Lawton City Council approves $1.2M wastewater project and $500K hotel-motel budget

The City Council of Lawton held a special meeting on May 20, 2025, to discuss the upcoming fiscal year's budget, which reflects a significant increase in funding across various departments. The proposed budget for the next year shows an overall increase of $1.2 million compared to the previous year, with notable allocations for wastewater management and infrastructure improvements.

Key highlights from the budget discussion include a $44,000 allocation for a lift station pump replacement in the wastewater collection system. Additionally, the Medicine Park water treatment plant will receive funding for lagoon discharge monitoring and chemical feed equipment, totaling approximately $63,400. Other significant projects include a $1.2 million allocation for HVAC repairs and replacements across city facilities.

The council also addressed funding for the cemetery care fund, which is set to increase by $775,000, allowing for the purchase of new mowers and equipment. Economic development initiatives are supported by a $500,000 allocation from hotel-motel tax revenues, with plans to discuss specific expenditures in an upcoming council meeting.

Infrastructure remains a priority, with $26 million budgeted for streets and roadway improvements, although this represents a decrease from previous years. The council noted that several capital improvement projects, including the McMahon Auditorium renovation and various water and sewer line replacements, are also included in the budget.

The meeting concluded with discussions on reimbursement resolutions for expenses already covered by the general fund, indicating ongoing financial management efforts to ensure accountability and transparency in city spending. The council plans to review these resolutions in future meetings, emphasizing their commitment to fiscal responsibility as they move forward with the budget approval process.