Owasso activates $4.3 million in stalled drainage projects

Owasso city officials have unlocked more than $4.3 million in dormant stormwater funds to begin work on drainage projects in the current fiscal year. The money, which was already allocated in prior budgets, had been held back because certain purchases and construction tasks extended past the city's June 30 fiscal year-end.

The Stormwater Management Fund is financed by utility service charges paid by residents. It covers the maintenance and repair of storm drains, pipes, and drainage channels, as well as creek upkeep and drainage studies. The city explained that when expenses remain unpaid at the close of the fiscal year, the funding must be carried forward and formally authorized for use in the new year.

One immediate recipient of the funds is the Nottingham Estates neighborhood. The city recently approved a $974,000 bid for drainage upgrades in that area. The project will draw directly from the newly authorized carryover money.

Local resident Earl Kearney said the investment targets a growing need in Owasso. He noted that while roads require attention, drainage issues are particularly acute in older, established neighborhoods.

"Some side roads and neighborhoods that are already developed, a lot of those may have drainage problems just because they weren't put in when the infrastructure was built," Kearney said. He added that heavy rain in spring and fall often leaves more water on residential lots than the original design intended.

Kearney argued that addressing these issues now is preferable to waiting for expansion to outpace the infrastructure. "I honestly think that's a great place for the money to go," he said, adding that getting ahead of the city's growth would be the best approach for long-term management.

The city stated that this annual budget adjustment allows it to continue ongoing projects and fulfill existing commitments while maintaining accurate financial records. The authorization ensures that previously planned work can proceed without delay in the current fiscal period.