The Okmulgee County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on Monday morning, discussing and approving several grants and other financial matters, beginning with the minutes from the previous meeting.

More courthouse construction is on the way following Judge Pandee Ramirez’s announcement a $76,089 grant from the Oklahoma Bar Foundation for upgrades to courtroom two. These upgrades will mirror the recent audio-visual enhancements in courtroom one, including new tables, speaker installations, and a monitor. The project seeks to enhance the courtroom’s functionality and is expected to be completed without additional county funds.

The board approved the following blanket purchase orders: District One – S&H Auto for $1,000; District Three – RPI for $500, Cintas for $900, O’Reilly’s for $1,000; Nuyaka Fire Department – RPI for $1,000, S&H Auto $1,000.

At the meeting, one employment cessation for District One was approved, along with utility permits for Water District Six and NPR Construction. Additionally, a private property agreement from District Three was approved, and the payment of claims was authorized.

Commissioner Erik Zoellner presented an amendment to Resolution 24-12, requesting the use of Use Tax funds for roof repair on the old District One barn. The original bid of $23,000 was adjusted to $24,500 due to additional wood rot discovered during the repair. The amendment was approved unanimously.

Emergency Management Director Jeff Moore discussed a grant for new storm sirens, to be installed at six locations, including the District One barn near Beggs and county schools in Wilson, Preston, and Twin Hills. The total project cost is approximately $207,235.60, with the county’s share being $57,000. The board approved the motion to move forward with the grant application.

A grant application for the Sheriff’s Office was also approved. After applying for a similar grant last year, they are seeking another $2,500 from the East Central Electric grant for a fingerprint scanner for field use.

Director Moore reported on ongoing disaster recovery efforts, including a mobile site from FEMA at Trinity Baptist Church in Morris. He added that FEMA teams have reached over 800 homes for in-person registrations, with mobile registrations expected to continue for another week. His full report can also be found in this edition.

The meeting concluded with the board moving into an executive session.