pages ago and you ignored it like I knew you would since it wasn't the answer you were looking for.

[jerrywall]

So no one actually said what was claimed. Just one person's decisions to make (some rather far fetched) inferences.

The urban core is a lot bigger and covers much more than downtown.

[BoulderSooner]

We spend more money on the fringe currently then we do "downtown"

[tomokc]

tomokc- It is probably more of a question as to who would replace him. Would the race be competitive would a good alternative candidate?

Also, he has a enough of a GOTV mechanism to make any future Ward 2 election competitive should he be able to spin his way out of this and inoculate himself with time and distance from the bad past judgement issues.

Most voters don't have a problem accepting their fallen politicians after they've been inoculated by time (see former NY governor Elliot Spitzer who recently ran for NYC Controller, and former SC governor Mark Sanford who was just elected to US House). But Shadid hasn't been innoculated, in fact his dirty laundry hasn't even been aired yet. He's still fighting, he's not repentant, and those things must change. He first has to do his mea culpa on the local version of Oprah, appear contrite, walk in the wilderness awhile, and then come back if he wants.

He can't simply say, "This is in the past" because it isn't. Most of it is still in the future.

[Urban Pioneer]

Great points.

[soonerguru]

Just to be clear with everyone since this conversation has turned to transit and there seems to be a bit of confusion.

BTW, I wrote this in response to OKCUSTU and it took awhile. I see Betts is addressing some of it but I'll post it anyway. If Stephen Tyler Holeman reads OKC Talk, this is for you to and those earlier Facebook posts late last night. Some of Ed's folks are trying to impose a great deal of innuendo about the transit issues as well. Perhaps it will help address them.

Mayor Mick is the Chairman of Regional Transit Dialogue (now in Phase 2) hosted by the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments. We (our steering committee, subcommittees and the URS Corporation), are conducting a commuter corridors study to better define what type of infrastructure and what the estimated costs are to build a comprehensive system. The Mayor is also supporting and directly involved in a bill through the state legislature (to be voted on in January and February) that will further enable the formal legal creation of a Regional Transit Authority.

In theory, a Regional Transit Authority would replace and potentially consolidate the Metro Transit bus system, CART (Norman's Bus System), and Citi-link (Edmond). Nelson Nygaard's 2013 Bus system Plan and the 2005 Fixed Guideway Study could in theory be fully funded. That would provide for enhanced bus coverage, frequency, shelters, and additional infrastructure; Bus Rapid Transit to Yukon, Meridian Corridor, and NW Expressway; Commuter Rail to Edmond, Norman, Midwest City, and Del City.

Lets be clear about this, Mayor Cornett was not initially a regional transit supporter. His earliest comments during his first term suggested that he considered transit another way to enable people to live outside of Oklahoma city and subsequently generate their tax revenue there. He was however in favor of improved transit specifically within the Oklahoma City limits proper. There were many times in his first and second terms where he specifically addressed those clamoring for a regional rail system and said that he would change his opinion if the other cities would help pay for it.

Now things have changed.

Mayor Cornett has visited many other cities and seen the overall benefits of a Regional Transit System. Many of the cities (particularly Edmond) have conveyed their support in pursuing the creation of an RTA. In those initial meetings, Midwest City, Del City, and Norman were the three cities with interested elected officials sitting in RTD #1.

NOW we have many of the Councillors and most of the Mayors of Edmond, Midwest City, Del City, Moore, and Norman interested and at the table. In the last few meetings, now Yukon is trying to get involved.

The pursuit of a meaningful solution to our transit woes is within eyesight. And this is primarily due to Mayor Cornett's early position about "not going it alone" and his willingness to embrace pursuing it with these folks now sitting at the table.

Interestingly enough, Ed Shadid does not sit on any of these committees and actually turned down the offer to participate when this initiative was first being organized.


Now regarding the "transit versus the convention center" conversation, MAPS 3 does not provide ongoing revenues for Operations and Maintenance. It is that simple. There is no person that would have a greater desire to see an additional $280 million go to the purchase of buses, shelters, and commuter rail. But if we buy it, how do we operate it? That is why a carefully thought out solution as the mayor proposes in the form of an RTA is the best way to resolve these long term costs. It also best positions us for matching funds for the actual physical infrastructure from the Federal Transit Administration.

