Del City Council debates jail location amid community safety concerns and ongoing lawsuits

Concerns over safety and community impact dominated the Del City Council meeting on December 16, 2024, as council members voiced strong opposition to the proposed construction of a new jail near residential areas. Councilman Tate highlighted a troubling call from a resident of Oak Brook Apartments, located directly across from the proposed jail site, who expressed fears for her safety due to rising crime and deteriorating living conditions in the area.

Tate urged city management to investigate the apartment complex for potential code violations, drawing parallels between the previous jail site and the current state of the Oak Brook Apartments, which he described as a burden on city resources. "Just imagine what the jail is gonna end up for our future people who live here," he warned, emphasizing the negative implications of the jail's location.

The council's collective sentiment was clear: they are committed to fighting against the jail's establishment at 1901 East Grand. Councilman Dean reinforced this stance, stating that if the county succeeds in its lawsuit to build the jail, the city would pursue further legal action to block it. "This is not such an easy thing for the city or county to think if they can get past this," he cautioned.

In addition to the jail discussions, the meeting also recognized community efforts, including a proclamation honoring students from the University of Central Oklahoma and Del City High School for their contributions to local beautification projects. The council celebrated the spirit of community service, highlighting the importance of maintaining a vibrant and safe environment for all residents.

As the council prepares for upcoming meetings with county officials, they are urging residents to remain engaged and vocal about their opposition to the jail, reinforcing their commitment to preserving the quality of life in Del City.