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Thursday, April 1, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
City holds public hearing
The City of Snyder held a public hearing to discuss the possibility of submitting a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Monday evening prior to a special council meeting. Clyde Morgan, SWODA, attended the meeting to help explain the grant and answer questions.
Cost estimates for rehabilitation of the water storage tank were prepared by city engineer Steve Cesar with a total estimated project cost of approximately $163,725 to $164,295. The grant will require the city to provide matching funds and a citizen participation plan.
Snyder Council approves grant application, nixes hiring of additional police officer
Snyder City Council met in special session Monday night to discuss applying for a CDBG grant for refurbishment of the city water tower and budget/cost saving measures for the remainder of the fiscal year.
Approved were:
City Treasurer Patti Locklear presented budget balances through February, showing dwindling balances with city hall and the police department reflecting lack of funds to meet the next month's bills. Discussion to alleviate some of the expenses centered around payroll. City councilman Teresa Mills said to date there have been no cuts in salary, but overtime has got to stop.
Police Chief Johnny McBee presented police department figures in open session after City Attorney Shane McLaury instructed the council that budget measures could not be discussed in executive session as had been requested. Also on the agenda was the possibility of hiring a fourth full-time officer.
After examining the numbers the council agreed that the only place to cut expenses is in payroll and by parking one of the three police department vehicles. There are questions about the finance contract on the Ford Explorer and Crown Victoria, which were purchased before McBee became chief, so selling one may not be an option. McBee stated the Explorer is staying parked most of the time.
The department has three full-time officers and one reserve who is not yet firearm certified. The council suggested that no officers be allowed to carry a firearm until they have been certified.
McBee had asked to hire another officer to alleviate paying overtime, but the council voted him down. To provide funds for the next month, the council agreed to pull money from the Street and Alley fund not to exceed $10,000 with zero overtime. McBee was instructed to curtail all overtime which will require some times without an officer on duty. The PD budget will have to be adjusted by the month until the new fiscal year.
The Animal Control budget was touched on, with AC Officer Jerry Taylor reporting costs include an average of $125 per month to the Altus animal shelter for animals that have not been claimed after the city's 72-hour hold. He said some pet owners do not want to pay the fine to get their pets back, instead just letting them go. Sixteen animals were taken to Altus during March. Other expenses are dog food and vehicle expenses.
Overtime in the water department was discussed with Mayor Gary Anderson suggesting an additional employee is needed to be trained for the water plant to alleviate overtime. One person is required at the plant almost 24/7 due to the instability of the facility. There are currently four full-time Public Works Authority employees, with two able to oversee the water plant. Anderson said they have only been using three inmate workers and probably need to go back to using five.
The council discussed hiring temporary employees who would not require benefits as a possiblity. Furloughs and other cost-cutting measures were mentioned. Locklear said an approximate $20 per water customer additional income will begin after April 1st, which will help. The shortfall in the city hall budget was not addressed during the meeting, but in a phone call to Locklear Tuesday, she said the mayor had been meeting with her today to see where funds can be pulled from other departments for the upcoming month.
Also on the agenda was a resolution approving a Kiowa County District 3 Emergency Medical Service loan commitment to purchase a new ambulance. The City of Snyder, Town of Mountain Park and Town of Roosevelt must sign an agreement in order for the EMS to borrow money.
Ambulance service employees James Glover and Scooter Mitchell were present at the meeting, but none of the ambulance board members attended. The council and McLaury questioned the amount of indebtedness and initially tabled the matter. Glover and Mitchell got busy and secured the needed information before the meeting adjourned, and the council voted to rescind the earlier motion and agreed to the resolution, with the loan amount not to exceed $70,000.
Under public participation Councilman Clay Oxley asked about getting the yield sign at 7th and H repaired. It has been bent over for some time. In response to a question about street repairs, Mayor Anderson stated materials have been ordered and now that it's warmer those will begin again.
In new business Locklear asked about Spring Cleanup which is usually in April or May. The first bulk pickup day for the new trash collection program will be April 14, so that was designated as Spring Cleanup for this year. Bulky items should be placed at the curb before collection day and residents should call the toll-free number 877-592-5030 to request a bulky waste collection. Calls should be made by the close of business on the Tuesday before collection day (April 13).
Letters went out with the April water bills announcing the bulky waste collection procedures. IESI will collect bulky waste one time a month, on the second Wednesday of each month beginning April 14.
Examples of bulky items include old furniture, appliances such as water heaters, washers, stoves, televisions, etc. (excluding items containing gaseous refrigerants); grass trimmings, leaves and debris bagged in no larger than 30-gallon bags; tree limbs, bundled, less than two inches in diameter in lengths of no longer than 48 inches or exceeding 50 lbs.; old clothing; and boxes and other packaging. Volume of bulky waste to be collected will be limited to no more than a total of three cubic yards per work order with a limit of one work order per household per month. This does not include construction or demolition waste.
Public Works Authority implements contractual increase for rural water district
Snyder Public Works Authority reviewed Rural Water District No. 4 contract rates at their meeting Monday night and tabled budget discussion and hiring an additional water plant operator.
The contract with the water district allows an annual rate adjustment in accordance with the consumer price index or an increase of 3% annually which was overlooked in 2009. The council voted to adopt the increase for 2009 and 2010 for a total increase of 6%.
Water superintendent Mark Shelton was away at training, so budget discussion and hiring an additional operator were tabled until the April 19 regular meeting.
The City of Snyder held a public hearing to discuss the possibility of submitting a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Monday evening prior to a special council meeting. Clyde Morgan, SWODA, attended the meeting to help explain the grant and answer questions.
Cost estimates for rehabilitation of the water storage tank were prepared by city engineer Steve Cesar with a total estimated project cost of approximately $163,725 to $164,295. The grant will require the city to provide matching funds and a citizen participation plan.
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Snyder Council approves grant application, nixes hiring of additional police officer
Snyder City Council met in special session Monday night to discuss applying for a CDBG grant for refurbishment of the city water tower and budget/cost saving measures for the remainder of the fiscal year.
Approved were:
- Resolution 2010-6, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2010 Water and Wastewater Construction Project Matching Funds Commitment, with matching funds not to exceed $12,000
- Resolution 2010-7 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2010 Water and Wastewater Construction Program, for funding to rehabilitate the water storage tank
- Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2010 Water and Wastewater Construction Program Citizen Participation Plan, which provides for public hearings to insure that all citizens have the opportunity to be involved in the project
City Treasurer Patti Locklear presented budget balances through February, showing dwindling balances with city hall and the police department reflecting lack of funds to meet the next month's bills. Discussion to alleviate some of the expenses centered around payroll. City councilman Teresa Mills said to date there have been no cuts in salary, but overtime has got to stop.
Police Chief Johnny McBee presented police department figures in open session after City Attorney Shane McLaury instructed the council that budget measures could not be discussed in executive session as had been requested. Also on the agenda was the possibility of hiring a fourth full-time officer.
After examining the numbers the council agreed that the only place to cut expenses is in payroll and by parking one of the three police department vehicles. There are questions about the finance contract on the Ford Explorer and Crown Victoria, which were purchased before McBee became chief, so selling one may not be an option. McBee stated the Explorer is staying parked most of the time.
The department has three full-time officers and one reserve who is not yet firearm certified. The council suggested that no officers be allowed to carry a firearm until they have been certified.
McBee had asked to hire another officer to alleviate paying overtime, but the council voted him down. To provide funds for the next month, the council agreed to pull money from the Street and Alley fund not to exceed $10,000 with zero overtime. McBee was instructed to curtail all overtime which will require some times without an officer on duty. The PD budget will have to be adjusted by the month until the new fiscal year.
The Animal Control budget was touched on, with AC Officer Jerry Taylor reporting costs include an average of $125 per month to the Altus animal shelter for animals that have not been claimed after the city's 72-hour hold. He said some pet owners do not want to pay the fine to get their pets back, instead just letting them go. Sixteen animals were taken to Altus during March. Other expenses are dog food and vehicle expenses.
Overtime in the water department was discussed with Mayor Gary Anderson suggesting an additional employee is needed to be trained for the water plant to alleviate overtime. One person is required at the plant almost 24/7 due to the instability of the facility. There are currently four full-time Public Works Authority employees, with two able to oversee the water plant. Anderson said they have only been using three inmate workers and probably need to go back to using five.
The council discussed hiring temporary employees who would not require benefits as a possiblity. Furloughs and other cost-cutting measures were mentioned. Locklear said an approximate $20 per water customer additional income will begin after April 1st, which will help. The shortfall in the city hall budget was not addressed during the meeting, but in a phone call to Locklear Tuesday, she said the mayor had been meeting with her today to see where funds can be pulled from other departments for the upcoming month.
Also on the agenda was a resolution approving a Kiowa County District 3 Emergency Medical Service loan commitment to purchase a new ambulance. The City of Snyder, Town of Mountain Park and Town of Roosevelt must sign an agreement in order for the EMS to borrow money.
Ambulance service employees James Glover and Scooter Mitchell were present at the meeting, but none of the ambulance board members attended. The council and McLaury questioned the amount of indebtedness and initially tabled the matter. Glover and Mitchell got busy and secured the needed information before the meeting adjourned, and the council voted to rescind the earlier motion and agreed to the resolution, with the loan amount not to exceed $70,000.
Under public participation Councilman Clay Oxley asked about getting the yield sign at 7th and H repaired. It has been bent over for some time. In response to a question about street repairs, Mayor Anderson stated materials have been ordered and now that it's warmer those will begin again.
In new business Locklear asked about Spring Cleanup which is usually in April or May. The first bulk pickup day for the new trash collection program will be April 14, so that was designated as Spring Cleanup for this year. Bulky items should be placed at the curb before collection day and residents should call the toll-free number 877-592-5030 to request a bulky waste collection. Calls should be made by the close of business on the Tuesday before collection day (April 13).
Letters went out with the April water bills announcing the bulky waste collection procedures. IESI will collect bulky waste one time a month, on the second Wednesday of each month beginning April 14.
