The Hennessey Board of Trustees appointed Randy Bohnstedt, as mayor during its regular meeting on Tuesday, May 13th, following a brief nomination process and unanimous vote. John Peach was named vice mayor. Newly elected Bohnstedt, Kelley Vaverka, treasurer, and reelected Harrold Shaw and David Jones took the oath of office.
The meeting opened with approval of the consent agenda, minus April 8 meeting minutes and claims, which were addressed and passed later. Budget amendments were approved, and the town treasury report was accepted.
During the administrator’s report, Town Administrator Tiffany Tillman updated the board on several projects: Parking space striping on Main Street and side streets began last week. The Gonzalez construction project on the west side of town is complete. A contract was signed for the Municipal Road Drilling Act fund project on Mitchell Road.
Tillman also noted that Charles Blackburn, a newly graduated police officer, submitted his resignation. The town plans to explore a reimbursement or service commitment policy for future hires who receive paid training.
Staffing updates included hiring one pool manager, two assistant managers, nine lifeguards, and one counter employee, though applicant numbers remain low. Seasonal mowing positions are still open.
Citizens commented on recurring power outages on East Fifth Street, with an OG&E representative present to address concerns. The board tabled appointing a new deputy treasurer following Keith Mix’s resignation, pending legal guidance.
In other business: The town approved a $6,461.38 fireworks purchase from Rainbow Fireworks using tourism funds. Fireworks are scheduled for Sunday, June 29, to align with other local events and boost business traffic.
A $30,475 contract with Chickasaw Personal was approved for the Command One software to enhance remote storm siren activation capabilities.
Trustees were presented with the 2025–26 fiscal year budget; a work session will be scheduled for review. The board also approved surplus lists for various departments, including police, fire, parks, town hall, and public works. Additional items included old pavilion frames and unused T22 sirens.
During the trustee comment period, Mayor Randy Bohnstedt, issued an apology to The Hennessey Police Chief and Kingfisher County District 2 Commissioner for recent phone calls he felt did not represent the board professionally. Bohnstedt stated, “I did not make the calls.”
UTILITY AUTHORITY
The Hennessey Utility Authority, meeting immediately after, approved its own 2025–26 budget presentation and surplus of items from the water and sewer departments. A contract with F5 Construction for the completion of the town’s bulk water station was also approved.
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