Neighborhood Associations on the move

Ward I,
Just an update to tell you that the First Capitol Neighborhood Solutions (FCNS), which is a group that I've been involved with in the beginning is now a 501c3. So, it has nonprofit status, which is important in gaining grant money. The FCNS will gain support from the city this next city council meeting. We'll discuss them and show the city of Guthrie is behind them.

Also, Highland Park is organizing as a neighborhood association! Basically, the area north of Noble Street will organize. That's great news!

Code of Ethics

Ward I,
Just to give you an update, the council passed unanimously, "A Resolution Establishing a Code of Ethics for Elected and Appointed Officials." It's a document that I talked with Councilman Z Thomas about previously.

A Code of Ethics will not make a difference overnight, but it will place a check on public officials who use their office for private gain, or do not go by the spirit and the letter of the law.

I hope this Code of Ethics will act as a long-term benefit for the City of Guthrie. I appreciate Councilman's Thomas' efforts!

John Wood,
Councilman, Ward I

Ward I,
I just finished my required training at the Oklahoma Municipal League in Okc.
We covered city finances, ethics, conflict of interest, employees, etc.

It was an interesting training and one that answered a lot of questions I've had.

Also, Favor Neighborhood Watch Association Thursday, June 18th at 6:30pm. It's a great organization with the focus of bettering the neighbhorhoods in the area.

One thing I'm going to work on is to have the Favor association possibly identify houses that are abandoned and dilapidated. My idea, if it works, is to identify the worst of the worst houses and sell them for back taxes to both the county and the city. The highest bidder would buy the house at rock bottom prices with the restriction that the buyer must improve the property within a year of the sale. This means either knocking the house down, or refurbishing it. Of course, these details will work themselves out after working with both the city and the neighborhood. However, it's a win-win situation all around.

Sworn in!

Ward I,

I was just sworn in with the 60th City council of Guthrie.

I'm excited to get started as your city new councilman.

The next city council meeting is May 19th. If you need anything please email at dr.john.wood@gmail.com.

Thanks,
John

Strategic Plan

I will be sworn in May 5th!

Had a great conversation with Mayor Chuck and City Manager Melody Kellogg. I'm pushing for a strategic plan to guide decision making for Guthrie. We need a vision. Making decisions without a plan is like making those decisions blind.

I think lacking strategic goals has often gotten Guthrie in trouble. Whether it's Excel Jet, dealing with the Lake's water fee, etc.

Please, let me know what you want to see in a strategic plan.

Just email me at dr.john.wood@gmail.com

Thanks and have a nice day,

John

Just registered for the Guthrie Clear Water Ride

My wife and I just registered for the Guthrie Clear Water Ride, which is a bicycle tour around Guthrie, Ok. May 16th http://www.guthrieclearwaterride.com/ The Clearwater Ride is a group of concerned citizens that is working to help pay for the new water treatment plant being built for the citizens of Guthrie and the surrounding area.

I'm the new city councilman!

Citizens of Ward I,

Thank you so much for electing me as the new city council man of Ward I!


I beat the incumbent vice mayor by 37 votes: 252 to 215.

I'm excited to represent you! If you have questions or issues, don't hesitate to email me.

John