Examples of bulky items include old furniture, appliances such as water heaters, washers, stoves, televisions, etc. (excluding items containing gaseous refrigerants); grass trimmings, leaves and debris bagged in no larger than 30-gallon bags; tree limbs, bundled, less than two inches in diameter in lengths of no longer than 48 inches or exceeding 50 lbs.; old clothing; and boxes and other packaging. Volume of bulky waste to be collected will be limited to no more than a total of three cubic yards per work order with a limit of one work order per household per month. This does not include construction or demolition waste.
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Public Works Authority implements contractual increase for rural water district
Snyder Public Works Authority reviewed Rural Water District No. 4 contract rates at their meeting Monday night and tabled budget discussion and hiring an additional water plant operator.
The contract with the water district allows an annual rate adjustment in accordance with the consumer price index or an increase of 3% annually which was overlooked in 2009. The council voted to adopt the increase for 2009 and 2010 for a total increase of 6%.
Water superintendent Mark Shelton was away at training, so budget discussion and hiring an additional operator were tabled until the April 19 regular meeting.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Friends of the Snyder Public Library meeting tonight
Friends of the Library will have their March meeting tonight (March 25) at 7 p.m. at the library. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Membership in the Friends group is $10 per year. Proceeds from memberships are used for day to day operations of the library, including purchase of books, carding materials, shelving, and cleaning supplies. Becoming a member does not obligate you to volunteer or participate in any way, although more volunteers are always appreciated. Membership may be paid at the library.
Please consider joining us in keeping our library going and growing.
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Benefit for Kathi Martin planned
Tickets are being sold for a drawing to benefit Kathi Martin of Blair. Kathi, who was diagnosed with cancer last August, is the wife of David Martin, the regular UPS driver for the Snyder area. Proceeds from the drawing are to help with medical expenses.
A new, handmade saddle with silver inlay, donated by Mickey Reeves, Lone Wolf, will be given away at a drawing during the awards assembly at the Blair School Gym on May 17. Along with the saddle is a saddle blanket and metal saddle stand. Tickets are $1 each and are on sale at the office of the Kiowa County Democrat in Snyder, or by calling 580-563-2486 or 580-481-4364.
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Southern Kiowa Chamber of Commerce membership drive underway
The annual membership drive of the Southern Kiowa Chamber of Commerce is underway. Dues are $25 for business memberships and $10 for individuals. Dues may be paid to Dean Holland, president, or Charlotte Kirk, treasurer. The Chamber includes Snyder, Mountain Park and Roosevelt and the surrounding communities.
Plans are underway for this year's Fall Festival with Dean Holland in charge of the train rides and carnival rides; Candace Thurmond, concert; Charlotte Kirk, vendor booths; George Garrison, outhouse races; and Pam Holland, light pole and yard decorations. New additions to the festival include an evening concert planned to be held in the James Blaine Fieldhouse and a yard decorating competition will be added to the light pole decorations.
New officers for 2010 are: Dean Holland, president; George Garrison, vice president; Candace Thurmond, secretary; Charlotte Kirk, treasurer; Carrie McNeill, Snyder board member; and Linda Ratliff, Mountain Park board member.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Council approves increase in water and sewer fees
New rates for water and sewer fees were established at Snyder's regular city council meeting Monday night.
Resolution 2010-1 establishing fees for water and sewer service was voted in to be effective April 1st. The first 2,000 gallons of water increased from $15.59 to $17.50 with each additional 1,000 gallons going from $2.60 to $3. Sewer fees increased from a flat rate of $6.75 per month, per customer, to $13.50. Minimum monthly bill for residential customers will be $59.15 and $64.20 for commercial.
City Clerk Tammy Biddle said this will bring Snyder's rates more in line with other towns of the same size. According to an OML survey, only three other towns have a flat rate on sewer, the lowest of which is $16.50 per month. These rates have not been raised in two years, while costs to the city have increased. Plans are to tie the rates to the cost of living index, with a built-in yearly increase. This should keep the fees from going up too much all in one jump.
Rates for the Town of Mountain Park and Comanche County Rural Water District No. 4 were not increased at this time. Mountain Park currently pays $1.75 per 1,000 gallons and the rural water district pays $2 per 1,000. New rates for these bulk water customers will be established as plans are made for a new water plant.
In an e-mail from Fire Chief Bill Graves, he requested a rate increase of $1 for fire transfer fees. This fee was overlooked earlier in the year when the council increased fees for other community services. The increase will bring the fire department fee to $2 per month. Resolution 2010-5 establishing fire transfer fees was passed.
An update of the Snyder Municipal Code Books by SWODA was approved. According to Biddle, current books are difficult to use, very convoluted and out of date. The books were last updated in 1988.
City attorney Shane McLaury said an update is recommended at least every 10 years. The current books in a "terrible mess," he said. Each council member, the mayor, clerk and attorney should have a copy.
SWODA prepares the books for $3,000 on a two-year contract with the city providing copies of each ordinance.
The council agreed to amend the fire department budget to include the FY 2009 Assistance to Firefighters Grant awarded by FEMA. The grant totals $83,420. The Federal share is 95% or $79,249 of the approved amount and the fire department contributes $4,171. The funds will be used for equipment per Chief Graves' discretion.
Assistant Police Chief Terry Taylor gave an update on disaster recovery. He said an emergency plan has been approved and an site has been approved for disposal of limbs and storm debris. Mayor Gary Anderson said Taylor has worked very diligently pulling all the information together and is to be commended for all his work.
One bid was received for auditor for the period ending June 30, 2009. Jackie Graves' bid of $15,000, which is the same amount as the previous year, was accepted.
Crawford and Associates submitted the only bid for financial statements in the amount of $24,450. The council had been dissatisfied with Crawford's work preparing last year's statements because they took so long to receive them, but has discovered the delay was due to Snyder's former city clerk not providing information in a timely manner and not providing complete information. Crawford stated their personnel had asked them not to bid on Snyder because last time was so much trouble. They had to send personnel to city hall to find information needed. Biddle and City Treasurer Patti Locklear assured Crawford that record keeping has improved and all information will be provided. The council accepted the bid.
A citizen complaint was received regarding junk cars cluttering the yard at 400 10th street. The council voted to begin nuisance abatement proceedings.
Effective November 2008 all cities are required to have a code enforcement officer who has completed certification training. Employees of a municipality employed or otherwise assigned to enforce provisions of Section 22-111 of Title 11 of the Oklahoma Statutes shall complete certification training specifically applicable to such section as adopted and administered by the Oklahoma Code Enforcement Association, an internationally recognized model code organization, career technical education program, or an institution of higher education. The certification training shall be completed within one year of employment or assignment for such enforcement.
Council member Spud Kirk said having a trained officer gives the city "a leg to stand on" in enforcing actions. The council agreed it would be beneficial to have someone who has been trained and knows the requirements for enforcement.
The council had previously approved Animal Control Officer Jerry Taylor as Snyder's code enforcement officer when reviewing his job description. It was agreed that he would be best to do the job as long as he keeps within a 32 hour work week. They said he is in a better position to observe violations since he patrols the town regularly in his animal control duties. The council approved sending Taylor to Basic Code Class at a cost of $185.
Minutes of the February 16 regular meeting, March 1 special meeting and March treasurer's report were approved.
Payroll of $23,623.16 was approved with council member Teresa Mills casting a "no" vote. Mills requested that hours be shown on future payroll statements. She questioned why Police Chief John McBee appears to be working less than a 40 hour week while other officers are putting in overtime. Department heads were recently instructed to cut out overtime due to budget constraints. "We didn't hire him to work part time and receive full time benefits," she said. Mayor Anderson said he'd have to look into it and placed the issue on the agenda for the March 29 special meeting.
First of the month purchase orders, warrants and claims in the amount of $24,900.18 were approved.
Following executive session the council agreed to convert the city treasurer position to a full time 40 hour work week with full time benefits at current pay rate.
Only one application was received for the swimming pool manager. Kirk stated the applicant was very qualified for the job, but voiced concern that the position had a short advertising period. The council voted to table the matter until the Mar. 29 special meeting and re-advertise the position. Applications will be taken until 3 p.m., Mar. 12. Full job description and applications are available at city hall.
Under new business, McLaury reported Randy Archer had contacted him on behalf of the Mountain Park Master Conservancy District. The district has voted to allocate the small remaining portion, 130 acre ft., of non-allocated water to the three owners, Snyder, Altus and Frederick at no additional charge.
SPWA has short agenda
Snyder Public Works Authority convened at 8:50 p.m. and make quick work of a short agenda.
The resolutions for water, sewer and fire transfer fees were approved as written along with minutes of the Feb. 16 regular meeting, Mar. 1 special meeting and March treasurer's report.
The council approved a budget amendment withdrawing $18,056.84 from the Rural Development Reserve Account and placing it in the water plant account. The reserve account was overfunded and Rural Development approved the withdrawal providing funds are used to pay past due accounts payable of the water system.
Payroll was encumbered with council member Clay Oxley voting "no." First of month purchase orders, warrants and claims in the amount of $39,478.34 were encumbered.
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Saturday, March 13, 2010
End of the road for Lady Cyclones
Snyder's Lady Cyclones fell to #1 ranked Dale Friday afternoon in the State 2A semi-final game. The score was 40 - 23 at the final buzzer.
In the first trip for a Lady Cyclone team to the state tournament in 10 years, the girls fought their way to the semi-finals - as far as any girls' team from Snyder has gone. This was only the fourth time for a Lady Cyclone team to play in a state tournament. Quite a list of accomplishments for the 13th ranked team with a new coach.
The Lady Cyclones, who will only lose one graduating senior, Jetta Trammell, will be looking forward to more great things next year.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Lady Cyclones two away from State title
The Lawton Constitution headline reads: Snyder girls pull shocker in 2A State. Everyone on Facebook is saying "Wow, what a game!"
In the first game of the Class 2A State Tournament yesterday, the 13th ranked Snyder Lady Cyclones played #2 Konawa. After being tied at 19-all going into the half, Snyder was down by 10 heading into the final quarter. Then Coach Jeremy Tharp cranked up the fire in his girls to come away with the 44 - 41 win.
Jetta Trammell hit the tying 3-pointer with 1:12 remaining and Maddie Geiger made a lay-up to take the lead with 31 seconds left in the game.
