Council hires consultant to study bond and sales-tax options, approves up to $88,500 contract

Council approved a contract with CoAlign Group LLC to help the city evaluate the viability, timing and structure of potential general obligation bond and sales-tax measures. The scope includes a three-phase approach: stakeholder interviews and feasibility reporting (Phase 1), leading a citizens committee to identify projects and sizing (Phase 2), and, if directed, supporting communications and presentation materials for a possible bond election (Phase 3). The full contract is capped at $88,500 if the city proceeds through all phases.

The proponent described the need for external expertise to coordinate stakeholder interviews and provide experience in structuring bond proposals. Consultant Kathy O'Connor introduced herself and outlined her public-sector finance background. "I was with the city of Oklahoma City for almost 30 years... and I look forward to working with the city of Edmond on this important issue," she said.

Council members asked questions about phased costs and oversight; staff clarified each phase has an optional stop point and the city can terminate before later phases. After public comment and council discussion the council moved, seconded and approved the contract (vote recorded as 5–0).