Jason Sparks details Oklahoma's takeover of Lawton Correctional Center operations

Lawton's City Council meeting on June 24, 2025, brought significant updates regarding the upcoming transition of the Lawton Correctional Center's operations and discussions on proposed charter changes aimed at enhancing local governance.

Jason Sparks, Chief Operations Officer for the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, addressed the council, confirming that the state will take over operations at the Lawton Correctional Center from the Geo Group on July 25. Sparks assured council members that current employees who pass background checks will be offered jobs, and the inmate population is expected to remain stable, fluctuating slightly but staying well below the facility's capacity of over 2,600 inmates.

In addition to the correctional facility update, the council discussed potential amendments to the city charter. City officials emphasized the importance of limiting proposed changes to four key items to avoid overwhelming voters. This approach aims to maintain citizen engagement and ensure that each proposal receives adequate attention. The council plans to hold three opportunities for public input on these changes, with the next sessions scheduled for June 30 and July 1.

Council members highlighted the significance of these charter amendments, noting that they could lead to positive changes in governance and service delivery for residents. Proposed changes include establishing service level standards and performance metrics, as well as clarifying the roles of city officials to enhance efficiency and transparency.

As the council prepares for the upcoming discussions and public meetings, the focus remains on fostering a government that is responsive to the needs of its citizens while ensuring a smooth transition in correctional facility operations. The outcomes of these discussions could shape the future of Lawton's governance and community services.