The Hennessey Board of Trustees met Tuesday evening, October 13, with discussions focusing on improvements to the Senior Citizens Center, the future of the old high school/Library building, and filling two vacant trustee positions.
Senior Citizens Center Repairs Approved
Teresa Dillon, president of the Hennessey Senior Citizens Board, updated trustees on the center’s ongoing improvements and growing activities.
Following extensive kitchen renovations over the past year, the center now faces additional maintenance needs, particularly in the restrooms. Dillon expressed concern that plumbing problems could eventually force the center to close temporarily if not addressed.
Trustees unanimously approved a $2,765.62 bid from Dobbs Construction for necessary repairs.
Additional improvements, including new flooring, painting and other updates, are being considered for future phases. The Senior Citizens Board is also planning fundraising efforts to help finance those projects.
Teresa Dillon addressed the board about needed repairs for the Senior Citizens
Should the Old High School Stay or Go?
Richard Simunek presented a proposal asking trustees to consider placing a question on the April municipal election ballot, allowing Hennessey residents to express whether they want to preserve and renovate the old high school building, auditorium and gymnasium or pursue another direction.
The buildings currently house the public library and museum.
Simunek outlined a financial plan involving a proposed $3 million endowment through the Community Foundation of Oklahoma, which he estimated could generate approximately $250,000 annually to support improvements and activities.
He suggested renovations could be completed in phases using endowment funds, grants and potentially a future bond issue.
The proposed April vote would serve as a public opinion survey rather than an immediate request for funding. Trustees discussed the importance of determining public support before investing in detailed renovation plans.
No formal action was taken.
Richard Simunek asks the board to consider a vote of the public about the old high school/library building
Two Trustee Vacancies Could Be Filled in November
After months of discussion over how to fill two vacant seats on the five-member Board of Trustees, the remaining three members agreed to begin accepting applications for temporary appointments.
Trustees had originally wanted voters to fill the vacancies through an election, but election scheduling complications prevented that from happening.
Town attorney Jared Harrison explained that the board could now return to the appointment process, with those selected serving only until the next regular municipal election in April 2027.
Although trustees expressed a preference for allowing voters to decide, they acknowledged concerns about operating with only three members.
Residents interested in serving on the board must submit a letter of intent to Town Hall by November 3.
Those interested in serving should be at the November 10 meeting at the Town Hall starting at 6pm. Trustees are expected to interview and consider applicants and potentially make appointments at their next regular meeting on November 10.
All five trustee positions will be up for election in April 2027.
The Hennessey Board of Trustees discuss options to fill the vacant positions.
About The Author
