The Henryetta City Council met in regular session on Tuesday at the Henryetta Civic Center, approving a series of financial items, property actions, park usage requests and zoning changes, while also receiving a wide-ranging update from City Manager David Bullard on major infrastructure and development projects underway across the city.

The meeting opened with an invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call of council members.

— Financial matters approved

Council members first addressed routine financial business, unanimously approving the consent agenda, which included the December 2025 financial reports, minutes from the December meeting and claims for the month.

Additional financial approvals included a payment to the Bank of Oklahoma for the city’s 2015 Note Series and a payment to AEP/PSO for electric services. The council also approved a significant payment to Myers Engineering Consulting Engineers, Inc. for design work related to the Nichols Dam project, funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars as part of the Nichols Dam Planning Grant.

— Property abatements revisited

Two previously tabled property abatements returned for consideration.

The council voted to table action on a property located at 901 W. Cummings until the April meeting, allowing additional time for improvements to be completed and for any outstanding liens to be addressed.

In contrast, the council approved the abatement of a property located at 705 W. Gentry, citing a lack of required improvements despite extensions that had been granted.

— Zoning Change & Board Appointment

The council approved a recommendation from the Henryetta Planning and Zoning Board to rezone property at 1315 W. Broadway from R-1 Single- Family Residential to R-2 General Residential. The change allows for the construction of a duplex at the location.

Council members also approved the appointment of Trampus Parker to the Henryetta Parks, Recreation and Tourism Board.

— Parks, recreation events approved

Several requests involving city parks were approved for 2026 following recommendations from the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Board. Approved events include:

• A Vintage Motorcycle Races event at Nichols Park, scheduled for Nov. 6-8

• Use of Nichols Park by Henryetta Schools for the Henryetta Cross Country Meet on Sept. 12

• Use of Nichols Park for the Regional Cross Country Meet on Oct. 24

• Use of Gazebo Park by Henryetta Hallmark Christmas on Dec. 3-5 — Tourism advertising discussed

The council approved the purchase of advertising in Focus Magazine to promote tourism in Henryetta. However, a separate proposal for advertising space in the 2026 issue of Okmulgee County Focus Magazine was tabled in order to gather additional information regarding the cost and scope of the advertisement.

— City Manager Bullard provides project updates City Manager David Bullard delivered an extensive report outlining progress on multiple city projects.

Bullard announced that construction on the new Holiday Express Suites is expected to begin by the end of March, marking a significant step forward for local development.

He reported that the Henryetta Fire Department recently received new, lighter air packs and masks through a grant. The upgraded equipment is expected to significantly improve firefighter efficiency and safety during emergency responses.

Bullard also shared that the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has approved a northbound entrance point for a local hardware store, allowing that project to move forward.

Street department crews have been busy laying new asphalt, repairing damaged areas, and pouring concrete for park benches and a new kayak stand. In addition, the city has launched a metal recycling program, generating revenue by crushing and selling old dumpsters that were previously unused.

Significant progress is also being made at the city’s water plant. A new high-service pump has been installed, with plans for an additional pump to follow. The upgrades will increase water capacity and allow for better pump rotation, improving long-term system reliability.

Bullard further noted that plans for replacing three bridges – a project estimated at $4 million – are approximately 50 percent complete, with construction expected to begin once final preparations are finished.

The council approved the City Manager’s Report as presented.

— Councilmember Comments & Closing Remarks During councilmember comments, members encouraged residents to vote in favor of the upcoming school bond project, citing the need for continued investment in local facilities. Support was also expressed for the removal of dilapidated houses near school property as part of ongoing cleanup efforts.

An update was shared indicating an increase in licensed dogs within the city, reflecting improved compliance. Council members also cautioned residents about potential severe weather, noting that city crews are prepared to prioritize main thoroughfares should conditions worsen.

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.