Claremore Daily Progress

Government

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  • JIM THOMAS

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November 7, 2012

Claremore council selects Thomas for city manager

Salesha Wilken Staff Reporter

CLAREMORE — The Claremore City Council approved a contract and employment offer to Jim Thomas of Rhode Island, as the new city manager Monday.

The vote was unanimous and an enthusiastic crowd applauded the council’s decision.
Thomas will begin work on Nov. 26 after the Thanksgiving holiday.
“Welcome to Claremore,” said Mayor Mickey Perry.
“It is a real pleasure, I appreciate the opportunity to come to Claremore and work with the Mayor, council and staff,” Thomas said.
Thomas compared Claremore to other cities he has worked with.
It is comforting to know that whether you’re from the northeast or Oklahoma or wherever municipal governments are still struggling with the same problems.
Thomas added that he has been serving in this capacity for 25 years.
“I am very excited to be here and to become apart of the Claremore family,” Thomas said. “I will be ready to hit the ground running on the 26th.”
Councilor Mark Lepak took a moment to recognize Daryl Golbek for his service to the city in the time he has served as city manager.
In other business the council denied the erection of a 130 ft cellular tower near downtown Claremore.
The council listened to the concerns of city staff and Claremore Main Street representative, Cindy Bissett.
“I urge you to no discount the aesthetics of the tower a half block off Route 66,” Bissett said.
City Engineer Chris Cochran also presented information about city planning and the appropriate location for the antenna.
“The intent is for these antennas to be located in an industrial district,” Cochran said.
Ultimately the council agreed that the tower should not be approved although the decision was not unanimous.
Although defeated, councilors Buddy Robertson and Thomas Cypert voted to support the construction of the tower.
The tower would have serviced Verizon and three other carriers.
The council moved forward with plans for Tax Increment Financing, approving the Master District but tabling a decision for the Baker Hughes District and financing for the electrical substation.
The final public hearing was held during the meeting with limited participation.
“The TIF is just what the doctor ordered,” said Jack Spinks
There was no opposition presented during the 
A decision to postpone was based upon the absence of two councilors, Bill Flanagan and Terry Willis.
The council wanted to have the entire council present to approve the proposal.

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