The MAPS 3 streetcar is small enough of a system that we are confident that we can find the monies to operate it- parking revenues, advertising on trains and at stops, Santa Fe Station tenant space leasing, and potentially a TIF or change to the BID (Business Improvement District that funds Downtown OKC Inc.)

So some of us don't want to talk about Ed's prior bad decisions as an adult. That is ok with me. We all make mistakes. But regarding tangible evidence on the transit front, I have personally witnessed Ed try to tear apart our process, demonize the mayor, and pit transit advocates against one another. I have known him since the Ward 2 election.

The Mayor I have known since his first election winning against Jim Tolbert. On the transit issue, you have to give this guy props. He had an early position that he stuck to (one I didn't agree with), he forced the other cities to the table if they we serious, they came, and he jumped on board and is literally leading the process.

Forming a long term solution like an RTA takes a leader who doesn't pit advocates and public servants against one another. This (forming and getting an RTA approved by the voters) will likely be one of the most complicated and sophisticated public initiatives ever pursued in our state. It takes stability in leadership and political "buy in" from participating city governments outside of OKC and end even in a different county!

I have attended hundreds of meetings over the past decade. We have never been closer to moving on ahead forward to a substantive and meaningful solution. It is easy for Ed to ridicule our existing bus service. I feel for the folks forced to use it. But it took 70 years of "non-investment" to end up with the system we have to today. Plus the extrication of the original streetcar and Interurban rail system.

Here's a mathematical fact for you I was recently informed of- Mayor Mick has supported and achieved financially annually growing our bus system more than all mayors combined in the past 20 years preceding his tenure.

So whats it going to be?

Ed's idea of playing games with the streetcar system to score political points? Ed's idea that somehow convention center money would solve our transit problem (even though he has no solution for the O&M)? Ed's non-participation in the ongoing processes to actually solve these dire problems?

or

Mayor Mick actually leading us politically by working together with our surrounding communities for better bus, bus rapid transit, para transit, streetcar, and commuter rail through a legitimate long term fix?

My vote is with Mayor Cornett.

Jeff M. Bezdek

Regional Transit Dialogue 1 Public Outreach Committee Chair
Regional Transit Dialogue 2 Commuter Corridors Study Task Force Member
Streetcar Federal Process Alternatives Analysis Steering Committee Member
MAPS 3 Transit Subcommittee Member (MAPS 3 Streetcar and Intermodal Santa Fe Station Hub Project)

Outstanding work. Bravo to you!

[soonerguru]

We spend more money on the fringe currently then we do "downtown"

Stop peddling those facts. We need to keep clinging to false narratives so we can feel righteous and wronged.

[okcustu]

Yeah OKC doesn't have as many neighborhoods as it has housing editions. Obviously we're not Detroit, but I would benefit the city coffers to have some areas go back to wildlife like that city. Also an urban growth boundary. There is plenty of land for infill development in the city. As for neighborhood revitalization, I think I agree with you. Some parts of OKC have no commercial strip to redevelop. However there are some corridors with promise inside the 44/35/240 loop that could use some grants and could benefit from some TOD.

[mkjeeves]

We spend more money on the fringe currently then we do "downtown"

The majority of the city revenue comes from places outside of downtown. Downtown can't hold a candle to what comes in from outside of downtown. Remember where the money came from to bail out downtown? Short memory. It wasn't downtown, because downtown was dead.

Yes, you said fringe, trying to change the direction of the conversation from a holistic viewpoint that included the entire city to one of "fringe" vs downtown. That is another example of what I'm talking about.

[okcustu]

Just to be clear with everyone since this conversation has turned to transit and there seems to be a bit of confusion.

BTW, I wrote this in response to OKCUSTU and it took awhile. I see Betts is addressing some of it but I'll post it anyway. If Stephen Tyler Holeman reads OKC Talk, this is for you to and those earlier Facebook posts late last night. Some of Ed's folks are trying to impose a great deal of innuendo about the transit issues as well. Perhaps it will help address them.



Mayor Mick is the Chairman of Regional Transit Dialogue (now in Phase 2) hosted by the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments. We (our steering committee, subcommittees and the URS Corporation), are conducting a commuter corridors study to better define what type of infrastructure and what the estimated costs are to build a comprehensive system. The Mayor is also supporting and directly involved in a bill through the state legislature (to be voted on in January and February) that will further enable the formal legal creation of a Regional Transit Authority.

