Community meetings, forums planned to help educate voters

A city-wide election involving water rates & infrastructure will be held April 5, 2022

A proposition to further investment in community infrastructure by way of advanced water metering, pipe replacement and groundwater treatment will be on the ballot for Norman voters on April 5, 2022.

An increase to the water rate of each household and business is considered for project funding; projects are intended to sustain community progress, increase efficiencies and ensure reliability of service for Norman residents. The City of Norman has not seen a water rate increase since 2015, though costs for associated equipment and chemicals for service have continued to rise. 

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to educate the community leading up to April 5th,” said Chris Mattingly, Utilities Director. “Our goal is to provide our residents information regarding current funding for the water system, upcoming capital initiatives, and the need for additional funding so that they can make a fully informed decision at the polls.”

In addition to visiting https://www.normanok.gov/toward-tomorrow to view informational materials, charts, presentations and videos, citizens are also invited to public forums to learn more about the election and have questions answered. A list of some upcoming educational forums and opportunities can be found below:

  • Celebration of Water – Come & Go educational event, hosted by City of Norman Utilities staff, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on 2/18/22 at Sooner Fashion Mall (3301 W. Main Street). The event includes a fun taste test comparing three sources of drinking water and question-and-answer sessions with water experts.
  • Ward 7 & 8 Community Meeting – Hosted by Councilmembers Stephen Holman and Matthew Peacock with support from City staff, at 6 p.m. on 3/21/22 at Council Chambers in City Hall (201 W. Gray Street). The public forum entails a proposition presentation and opportunity for questions and answers.
  • Ward 1 & Ward 6 Community Meeting – Hosted by Councilmembers Brandi Studley and Elizabeth Foreman with support from City staff, at 6:30 p.m. on 3/23/22 at Norman Public Library East (3051 Alameda Street). The public forum entails a proposition presentation and opportunity for questions and answers.
  • Ward 2 & Ward 4 Community Meeting – Hosted by Councilmembers Lauren Schueler and Lee Hall with support from City staff, at 6:30 p.m. on 3/24/22 at Norman Public Library Central (103 W. Acres Street). The public forum entails a proposition presentation and opportunity for questions and answers.
  • Norman Chapter of the League of Women Voters meeting – Hosted by the organization with presentation from City staff, at 6:30 p.m. on 3/31/22 at the Redbud Room of Norman Central Library. 

The community will be made aware of any additional educational public forums as they become available. The deadline to register to vote in the April 5, 2022, election is March 11, 2022. Check registration status or find polling locations at okvoterportal.okelections.us.

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