Snyder plays #1-ranked Dale today at noon. Winner will advance to the final game, playing Washington or Pawnee Saturday morning at 10:30.
Snyder City Council will hold its regular monthly meeting Monday night at 6:59 p.m. at Snyder City Hall.
Items on the agenda for the Snyder city council meeting include:
The Lawton Constitution headline reads: Snyder girls pull shocker in 2A State. Everyone on Facebook is saying "Wow, what a game!"
In the first game of the Class 2A State Tournament yesterday, the 13th ranked Snyder Lady Cyclones played #2 Konawa. After being tied at 19-all going into the half, Snyder was down by 10 heading into the final quarter. Then Coach Jeremy Tharp cranked up the fire in his girls to come away with the 44 - 41 win.
Jetta Trammell hit the tying 3-pointer with 1:12 remaining and Maddie Geiger made a lay-up to take the lead with 31 seconds left in the game.
Snyder plays #1-ranked Dale today at noon. Winner will advance to the final game, playing Washington or Pawnee Saturday morning at 10:30.
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DON'T FORGET!!!
Set your clocks forward 1 hour
before you go to bed Saturday night.
DON'T FORGET!!!
Set your clocks forward 1 hour
before you go to bed Saturday night.
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Snyder City Council regular meeting Monday
Snyder City Council will hold its regular monthly meeting Monday night at 6:59 p.m. at Snyder City Hall.
Items on the agenda for the Snyder city council meeting include:
- Resolution 2010-1, Establishing Fees for Water Service and Sewer Service
- Resolution 2010-5, Establishing Fire Transfer Fees
- Request for Approval for Update of Snyder Municipal Code Books by SWODA
- Budget Amendment for Fire Department Grant Received
- Update Council on Disaster Recovery, Federal Aid Programs for Oklahoma
- Opening and award of bids for Auditor and Financial Statements
- Citizen complaint over junk cars, 400 10th, requests action
- Code Enforcement Class Training; approval of April training dates and position tasked
- Executive session:
- City Treasurer - convert position from part time to full time
- Swimming Pool Working Manager - review applications and interview applicants
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Board accepts resignations and re-assignments in regular meeting
Snyder Board of Education accepted the resignations of five employees, heard program updates and reports and dealt with routine business at Monday night's regular meeting.
Following discussion in executive session the board accepted resignations for school year 2011 from certified personnel Dianne Atchley and Gloria Mosley and support personnel Shirley Holder, Kathy Osborn and Rena Gibbons. All five ladies accepted the retirement incentive offered in February.
Mrs. Atchley stated in her letter that she will be available to teach at a reduced salary if she begins to receive her teacher retirement and the incentive offered by Snyder School Board. She went on to say that she would like to continue to teach for a few more years. Mrs. Atchley is the high school science teacher.
"There aren't enough accolades to describe all the great students, faculty, administrators, and Board of Education members I've encountered in my forty years as a teacher for Snyder Public Schools," she wrote. "I have been so very fortunate to have an occupation that I love. Teaching and kids have been my life."
In Mrs. Mosley's letter she stated her intention to accept the retirement incentive, retiring from her full-time position as high school and elementary library media specialist. She would like to return for half-time employment as high school and elementary library media specialist in August.
Mrs. Mosley wrote, "It is with mixed emotions that I take this step into retirement/part-time employment. I have thoroughly enjoyed my 33 years of teaching and serving as librarian. I appreciate the support of the past and present Board of Education, Administration and entire staff.
"Thank you for allowing me to have the wonderful opportunity and experience of working with Snyder youth these many years. They have given me a lifetime of precious memories."
Mrs. Holder is resigning her position as superintendent's secretary and taking advantage of the incentive offered. She stated she is willing to continue to work part-time at one half of her salary.
Mrs. Osborn accepted the incentive agreement and thanked the board for the opportunities she has had the past 20 years working for the school. She offered her assistance in filling her positions.
Mrs. Gibbons is taking the incentive offer for retirement from her position as Food Service Director. She said she has enjoyed her 15 years in that position.
Judy Adler's request for re-assignment to Food Services Director and Year Book Adviser and an extra-duty contract for Mrs. Mosley on Summer Library Duty were approved.
Reports were given on Professional Development by Sharon McKee, an update on the Special Education program by Terri Woodward, and a Federal Programs update by Tamra Phelan.
Mrs. McKee reported the professional day scheduled for this Friday is not necessary due to teachers reporting to school to ready their rooms the day before students returned following the ice storm. She reviewed staff development so far this year, and said the fourth session will include review of CRT results and the WinGage grade book. Possible staff development opportunities during the summer were also mentioned.
Mrs. Woodward presented an update on the Special Education program. She said Snyder Schools currently have 100 students on ICP (Individual Education Plan). Of that number, 37 are in the program for speech and language only.
Six are non-graded early childhood students. These are younger than pre-kindergarten children who have been referred from notices placed around town, in daycare centers and published in the newspaper. They are seen twice a week for speech and/or occupational therapy. Thirty-seven are learning disabled, 13 are health impaired and five are intellectually deficient.
The special education staff includes Rhonda Hicks at the primary building, Teresa Usher - elementary, and Pari Breeze - high school. Staci West is the primary teacher's aide. Speech and occupational therapy are contracted with JCMH hospital at Altus. Superintendent Robert Trammell said Snyder Schools have an outstanding special ed department.
Snyder Public Schools has received a total of $832,876.55 in funds and opportunities for staff, parents and students for FY 2009-10. Mrs. Phelan presented a breakdown of how the money was spent, with $365,510 for students, $18,900 for parents, and $448,466.55 for the school.
$251,850 was received by students in the form of scholarships and grants; $86,500 for five Cameron PLUS Scholars; 80 ACT fee waivers; and $15,600 for 20 UpWard Bound students. Parents received the equivalent of $18,900 in free lunches for students via the Migrant program. Snyder Public Schools received $25,500 from the 2009-10 Gear Up Grant; $20,500 from the 2010-11 Gear Up Grant; $102,000 for 35 Migrant students; $89,381 Title I ARRA; $161,227 Title I Part A; $2,740 Title IV (Safe & Drug Free Schools); $41,885.55 State REAP FLEX used to fund technology related items; and $5,733 ACE Remediation for tutoring.
Some of the items purchased with federal money were: six Smart Boards, four all-in-one printers, seven desktop computers, one Smart Board screen, one Smart Table, one printer, Buckle Down test preparation for grades 4-8 in reading and math, library materials for John D. Moeller Primary, $100 per teacher for school supplies, Leap Pad material for PK, Tumble Book for PK, Education Software for grades 4-8, Leap Pads for Elementary and Calculators for grade 7-8 math.
Federal money was also used to fund: four staff members to attend Encyclo-Media, six staff members - nine days of LOGIC training at Cameron University, four staff members - two days of LOGIC Counselor's training, two staff members to attend Gear Up State Conference, magnetic school calendars for all students and staff, 62 high school students attended Chad Cargill's ACT Prep Workshop. It fully funded two full-time PK teachers, three full-time teacher's assistants, two full-time computer assistants, four teachers for Before and After School Tutoring Program, salary and transportation for driver to transport students to GPTC in Frederick. Partially funded: high school counselor's salary and transportation costs, two kindergarten teachers, two teacher's assistants, two health teachers, and one reading specialist.
The board approved the addition of LaDeen Sharver to the substitute teacher list; application for Secondary Career Tech programs for school year 2010-11; and fund-raising activities for the sophomore and junior classes.
The sophomore class will sell homemade ice cream at one home baseball game and one home softball game and they received permission to sell Snyder Cyclone blankets (throws) in the spring. The junior class will sponsor Spring Lifetouch Pictures.
Mr. Trammell presented a certificate from the Oklahoma State Department of Health for adopting and enforcing a 24/7 Tobacco-Free School Policy in his superintendent's report. He said the school is in full compliance for the Breathe Easy program and will receive a banner.
He reported the FFA spring schedule with good participation in the local and county livestock shows; the band receiving superior ratings at District Contest, qualifying them to compete at state contest in Stillwater on April 20; and the girls' basketball team going to state tournament. The Lady Cyclones will play at 7 p.m. Thursday at the state fairgrounds in Oklahoma City.
In a compliance check by the Regional Accreditation Officer, Mr. Trammell said the district can keep to this year's calendar with May 20 being the last day of school for the students and May 21 the final professional day for the teachers. No days will need to be added due to time missed during the ice storm and power outage.
In other routine business the Feb. 8 minutes, encumbrances and change orders, treasurer's report and monthly activity custodian report were approved.
The treasurer's report revealed $729,774.56 in the General Fund, $9,143.21 in the Co-op Fund, $57,076 in the Building Fund and $29,858.47 in Child Nutrition for a total of $825,852.24. Mr. Trammell said that figure is just a little under what it was this time last year. February interest earned from Bank of the Wichitas was $1,110.17 with earned interest to date, $6,372.84.
Board members attending include: Mike Roberts, Buster Spurlin, Jana Moeller, Jerry Geiger, Perch Flinn, and James Schneider. Brian Wilhite was absent.
Snyder representatives attend Rural Water District meeting
Snyder Vice Mayor Teresa Mills, Water Superintendent Mark Shelton, and Water Plant Advisory Board members Randy Archer and Todd Huckabay attended a Comanche County Rural Water District No. 4 meeting Tuesday night to discuss the future of the association between the two entities.
The city currently sells more than 177 million gallons of water to the rural water district, generating more than $300,000 in revenue for 2009. Snyder will need to renegotiate a long-term contract with the rural water district before proceeding with plans for a new water plant.
Mills was told that the water district had made numerous attempts to contact the city in regards to negotiations with no response. Snyder mayor, Gary Anderson, and the city's engineer, Steve Cesar, were invited to the meeting, but did not attend.
Snyder is definitely interested in a long-term contract and working together on securing financing, grants and other sources of funding for the new plant, Mills told the water district.
Archer said project plans for a reverse osmosis plant have been passed along to USDA Rural Development and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board for review.
Snyder Board of Education accepted the resignations of five employees, heard program updates and reports and dealt with routine business at Monday night's regular meeting.