In theory, a Regional Transit Authority would replace and potentially consolidate the Metro Transit bus system, CART (Norman's Bus System), and Citi-link (Edmond). Nelson Nygaard's 2013 Bus system Plan and the 2005 Fixed Guideway Study could in theory be fully funded. That would provide for enhanced bus coverage, frequency, shelters, and additional infrastructure; Bus Rapid Transit to Yukon, Meridian Corridor, and NW Expressway; Commuter Rail to Edmond, Norman, Midwest City, and Del City.

Lets be clear about this, Mayor Cornett was not initially a regional transit supporter. His earliest comments during his first term suggested that he considered transit another way to enable people to live outside of Oklahoma city and subsequently generate their tax revenue there. He was however in favor of improved transit specifically within the Oklahoma City limits proper. There were many times in his first and second terms where he specifically addressed those clamoring for a regional rail system and said that he would change his opinion if the other cities would help pay for it.

Now things have changed.

Mayor Cornett has visited many other cities and seen the overall benefits of a Regional Transit System. Many of the cities (particularly Edmond) have conveyed their support in pursuing the creation of an RTA. In those initial meetings, Midwest City, Del City, and Norman were the three cities with interested elected officials sitting in RTD #1.

NOW we have many of the Councillors and most of the Mayors of Edmond, Midwest City, Del City, Moore, and Norman interested and at the table. In the last few meetings, now Yukon is trying to get involved.

The pursuit of a meaningful solution to our transit woes is within eyesight. And this is primarily due to Mayor Cornett's early position about "not going it alone" and his willingness to embrace pursuing it with these folks now sitting at the table.

Interestingly enough, Ed Shadid does not sit on any of these committees and actually turned down the offer to participate when this initiativie was first being organized.


Now regarding the "transit versus the convention center" conversation, MAPS 3 does not provide ongoing revenues for Operations and Maintenance. It is that simple. There is no person that would have a greater desire to see an additional $280 million go to the purchase of buses, shelters, and commuter rail. But if we buy it, how do we operate it? That is why a carefully thought out solution as the mayor proposes in the form of an RTA is the best way to resolve these long term costs. It also best positions us for matching funds for the actual physical infrastructure from the Federal Transit Administration.

The MAPS 3 streetcar is small enough of a system that we are confident that we can find the monies to operate it- parking revenues, advertising on trains and at stops, Santa Fe Station tenant space leasing, and potentially a TIF or change to the BID (Business Improvement District that funds Downtown OKC Inc.)

So some of us don't want to talk about Ed's prior bad decisions as an adult. That is ok with me. We all make mistakes. But regarding tangible evidence on the transit front, I have personally witnessed Ed try to tear apart our process, demonize the mayor, and pit transit advocates against one another. I have known him since the Ward 2 election.

The Mayor I have known since his first election winning against Jim Tolbert. On the transit issue, you have to give this guy props. He had an early position that he stuck to (one I didn't agree with), he forced the other cities to the table if they we serious, they came, and he jumped on board and is literally leading the process.

Forming a long term solution like an RTA takes a leader who doesn't pit advocates and public servants against one another. This (forming and getting an RTA approved by the voters) will likely be one of the most complicated and sophisticated public initiatives ever pursued in our state. It takes stability in leadership and political "buy in" from participating city governments outside of OKC and end even in a different county!

I have attended hundreds of meetings over the past decade. We have never been closer to moving on ahead forward to a substantive and meaningful solution. It is easy for Ed to ridicule our existing bus service. I feel for the folks forced to use it. But it took 70 years of "non-investment" to end up with the system we have to today. Plus the extrication of the original streetcar and Interurban rail system.

Here's a mathematical fact for you I was recently informed of- Mayor Mick has supported and achieved financially annually growing our bus system more than all mayors combined in the past 20 years preceding his tenure.

So whats it going to be?

Ed's idea of playing games with the streetcar system to score political points? Ed's idea that somehow convention center money would solve our transit problem (even though he has no solution for the O&M)? Ed's non-participation in the ongoing processes to actually solve these dire problems?

or

Mayor Mick actually leading us politically by working together with our surrounding communities for better bus, bus rapid transit, para transit, streetcar, and commuter rail through a legitimate long term fix?

