Mayor Baldwin calls police shortage “grave”
Prior to tending to the city’s business, Pastor Greg Richardson of Conversion Ministry Church in Okmulgee delivered the prayer at the start of Tuesday’s meeting of the Okmulgee City Council. He was also commended for his years of service to the youth of the community.
For over 25 years, Rev. Richardson and his church have hosted Prayer before the Bell across from the Dunbar Intermediate School in Okmulgee. Once a month, they provide students an opportunity to worship and get a free meal before class begins.
The council went on to approve the minutes from the Nov. 21 meeting, the payment of claims, and a resolution amending the FY 2023-24 budget by increasing revenues and expenses in the general fund.
They then approved an annual PEOPLEWARE agreement from Computer Information Concepts, Inc. in the amount of $27,025, and awarded a contract for trash abatement for privately owned properties throughout the city to Nichols Lawn and Trash Service in the amount of $28,225. Both authorize the mayor/chairman and city clerk to execute all necessary documents.
Later in the meeting, the council went into an executive session to discuss two separate matters: The Okmulgee Municipal Authority and the economic development agreement with Covington Aircraft Engines, Inc. as well as the lawsuit entitled Okmulgee Board of County Commissioners v. The Emergency Medical Service, a Public Trust.
After returning from their executive session, no action was taken on the first matter. On the second, the council authorized the city attorney to proceed with litigation.
The council also heard the monthly reports from other city officials.
The situation regarding police department staff shortages was described as “grave” by Mayor Mickey Baldwin.
City Manager Rick Pearson said that they were “going to see about” setting a hearing for early January to address the matter, but did not state any immediate measures.
— Approved by the Municipal Authority:
• A resolution amending the budget.
• The lease /rent of a 2021 John Deere dump truck for seven months, for $11,000 per month. City Manager Pearson said that the intent is to lease the vehicle until it can be purchased at the start of the fiscal year.
• The rescinding of a contract with Premier Truck Group of Tulsa for a new freight liner.
