Darlene Shear

The board discussed and took action on several items, including the selection of a location for an upcoming meeting, hiring legal counsel for water line easement acquisition and condemnation proceedings, hiring legal representation regarding a proposed moratorium on heavy industrial development and matters concerning a proposed aluminum plant, and hiring counsel to address a notice of intent to sue and open records requests.

The council discussed the establishment of a community advisory committee, including considerations for committee membership, authority, and future amendments to the resolution. Additionally, the council addressed a proposed moratorium on permits, approvals, and construction activities within the industrial heavy district of the town, prompted by citizen concerns regarding industrial development projects.

The City Council meeting focused primarily on public concerns regarding a proposed aluminum smelter project. Residents expressed significant apprehension about potential environmental impacts, including air and water quality degradation, health risks, increased traffic, and noise. Citizens called for greater transparency, the formation of a citizen committee to research and recommend safeguards, and the hiring of an independent environmental consultant. Additionally, speakers discussed the use of affidavits for legal redress and the potential for requesting a grand jury investigation into the decision-making process for the project.

The board meeting focused on several key topics, including community concerns regarding a proposed aluminum smelter project, with public comments and presentations on the potential environmental, health, and economic impacts. Discussions were held on forming a nonpartisan panel committee to research and provide oversight for community concerns related to industrial developments. Furthermore, the town administrator provided updates on road infrastructure improvements, the progress of the town's planning and zoning reorganization, and the scheduled operational testing and transition timeline for the new sewer plant.

The agenda for the meeting covers several key actions for the Town of Inola and the Inola Public Works Authority (PWA). Discussions planned include the Town Administrator update, action regarding the establishment of a debit card account with RCB, and acceptance of the INCOG/ REAP Grant for 2025-2026. Significant personnel actions involve accepting the resignation of the Town Clerk, Jayce Springer, effective January 31, 2026, and appointing a successor, as well as accepting the resignation of Town Trustee, Dean Tyler, effective January 22, 2026, and appointing a successor. Additionally, the agenda includes an executive session to discuss the appraisal and possible purchase of real property located between Town Hall and the Nursing Home. For the Street, Drainage, Park, and Cemetery items, appointments to the Cemetery Board are scheduled. For Police and Fire, actions include accepting the Rogers County Emergency Response Plan, approving the FEMA 2025 Multi Hazard Mitigation Plan Resolution, and potentially converting the police and fire administration clerk position to part-time due to reduced duties. The PWA session will address water rates for consumers following an increase charged by Rural Water District #2.