My vote is with Mayor Cornett.

Jeff M. Bezdek

Regional Transit Dialogue 1 Public Outreach Committee Chair
Regional Transit Dialogue 2 Commuter Corridors Study Task Force Member
Streetcar Federal Process Alternatives Analysis Steering Committee Member
MAPS 3 Transit Subcommittee Member (MAPS 3 Streetcar and Intermodal Santa Fe Station Hub Project)

You have given me much to think about, much... Thanks for the heads up really. I know you have a lot of insight on it that 98% people do not. And I know you want to transit more than most, so I respect your opinion.

[PhiAlpha]

Just to be clear with everyone since this conversation has turned to transit and there seems to be a bit of confusion.

BTW, I wrote this in response to OKCUSTU and it took awhile. I see Betts is addressing some of it but I'll post it anyway. If Stephen Tyler Holeman reads OKC Talk, this is for you to and those earlier Facebook posts late last night. Some of Ed's folks are trying to impose a great deal of innuendo about the transit issues as well. Perhaps it will help address them.



Mayor Mick is the Chairman of Regional Transit Dialogue (now in Phase 2) hosted by the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments. We (our steering committee, subcommittees and the URS Corporation), are conducting a commuter corridors study to better define what type of infrastructure and what the estimated costs are to build a comprehensive system. The Mayor is also supporting and directly involved in a bill through the state legislature (to be voted on in January and February) that will further enable the formal legal creation of a Regional Transit Authority.

In theory, a Regional Transit Authority would replace and potentially consolidate the Metro Transit bus system, CART (Norman's Bus System), and Citi-link (Edmond). Nelson Nygaard's 2013 Bus system Plan and the 2005 Fixed Guideway Study could in theory be fully funded. That would provide for enhanced bus coverage, frequency, shelters, and additional infrastructure; Bus Rapid Transit to Yukon, Meridian Corridor, and NW Expressway; Commuter Rail to Edmond, Norman, Midwest City, and Del City.

Lets be clear about this, Mayor Cornett was not initially a regional transit supporter. His earliest comments during his first term suggested that he considered transit another way to enable people to live outside of Oklahoma city and subsequently generate their tax revenue there. He was however in favor of improved transit specifically within the Oklahoma City limits proper. There were many times in his first and second terms where he specifically addressed those clamoring for a regional rail system and said that he would change his opinion if the other cities would help pay for it.

Now things have changed.

Mayor Cornett has visited many other cities and seen the overall benefits of a Regional Transit System. Many of the cities (particularly Edmond) have conveyed their support in pursuing the creation of an RTA. In those initial meetings, Midwest City, Del City, and Norman were the three cities with interested elected officials sitting in RTD #1.

NOW we have many of the Councillors and most of the Mayors of Edmond, Midwest City, Del City, Moore, and Norman interested and at the table. In the last few meetings, now Yukon is trying to get involved.

The pursuit of a meaningful solution to our transit woes is within eyesight. And this is primarily due to Mayor Cornett's early position about "not going it alone" and his willingness to embrace pursuing it with these folks now sitting at the table.

Interestingly enough, Ed Shadid does not sit on any of these committees and actually turned down the offer to participate when this initiative was first being organized.


Now regarding the "transit versus the convention center" conversation, MAPS 3 does not provide ongoing revenues for Operations and Maintenance. It is that simple. There is no person that would have a greater desire to see an additional $280 million go to the purchase of buses, shelters, and commuter rail. But if we buy it, how do we operate it? That is why a carefully thought out solution as the mayor proposes in the form of an RTA is the best way to resolve these long term costs. It also best positions us for matching funds for the actual physical infrastructure from the Federal Transit Administration.

The MAPS 3 streetcar is small enough of a system that we are confident that we can find the monies to operate it- parking revenues, advertising on trains and at stops, Santa Fe Station tenant space leasing, and potentially a TIF or change to the BID (Business Improvement District that funds Downtown OKC Inc.)

So some of us don't want to talk about Ed's prior bad decisions as an adult. That is ok with me. We all make mistakes. But regarding tangible evidence on the transit front, I have personally witnessed Ed try to tear apart our process, demonize the mayor, and pit transit advocates against one another. I have known him since the Ward 2 election.