Following discussion in executive session the board accepted resignations for school year 2011 from certified personnel Dianne Atchley and Gloria Mosley and support personnel Shirley Holder, Kathy Osborn and Rena Gibbons. All five ladies accepted the retirement incentive offered in February.
Mrs. Atchley stated in her letter that she will be available to teach at a reduced salary if she begins to receive her teacher retirement and the incentive offered by Snyder School Board. She went on to say that she would like to continue to teach for a few more years. Mrs. Atchley is the high school science teacher.
"There aren't enough accolades to describe all the great students, faculty, administrators, and Board of Education members I've encountered in my forty years as a teacher for Snyder Public Schools," she wrote. "I have been so very fortunate to have an occupation that I love. Teaching and kids have been my life."
In Mrs. Mosley's letter she stated her intention to accept the retirement incentive, retiring from her full-time position as high school and elementary library media specialist. She would like to return for half-time employment as high school and elementary library media specialist in August.
Mrs. Mosley wrote, "It is with mixed emotions that I take this step into retirement/part-time employment. I have thoroughly enjoyed my 33 years of teaching and serving as librarian. I appreciate the support of the past and present Board of Education, Administration and entire staff.
"Thank you for allowing me to have the wonderful opportunity and experience of working with Snyder youth these many years. They have given me a lifetime of precious memories."
Mrs. Holder is resigning her position as superintendent's secretary and taking advantage of the incentive offered. She stated she is willing to continue to work part-time at one half of her salary.
Mrs. Osborn accepted the incentive agreement and thanked the board for the opportunities she has had the past 20 years working for the school. She offered her assistance in filling her positions.
Mrs. Gibbons is taking the incentive offer for retirement from her position as Food Service Director. She said she has enjoyed her 15 years in that position.
Judy Adler's request for re-assignment to Food Services Director and Year Book Adviser and an extra-duty contract for Mrs. Mosley on Summer Library Duty were approved.
Reports were given on Professional Development by Sharon McKee, an update on the Special Education program by Terri Woodward, and a Federal Programs update by Tamra Phelan.
Mrs. McKee reported the professional day scheduled for this Friday is not necessary due to teachers reporting to school to ready their rooms the day before students returned following the ice storm. She reviewed staff development so far this year, and said the fourth session will include review of CRT results and the WinGage grade book. Possible staff development opportunities during the summer were also mentioned.
Mrs. Woodward presented an update on the Special Education program. She said Snyder Schools currently have 100 students on ICP (Individual Education Plan). Of that number, 37 are in the program for speech and language only.
Six are non-graded early childhood students. These are younger than pre-kindergarten children who have been referred from notices placed around town, in daycare centers and published in the newspaper. They are seen twice a week for speech and/or occupational therapy. Thirty-seven are learning disabled, 13 are health impaired and five are intellectually deficient.
The special education staff includes Rhonda Hicks at the primary building, Teresa Usher - elementary, and Pari Breeze - high school. Staci West is the primary teacher's aide. Speech and occupational therapy are contracted with JCMH hospital at Altus. Superintendent Robert Trammell said Snyder Schools have an outstanding special ed department.
Snyder Public Schools has received a total of $832,876.55 in funds and opportunities for staff, parents and students for FY 2009-10. Mrs. Phelan presented a breakdown of how the money was spent, with $365,510 for students, $18,900 for parents, and $448,466.55 for the school.
$251,850 was received by students in the form of scholarships and grants; $86,500 for five Cameron PLUS Scholars; 80 ACT fee waivers; and $15,600 for 20 UpWard Bound students. Parents received the equivalent of $18,900 in free lunches for students via the Migrant program. Snyder Public Schools received $25,500 from the 2009-10 Gear Up Grant; $20,500 from the 2010-11 Gear Up Grant; $102,000 for 35 Migrant students; $89,381 Title I ARRA; $161,227 Title I Part A; $2,740 Title IV (Safe & Drug Free Schools); $41,885.55 State REAP FLEX used to fund technology related items; and $5,733 ACE Remediation for tutoring.
Some of the items purchased with federal money were: six Smart Boards, four all-in-one printers, seven desktop computers, one Smart Board screen, one Smart Table, one printer, Buckle Down test preparation for grades 4-8 in reading and math, library materials for John D. Moeller Primary, $100 per teacher for school supplies, Leap Pad material for PK, Tumble Book for PK, Education Software for grades 4-8, Leap Pads for Elementary and Calculators for grade 7-8 math.
Federal money was also used to fund: four staff members to attend Encyclo-Media, six staff members - nine days of LOGIC training at Cameron University, four staff members - two days of LOGIC Counselor's training, two staff members to attend Gear Up State Conference, magnetic school calendars for all students and staff, 62 high school students attended Chad Cargill's ACT Prep Workshop. It fully funded two full-time PK teachers, three full-time teacher's assistants, two full-time computer assistants, four teachers for Before and After School Tutoring Program, salary and transportation for driver to transport students to GPTC in Frederick. Partially funded: high school counselor's salary and transportation costs, two kindergarten teachers, two teacher's assistants, two health teachers, and one reading specialist.
The board approved the addition of LaDeen Sharver to the substitute teacher list; application for Secondary Career Tech programs for school year 2010-11; and fund-raising activities for the sophomore and junior classes.
The sophomore class will sell homemade ice cream at one home baseball game and one home softball game and they received permission to sell Snyder Cyclone blankets (throws) in the spring. The junior class will sponsor Spring Lifetouch Pictures.
Mr. Trammell presented a certificate from the Oklahoma State Department of Health for adopting and enforcing a 24/7 Tobacco-Free School Policy in his superintendent's report. He said the school is in full compliance for the Breathe Easy program and will receive a banner.
He reported the FFA spring schedule with good participation in the local and county livestock shows; the band receiving superior ratings at District Contest, qualifying them to compete at state contest in Stillwater on April 20; and the girls' basketball team going to state tournament. The Lady Cyclones will play at 7 p.m. Thursday at the state fairgrounds in Oklahoma City.
In a compliance check by the Regional Accreditation Officer, Mr. Trammell said the district can keep to this year's calendar with May 20 being the last day of school for the students and May 21 the final professional day for the teachers. No days will need to be added due to time missed during the ice storm and power outage.
In other routine business the Feb. 8 minutes, encumbrances and change orders, treasurer's report and monthly activity custodian report were approved.
The treasurer's report revealed $729,774.56 in the General Fund, $9,143.21 in the Co-op Fund, $57,076 in the Building Fund and $29,858.47 in Child Nutrition for a total of $825,852.24. Mr. Trammell said that figure is just a little under what it was this time last year. February interest earned from Bank of the Wichitas was $1,110.17 with earned interest to date, $6,372.84.
Board members attending include: Mike Roberts, Buster Spurlin, Jana Moeller, Jerry Geiger, Perch Flinn, and James Schneider. Brian Wilhite was absent.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Snyder representatives attend Rural Water District meeting
Snyder Vice Mayor Teresa Mills, Water Superintendent Mark Shelton, and Water Plant Advisory Board members Randy Archer and Todd Huckabay attended a Comanche County Rural Water District No. 4 meeting Tuesday night to discuss the future of the association between the two entities.
The city currently sells more than 177 million gallons of water to the rural water district, generating more than $300,000 in revenue for 2009. Snyder will need to renegotiate a long-term contract with the rural water district before proceeding with plans for a new water plant.
Mills was told that the water district had made numerous attempts to contact the city in regards to negotiations with no response. Snyder mayor, Gary Anderson, and the city's engineer, Steve Cesar, were invited to the meeting, but did not attend.
Snyder is definitely interested in a long-term contract and working together on securing financing, grants and other sources of funding for the new plant, Mills told the water district.
Archer said project plans for a reverse osmosis plant have been passed along to USDA Rural Development and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board for review.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Mayor called to task at special Snyder City Council meeting Monday night
Agenda items:
Council member Teresa Mills had removal of the mayor put on the agenda. She stated that she always hears how the mayor's style is "laid back, let everything roll," and letting department heads have free reign is what led to the current situation for the city. She said if she had gotten the numbers she repeatedly asked for after taking office we would have known that the ex-city clerk who had been telling them that they had money and bills were paid had been basically "lying through her teeth because she knew she was hiding checks and knew bills weren't getting paid and employees were not being taken care of on their insurance and tax payments."
Mills said that she had talked to a lot of citizens who were tired of things just being allowed to roll along. "We still don't have an audit started. We are losing gas tax money every month because we don't have a current audit." The previous clerk just kept saying they were working on getting an audit.
Mills also said she's asked and asked for the police department issues to be taken more seriously. Even the condition of the police station office and police cars are awful. She said people have told her that they wouldn't work back there "because it's a pig sty. It's dirty and cluttered and things can't be found. Paperwork is not being filed at Hobart.
"There's got to be a handle. All I'm asking you to do is stand up and take charge and oversee. Don't give Johnny McBee free reign." She said officers who have worked there have quoted McBee as saying "I have the mayor in my back pocket."
Mayor Gary Anderson replied, "I can't address what's been said in private behind my back, but I don't think that's the situation. I do talk to the chief several times a week. He reports what's going on. I've told him that the cars and the department needs to be cleaned up. We're in the process of removing a desk or two and trying to get it where it's a little easier for them to keep it clean. They have been smoking back there and that's been stopped."
Mills retorted, "[Keeping] Johnny McBee as chief is not taking control. All he's worried about is counting it as his town. We've got to have professionalism. You've lost one in particular very good officer and some a couple more reserves."
Anderson said that on an exit interview he was told they were getting too much harassment.
"From me? No, fraid not," Mills replied.
Assistant Clerk Sherry Krause said she and the other girls in the office "have had it.
Something has got to give. We are grown adults here, not 2 yrs old. If we can't do our job and get along like we're supposed to, forget it, we don't need to be here."
Mills said, "Getting along is not solving the problems."
Anderson said, "We are sitting here bickering like a bunch of 5 year olds with a water plant falling down around our ears, other issues, streets that need addressing, a lot of important issues other than whether my style of management vs your style of management..."
Mills said, "it's not my style, i'm telling you what the citizens are saying. I'm just asking that these things be addressed. I'm asking you to get up off your butt and take charge and take care of stuff! We've got to see something move on the water plant, we've been talking about it for months."
