The Okmulgee County Board of Commissioners held its regular meeting on Monday, with Okmulgee Mayor Mickey Baldwin briefly addressing the board about efforts to assist the unhoused population during the recent freezing weather.

Mayor Baldwin expressed his gratitude for the collaboration between the city and local organizations to establish warming stations.

“We were able to open a warming center at the First Free Will Baptist Church,” Baldwin said. “It served around 25 to 30 people overnight and up to 45 people during the day. It was a true community effort.”

In other business, the commissioners approved the following blanket purchase orders for: District 1 – Cintas for $800 and RPI for $600. District 2 – RPI for $1,000 and Cintas for $700. District 3 – Kennedy Lumber for $500. The Nuyaka Fire Department – RPI and S&H Auto, both at $1,000.

The board also heard from Anthony Atencio, project manager with WSB, about planned improvements to a bridge along Will Sampson Road. Atencio outlined the scope of the project and noted that construction is expected to begin within the next six months.

Additionally, the commissioners approved a utility relocation for the Bristlecone Road project. The project aims to improve access and safety along the route.

Next, the board passed resolutions concerning funding allocations. One regarding the use of LATCF funds and two others authorizing payments from the Use Tax Fund to Jane’s Trim and Hardware and Mastercraft Marble and Granite.

The County also heard the Fourth Quarter report from the Okmulgee County Criminal Justice Authority (OCCJA). They stated that substance abuse treatment is still being offered through community partnerships and under the opioid abatement grant.

It was also stated that they are awaiting funds and approval to purchase GED materials. The rep said that they are within budget, though the expenditure report is pending. The final report will be submitted to the Attorney General by the end of January.

Next, the District Attorney’s office requested approval to lease additional office space inside the McCullough Building for $226 per month to accommodate one of their investigators. The commissioners approved.

Lastly, Okmulgee County EM Director Jeff Moore provided his weekly report, briefing the board on recent activities such as their emergency volunteer meeting and assistance with a rollover accident on Highway 16 that spilled 50 gallons of hydraulic fluid and another involving the discovery of human remains.

Moore also provided an update on the progress of the electrical work and climate control installation in the emergency management building.