Monday morning’s meeting of the Okmulgee County Board of Commissioners was marked by the recognition of Beggs Councilwoman Cindy Hubbell for her community service, specifically her efforts in resolving a critical water supply issue for Beggs Public Schools.
Commissioner Erik Zoellner highlighted Hubbell’s contributions, say- ing, “[Cindy] does not give up,” before presenting her with a certificate of appreciation signed by all three commissioners. Zoellner detailed Hubbell’s efforts to secure necessary funds and outreach to various state representatives and local entities. She thanked the county commissioners, Rural Water District 7, and the City of Beggs for their service. The emergency water connection, completed two weeks ago, promises to prevent future disruptions for the school’s 1,300 students.
Another topic of discussion arose when OCCJA Director Shannon Clark reported that they had received a recent notification from their insurer, ACO, regarding substantial changes to the county’s insurance coverage.
According to Clark, the notice stated, as of July 1, ACO had reduced the county’s law enforcement liability and public official wrongdoing coverage from $1 million per incident to $500,000, and from $2 million annual aggregate to $500,000. He noted this change, effective retroactively, was communicated only after the county had voted to pay its premium.
ADA Greg Stidham explained ACO’s decision is likely due to a spike in high-value claims and judgments against counties statewide, including a $6.5 million judgment in Muskogee County and a $2 million judgment in Tulsa County. Clark expressed concern about the county’s financial exposure, leading to discussions about exploring alternative insurance options.
Commissioner Zoellner committed to meeting with potential insurers to seek better coverage options.
— Other Approved & Discussed Agenda Items
• The minutes from the previous meeting were approved, as well as an ODOT action report. Submitted utility permits for District One included two for RW6 and another for RW7. The board also approved one private property agreement for a District One resident to bring extra fill dirt for ditches and a bid for the hauling of road materials over six months.
• A resolution for a Sheriff Assistant Salary Grant of $250,000 was approved, which Sheriff Eddy Rice stated would be used to cover overtime and miscellaneous equipment at no cost to the county.
• Payments were approved for Ozark Foam Insulators for $3,600, Winsett Barn for $6,800, and James Richel, Jr. for $6,500. Blanket purchase orders were also approved, including District Three – Power plant repairs for $10,864.37, RPI for $500, Cintas for $900, and O’Reilly’s for $900.
Lastly, Okmulgee County Emergency Management Director Jeff Moore provided his weekly report, which included details on their monthly volunteer meeting and responses to a couple of grass fires and a hazardous material
