The Okmulgee City Council met on Tuesday to address key issues impacting the city.
The council began by reviewing the minutes from the Sept. 17 regular session. After a brief discussion, the minutes were approved without any necessary corrections. The members also approved the claims for the month.
Under the order of business, the council voted on three significant agenda items:
Resolution to Amend FY 2024-2025 Budget The council approved a resolution to amend the fiscal year 2024-2025 annual budget. The amendment increases revenues and expenses in the General Fund to accommodate incoming funds, includ- ing $172,345.56 from the opioid non-litigation funds, to make necessary adjustments for city operations.
— Purchase of 25 AED Units The council unanimously approved the purchase of 25 Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) and necessary equipment from Zoll Medical Corporation for $43,438.76. The AEDs will be placed in both patrol vehicles and fire department vehicles, enhancing public safety by equipping first responders with life-saving technology. Competitive bidding was waived, and the purchase was made using state contract pricing.
— Lake Lease Addendum
The council also approved an addendum to the lake lease assignment to Debbie Tyree and Steven Callan Safford. This procedural vote authorized the mayor and city clerk to execute the addendum, following the passing of a previous leaseholder.
Chris Azbell, representing the Okmulgee Homeless Task Force, presented an update on homelessness in the city (see related article in next Wednesday’s edition). He highlighted the city’s ongoing housing crisis, noting the significant reduction in available housing due to demolitions over the past decade. Azbell outlined several recommendations, including the creation of a city housing coalition, increased shelter capacity, and enhanced community involvement to address mental health and addiction issues among the homeless population. He emphasized the need for collaboration between city agencies, businesses, and service providers to make meaningful progress.
— Citizen Communications
Local resident Eddie Ausbrooks addressed the council, seeking relief from city-imposed liens on a property he owns at 719 South Woodlawn. Ausbrooks explained that after purchasing the property, he invested significant time and money in cleaning it up and is now hoping to sell it for development. However, liens placed on the property for past demolitions have made it difficult to move forward with a sale. Ausbrooks highlighted that selling the land would allow for the construction of new homes, which could benefit the city through increased property taxes and revitalization of the area.
In response, the council discussed possible solutions, with City Attorney LouAnn Moudy explaining that while the city cannot waive certain liens related to funds spent on demolitions, the administrative fees could potentially be reduced. Council members expressed their interest in working towards a resolution that would encourage development while balancing the city’s financial responsibilities.
City Council meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month, beginning at 5 p.m. inside City Hall. Citizens are encouraged to attend these sessions to stay informed about decisions that impact the city and to voice their concerns or ideas.
You can access City Council Agendas online at www.okmulgeeonline. com then click on the “government” tab.
