During a regular meeting of the Gore Board of Trustees and the Gore Public Works Authority (GPWA) held on Nov. 19, a number of significant measures were approved, including the introduction of a new lodging tax.

The board passed two important ordinances, both of which were approved as emergencies. Ordinance No. 11-19-2024-1 amends the town’s Employee Retirement System, while Ordinance No. 11-19-2024-2 introduces a new lodging tax. The lodging tax will likely fund local tourism and infrastructure improvements, and the trustees also approved a special election to vote on this measure.

During public comment, Cass Patton raised concerns about a proposed transmission corridor that could affect Gore. Patton warned that the project, slated to pass through Oklahoma, poses a serious environmental and health threat to the town and surrounding areas, including potential risks to humans, wildlife and the local economy.

In business, the trustees approved several routine items, including the minutes from the Oct. 22 meeting, financial reports, and purchase orders for the month of October. A schedule of meetings for 2025 was also confirmed, along with the town’s Federal Holiday calendar.

In a show of support for the town’s employees, the trustees approved $100 Harps gift cards for Thanksgiving and $750 net holiday bonuses for full-time employees, with part-time employees receiving $350 net.

Looking ahead to the holidays, Town clerk Lisa Settlemyre reminded residents of the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony that took place on Dec. 1, which featured wassail, cookies and holiday music.

Settlemyre said the Christmas Parade, with a “Christmas Toyland” theme, is scheduled for Dec. 14, followed by a visit from Santa Claus at the park. She said the town would be giving out Gore Christmas ornaments, cookies, hot chocolate, and hot dogs during the event.

The police and fire chiefs reported on their departments’ activities, with the police department handling 39 calls for service and issuing eight citations in October. The fire department responded to 34 calls, including several medical emergencies and a structure fire.

The Gore Public Works Authority (GPWA) meeting, held immediately after the town meeting saw approval of the same gift cards and holiday bonuses for employees, as well as an update on water system operations.

GPWA Administrator Jeremy Lane reported a 19% water loss, alongside efforts to repair leaks and respond to work orders.

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.