County officials consider multiple town hall formats to engage public on detention center

During the recent Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and Public Building Authority (PBA) regular meeting held on June 2, 2025, discussions centered around enhancing public engagement regarding the proposed new detention center in Oklahoma County. The meeting highlighted the importance of town halls as a platform for community interaction and information dissemination.

The proposal emphasized the need for diverse town hall formats, including virtual options via platforms like Zoom, to ensure broader accessibility. Officials were encouraged to consider hosting these events by district or as a collective gathering, allowing for tailored discussions that could address specific community concerns. The idea is to not only have commissioners present but also to invite subject matter experts from various fields, such as criminal justice and mental health, to provide valuable insights and foster informed dialogue.

In addition to town halls, the meeting proposed utilizing targeted paid social media advertisements to reach specific demographics and geographic areas. This strategy aims to direct the public to the dedicated website, safer0kcounty.org, where they can access comprehensive information about the detention center project. The use of social media is seen as a vital tool to enhance visibility and engagement, meeting the public where they are most active.

Furthermore, the meeting suggested creating short video testimonies featuring community leaders and elected officials. These videos would serve to clarify any misconceptions about the detention center and highlight its benefits, reinforcing the message that accurate information is readily available online.

As the meeting concluded, officials were invited to share their thoughts and questions, indicating an openness to dialogue and collaboration as the project moves forward. The discussions reflect a proactive approach to community engagement, recognizing the importance of transparency and public involvement in local government initiatives.