In its regular monthly meeting held on Sept. 17, the Town of Gore’s Board of Trustees made significant decisions aimed at improving local infrastructure and community safety.

One major highlight of the meeting was the awarding of the Haven Heights Overlay Project to McKenzie Asphalt LLC for $210,247, following a recommendation from Wes Stewart. The project aims to enhance road safety and accessibility in the area.

The board also passed Ordinance No. 09-17-2024-1 regarding controlled access to town facilities, despite public concern raised by an individual about First Amendment rights. The ordinance was passed as an emergency mea- sure after further discussion.

Security upgrades for Town Hall received approval with a $6,000 budget, alongside a proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, showing the board’s commitment to community welfare.

In a series of personnel decisions, the board welcomed new hires following an executive session. Those hires included Janet Biggs as a police officer at a rate of pay of $17 per hour, and Selena Williams, Travis Smith and Jason Cullen were hired as reserve officers at a rate of $14 per hour, enhancing local law enforcement capabilities. Jacom Lane also was hired as building inspector at $400 per month.

The meeting also featured a report from Town Clerk Lisa Settlemyre, who reminded residents of upcoming community events, including Day in the Park on Oct. 5, which will feature a Little Miss Gore pagaent.

During the police and fire chiefs’ reports, the police reported issuing 20 citations for the previous month, while the fire department responded to 28 calls since the last meeting. It was also announced that the fire department had received a $10,000 grant from Oklahoma Forestry.

During the public works authority meeting, the trustees approved an Environmental Services agreement, along with a declaration of property to surplus.

Administrator Jeremy Lane reported a 15 percent water loss for the previous month and three water leaks. Lane also announced the purchase of a 2016 dump truck for the water department, which he said is already being put to good use.

This news story is based on the unofficial minutes from the board meeting and could be in error if the minutes are changed prior to adoption.