Enid and Altus to receive $10M for new military school construction

The City of Enid, Oklahoma, held a study session on April 15, 2025, focusing on significant developments regarding local education and military initiatives. The meeting addressed funding for a new school, legislative updates on military protection, and ongoing military construction projects.

The primary discussion centered on a proposed $30 million school project intended to accommodate 350 students. The federal government is expected to cover 80% of the costs, amounting to $24 million. The Oklahoma Strategic Military Planning Commission has committed $1 million to the project, with $750,000 already disbursed. This leaves a remaining balance of $5 million that local public schools will need to secure. State legislators are currently considering a bill that could provide an additional $10 million for both Enid and Altus, enhancing the likelihood of funding for the school.

Concerns were raised about the current enrollment figures, which are approximately 230 students. The decision to build a larger school is based on anticipated increases in personnel due to the arrival of new aircraft, specifically the T-7, at Vance Air Force Base. The construction plan includes building the new school before demolishing the existing one, ensuring continuity in education for students.

The meeting also covered updates on Oklahoma House Bills 2516 and 2518, which aim to protect military installations and enhance funding initiatives. These bills serve as vehicles for appropriating funds to support military communities, particularly in relation to the construction of elementary schools.

Additionally, the discussion included Oklahoma Senate Bill 893, which seeks to restrict land purchases by foreign adversaries near military installations. The bill has undergone revisions to limit the list of adversaries to four countries: Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. This change aims to facilitate the bill's passage, which is expected to occur soon, making Oklahoma the first state to implement such measures.

Lastly, updates were provided on military construction appropriations for a new operations facility at Vance Air Force Base. An earmark of $8.6 million was allocated for engineering work, with expectations for the funds to be released in the coming months.

Overall, the meeting highlighted positive developments for Enid's educational infrastructure and military community, with significant funding opportunities on the horizon. The city officials expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing the benefits these initiatives will bring to local residents and military families.