Council member Spud Kirk joined in saying that this job takes a little while to grasp the magnitude of it and he hopes it has come to light what is required. We do have to take a positive grasp on everything and everybody take hold and go on there have to be positive changes he said. "The mayor is in fact the city manager and we do need to allow time, we do have an elected representative of the city and he needs a little time... On the other hand there were times when there should have been more action a lot quicker than there was and other people had to step up. "We do need to take positive steps and go on and put this disruptive time behind us."
City Clerk Tammy Biddle said, "Looking at it from the inside out...a lot of the complaints - we had Lori sitting there telling us everything's ok, I've got this she made a very good show of it. There was a horrible division of labor in this office. Things were pushed onto people that they shouldn't have been doing and she wasn't doing 9/10 of what she should have been doing. That created a backlog because things were heaped on Sherry that she shouldn't have been responsible for.
"It takes three people three days to enter readings from the meters and four people two days to get the bills out. Imagine Sherry doing this entirely by herself for two years without any help from Lori. All the time there was Lori sitting there telling everybody it's okay. It wasn't just Gary she duped, she duped this entire city council. She duped each and every one of you into believing.
Biddle continued, "I'm not going to give up until I straighten this mess up to the best of my ability. I'm trying to help each and every one of you citizens get to where they need to be and every one of these council members just like Sherry and just like Patti. Sitting here bickering and pointing fingers is not getting us anywhere.
"All we're trying to say is yes, Gary should have stepped up a few more times than he did. He realizes his mistake now because he had Lori sitting here saying it's alright, we got this, Well you didn't get this."
Patti Mountford said that's all the more reason there should be a full audit.
Biddle said they are advertising for an auditor now and doing everything possible to get the audit done because they realize lack of an audit has cost the city a lot of money. "You've lost 2007 gas excise taxes, you almost lost 2008 by 2 days because the audit had to be in to the state by Dec. 31, 2009 it made it to the state Dec 28.
"Bottom line I support Teresa. There are several instances that Gary should have stepped up and we've been prodding him to step up a whole lot more. Lori had him into a rhythm he only had to come in a few hours every day, it's all running nice and smooth, no complaints, everything was being pushed under a giant carpet. This carpet has now exploded out from under you. He's trying to find his feet and find out how much time he does need to spend in this office.
"We're going to get it figured out. None of us are giving up. You were duped, they were duped, we're just asking for your patience. Let us help you try to figure this out where we can get this back on an even keel."
Mountford said, "I think you do have people's patience because y'all were a God send. Y'all were the ones who found out what was going on. If she hadn't gone to Alaska we'd still be getting told everything's okay."
Biddle said, "You realize your council gave her a raise as she was handing in her resignation. I'm still working for $9.50 an hour. I promise you it's not enough for me to stay here long term but I am not going to give up until this situation is sorted out and this city is back to normal and the citizens are going to be taken care of."
Kirk said, "I appreciate everything you've done and I personally would like to apologize to Sherry. I didn't know the situation and the load she was working under. i really apprecitae her for hanging in during all that. We all should think about the fact what we ask a mayor to do for $300 a month."
Patti Locklear, city treasurer, said, "It's very hard to work here - emotionally you get people yelling, screaming, then you come to a council meeting - if it's arguing in here it's that much harder. You just cringe coming to a council meeting. It makes it harder on us working too. If everybody could get along we can fix it, but I commend you [Sherry] for staying for two years."
Shirley Mills replied, "You don't get everything solved by everybody getting along. You have to have discussions. It doesn't mean we're criticizing you. I appreciate all the improvements you made. I think Teresa isn't criticizing Gary, she's just trying to get him to step up. That's not bickering, that's asking. All the council members need to step and make sure the finances are being taken care of."
Kirk said, "I'll be the first one to say i was caught totally off guard. I was given false information. ... We asked for budget reports every month but we didn't get them. There was always an excuse. These girls have done a fantastic job."
Mills said she appreciates the city hall employees. She said she does speak her mind and she wasn't elected to come in and "schmooze along with everyone else and get along great." She said she doesn't want to bicker and argue, she just wants action.
"We've been in here since May and we have accomplished not diddly squat except what we've accomplished since you guys (the new city clerk and treasurer) have gotten in here
and got stuff straightened out. Pretty much other than that we've not gotten anything done."
Anderson replied that they are moving forward on the water plant.
Kirk concurred. "We are moving forward we have gotten off high center," he said. "I think having someone who's always wanting to present a view point even though they know everyone's not going to agree with it, because they know it's right - there's nothing wrong with that. That's a strong thing."
City Attorney Shane McLaury said he wanted to speak to the legalities of what was going on. He said he spoke with Mills and Anderson separately about the causes and procedures for removal from office and he wanted to make sure the other council members understood. This ordinance is mirrored on state law. It allows removal of appointed and hired officers and employees from office, but does not apply to elected officials such a council member or the mayor.
"I think Teresa did want to voice her concerns and she's done a very good job of that tonight and she's had support from some of the citizens and each of you have too," he said. "In my opinion there's not really any action to take against the mayor on this other than voice concerns as Teresa has been doing."
McLaury went on to say that in order to remove an elected official from office it has to be done by the state district attorney or by the attorney general's office according to state law. He recommended going on and proceeding past the matter.
No action was required.
During public participation Shirley Mills asked how much money is being saved by the trash service switching to poly carts instead of dumpsters. Mayor Anderson replied that it's hard to tell, but at least $5 per customer. Teresa Mills said she has heard a lot of negative feedback regarding the change; city hall employees reported the same.
Kirk said he originally was against them, but after learning about the service offered by IESI and studying the pros and cons he decided they are a good idea. Positive aspects of the poly carts include: absolute control over personal trash with the container remaining on your property until it's dumped; the city's expense of keeping roll off boxes for bulky items will be over because large items will be picked up by IESI at the curb; anyone unable to move their cart to the street has only to let them know and they will collect the cart and return it to their house; anyone needing an extra cart may request it for an extra $5.95 per month.
Kirk stated that all other similar size cities have gone to the carts and it was inevitable that we would have to switch eventually. Businesses will still have dumpsters in the alleys. Concerns were voiced about country people using the dumpsters. City Attorney Shane McLaury said there is a 1993 ordinance against unauthorized use of dumpsters.
Biddle told the council that the budget amendment items and grant reimbursement were tied together. She and treasurer Patti Locklear discovered that funds from a REAP grant had not been reimbursed to the Street & Alley fund, so that account has an extra $17,902.09. The fire department account had not received funds from a State of Oklahoma annual grant totaling $5,100, and $18,843.75 from a Dept. of Civil Emergency Management storm sirens grant had not been reimbursed to the city hall account. Also, some payroll expenses which were actually SPWA had not been reimbursed to the city hall account. These reimbursements brought all budget balances back in the black, but the budgets will have to be amended at a later date.
Police department spending has long been a bone of contention with the council. Mills suggested that 24/7 patrols are not needed. Hours could be cut back with an officer on call who would only be paid if called out. Kiowa County Sheriff Department assured her that any time the city should have a lapse in coverage, if the officer could not be reached, they would be glad to step in and assist.
Assistant Chief Terry Taylor said he has been working on the scheduling and they are trying to cut back as much as possible but we also want to provide 24 hour coverage for the citizens
There was some discussion about dissatisfaction with Chief Johnny McBee, who was not present at the meeting although his department budget was on the agenda. Several citizens said they never see him outside the office - he needs to be more visible and seen out on the streets. Tannah Abernathy asked what the chief does. Taylor replied that he is responsible for all administrative and other daily business. The mayor was very defensive of the chief.
Another complaint was about the door to the police station being kept locked. Several agreed that the door should be unlocked whenever an officer is present in the office.
Biddle said that you have to know how much money you have and how much you need to spend and these correct figures were not previously provided to the council.
Anderson said department heads will participate in the budget process this year.
Kirk made a motion for all department heads to present a report of what they might be possible budgetary savings during the remainder of this fiscal year. The reports will be due at the next special council meeting scheduled for March 29. Motion was approved.
Establishing fees for water and sewer service was tabled again due to Ronny Jones, representative of Rural Development, not being able to attend.
Kirk commented on how good it is to see citizens attending the meeting and voicing their opinions.
Anderson reported a place has been approved for burning tree limbs from the ice storm. Department of Environmental Quality and two other agencies had to approve the site. Residents may place their limbs by the street and the city crews will pick them up.
The council meeting was adjourned and Public Works Authority was called to order at 8:26 p.m.
Funds transferred from SPWA to the city account as per discussion in the council meeting was approved and water and sewer fees were also tabled.
Final contract with IESI for trash service was approved after minor adjustments requested by McLaury had been made. Mills voted no.
Carol Middick made a presentation to the council regarding the possibility of building a water bottling company when the new water plant is built. She said the city could clear $86,400 per year from such a business, plus jobs would be created. Her main point was that the city should not sell any more water to entities such as CKT without looking at other options.
Council members thought the idea has some merit and would be worth checking out after the new water plant is built.
Randy Archer, member of the water plant advisory committee, explained again the findings of the committee. He listed the three options: number one choice - building a reverse osmosis plant which will need a supplemental water source; building a chloramine plant with surface water from Tom Steed; or at the very minimum repairing the existing plant.
The council approved a motion by Kirk to accept the findings of the committee, and extend the authority to the committee to investigate financing of the plant.
The next council meeting will be the regular monthly meeting, March 15.
Agenda items:
- Public Participation
- Budget amendments for City of Snyder, police department, and animal control
- Grant reimbursement appropriation for storm siren, REAP, and fire department
- Snyder code of ordinances regarding the removal of officers from office (Mayor)
- Budgetary concerns over police department expenditures and required curtailment of training and vehicle expenses
- Adoption of SPWA Resolution establishing fees for water and sewer services
Council member Teresa Mills had removal of the mayor put on the agenda. She stated that she always hears how the mayor's style is "laid back, let everything roll," and letting department heads have free reign is what led to the current situation for the city. She said if she had gotten the numbers she repeatedly asked for after taking office we would have known that the ex-city clerk who had been telling them that they had money and bills were paid had been basically "lying through her teeth because she knew she was hiding checks and knew bills weren't getting paid and employees were not being taken care of on their insurance and tax payments."
