Lawton City Council approves permit extension for historical property renovations

The April 22, 2025, City Council meeting in Lawton, Comanche County, Oklahoma, focused on the ongoing issues surrounding a dilapidated property located at 803 Southwest D Avenue. The council addressed the property's condition, which includes damaged roofing, siding, and broken windows and doors. A permit for repairs has been requested, but the property has been inactive since May 16, 2023.

During the meeting, it was noted that the property was originally declared dilapidated on February 28, 2017, with a lawsuit initiated by the city attorney later that year. The council had previously granted the property owner, Kathy New, extensions to complete necessary renovations, but progress has been minimal, leading to the property being re-declared dilapidated in October 2024.

Council members discussed the historical significance of the property, which is linked to notable figures such as Quanah Parker and Wally Post. Concerns were raised about vagrancy and neighborhood disturbances related to the property's condition. Councilman Wally Post emphasized the need for transparency and collaboration with the property owner, who expressed intentions to invest in repairs.

A motion was made to allow the property owner to proceed with repairs while the Cultural Preservation Committee conducts a study to assess the property's historical value. The council ultimately decided to table the matter for six months, with plans to revisit it in October 2025, while also extending the permit to enable immediate repairs.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to extend the permit, allowing the property owner to begin work on the structure. The council's decision reflects a balance between preserving historical properties and addressing community concerns regarding safety and aesthetics.