Lawton City Council approves trash-off event amid ongoing auditorium renovation challenges

The City Council of Lawton convened on May 13, 2025, to address various community issues and project updates. The meeting began with reports from the mayor and council members, highlighting upcoming events and community initiatives.

Mayor John acknowledged the rescheduled trash off event, set for Saturday from 8 AM to 2 PM at the Big Man Auditorium parking lot. He encouraged residents to participate and dispose of items that are typically costly to discard, such as tires. Council members expressed gratitude towards city employees for their efforts during recent rainfall and flooding, emphasizing teamwork in addressing community needs.

Councilwoman Mary mentioned the ongoing Food Truck Tuesday at the Farmers Market, inviting citizens to enjoy local cuisine. Another council member reported on the prompt repair of potholes and reminded residents about debris pickup related to flooding. Additionally, a reminder for Memorial Day on May 26 was shared, honoring fallen soldiers.

During audience participation, resident Cindy McIntyre addressed the council, urging them to establish a policy preventing local police from assisting federal immigration enforcement. She expressed concerns about the treatment of undocumented immigrants and the potential for violence during enforcement actions, advocating for a community-focused approach.

The council then moved to the consent agenda, approving several items with the exception of items 29 and 31, which were pulled for further discussion. Item 29 involved a change order for the McMahon Auditorium renovation project, requesting an increase of $725,428.92 due to unforeseen asbestos issues and boiler replacements. The council debated the necessity of the change order, with some members advocating for a postponement to review documents related to the asbestos findings and boiler assessments.

A motion to table the discussion for 30 days was proposed, with concerns raised about halting the ongoing project. The council ultimately decided to continue discussions at the next meeting, emphasizing the importance of maintaining project momentum while ensuring thorough oversight.

In conclusion, the meeting addressed significant community concerns, including public safety, local events, and infrastructure projects. The council's commitment to transparency and community engagement was evident, as they navigated complex issues while prioritizing the needs of Lawton residents. Further discussions on the McMahon Auditorium project are expected in the coming weeks.