On Thursday, the Stroud City Council adopted its fiscal year 2026-27 budget, approved a traffic change and heard public comment about possible data center development near the city.
Council members approved the $14.06 million budget with little discussion. The budget includes $3.34 million in the general fund and $9.81 million for the Utilities Authority.
The council also approved changing the east side of Cedar Avenue near Foster Park to one-way traffic heading south from Seventh Street to where Cedar turns into the neighborhood. City officials said the change is intended to make the area safer for bicyclists, joggers and pedestrians. City Manager Bob Pearman said paving work is expected to begin June 22, starting with the park area before moving to nearby streets. He said making the section one-way will allow the city to complete a loop using the street as part of the sidewalk and bicycle trail area near the park.
Caleb Ball was the only member to vote against the change, saying he understood the goal of improving safety and encouraging people to use the park, but questioned whether traffic in the area created enough of a problem to require making the street one-way.
The council also approved appointing Jennifer Davis as treasurer, replacing Gayle Thornton. Council members thanked Thornton for her years of work with the city.
During public comment, a resident asked the council to hold a town hall meeting or study session about possible data center development near Stroud. She raised concerns about water use, electricity demand, transparency and how residents could give input if a proposal moves forward.
Council members said no formal data center proposal had come before the city. They said they could not answer specific questions about any company’s plans without a concrete proposal, but said they would consider what is best for Stroud if one comes before the council.
The Stroud Utilities Authority also considered two waterline extension items. A proposed waterline extension on the east side of the airport on 26th Street did not pass. A proposed waterline extension at Allied Road was tabled while officials seek more information about pipe costs and possible savings.