The Mayor I have known since his first election winning against Jim Tolbert. On the transit issue, you have to give this guy props. He had an early position that he stuck to (one I didn't agree with), he forced the other cities to the table if they we serious, they came, and he jumped on board and is literally leading the process.

Forming a long term solution like an RTA takes a leader who doesn't pit advocates and public servants against one another. This (forming and getting an RTA approved by the voters) will likely be one of the most complicated and sophisticated public initiatives ever pursued in our state. It takes stability in leadership and political "buy in" from participating city governments outside of OKC and end even in a different county!

I have attended hundreds of meetings over the past decade. We have never been closer to moving on ahead forward to a substantive and meaningful solution. It is easy for Ed to ridicule our existing bus service. I feel for the folks forced to use it. But it took 70 years of "non-investment" to end up with the system we have to today. Plus the extrication of the original streetcar and Interurban rail system.

Here's a mathematical fact for you I was recently informed of- Mayor Mick has supported and achieved financially annually growing our bus system more than all mayors combined in the past 20 years preceding his tenure.

So whats it going to be?

Ed's idea of playing games with the streetcar system to score political points? Ed's idea that somehow convention center money would solve our transit problem (even though he has no solution for the O&M)? Ed's non-participation in the ongoing processes to actually solve these dire problems?

or

Mayor Mick actually leading us politically by working together with our surrounding communities for better bus, bus rapid transit, para transit, streetcar, and commuter rail through a legitimate long term fix?

My vote is with Mayor Cornett.

Jeff M. Bezdek

Regional Transit Dialogue 1 Public Outreach Committee Chair
Regional Transit Dialogue 2 Commuter Corridors Study Task Force Member
Streetcar Federal Process Alternatives Analysis Steering Committee Member
MAPS 3 Transit Subcommittee Member (MAPS 3 Streetcar and Intermodal Santa Fe Station Hub Project)

That had to take awhile to put together, thank you for the post...very informative!

[mkjeeves]

Just to be clear with everyone since this conversation has turned to transit and there seems to be a bit of confusion.

BTW, I wrote this in response to OKCUSTU and it took awhile. I see Betts is addressing some of it but I'll post it anyway. If Stephen Tyler Holeman reads OKC Talk, this is for you to and those earlier Facebook posts late last night. Some of Ed's folks are trying to impose a great deal of innuendo about the transit issues as well. Perhaps it will help address them.



Mayor Mick is the Chairman of Regional Transit Dialogue (now in Phase 2) hosted by the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments. We (our steering committee, subcommittees and the URS Corporation), are conducting a commuter corridors study to better define what type of infrastructure and what the estimated costs are to build a comprehensive system. The Mayor is also supporting and directly involved in a bill through the state legislature (to be voted on in January and February) that will further enable the formal legal creation of a Regional Transit Authority.

In theory, a Regional Transit Authority would replace and potentially consolidate the Metro Transit bus system, CART (Norman's Bus System), and Citi-link (Edmond). Nelson Nygaard's 2013 Bus system Plan and the 2005 Fixed Guideway Study could in theory be fully funded. That would provide for enhanced bus coverage, frequency, shelters, and additional infrastructure; Bus Rapid Transit to Yukon, Meridian Corridor, and NW Expressway; Commuter Rail to Edmond, Norman, Midwest City, and Del City.

Lets be clear about this, Mayor Cornett was not initially a regional transit supporter. His earliest comments during his first term suggested that he considered transit another way to enable people to live outside of Oklahoma city and subsequently generate their tax revenue there. He was however in favor of improved transit specifically within the Oklahoma City limits proper. There were many times in his first and second terms where he specifically addressed those clamoring for a regional rail system and said that he would change his opinion if the other cities would help pay for it.

Now things have changed.

Mayor Cornett has visited many other cities and seen the overall benefits of a Regional Transit System. Many of the cities (particularly Edmond) have conveyed their support in pursuing the creation of an RTA. In those initial meetings, Midwest City, Del City, and Norman were the three cities with interested elected officials sitting in RTD #1.

NOW we have many of the Councillors and most of the Mayors of Edmond, Midwest City, Del City, Moore, and Norman interested and at the table. In the last few meetings, now Yukon is trying to get involved.

