I’m Audrey McClour, a news editor for OU Daily.
On Monday, the Cleveland County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the sale of $5 million of an up to $50 million bond anticipation note for OU’s planned arena in the Rock Creek Entertainment District.
Tuesday night, Norman City Council failed to pass an agenda item that would have helped determine if council has the authority to hold a public vote on the Rock Creek Entertainment District tax increment financing districts during Tuesday’s regular meeting.
A Norman Public Schools Board of Education member walked out during the board’s Monday evening meeting following the appointment of next school year’s president and vice president.
On Thursday, a Cleveland County judge ruled against the NCAA, granting OU linebacker Owen Heinecke another year of eligibility.
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The Cleveland County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the sale of $5 million of an up to $50 million bond anticipation note for OU’s planned arena in the Rock Creek Entertainment District Monday.
David Floyd, attorney and special counsel for the county’s Recreational and Entertainment Facilities Authority — which met at 11:15 a.m. in a special meeting Monday to approve the sale — told commissioners the bond note was issued as interim financing to provide a portion of the costs in advance of permanent bond financing, which he said will happen later this year.
“This will allow the proposed project to proceed on schedule,” Floyd said during the meeting.
The bond anticipation note — which was unanimously approved by the county’s Recreational and Entertainment Facilities Authority in March — allows the authority to incur debt for construction, design and other expenses through “bonds, notes or other evidences of indebtedness.”
The authority is a public trust created to oversee the development of the Rock Creek Entertainment District.
Norman City Council failed to pass an agenda item that would have helped determine if council has the authority to hold a public vote on the Rock Creek Entertainment District tax increment financing districts during Tuesday’s regular meeting.
The item would have authorized the city attorney to enter litigation to clarify if council has the authority to order an election on TIF district ordinances.
Related: What is the Rock Creek Entertainment District? Project plans, challenges
A Norman Public Schools Board of Education member walked out during the board’s Monday evening meeting following the appointment of next school year’s president and vice president.
A Cleveland County judge granted OU linebacker Owen Heinecke another year of eligibility Thursday afternoon.
OU athletics director Roger Denny released a statement following Judge Thad Balkman's judgment.
"We're grateful for today's decision," Denny said. "This is a fair outcome for a young man who has handled this process with integrity and resilience. We're proud to stand with Owen and look forward to to supporting him as he returns to competition in a Sooners uniform."
Photo of the week
OU linebacker Owen Heinecke after his court case on April 16, 2026.
Need new options for music venues? Find more recommendations for local businesses in our annual Best of Norman.
The Deli | 309 White St.
The Deli — Norman’s longest running live music venue — is a historic dive bar that has serviced customers since the 1970s. The cozy, snug environment is an attraction to many, especially on quieter nights. Despite its tiny quarters, packed karaoke nights are what makes The Deli so special. They offer live music seven nights a week with great bands and signature menu items.
Hollywood Corners | 4712 N. Porter Ave.
Hollywood Corners is a renovated 1920s dance hall that has been converted into a restaurant, offering bar service and live music every week. It features indoor and outdoor stages, and event hosting is available to all who schedule. The Hollywood Corners menu offers traditional American staples like soups, sandwiches, cold beer, cocktails and other great snacks.
The Depot | 200 S. Jones Ave
Built in 1909 and formerly known as the Santa Fe train station, The Depot is now a historic arts venue operated by the Norman Arts Council. Presently, The Depot hosts art shows, live music, films, performances, workshops and more in hopes of bringing Norman residents together through community and culture.
