Mays County pursues $3M TSET legacy grant deadline approaching

The City Council of Pryor Creek convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss several pressing matters, including a significant grant opportunity from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET). The meeting began with a motion to pursue the TSET legacy grant, which has a limited application window and requires no matching funds, prompting a swift decision-making process.

Council member Gauthier initiated the motion, which was seconded by Bradshaw. The urgency of the grant was emphasized, as it was added to the agenda at the last minute due to its impending deadline of June 16. TSET, which operates using funds from tobacco settlements rather than taxpayer dollars, has reduced the number of counties it supports in Oklahoma, leaving Mays County as one of the five counties still receiving full funding.

The council discussed the implications of the grant, which has a minimum application amount of $3 million and a maximum of $150 million. The funds are available because TSET needs to allocate money from counties that have been closed down. The council recognized the importance of seizing this opportunity, as it could provide substantial financial support for local initiatives.

Members of the council, including Marty and Harper, collaborated to assess the feasibility of completing the three-page grant application within the tight timeframe. The discussion highlighted the collective effort required to navigate the grant process and the potential benefits it could bring to the community.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to pursuing funding opportunities that could enhance the resources available to Pryor Creek. The urgency of the TSET grant application was a focal point, with council members working together to ensure that the city does not miss out on this critical funding opportunity. Further updates on the grant application process are expected as the deadline approaches.