Mills said that she had talked to a lot of citizens who were tired of things just being allowed to roll along. "We still don't have an audit started. We are losing gas tax money every month because we don't have a current audit." The previous clerk just kept saying they were working on getting an audit.
Mills also said she's asked and asked for the police department issues to be taken more seriously. Even the condition of the police station office and police cars are awful. She said people have told her that they wouldn't work back there "because it's a pig sty. It's dirty and cluttered and things can't be found. Paperwork is not being filed at Hobart.
"There's got to be a handle. All I'm asking you to do is stand up and take charge and oversee. Don't give Johnny McBee free reign." She said officers who have worked there have quoted McBee as saying "I have the mayor in my back pocket."
Mayor Gary Anderson replied, "I can't address what's been said in private behind my back, but I don't think that's the situation. I do talk to the chief several times a week. He reports what's going on. I've told him that the cars and the department needs to be cleaned up. We're in the process of removing a desk or two and trying to get it where it's a little easier for them to keep it clean. They have been smoking back there and that's been stopped."
Mills retorted, "[Keeping] Johnny McBee as chief is not taking control. All he's worried about is counting it as his town. We've got to have professionalism. You've lost one in particular very good officer and some a couple more reserves."
Anderson said that on an exit interview he was told they were getting too much harassment.
"From me? No, fraid not," Mills replied.
Assistant Clerk Sherry Krause said she and the other girls in the office "have had it.
Something has got to give. We are grown adults here, not 2 yrs old. If we can't do our job and get along like we're supposed to, forget it, we don't need to be here."
Mills said, "Getting along is not solving the problems."
Anderson said, "We are sitting here bickering like a bunch of 5 year olds with a water plant falling down around our ears, other issues, streets that need addressing, a lot of important issues other than whether my style of management vs your style of management..."
Mills said, "it's not my style, i'm telling you what the citizens are saying. I'm just asking that these things be addressed. I'm asking you to get up off your butt and take charge and take care of stuff! We've got to see something move on the water plant, we've been talking about it for months."
Council member Spud Kirk joined in saying that this job takes a little while to grasp the magnitude of it and he hopes it has come to light what is required. We do have to take a positive grasp on everything and everybody take hold and go on there have to be positive changes he said. "The mayor is in fact the city manager and we do need to allow time, we do have an elected representative of the city and he needs a little time... On the other hand there were times when there should have been more action a lot quicker than there was and other people had to step up. "We do need to take positive steps and go on and put this disruptive time behind us."
City Clerk Tammy Biddle said, "Looking at it from the inside out...a lot of the complaints - we had Lori sitting there telling us everything's ok, I've got this she made a very good show of it. There was a horrible division of labor in this office. Things were pushed onto people that they shouldn't have been doing and she wasn't doing 9/10 of what she should have been doing. That created a backlog because things were heaped on Sherry that she shouldn't have been responsible for.
"It takes three people three days to enter readings from the meters and four people two days to get the bills out. Imagine Sherry doing this entirely by herself for two years without any help from Lori. All the time there was Lori sitting there telling everybody it's okay. It wasn't just Gary she duped, she duped this entire city council. She duped each and every one of you into believing.
Biddle continued, "I'm not going to give up until I straighten this mess up to the best of my ability. I'm trying to help each and every one of you citizens get to where they need to be and every one of these council members just like Sherry and just like Patti. Sitting here bickering and pointing fingers is not getting us anywhere.
"All we're trying to say is yes, Gary should have stepped up a few more times than he did. He realizes his mistake now because he had Lori sitting here saying it's alright, we got this, Well you didn't get this."
Patti Mountford said that's all the more reason there should be a full audit.
Biddle said they are advertising for an auditor now and doing everything possible to get the audit done because they realize lack of an audit has cost the city a lot of money. "You've lost 2007 gas excise taxes, you almost lost 2008 by 2 days because the audit had to be in to the state by Dec. 31, 2009 it made it to the state Dec 28.
"Bottom line I support Teresa. There are several instances that Gary should have stepped up and we've been prodding him to step up a whole lot more. Lori had him into a rhythm he only had to come in a few hours every day, it's all running nice and smooth, no complaints, everything was being pushed under a giant carpet. This carpet has now exploded out from under you. He's trying to find his feet and find out how much time he does need to spend in this office.
"We're going to get it figured out. None of us are giving up. You were duped, they were duped, we're just asking for your patience. Let us help you try to figure this out where we can get this back on an even keel."
Mountford said, "I think you do have people's patience because y'all were a God send. Y'all were the ones who found out what was going on. If she hadn't gone to Alaska we'd still be getting told everything's okay."
Biddle said, "You realize your council gave her a raise as she was handing in her resignation. I'm still working for $9.50 an hour. I promise you it's not enough for me to stay here long term but I am not going to give up until this situation is sorted out and this city is back to normal and the citizens are going to be taken care of."
Kirk said, "I appreciate everything you've done and I personally would like to apologize to Sherry. I didn't know the situation and the load she was working under. i really apprecitae her for hanging in during all that. We all should think about the fact what we ask a mayor to do for $300 a month."
Patti Locklear, city treasurer, said, "It's very hard to work here - emotionally you get people yelling, screaming, then you come to a council meeting - if it's arguing in here it's that much harder. You just cringe coming to a council meeting. It makes it harder on us working too. If everybody could get along we can fix it, but I commend you [Sherry] for staying for two years."
Shirley Mills replied, "You don't get everything solved by everybody getting along. You have to have discussions. It doesn't mean we're criticizing you. I appreciate all the improvements you made. I think Teresa isn't criticizing Gary, she's just trying to get him to step up. That's not bickering, that's asking. All the council members need to step and make sure the finances are being taken care of."
Kirk said, "I'll be the first one to say i was caught totally off guard. I was given false information. ... We asked for budget reports every month but we didn't get them. There was always an excuse. These girls have done a fantastic job."
Mills said she appreciates the city hall employees. She said she does speak her mind and she wasn't elected to come in and "schmooze along with everyone else and get along great." She said she doesn't want to bicker and argue, she just wants action.
"We've been in here since May and we have accomplished not diddly squat except what we've accomplished since you guys (the new city clerk and treasurer) have gotten in here
and got stuff straightened out. Pretty much other than that we've not gotten anything done."
Anderson replied that they are moving forward on the water plant.
Kirk concurred. "We are moving forward we have gotten off high center," he said. "I think having someone who's always wanting to present a view point even though they know everyone's not going to agree with it, because they know it's right - there's nothing wrong with that. That's a strong thing."
City Attorney Shane McLaury said he wanted to speak to the legalities of what was going on. He said he spoke with Mills and Anderson separately about the causes and procedures for removal from office and he wanted to make sure the other council members understood. This ordinance is mirrored on state law. It allows removal of appointed and hired officers and employees from office, but does not apply to elected officials such a council member or the mayor.
"I think Teresa did want to voice her concerns and she's done a very good job of that tonight and she's had support from some of the citizens and each of you have too," he said. "In my opinion there's not really any action to take against the mayor on this other than voice concerns as Teresa has been doing."
McLaury went on to say that in order to remove an elected official from office it has to be done by the state district attorney or by the attorney general's office according to state law. He recommended going on and proceeding past the matter.
No action was required.
During public participation Shirley Mills asked how much money is being saved by the trash service switching to poly carts instead of dumpsters. Mayor Anderson replied that it's hard to tell, but at least $5 per customer. Teresa Mills said she has heard a lot of negative feedback regarding the change; city hall employees reported the same.
Kirk said he originally was against them, but after learning about the service offered by IESI and studying the pros and cons he decided they are a good idea. Positive aspects of the poly carts include: absolute control over personal trash with the container remaining on your property until it's dumped; the city's expense of keeping roll off boxes for bulky items will be over because large items will be picked up by IESI at the curb; anyone unable to move their cart to the street has only to let them know and they will collect the cart and return it to their house; anyone needing an extra cart may request it for an extra $5.95 per month.
Kirk stated that all other similar size cities have gone to the carts and it was inevitable that we would have to switch eventually. Businesses will still have dumpsters in the alleys. Concerns were voiced about country people using the dumpsters. City Attorney Shane McLaury said there is a 1993 ordinance against unauthorized use of dumpsters.
Biddle told the council that the budget amendment items and grant reimbursement were tied together. She and treasurer Patti Locklear discovered that funds from a REAP grant had not been reimbursed to the Street & Alley fund, so that account has an extra $17,902.09. The fire department account had not received funds from a State of Oklahoma annual grant totaling $5,100, and $18,843.75 from a Dept. of Civil Emergency Management storm sirens grant had not been reimbursed to the city hall account. Also, some payroll expenses which were actually SPWA had not been reimbursed to the city hall account. These reimbursements brought all budget balances back in the black, but the budgets will have to be amended at a later date.
Police department spending has long been a bone of contention with the council. Mills suggested that 24/7 patrols are not needed. Hours could be cut back with an officer on call who would only be paid if called out. Kiowa County Sheriff Department assured her that any time the city should have a lapse in coverage, if the officer could not be reached, they would be glad to step in and assist.
Assistant Chief Terry Taylor said he has been working on the scheduling and they are trying to cut back as much as possible but we also want to provide 24 hour coverage for the citizens
There was some discussion about dissatisfaction with Chief Johnny McBee, who was not present at the meeting although his department budget was on the agenda. Several citizens said they never see him outside the office - he needs to be more visible and seen out on the streets. Tannah Abernathy asked what the chief does. Taylor replied that he is responsible for all administrative and other daily business. The mayor was very defensive of the chief.
Another complaint was about the door to the police station being kept locked. Several agreed that the door should be unlocked whenever an officer is present in the office.
Biddle said that you have to know how much money you have and how much you need to spend and these correct figures were not previously provided to the council.
Anderson said department heads will participate in the budget process this year.
Kirk made a motion for all department heads to present a report of what they might be possible budgetary savings during the remainder of this fiscal year. The reports will be due at the next special council meeting scheduled for March 29. Motion was approved.
Establishing fees for water and sewer service was tabled again due to Ronny Jones, representative of Rural Development, not being able to attend.
