Council Accomplishments:
Voted No on the Turnpike and ACCESS Oklahoma
The proposed route threatened key areas including the watershed for Lake Thunderbird, the corridor of Canadian River, and regions prone to flooding.
Many residents voiced concern about environmental damage, loss of water quality, and property displacement.
Championed the Parking and Public Transportation Trust
The trust would be legally separate from the general-fund budget. That means even if the city’s overall budget is tight, parking and transit services could remain stable because they’d be funded by the trust’s own revenue (from parking fees, leases, transit fares, grants, etc.) instead of competing with other city priorities.
With a trust backing transit operations, the city can continue expanding services like Norman On-Demand, fixed-route buses (EMBARK Norman), paratransit, and more — making it easier for residents who don’t drive, can’t afford a car, or rely on public transit to get around.
Secured New Operator for Homeless Shelter
Approved bringing in City Care, Inc. to operate Norman’s emergency overnight shelter, and the change has already made a big positive difference for our community. After ending the previous operator’s contract, the Council ensured a smooth transition so the shelter never closed, and City Care has since improved safety, cleanliness, management, and support services for people experiencing homelessness. This shift shows real progress toward long-term solutions — not just temporary shelter — and reflects commitment to protecting vulnerable residents while strengthening the overall health and safety of Norman.
Council Accomplishments:
Secured Land for a Permanent Homeless Shelter
In late November 2025, the Norman City Council unanimously approved a deal to buy a 3.23-acre parcel along Reed Avenue (just south of Main Street) from the state — part of the former Griffin Hospital property.
This purchase is an important step toward creating a long-term homeless shelter facility in a location that has a longstanding history of social services and could provide more stable, permanent shelter capacity for people in need.
Securing Griffin Park Soccer Complex & Sutton Wilderness
Hinkle helped negotiate the purchase of the Griffin Park Soccer Complex and the Sutton Wilderness property, I’m proud to say that we were finally able to secure these spaces permanently for the people of Norman. For years, these areas were leased from the state, which meant their future was never fully guaranteed. By completing this purchase, we ensured that our soccer fields, trails, and natural areas will remain community assets — protected from redevelopment and preserved for families, athletes, and nature lovers for generations to come.
Approving Accesory Dwelling Units (ADU's)
Hinkle helped negotiate and advocate for the approval of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Norman. Advancing progress needed to expand housing options while keeping our neighborhoods strong. Working closely with city staff, residents, and fellow council members, we crafted rules that allow homeowners to add a small, independent dwelling on their property — like a guesthouse, garage apartment, or “tiny home” — without changing the character of the neighborhood. This initiative opens new possibilities for families, seniors, and young adults who want flexible living arrangements, supports affordable housing in our community, and helps Norman grow in a smart, sustainable way.