Commissioners recognize OHCE Week
At Monday’s meeting of the Okmulgee County Commissioners, Emergency Management Director Jeff Moore provided updates on storm cleanup efforts and ongoing damage assessments. He discussed collaborations with FEMA, the Oklahoma Baptist Convention, the U.S. Small Business Association and the commissioners to mobilize resources.
Director Moore announced two designated debris sites for residents: brush can be disposed of at the Okmulgee Cemetery, while tin and other materials should be taken to the city yard.
Moore also emphasized the importance of residents reporting storm damage to personal prop- erty, stating that accurate data on storm damage is crucial for facilitating response efforts and securing additional emergency assistance.
As of Monday, only about 81 county residents had reported damage. They can report this through a link provided on the OCEM Facebook page, which also stated that for non-emergency disaster or health and human service information, Oklahoma residents should contact their local 2-1-1 service, reserving 911 for emergencies only.
Additionally, Moore addressed reported concerns about malfunctioning tornado sirens in Morris and said that he has been actively seeking grant funding to improve the system since becoming director and is exploring temporary solutions, including reaching out to find decommissioned sirens for temporary use.
The commissioners also moved to recognize OHCE Week. OSU Extension representative Jill Gibbons was joined by the commissioners and several members from the OSU Extension office for the signing of the official proclamation.
“As Okmulgee County home community educators and OHCE members, we want to thank you all for your continued support. We are inviting you to help us celebrate OHCE week this week by signing the OHCE week proclamation, as our community plays a large part in our county’s mission.” Gibbons stated, inviting the community to participate in this week’s activities like a tamale lunch, a free seed library, and other events.
Commissioners approved various items during the meeting:
• Monthly officer’s reports from the Health Department and County Clerk’s office.
• Blanket Purchase Orders for: General Government – Dildine Lawn Care for $600, Emergency Management – Dildine Lawn Care for $400, District One – Dollar General for $100, District Two – Inland Truck Parts and Service (truck repairs) for $20,000, Health Department – Amazon for $3,000 and MN (x-rays) for $500.
• Requisitions and receiving officer designation for the Morris Fire Department.
• An invitation to bid for road materials over a six month period.
• Reimbursement claims for the Election Board Secretary’s salary and the District Attorney.
• Approval for courthouse window trimming by TRANE.
• Acceptance of the Motor Vehicle Tax and the Alcoholic Beverage Tax.
At the meetings end, Judge Pandee Ramirez briefly reported on the use of recent courthouse improvements, such as a new display screen, during April’s jury term, thanking the commissioners for their support in making way for such enhancements.
