The Gore Board of Trustees held a productive meeting on Dec. 17, addressing a variety of town issues, including new infrastructure contracts, personnel updates, and funding agreements for future projects.
The meeting began promptly at 6 p.m. with the trustees passing several resolutions crucial for the town’s operations. Resolution No. 12-17-2024-1, addressing the 2025 election, was approved unanimously, as was Resolution No. 12-17-2024-2, which secures an ODOT funding agreement for future projects. Resolution No. 12-17-20243, relating to the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group (OMAG), was also adopted without opposition.
However, the board members took no action on the abatement of 201 N. Carlile Street.
One of the key agenda items was the approval of a contract for an asphalt overlay on Rockwood Circle and Dogwood Street. The trustees awarded the contract to Holloway, Updike, and Bellen.
Additionally, a bid from McKenzie Asphalt was selected for the asphalt work, which will cost the town $19,204.
These improvements are part of ongoing efforts to enhance the town’s infrastructure, with a focus on road safety and maintenance.
The board approved significant pay raises for two town employees. Keenan Gibson, who recently obtained his CLEET certification, will see his hourly wage increase to $17.
Additionally, Jason Yargee was promoted to yard supervisor and will receive a new hourly rate of $19.01. The decisions came after an executive session to discuss the employment, promotion, and compensation of town personnel.
Town clerk Lisa Settlemyre shared several updates, including a grant award of $75,000 from the EODD REAP program for chip and seal work on town roads. She also highlighted the success of recent community events, such as the Christmas parade and Santa in the Park, which saw strong participation from locals.
Settlemyre also presented the police chief ’s report, noting 45 calls for service, 14 citations, 29 warnings, and one auto accident. Meanwhile, Fire Chief Justin Ohl noted 19 calls since the last meeting, including 16 medical emergencies.
During the Gore Public Works Authority (GPWA) meeting, GPWA Administrator Jeremy Lane gave several updates, including reports of a 16% water loss and ongoing maintenance tasks.
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.