Kirk commented on how good it is to see citizens attending the meeting and voicing their opinions.
Anderson reported a place has been approved for burning tree limbs from the ice storm. Department of Environmental Quality and two other agencies had to approve the site. Residents may place their limbs by the street and the city crews will pick them up.
The council meeting was adjourned and Public Works Authority was called to order at 8:26 p.m.
Snyder Public Works Authority
Under public participation Bill Ford stated his water bill is about three times higher than normal. Biddle said she would put out a work order for his meter to be checked, and if it is faulty his bill will be averaged.Funds transferred from SPWA to the city account as per discussion in the council meeting was approved and water and sewer fees were also tabled.
Final contract with IESI for trash service was approved after minor adjustments requested by McLaury had been made. Mills voted no.
Carol Middick made a presentation to the council regarding the possibility of building a water bottling company when the new water plant is built. She said the city could clear $86,400 per year from such a business, plus jobs would be created. Her main point was that the city should not sell any more water to entities such as CKT without looking at other options.
Council members thought the idea has some merit and would be worth checking out after the new water plant is built.
Randy Archer, member of the water plant advisory committee, explained again the findings of the committee. He listed the three options: number one choice - building a reverse osmosis plant which will need a supplemental water source; building a chloramine plant with surface water from Tom Steed; or at the very minimum repairing the existing plant.
The council approved a motion by Kirk to accept the findings of the committee, and extend the authority to the committee to investigate financing of the plant.
The next council meeting will be the regular monthly meeting, March 15.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Snyder City Council and Public Works February regular meetings
Snyder Public Works Authority received recommendations for a new water plant from the water plant advisory committee at their regular meeting February 16 with Mayor Gary Anderson, council members Teresa Mills and Clay Oxley in attendance. Councilmen Bob Sproat and Spud Kirk were absent.
Randy Archer spoke for the committee, stating that their recommendation was strictly technical and funding options were up to the council. He said their findings indicate the best strategy for the city would be a reverse osmosis (RO) plant with well water to be blended with water from Tom Steed Reservoir.
The current facility is "close to disastrous," Archer said, and the city cannot continue to sell water to CKT in the future without going above and beyond Steed water. If the city opts to continue with only lake water, a less expensive chloramine plant used, but chloramine plants may only be accepted by DEQ for a few more years.
Just doing minimum repairs and upgrading the existing plant or going with a choloramine plant would only be a "bandaid" and something else would have to be done in another eight or nine years. Since the one thing Snyder can make money on is water, it seems sensible to build a water plant that will last into the future.
OERB, Rural Water Board, and federal stimulus money are possible sources of funding for a new facility. The authority will take action on the committee's recommendations at a special meeting Monday, March 1 at 7 p.m.
Also addressed at the meeting was a request from the Town of Mountain Park to have their water bill adjusted due to a faulty check valve causing their water usage to appear to be about three times normal. The authority agreed to allow them to pay an averaged bill with any needed adjustment to be made in April after the new valve has been installed.
City Clerk Tammy Biddle reported the second of two letters will be included in the March 1 water bills. She said there had been quite a bit of negative feedback about the letters, and explained that they are required by DEQ due to the water plant being under a consent order and should not be a cause for alarm.
Other business included approving resolutions for fees trash and community service and fire transfer fees, effective March 1; approval of minutes of the January 19 regular meeting, Feb. 5, special meeting, and Feb. treasurer's report; and encumbering payroll, first of month purchase orders, warrants and claims.
Fees for water and sewer service will be voted on at the March 1 special meeting.
The council conducted routine business, approving resolutions establishing fees for trash service, community service and fire transfer fees effective March 1; appointing the water superintendent (Mark Shelton) as Floodplain Administrator; approving final contract for trash service with IESI; and amending an ordinance relating to employee holiday fringe benefits due to Columbus day being removed from the city calendar as a holiday. Also approved was a statement of "Intent to Continue Participation with Red River Transportation Service."
An ordinance amending the amount the mayor, vice mayor or other city official designated by the city council as purchasing officer, is allowed to spend without council approval from $7,500 to $2,500 was approved. Mayor Anderson suggested the amount be lowered to $5,000, but was overruled.
The council voted to advertise for a swimming pool manager and agreed that no contractor will be needed for maintenance and repairs to the pool.
The Animal Control Officer duty description was reviewed and approved, which also assigns the ACO as Snyder Code Enforcement Officer, responsible for enforcement of non-related federal, state, and local statutes and names him to assist other departments with non-routine issues as determined immediately necessary by mayor or other department heads and to perform non-related work as required. The council tabled sending ACO Jerry Taylor to a code enforcement training pending further study. Evidently the state legislature voted in 2008 to require training for any officer who enforces local or state statutes.
The council agreed to utilize inmate labor to complete basic repairs and tune-up of the animal control truck.
Minutes of the Jan. 19 regular meeting and Feb. 5 special meeting and Feb. treasurer's report were approved. Minutes of a Feb. 2 emergency meeting were questioned by Mayor Anderson. He asked city attorney Shane McLaury if it was a legal meeting since he was not notified of the meeting. The meeting was called during the ice storm by Vice Mayor Teresa Mills and two council members who were all at city hall. McLaury stated there was a quorum so it was okay, but suggested in the future that an attempt should be made to contact all council members. The minutes were approved with Mayor Anderson casting a "no" vote.
Payroll of $24,563.17 and first of the month purchase orders, warrants and claims totaling $61,835.47 were encumbered. It was noted that this figure includes payment of some past due bills and taxes which are being caught up from 2008.
Under new business Mills asked why the item "Pursuant to Section 1-150 of Snyder Code of Ordinances (1988), regarding the removal of officers from office (Mayor)," she had requested be on the agenda was removed. Mayor Anderson stated he was under the impression that it required a 10 day notice, but McLaury said it does not. Anderson apologized and said it would be placed on the Mar. 1 special meeting agenda.
Snyder Public Works Authority received recommendations for a new water plant from the water plant advisory committee at their regular meeting February 16 with Mayor Gary Anderson, council members Teresa Mills and Clay Oxley in attendance. Councilmen Bob Sproat and Spud Kirk were absent.
Randy Archer spoke for the committee, stating that their recommendation was strictly technical and funding options were up to the council. He said their findings indicate the best strategy for the city would be a reverse osmosis (RO) plant with well water to be blended with water from Tom Steed Reservoir.
The current facility is "close to disastrous," Archer said, and the city cannot continue to sell water to CKT in the future without going above and beyond Steed water. If the city opts to continue with only lake water, a less expensive chloramine plant used, but chloramine plants may only be accepted by DEQ for a few more years.
Just doing minimum repairs and upgrading the existing plant or going with a choloramine plant would only be a "bandaid" and something else would have to be done in another eight or nine years. Since the one thing Snyder can make money on is water, it seems sensible to build a water plant that will last into the future.
OERB, Rural Water Board, and federal stimulus money are possible sources of funding for a new facility. The authority will take action on the committee's recommendations at a special meeting Monday, March 1 at 7 p.m.
Also addressed at the meeting was a request from the Town of Mountain Park to have their water bill adjusted due to a faulty check valve causing their water usage to appear to be about three times normal. The authority agreed to allow them to pay an averaged bill with any needed adjustment to be made in April after the new valve has been installed.
City Clerk Tammy Biddle reported the second of two letters will be included in the March 1 water bills. She said there had been quite a bit of negative feedback about the letters, and explained that they are required by DEQ due to the water plant being under a consent order and should not be a cause for alarm.
Other business included approving resolutions for fees trash and community service and fire transfer fees, effective March 1; approval of minutes of the January 19 regular meeting, Feb. 5, special meeting, and Feb. treasurer's report; and encumbering payroll, first of month purchase orders, warrants and claims.
Fees for water and sewer service will be voted on at the March 1 special meeting.
Council conducts routine business, heated discussion
Snyder City Council convened in their regular monthly meeting at 8 p.m., February 16, following the Public Works Authority meeting. Mayor Gary Anderson and council members Teresa Mills and Clay Oxley were present; Bob Sproat and Spud Kirk were absent.The council conducted routine business, approving resolutions establishing fees for trash service, community service and fire transfer fees effective March 1; appointing the water superintendent (Mark Shelton) as Floodplain Administrator; approving final contract for trash service with IESI; and amending an ordinance relating to employee holiday fringe benefits due to Columbus day being removed from the city calendar as a holiday. Also approved was a statement of "Intent to Continue Participation with Red River Transportation Service."
An ordinance amending the amount the mayor, vice mayor or other city official designated by the city council as purchasing officer, is allowed to spend without council approval from $7,500 to $2,500 was approved. Mayor Anderson suggested the amount be lowered to $5,000, but was overruled.
The council voted to advertise for a swimming pool manager and agreed that no contractor will be needed for maintenance and repairs to the pool.
The Animal Control Officer duty description was reviewed and approved, which also assigns the ACO as Snyder Code Enforcement Officer, responsible for enforcement of non-related federal, state, and local statutes and names him to assist other departments with non-routine issues as determined immediately necessary by mayor or other department heads and to perform non-related work as required. The council tabled sending ACO Jerry Taylor to a code enforcement training pending further study. Evidently the state legislature voted in 2008 to require training for any officer who enforces local or state statutes.
The council agreed to utilize inmate labor to complete basic repairs and tune-up of the animal control truck.
Minutes of the Jan. 19 regular meeting and Feb. 5 special meeting and Feb. treasurer's report were approved. Minutes of a Feb. 2 emergency meeting were questioned by Mayor Anderson. He asked city attorney Shane McLaury if it was a legal meeting since he was not notified of the meeting. The meeting was called during the ice storm by Vice Mayor Teresa Mills and two council members who were all at city hall. McLaury stated there was a quorum so it was okay, but suggested in the future that an attempt should be made to contact all council members. The minutes were approved with Mayor Anderson casting a "no" vote.
Payroll of $24,563.17 and first of the month purchase orders, warrants and claims totaling $61,835.47 were encumbered. It was noted that this figure includes payment of some past due bills and taxes which are being caught up from 2008.
