Construction to begin this summer

The Okmulgee Public School Board of Education convened for their regular meeting this Tuesday. The board unanimously approved all items on the consent agenda, which included the minutes from the March 6 special meeting and reports on monthly conferences and expenditures. They also ac- cepted the resignation of the assistant library media specialist at the Dunbar campus.

Along with other recent administrative changes, the board realigned its leadership positions. Leroy Parker was appointed as the board president, Vickie Jones as vice president, Krystal Bohannon as clerk, and Mike James as deputy clerk.

Later in the meeting, incoming board member, Heather Kimbley, was also recognized. She takes over Rod Wiemer’s seat following his decision not to seek reelection.

One key discussion was the management of properties within the city. The board voted to declare the Emerson property surplus, with Superintendent Rene Dove highlighting its high maintenance costs. Additionally, the board decided to acquire the Attucks building from the Dunbar All Schools Association, returning it to the district’s control.

Community members can also expect to see the initial utilization of funds from the recent bond issuance, as the board passed a resolution to facilitate the first series of payments. Superintendent Dove said the $2,040,000 is expected to be available by May, with plans to begin construction this summer.