The pursuit of a meaningful solution to our transit woes is within eyesight. And this is primarily due to Mayor Cornett's early position about "not going it alone" and his willingness to embrace pursuing it with these folks now sitting at the table.

Interestingly enough, Ed Shadid does not sit on any of these committees and actually turned down the offer to participate when this initiative was first being organized.


Now regarding the "transit versus the convention center" conversation, MAPS 3 does not provide ongoing revenues for Operations and Maintenance. It is that simple. There is no person that would have a greater desire to see an additional $280 million go to the purchase of buses, shelters, and commuter rail. But if we buy it, how do we operate it? That is why a carefully thought out solution as the mayor proposes in the form of an RTA is the best way to resolve these long term costs. It also best positions us for matching funds for the actual physical infrastructure from the Federal Transit Administration.

The MAPS 3 streetcar is small enough of a system that we are confident that we can find the monies to operate it- parking revenues, advertising on trains and at stops, Santa Fe Station tenant space leasing, and potentially a TIF or change to the BID (Business Improvement District that funds Downtown OKC Inc.)

So some of us don't want to talk about Ed's prior bad decisions as an adult. That is ok with me. We all make mistakes. But regarding tangible evidence on the transit front, I have personally witnessed Ed try to tear apart our process, demonize the mayor, and pit transit advocates against one another. I have known him since the Ward 2 election.

The Mayor I have known since his first election winning against Jim Tolbert. On the transit issue, you have to give this guy props. He had an early position that he stuck to (one I didn't agree with), he forced the other cities to the table if they we serious, they came, and he jumped on board and is literally leading the process.

Forming a long term solution like an RTA takes a leader who doesn't pit advocates and public servants against one another. This (forming and getting an RTA approved by the voters) will likely be one of the most complicated and sophisticated public initiatives ever pursued in our state. It takes stability in leadership and political "buy in" from participating city governments outside of OKC and end even in a different county!

I have attended hundreds of meetings over the past decade. We have never been closer to moving on ahead forward to a substantive and meaningful solution. It is easy for Ed to ridicule our existing bus service. I feel for the folks forced to use it. But it took 70 years of "non-investment" to end up with the system we have to today. Plus the extrication of the original streetcar and Interurban rail system.

Here's a mathematical fact for you I was recently informed of- Mayor Mick has supported and achieved financially annually growing our bus system more than all mayors combined in the past 20 years preceding his tenure.

So whats it going to be?

Ed's idea of playing games with the streetcar system to score political points? Ed's idea that somehow convention center money would solve our transit problem (even though he has no solution for the O&M)? Ed's non-participation in the ongoing processes to actually solve these dire problems?

or

Mayor Mick actually leading us politically by working together with our surrounding communities for better bus, bus rapid transit, para transit, streetcar, and commuter rail through a legitimate long term fix?

My vote is with Mayor Cornett.

Jeff M. Bezdek

Regional Transit Dialogue 1 Public Outreach Committee Chair
Regional Transit Dialogue 2 Commuter Corridors Study Task Force Member
Streetcar Federal Process Alternatives Analysis Steering Committee Member
MAPS 3 Transit Subcommittee Member (MAPS 3 Streetcar and Intermodal Santa Fe Station Hub Project)

Everyone on the quote bus!

[Steve]

As some folks try to introduce previously unmentioned buzz words like "gentrification" to as the next effort in promoting a suburban/urban divide, a reality check on who gets what, etc:
- Patience Latting Library - NW 122 and MacArthur
- Earlywine Park - SW 119
- New family aquatics centers -Lincoln Park, near NE 36 and Grand Boulevard; Bluff Creek Park, Hefner Road and Meridian; Trosper Park, SE 29 near Interstate 35; Route 66 Park, NW 23 and Overholser Drive, and Lake Stanley Draper Park.
- MAPS for Kids makeovers of schools citywide
- Trails citywide
- Sidewalks citywide
- New lake at Edwards Park in northeast OKC
- Skate Park in south OKC along the river (not downtown)
- New golf building at Lincoln Park
- Streetscapes up and down 23rd, west and east OKC
- Street, bridge improvements citywide with every bond issue far outnumbering those in urban core



Job incentives used to create new employment centers:
- Paycom - far west OKC
- AAA - northwest OKC

Incentives used for retail development
- Factory Outlet Shoppes - far west OKC

Efforts to CREATE affordable housing downtown/urban core:
- Mideke Building
- New homes in JFK
- New homes in Las Rosas
- The Steel Yard

Look at this list and know it's just small glimpse of the investment made outside of downtown by the city this past decade. I am not taking sides in the race. But I will put out factual information when I see what might be deceptive efforts to create an urban/suburban divide in OKC for whatever reason.

