The Henryetta City Council met in regular session Tuesday evening at the Civic Center, conducting a full agenda that included financial approvals, economic development incentives, tourism and recreation planning and updates on infrastructure projects across the city.

The Henryetta Municipal Authority also met in conjunction with the council to consider utility-related items.

Council members approved the consent agenda, which included financial reports, meeting minutes and claims for January.

Additional financial actions were also approved, including payments to Bank of Oklahoma for the city’s 2015 note series and to PSO for utility services, as well as a $7,000 payment to Myers Engineering Consulting Engineers, Inc. for design work related to Nichols Dam using ARPA funding.

City Manager David Bullard said the Nichols Dam design work is part of a long-range strategy to position the project for future funding opportunities.

“Our goal is to have this project shovel-ready so that when funding becomes available, we can move quickly,” Bullard said. “Planning and engineering now puts Henryetta in a stronger position for grants and infrastructure support later.”

— Magazine Promotion & Communications The council discussed and approved the purchase of a full-page advertisement in the 2026 issue of the Okmulgee County Focus Magazine to introduce council members and provide information about the city. During the discussion, council members also explored incorporating a QR code that could be updated regularly to provide current information to readers.

Council members noted that expanding communication tools helps keep residents informed and promotes Henryetta to visitors and prospective businesses.

— Board Appointments & Reappointments Several appointments and reappointments were approved during the meeting. Missy Nash was appointed to the Henryetta Hospital Authority, with Diana Carter named as alternate to fill the remaining term of a vacant seat.

In addition, Lori Enis and Robin Lollis were reappointed to the Henryetta Public Library Board to serve new five-year terms.

Council members expressed appreciation to those willing to serve on boards and committees, emphasizing that volunteer leadership plays an important role in maintaining city services and programs.

— Chamber Events & Community Activities Council members approved the dates for the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce Cruise Nights in 2026, scheduled for April 11, June 13 and Sept. 26.

However, a request for funding related to bounce house rentals associated with the events was tabled to allow the matter to proceed through the appropriate Parks Board and Tourism Committee processes before returning to the council for consideration.

The council also approved a request from First Family Federal Credit Union to use Main Street for its annual Smokin’ Hot Car Show on Saturday, Sept. 5, with the street to be closed between Third and Sixth streets during the event.

Council members noted that events such as Cruise Nights and the car show continue to draw visitors to Henryetta and support local businesses.

— Economic development incentive approved The council approved an economic development proposal recommended by the Henryetta Economic Development Authority that provides a one-time $5,000 business grant and a two-year sales tax reimbursement incentive, not to exceed $30,000, to Native Arms and Training Company for the construction of a new handgun training facility.

Bullard said projects that expand local business activity are important to the city’s long-term growth.

“When we can support businesses that invest here, it strengthens our tax base and provides services and opportunities for residents,” he said.

Council members echoed that sentiment, noting that targeted incentives can help attract new development while maintaining fiscal responsibility. — Property Abatement Discussions

Two property abatement cases involving properties on W. Moore and N. 7th Street were discussed but tabled for approximately 30 days to allow time for improvements or proposals regarding the structures.

Council members said the additional time gives property owners an opportunity to address concerns before further action is taken.

— Tourism Promotion & Disc Golf Events

A proposal from the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Board to use funds for tourism flyers, hotel key cards and QR-code signage was discussed but tabled pending additional details about implementation and compatibility with local hotels.

The council did approve several disc golf tournaments to be held at Nichols Park throughout 2026, including events in March, May, June and July.

Council members noted that tournaments and outdoor recreation events continue to bring visitors to Henryetta and highlight Nichols Park as a regional destination.

— Manager’s report highlights infrastructure work During his report, Bullard provided updates on several ongoing infrastructure and public works projects.

He reported that three bridge projects in coordination with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation are progressing through planning stages and are expected to be ready for construction bids once engineering reaches completion.

Bullard also outlined recent work by the street department, including concrete repairs, asphalt patching and improvements on several city streets. Crews have also installed new storm drains in the business district to improve drainage.

“Our crews have done excellent work,” Bullard said. “The drainage improvements and street repairs are making a noticeable difference, and we appreciate the effort our employees put in every day to keep the city running.”

Bullard also discussed the city’s response to recent winter weather, including the use of salt and sand to maintain safe roadways, and plans to coordinate with the school district on an access road to serve new athletic facilities.

— Council Comments & HMA Business

During the council comment period, members expressed appreciation for city employees across all departments and voiced support for local law enforcement personnel following a recent incident.

Council members also expressed optimism about the year ahead, citing ongoing infrastructure work, community events and economic development projects as signs of positive momentum for Henryetta in 2026.

The Henryetta Municipal Authority also considered routine business, including approval of financial reports, claims and utility-related payments as part of its regular meeting agenda.