Gore trustees approve abatement, other measures

During a brisk meeting on Sept. 12, Gore’s Board of Trustees convened to address various municipal matters. Mayor Robin Henry presided over both the town and public works authority meetings, with a roll call conducted by Lisa Settlemyre, confirming the presence of all necessary officials for a quorum.

One of the key highlights of the evening was the swearing-in ceremony for the assistant fire chief and volunteer firefighters. Although no public speakers were present, the community’s dedication to maintaining its fire department was evident in the proceedings.

The trustees then turned their attention to the agenda to approve items, which included August meeting minutes, along with financial reports and purchase orders for the previous month. Vice mayor Larry Pack moved to approve the agenda items, and his motion was seconded by Trustee Joni Couch.

Following routine approvals, the trustees engaged in a discussion regarding a significant municipal issue – the Trenton Young Abatement. Pack proposed a motion to issue a 48-hour vacate order to Young and other occupants at 204 German St. The decision was made in response to violations of the Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission. Trustee Gideon Miller seconded the motion, and it was again unanimously approved by all trustees.

Gore Police Chief Jeremy Walters reported on enforcement activities for August, noting eight citations and 49 warnings issued. Town Clerk, Lisa Settlemyre, highlighted the collection of over $2,300 in citation fees since the last meeting. A special commendation was extended to Officer T.J. Lane for his exemplary handling of a recent dog-related incident.

On a related note, Gore Fire Chief Justin Ohl’s report conveyed that the department had responded to seven calls since the last meeting. They were also successful in securing a $50,000 grant, and preparations were underway to host a swift water rescue class. The fire department’s operations were reported to be proceeding smoothly.

The Town of Gore meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m., allowing for a brief intermission before the GPWA meeting convened at 6:23 p.m.

During the GPWA meeting, the trustees reconvened to address issues related to the Gore Public Works Authority.

The agenda for this meeting mirrored that of the town’s, approving the previous month’s meeting minutes, financial reports and purchase orders.

GPWA Administrator Jeremy Lane reported that the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) had approved the bid processing for sludge removal. Additionally, there was a 5.9% water loss for the month and the discovery of 10 leaks, which will be addressed promptly.

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.