[soonerguru]

This "everything is about Downtown" monster needs to be killed. It is ridiculously erroneous -- and even if it were not, why is not a good idea to boost investment in the core of our city? Isn't the reason this city was on a proverbial deathbed related to the fact that we did NOTHING for the urban core for a generation, allowing it to rot?

I'm willing to have honest conversations about what we need to do to improve our city. I'm open to that. But it is 1) factually incorrect to suggest all of the investment the taxpayers have made is on Downtown, 2) rankly idiotic to oppose infrastructure improvements in our inner city PARTICULARLY IF YOU ARE THE CANDIDATE WHO IS RAILING AGAINST URBAN SPRAWL.

It's quite OK, Steve. You are doing your job.

[mkjeeves]

Just to be clear with everyone since this conversation has turned to transit and there seems to be a bit of confusion.

BTW, I wrote this in response to OKCUSTU and it took awhile. I see Betts is addressing some of it but I'll post it anyway. If Stephen Tyler Holeman reads OKC Talk, this is for you to and those earlier Facebook posts late last night. Some of Ed's folks are trying to impose a great deal of innuendo about the transit issues as well. Perhaps it will help address them.



Mayor Mick is the Chairman of Regional Transit Dialogue (now in Phase 2) hosted by the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments. We (our steering committee, subcommittees and the URS Corporation), are conducting a commuter corridors study to better define what type of infrastructure and what the estimated costs are to build a comprehensive system. The Mayor is also supporting and directly involved in a bill through the state legislature (to be voted on in January and February) that will further enable the formal legal creation of a Regional Transit Authority.

In theory, a Regional Transit Authority would replace and potentially consolidate the Metro Transit bus system, CART (Norman's Bus System), and Citi-link (Edmond). Nelson Nygaard's 2013 Bus system Plan and the 2005 Fixed Guideway Study could in theory be fully funded. That would provide for enhanced bus coverage, frequency, shelters, and additional infrastructure; Bus Rapid Transit to Yukon, Meridian Corridor, and NW Expressway; Commuter Rail to Edmond, Norman, Midwest City, and Del City.

Lets be clear about this, Mayor Cornett was not initially a regional transit supporter. His earliest comments during his first term suggested that he considered transit another way to enable people to live outside of Oklahoma city and subsequently generate their tax revenue there. He was however in favor of improved transit specifically within the Oklahoma City limits proper. There were many times in his first and second terms where he specifically addressed those clamoring for a regional rail system and said that he would change his opinion if the other cities would help pay for it.

Now things have changed.

Mayor Cornett has visited many other cities and seen the overall benefits of a Regional Transit System. Many of the cities (particularly Edmond) have conveyed their support in pursuing the creation of an RTA. In those initial meetings, Midwest City, Del City, and Norman were the three cities with interested elected officials sitting in RTD #1.

NOW we have many of the Councillors and most of the Mayors of Edmond, Midwest City, Del City, Moore, and Norman interested and at the table. In the last few meetings, now Yukon is trying to get involved.

The pursuit of a meaningful solution to our transit woes is within eyesight. And this is primarily due to Mayor Cornett's early position about "not going it alone" and his willingness to embrace pursuing it with these folks now sitting at the table.

Interestingly enough, Ed Shadid does not sit on any of these committees and actually turned down the offer to participate when this initiative was first being organized.


Now regarding the "transit versus the convention center" conversation, MAPS 3 does not provide ongoing revenues for Operations and Maintenance. It is that simple. There is no person that would have a greater desire to see an additional $280 million go to the purchase of buses, shelters, and commuter rail. But if we buy it, how do we operate it? That is why a carefully thought out solution as the mayor proposes in the form of an RTA is the best way to resolve these long term costs. It also best positions us for matching funds for the actual physical infrastructure from the Federal Transit Administration.

