During Monday’s meeting, the Okmulgee County Board of Commissioners formally approved an upcoming project for BNSF to construct a bridge on Preston’s west side. Commissioner Erik Zoellner made the announcement, adding that the District Attorney had already reviewed and approved the plans.

The board also voted to use District One funds to purchase a new dump truck. Commissioner Zoellner explained that since it was done on a state contract, no bid was required.

The board approved two interlocal agreements between Okmulgee County and the cities of Dewar and Morris, respectively. Okmulgee County EM Director Jeffrey Moore explained that these are yearly emergency management agreements for cities and towns. The only change was an increase in fees.

“That’s because federally they’ve [fees] gone up since 2012. That initial contract was $2.28 per person, and it’s gone up to $4.66 per person. However, this does not represent the full amount, just an increase to $3.75 per person. So it’s just keeping up with the amount of work we have to do,” Director Moore stated.

Director Moore also gave his weekly report, providing an update on recent weather events, including over six inches of rain that fell in just two days last week, leading to major flooding in some areas and forcing road closures. Moore detailed the county’s ongoing efforts with FEMA to secure public assistance and briefly explained the split-grant funding approach for the installation of new tornado sirens.

Over the last few weeks, OCC Executive Assistant Jaimie Steph has provided updates regarding the inventory status of local fire departments and the county’s efforts to maintain those records. Steph said they are working to ensure all fire departments have received the necessary forms and information after some reported they had not received any documentation.

— Also approved at the meeting:

• Officer’s reports for the County Assessor and Election Board for May

• Blanket Purchase Orders: District Three – O’Reilly’s for $1,000, Cintas for $900 and RPI for $500

• Allocations of both the Alcoholic Beverage Tax and the Motor Vehicle Tax

• Two 324A claims for the Bristlecone Rd. project

• Transfer of CDs from First National Bank (Patrons Bank) to Mabrey Bank

• Reimbursement claims for both the District Attorney and the Election Board

• One cash fund request of appropriations