Mayor Curt faces criticism over homelessness fines during council meeting

The Bartlesville City Council meeting on April 7, 2025, commenced with a focus on public input, allowing citizens to voice their opinions within a limited timeframe. Mayor Curt emphasized the need to manage a packed agenda, allocating one minute for each of the first 15 speakers.

The first speaker, LaShelle LeGriffin, identified herself as a precinct chair for the Republican Party but stated she was speaking as an individual. She expressed concerns regarding the council's governance, specifically addressing Mayor Curt and Councilman Trevor Dorsey. LeGriffin accused Dorsey of attempting to discourage her participation in council meetings, which she deemed a violation of her rights. She criticized the council for proposing a $500 fine for homeless individuals and urged council members to listen to the community's voice, advocating for a vote against certain proposals.

Following LeGriffin, Vicki Burner took the floor, sharing her long-standing connection to Bartlesville and her experience as a teacher for over four decades. While her comments were not detailed in the excerpt, her presence highlighted the engagement of long-term residents in local governance.

The meeting proceeded with additional speakers, each given a minute to present their views, reflecting a diverse array of opinions from the community. The council's approach to public participation underscored the importance of citizen involvement in local decision-making, even within the constraints of a busy agenda.

As the meeting continued, the council aimed to balance public input with the need to address various business items, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and community engagement. The discussions and decisions made during this session are expected to influence future policies and community relations in Bartlesville.