The Morris City Council held its regular monthly session on Tuesday, Sept. 9, covering routine approvals, department updates, and key funding measures for city services and infrastructure.
The meeting opened with prayer before council members moved quickly through roll call and approval of the Aug. 12 meeting minutes. The council also approved payment of claims.
— Police & Fire Department Reports Police Chief Boyd reported approximately 130 contacts for the month of August, with five citations issued. Two reserve officers have started academy training, the department’s inventory has been completed, and abatement bids have been accepted and sent back out to contractors. Boyd noted that five properties are currently undergoing abatement.
Fire Chief Stewart reported a busy August with two vehicle fires, one grass fire, one mower fire, an EMS assist, and a public service call related to a gas leak near Walmart. In the rural district, firefighters responded to a motor vehicle accident, three vehicle fires, a hay baler fire and one additional call.
— Public Works & Utility Updates
The council received a report from the Morris Public Works Authority in the absence of its director. Crews handled a water leak at 101 South Forest, multiple cemetery services, two sewer line clogs between Adams and Jefferson, and clean-out work on the Third and Fourth Street sewer project. Additional improvements included leveling washedout streets, creek work near the feed store, and installation of two new water taps on South Third Street.
— Ambulance Financing & Grant Application The council approved a resolution authorizing the EMSA Trust to incur debt for the purchase of a new ambulance and cot system. City officials noted the importance of updating emergency equipment to keep up with community needs.
Council members also passed Resolution 2505, authorizing the mayor to pursue a REAP grant for street repairs. If awarded, the grant would fund resurfacing for 10 blocks along Peoria Avenue and 3rd Street, with possible extension to one section of 4th Street.
— Committee Discussions & Community Involvement
Discussion continued regarding the Police Department, Parks and Recreation, and City Hall committees. These committees will serve as support groups to help department heads identify and pursue grants, not to override existing leadership. Council members emphasized the importance of grant funding for small towns with limited sales tax revenue, noting that Morris collected just under $700,000 last year.
Council members also discussed including citizens on these committees to increase participation and bring additional ideas to the table. Residents interested in serving will be subject to board approval.
— Public Works Authority Session
Following adjournment of the city council, the Morris Public Works Authority convened. Members approved the August 12 minutes, payment of claims, and a REAP grant application through the Oklahoma Rural Water Association. The grant will fund nearly half of the cost to replace the city’s aging water meters with electronic models. Officials noted that current meters will soon no longer be serviced, making the upgrade necessary.
Council members also expressed appreciation for the water department after quick action prevented a major residential flood while homeowners were away. Another compliment was noted for prompt sewer repair at Adams and Jefferson.
-Both sessions concluded with no additional council inquiries.
