Trustees approves multiple measures for community development, policing

July meeting

The Town of Webbers Falls gathered for its regular meeting on July 11 to discuss and take action on various important matters. The meeting, called to order promptly at 6:17 p.m., saw the attendance of key town officials, Johnny Pollard, Danny Haley, Jewell Hall, Austin Alden, and Robert Ross Jr.

During the public speaking session, Nanette Oldfield took the floor, shedding light on the upcoming Historic Downtown Christmas event scheduled for Dec. 16.

Oldfield requested the closure of a section of road, stretching from Carl’s old gas station to the post office, for the event. Additionally, she urged that Freedom Hall not be rented out before the Christmas festivities.

Community updates, engagements

Under the communication segment, town officials shared updates and accolades. Haley expressed gratitude to those who had played a part in setting up basketball goals, enhancing the town’s recreational facilities. Mayor Pollard, in his update, informed attendees of the ongoing road paving project. Paving efforts have commenced and will continue in the following days.

Police Chief Cartwright presented the monthly police report, highlighting the department’s commitment to maintaining law and order. City Maintenance’s Shane Robinson reported progress in tree removal at the park, with almost all trees scheduled for removal having been taken down.

Departments secure annual contracts

A pivotal moment arrived as discussions centered around approving the 2023-24 annual contract with Muskogee City County E911 Trust Authority for the Webbers Falls Police Department.

Ross moved for approval, seconded by Alden, and the contract was ratified by unanimous agreement from trustees. Chief Cartwright addressed the rate increase, revealing plans to attend the upcoming 911 board meeting.

In a show of support for town employees, discussions ensued about introducing a clothing allowance. Pollard proposed a $300 allowance per employee for winter clothing, and the motion gained traction, passing with unanimous approval.

The meeting progressed with a discussion on raising town employee wages by $1 per hour, effective July 1. Haley motioned for the raise, seconded by Pollard. The motion carried, with Ross abstaining.

The town’s aesthetic evolution took center stage as a motion, moved by Pollard and seconded by Haley, was approved to paint the downtown area.

Hall, spearheading the initiative, shared plans to recruit volunteers for the project. With paint donations secured, the transformation will commence around the start of the school year, maintaining the existing color scheme unless changes are necessitated by available donations.

The Webbers Falls Board of Trustees convened for their regular meeting on August 8, addressing a range of topics pertinent to the town’s growth and public safety. The meeting, which commenced at 6:42 p.m., witnessed significant discussions and decisions that hold implications for the future of the community.

The evening began with a roll call, affirming the presence of Trustees Danny Haley, Jewell Hall, Austin Alden, Robert Ross Jr., and Johnny Pollard. Key items on the agenda included the approval of consent items, expressions of gratitude from local residents, updates from various departments, and a series of resolutions.

Meghan Johnson extended her appreciation to both the police and fire department for their collaborative efforts during the July 5K event. Johnson also acknowledged the police department’s donation of a bike to the back-toschool bash and the fire department’s contribution of time to cook hot dogs for the event. She invited all present to the Senior Sunrise, hosted by FCA, for the upcoming senior class.

Debbie Stewart took a moment to thank the police and fire departments for their swift response when her mother experienced a stroke. Eual Carter commended the board for their diligent work and acknowledged the positive changes occurring within the town.

Trustees and mayor communications highlighted significant progress in the town’s infrastructure. Pollard shared the street project was almost completed and the striping company is almost finished as well. Police Chief Cartwright reported that every police and city vehicle is now equipped with an AED machine, with personnel having undergone comprehensive training. The Sheriff ’s Department also contributed an AED machine, placed at City Hall.

Fire Chief Smith revealed a recent surge in calls, including medical emergencies, and highlighted the department’s assistance to neighboring Porum during a structure fire. The department was scheduled to hold department elections on Aug. 10, according to meeting minutes.

City Maintenance Supervisor Shane Robinson addressed the challenges posed by rain but affirmed that efforts to maintain public spaces and clear fallen trees were underway.

The board unanimously approved a series of resolutions aimed at community development. Notably, the Comprehensive Improvement Program (CIP) Grant Application and Resolution, Anti-Displacement Plan, Fair Housing Resolution, Citizen Participation Plan, and Local Planning Activities Committee (LPAC) nominations were all given the green light.

Contemplation on budget amendments for the upcoming fiscal year was deferred to the next meeting due to the necessity of consulting with an accountant. Additionally, proposals for an ozone generator for Freedom Hall and the extension of electricity to downtown outdoor event areas did not see action at this time.

A motion to relocate a speed limit sign on E. 1040 Road was approved, with Trustee Hall abstaining. The decision reflected a unanimous consensus among the other board members.

In a step towards efficient legal communication, trustees designated specific personnel authorized to contact the attorney, contingent upon consultation with the mayor.

A festive note was struck as the board approved the Chamber’s organization of theHistoric Downtown Christmas event on December 16, including street closures and use of Freedom Hall.

Budgetary matters included the allocation of ARPA funds to cover the 911 dispatch bill for the police department. This measure passed after Trustees Haley and Hall moved the motion.

Personnel changes within the police department were a focal point later in the meeting. Trustee Ross’s motion to accept the resignation of police officer Wade Ranes was met with unanimous approval. Subsequently, Joseph Mueller and Austin Alden were appointed as reserve nonpaid officers, with Alden abstaining from his own appointment.

The board then addressed concerns related to officer remuneration. Trustee Haley’s motion to increase the starting pay for non-certified officers received widespread support, with Alden once again abstaining due to a potential conflict of interest.

An executive session was invoked to discuss matters related to the employment of Caleb Taylor. Upon returning to open session, a motion to raise Taylor’s pay to $15 per hour upon completion of CLEET training was carried.