The Vian Board of Trustees covered a packed agenda on June 16, with discussions ranging from community improvements and budget approvals to a new local business and a holiday “Spark in the Dark” fun run.

Aaron Parsons was recognized for opening “Aaron’s Bike Repair,” a new business coming to town. Residents also brought community issues to the table with Retisha Skinner voicing concerns over potholes, and Suzanne Sullivan addressing the need for improvements to youth league fields and plans for the town’s annual fireworks display.

The trustees unanimously approved the popular Spark in the Dark 5K run, which was scheduled for July 3 at Armstrong Park.

Board members then voted to approve a formal agreement with the City of Sallisaw for the impoundment of animals, a move expected to improve animal control services within Vian.

A motion was also passed to approve a listadopt ing agreement with Tenkiller Lake and Land for the sale of surplus town property located at the west 80 feet of Lots 1, 2, and 3 of Block 25. The property will be auctioned off on July 17, with a 6% buyer’s premium to serve as the broker’s commission.

In a major financial move, the council unanimously approved the budget for fiscal year 2025–26 for both the town and Vian Public Works Authority (VPWA). They also approved the town’s engagement with Wells, Wann & Company, CPA, P.C. to handle accounting services for the new fiscal year.

Reports from the police, fire, sanitation, streets and parks departments were all reviewed and accepted by the trustees. These included updates on citations, fire runs, water usage, and ongoing community improvement projects.

The board members closed out the evening by approving the treasurer’s report, which included minutes from the prior meeting, purchase orders and the town’s fuel usage summary.

During the public works authority meeting, the trustees approved a $36,640.57 estimate from Megalodon for a Nord gear box and installation at the wastewater treatment plant, but tabled taking any action on the water department’s case against the Sequoyah County Water Association.

The meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m., concluding a productive session focused on both long-term planning and near-term community events.

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.