Under new business Mills asked why the item "Pursuant to Section 1-150 of Snyder Code of Ordinances (1988), regarding the removal of officers from office (Mayor)," she had requested be on the agenda was removed. Mayor Anderson stated he was under the impression that it required a 10 day notice, but McLaury said it does not. Anderson apologized and said it would be placed on the Mar. 1 special meeting agenda.
Resolution 2010-2
A resolution by the trustees of the Snyder, Oklahoma Public Works Authority, establishing fees for trash service.Trash, per month:
Per residential customer polycart $20.15
Per additional residential plolycart $ 5.95
Per commercial cart, one lift/week $25.20
Per commercial size, 2 Cubic Yard (dumpster), one lift/week $50.40
Per commercial size, 4 Cubic Yard, one lift/week $74.40
Per commercial size, 6 Cubic Yard, one lift/week $100.80
Per commercial size, 8 Cubic Yard, one lift/week $114.00
Per residential customer polycart $20.15
Per additional residential plolycart $ 5.95
Per commercial cart, one lift/week $25.20
Per commercial size, 2 Cubic Yard (dumpster), one lift/week $50.40
Per commercial size, 4 Cubic Yard, one lift/week $74.40
Per commercial size, 6 Cubic Yard, one lift/week $100.80
Per commercial size, 8 Cubic Yard, one lift/week $114.00
Resolution 2010-3
A resolution by the trustees of the Snyder, Oklahoma Public Works Authority, establishing community service and fire department transfer fees.Park $ .75
Police $ 1.50
Street & Alley $3.00
Cemetery $ .75
Fire $ 1.00
Police $ 1.50
Street & Alley $3.00
Cemetery $ .75
Fire $ 1.00
Friday, February 5, 2010
Ground Hog Supper postponed to next Saturday
The Snyder United Methodist Men's 52nd annual ground hog supper originally planned for this Saturday will be from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m., Saturday, February 13 at the Snyder School cafeteria. Cost for "all you want to eat, or all you can eat" is $6 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under.
The Snyder United Methodist Men's 52nd annual ground hog supper originally planned for this Saturday will be from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m., Saturday, February 13 at the Snyder School cafeteria. Cost for "all you want to eat, or all you can eat" is $6 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Sunshine and blue skies!
Today is day 6 of the ordeal southwest Oklahomans have come to know as the Ice Storm of 2010. Power has been off in Snyder and many other communities since Thursday afternoon, and water went off Friday and came back on Saturday, to go off again last night.
The latest estimate from PSO for the power to be restored in Snyder-Mt. Park is 11 p.m. tonight. For more info check their website at: https://www.psoklahoma.com/outages/details.aspx?stormName=Oklahoma%20Winter%20Storm%20January%2028-29,%202010 for more details.
Snyder's water plant had gotten power back from rural electric, but lost it when they lost three substations Monday. According to Vice Mayor Teresa Mills a FEMA generator was on the way from Corps of Engineers this morning complete with diesel and ready to be hooked up, so water should be back online tonight.
Many people have worked diligently to help everybody keep warm, fed and safe. Mills said city employees have been doing whatever is needed, working out of the old fire bay at city hall with power from a generator. Assistant Police Chief Terry Taylor has kept his department up and running with no big emergencies reported. Fire Chief Bill Graves reported no fires during this time.
Snyder First Baptist Church has kept their shelter open since Friday, providing hot meals and shelter. Kari Ayers and Kirk Reimers were manning the kitchen yesterday and reported serving around 130 for lunch, with about half that many for breakfast and supper. They have six or seven people sleeping there. They reported lots of help from church members along with the youth and other community members. Food has kept coming in from many groups and individuals.
Mandy Higginbotham, who was also helping at the church, said they were open at First National Bank, Mountain Park, working with hand held calculators in the cold. Bank of the Wichitas in Snyder is also open with a generator running. Jean Merchant at the Snyder Post Office said they had not missed a whole day, only missed rural delivery on Friday.
A few Snyder businesses have been open, including Willis Quick Stop, Toma Grocery, and Snyder Hardware.
I have to say I was being quite nonchalant about the whole winter storm business before it hit. Having never been in a situation where the whole area was without power for more than a day or two at most, I just could not imagine it happening to us. Even when we lived in the country we were never without power for this long. I imagine many others were the same. I know I won't take my luxuries for granted quite so much after this.
It will take some time for the aftermath of this storm to be over, with so much cleanup of tree limbs and debris to be done. Lots of chores have been put on hold with no power, and many will have to clean out freezers and refrigerators.
The trickle down effect will cause lasting repercussions, too. Businesses unable to be open will lose money, and sales tax will not be generated. Hourly workers will miss paychecks. We've witnessed this sort of thing in other areas with disasters, but never had it hit this close to home. I have a friend who was in the position of having school age children without daycare, and a job at a business that was open. There are just so many ways that such a disaster affects so many different people it's kind of mind-boggling to think of.
For the most part we are seeing the best of those in our communities who are helping people, and the workers who are toiling to get our services back up and running. Let us hope that we can all remain patient in the hours, days, and even weeks to come until we store away the ice storm of 2010 in our memories and photo albums.
At three o'clock this afternoon we're seeing sunshine and blue skies here in Snyder, America for the first time since last Wednesday's sunny, springlike day. We were commenting on Wednesday how strange it seemed for there to be a winter storm watch on the horizon. What a difference 24 hours made!
Today is day 6 of the ordeal southwest Oklahomans have come to know as the Ice Storm of 2010. Power has been off in Snyder and many other communities since Thursday afternoon, and water went off Friday and came back on Saturday, to go off again last night.
The latest estimate from PSO for the power to be restored in Snyder-Mt. Park is 11 p.m. tonight. For more info check their website at: https://www.psoklahoma.com/outages/details.aspx?stormName=Oklahoma%20Winter%20Storm%20January%2028-29,%202010 for more details.
Snyder's water plant had gotten power back from rural electric, but lost it when they lost three substations Monday. According to Vice Mayor Teresa Mills a FEMA generator was on the way from Corps of Engineers this morning complete with diesel and ready to be hooked up, so water should be back online tonight.
Many people have worked diligently to help everybody keep warm, fed and safe. Mills said city employees have been doing whatever is needed, working out of the old fire bay at city hall with power from a generator. Assistant Police Chief Terry Taylor has kept his department up and running with no big emergencies reported. Fire Chief Bill Graves reported no fires during this time.
Snyder First Baptist Church has kept their shelter open since Friday, providing hot meals and shelter. Kari Ayers and Kirk Reimers were manning the kitchen yesterday and reported serving around 130 for lunch, with about half that many for breakfast and supper. They have six or seven people sleeping there. They reported lots of help from church members along with the youth and other community members. Food has kept coming in from many groups and individuals.
Mandy Higginbotham, who was also helping at the church, said they were open at First National Bank, Mountain Park, working with hand held calculators in the cold. Bank of the Wichitas in Snyder is also open with a generator running. Jean Merchant at the Snyder Post Office said they had not missed a whole day, only missed rural delivery on Friday.
A few Snyder businesses have been open, including Willis Quick Stop, Toma Grocery, and Snyder Hardware.
I have to say I was being quite nonchalant about the whole winter storm business before it hit. Having never been in a situation where the whole area was without power for more than a day or two at most, I just could not imagine it happening to us. Even when we lived in the country we were never without power for this long. I imagine many others were the same. I know I won't take my luxuries for granted quite so much after this.
It will take some time for the aftermath of this storm to be over, with so much cleanup of tree limbs and debris to be done. Lots of chores have been put on hold with no power, and many will have to clean out freezers and refrigerators.
The trickle down effect will cause lasting repercussions, too. Businesses unable to be open will lose money, and sales tax will not be generated. Hourly workers will miss paychecks. We've witnessed this sort of thing in other areas with disasters, but never had it hit this close to home. I have a friend who was in the position of having school age children without daycare, and a job at a business that was open. There are just so many ways that such a disaster affects so many different people it's kind of mind-boggling to think of.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Ice Storm of 2010
Snyder residents are beginning day three of no power and the first day of no water with ice covered trees and a thin layer of snow on the ground.
According to Terry Taylor, Snyder Police Department, water should be back on by tonight. The National Guard is bringing a FEMA generator from Oklahoma City for the water plant.
I spoke with PSO this morning and their latest estimate for power restoration is 11 p.m. Tuesday.
Emergency shelter is being provided at First Baptist Church for anyone who needs a place to stay and/or a warm meal. Working with the Red Cross and Salvation Army, they have food, water, and cots and have rented a generator for power. Pastor Jeff Flowers said they fed 60 people last night and had six overnight guests. Soup was being prepared for today's lunch when I spoke with him. He said food had been brought in by the school and Salvation Army and many others.
The Snyder Police Department phone, 580-569-4115, is being manned 24/7 with officers on duty to provide any help needed. Officer Terry Taylor reported there have been no fires or major emergencies so far. Officers Taylor, John Phipps, reserve officer Adam Ney, and Jerry Taylor have been manning the police department and patrolling.
Most of these arrangements are due to the efforts of Snyder Vice Mayor Teresa Mills. After realizing the police phone was not working yesterday morning, and finding the mayor at home in his pajamas and city business with no guidance, she took matters in hand and started contacting people to get phone service set up and personnel in place to handle the emergency. She worked with Water Superintendent Mark Shelton and electrical contractor Stan Holland to contact FEMA to get the generator on its way, and with FBC getting the shelter set up.
In addition, Mills has gone door to door several times in the freezing cold, checking on residents in Snyder and Mountain Park to make sure everyone was safe. This community owes her a debt of gratitude for all she has done.
Levi Moss, Kiowa County District 3 EMS, said they initially transported critical patients from Ayers Nursing Home to Frederick Hospital where they had power, and have kept tabs on several area oxygen patients to assure that they are ok. They also rescued some Roosevelt residents who were trapped in their homes due to the ice. He was pleased to report there have been no accidents due to the ice and roads are clearing. EMS also assisted in setting up the shelter at FBC.
All in all, even though some of us may think we have it rough, we are fortunate to have people working to take care of things, and we hopefully will come out of this no worse for wear. If nothing else, we have learned some things that need to be done for future emergencies.
Again, for assistance, call Snyder Police Dept., 569-4115 or First Baptist Church, 569-2944.
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