The MAPS 3 streetcar is small enough of a system that we are confident that we can find the monies to operate it- parking revenues, advertising on trains and at stops, Santa Fe Station tenant space leasing, and potentially a TIF or change to the BID (Business Improvement District that funds Downtown OKC Inc.)

So some of us don't want to talk about Ed's prior bad decisions as an adult. That is ok with me. We all make mistakes. But regarding tangible evidence on the transit front, I have personally witnessed Ed try to tear apart our process, demonize the mayor, and pit transit advocates against one another. I have known him since the Ward 2 election.

The Mayor I have known since his first election winning against Jim Tolbert. On the transit issue, you have to give this guy props. He had an early position that he stuck to (one I didn't agree with), he forced the other cities to the table if they we serious, they came, and he jumped on board and is literally leading the process.

Forming a long term solution like an RTA takes a leader who doesn't pit advocates and public servants against one another. This (forming and getting an RTA approved by the voters) will likely be one of the most complicated and sophisticated public initiatives ever pursued in our state. It takes stability in leadership and political "buy in" from participating city governments outside of OKC and end even in a different county!

I have attended hundreds of meetings over the past decade. We have never been closer to moving on ahead forward to a substantive and meaningful solution. It is easy for Ed to ridicule our existing bus service. I feel for the folks forced to use it. But it took 70 years of "non-investment" to end up with the system we have to today. Plus the extrication of the original streetcar and Interurban rail system.

Here's a mathematical fact for you I was recently informed of- Mayor Mick has supported and achieved financially annually growing our bus system more than all mayors combined in the past 20 years preceding his tenure.

So whats it going to be?

Ed's idea of playing games with the streetcar system to score political points? Ed's idea that somehow convention center money would solve our transit problem (even though he has no solution for the O&M)? Ed's non-participation in the ongoing processes to actually solve these dire problems?

or

Mayor Mick actually leading us politically by working together with our surrounding communities for better bus, bus rapid transit, para transit, streetcar, and commuter rail through a legitimate long term fix?

My vote is with Mayor Cornett.

Jeff M. Bezdek

Regional Transit Dialogue 1 Public Outreach Committee Chair
Regional Transit Dialogue 2 Commuter Corridors Study Task Force Member
Streetcar Federal Process Alternatives Analysis Steering Committee Member
MAPS 3 Transit Subcommittee Member (MAPS 3 Streetcar and Intermodal Santa Fe Station Hub Project)

I do support masstrans improvements.

[mkjeeves]

As some folks try to introduce previously unmentioned buzz words like "gentrification" <snip>

I expected more honesty from you Steve. The word is used on a regular basis around here and everywhere we talk about OKC. Because it's relevant.

Including on your page from March where you acknowledged exactly what I just said about it.

11:05 a.m. What is your prediction about how downtown development might radiate outwards to other center city areas? Any chance it will cause neighborhoods and retail areas in the general area of OCU, NW Classen High School, May ave, etc. to improve, gentrify, etc.?

Steve Lackmeyer 11:05 a.m. yes.

OKC Central Chat transcript, March 22, 2013 | News OK

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentrification

[mkjeeves]

<snip>CULARLY IF YO<snip>

I was watching a Ron White bit the other night about him being in a theater and people behind him jabbering during the performance. He used a simile to talk about that.

Repeatedly posting large text in a forum is just like the simile he used too.

[betts]

What, precisely, is the problem with gentrification? If there is an identifiable problem, how do you propose stopping it? Should we instead invest in areas that already have high end housing and retail, to allow areas that have fallen into disrepair to continue to slide? Or do you believe that the city shouldn't invest in anything and allow the free market to create organic evolution of different areas?

[mkjeeves]

Steve, I do appreciate your perspective and what you've added fundimental to the conversation. A holistic approach is the opposite of us and them...downtown vs the suburbs and whatever else. Can't say the same for many of the other folk in this forum who, as I have pointed out, do not have a holistic view.

[tomokc]

The continued overuse of the words "gentrification" and "holistic" reminds me of the movie "The Princess Bride" and the similarly-overused word "inconceivable." Like Inigo Montoya, I think you don't know what those words mean.

[betts]

mkjeeves, I'm not going to ask how old you are, but I am going to ask if you lived in Oklahoma City in 1980 and if you did, how many times you went downtown between 1980 and 1990, if you can recall.