Tuesday’s evening focused on improving neighborhoods, supporting future housing development, discussing the town’s role in the newly created 522 Ambulance District, and celebrating the success of this year’s Freedom Fest.
Brian Henry, owner of Henry Code Enforcement of Enid presented a proposal to assist the town with nuisance complaints, overgrown properties, dilapidated structures, and other property maintenance issues. Town Administrator Tiffany Rowen said using a third-party company removes the perception of favoritism that can arise in a small community when local employees enforce code violations.
Henry explained that his firm currently serves numerous Oklahoma communities and focuses on working with property owners first through courtesy notices before pursuing stronger enforcement measures if necessary.
Trustees expressed support for the concept but tabled action until Town Attorney Jared Harrison can prepare a formal contract outlining the scope of services and enforcement procedures.
Mitchell Road Project Continues
Rowen reported that construction continues on the Mitchell Road reconstruction project. Dirt work in the drainage ditches is underway, with crews expected to begin placing the final layer of pavement within the next couple of weeks.
Aquatic Center Enjoying Strong Summer
Rowen said the Hennessey Aquatic Center continues to have a successful season with visitors still discovering the facility. She said they are considering offering one weekly “locals only” night swim to give Hennessey residents additional opportunities to enjoy the pool.
School Resource Officer Returns
Trustees unanimously approved renewing the School Resource Officer agreement with Hennessey Public Schools.
Police Chief Christian Solis said Officer Luis Rojo will once again serve in the schools after what he described as an outstanding first year in the position. Board members praised the officer’s relationship with students and agreed he has become an important part of the school environment.
Vacant Trustee Seats Headed Toward Election
The board also discussed filling the two vacant trustee positions left by Harold Shaw and David Jones.
After consulting with the town attorney, trustees indicated they favor allowing voters to choose both replacements through a special election rather than making appointments.
Board members said holding an election would provide continuity for future board terms while allowing residents to decide who should fill the unexpired seats. Final election dates are expected to be considered at an upcoming meeting. The board also approved removing the former trustees as authorized signers on town and utility bank accounts.
New Housing Planned
Trustees unanimously approved rezoning property at 318 W. Seventh Street from agricultural to R-3 multifamily zoning. The request, submitted by Monty Bullis, will allow construction of five duplexes consisting of five one-bedroom and five two-bedroom apartments.
Board members noted that Hennessey continues to experience a shortage of rental housing and welcomed the additional housing options for residents.
New Business and Community Liaison Position Approved
The board approved creating a new part-time Business and Community Relations Liaison position for current town employee Shelley Burch.
Rowen said the position will focus on strengthening relationships with local businesses, helping existing businesses succeed, coordinating community events, and working alongside organizations such as Discover Hennessey to promote the community.
The role will initially be combined with existing court clerk duties and evaluated over time to determine future staffing needs.
Questions Raised About 522 Ambulance District
Trustees also began discussing how the Town of Hennessey will work with the newly formed Hennessey 522 Ambulance District.
Trustee Bert Gritz asked the town attorney to research legal questions involving the use of town sales tax revenue, the ambulance building, equipment, and how those assets could be shared with the independent ambulance district.
Gritz also expressed concern that none of the current 522 board members reside inside the Hennessey town limits, while District 2 Commissioner Mike Sparks responded that appointments were made to provide representation throughout the ambulance district.
Town officials expect additional legal guidance before budget decisions are finalized later this summer.
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