During the recent City Council meeting in Pryor Creek, held on September 16, 2025, significant discussions centered around the potential for securing funding through the TSET Healthy Living Grant. Harper Meehan, representing Mays County Hope under the TCET Impact Network, presented two grant opportunities aimed at enhancing community health and wellness, particularly through improvements at Bobby Buck Park.

Meehan explained that the TSET (Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust) was established from a 1998 settlement with the tobacco industry, with funds allocated to support health initiatives in Oklahoma. The first grant discussed was the TSET Built Environment Grant, which focuses on projects that promote physical activity and health improvements. This grant is competitive and requires the city to have a tobacco-free and wellness policy in place at the time of application. Meehan noted that while the city currently has a tobacco-free policy, it lacks a wellness policy, which would need to be developed if the council decides to pursue this grant.

The second grant, the TSET Healthy Incentive Grant, is available to municipalities for implementing best practices related to tobacco-free environments and access to healthy food. This grant is non-competitive and offers funding based on population size, with Pryor Creek eligible for up to $100,000. Importantly, this grant does not require a match from the city, making it a more accessible option for funding community health initiatives.

Council members expressed interest in the proposed projects, which could include playground equipment, benches, and fitness trail enhancements at Bobby Buck Park. However, there were questions regarding the eligibility of certain projects, such as the construction of bathrooms, which may not be covered under the grant.

The council's discussions highlighted the importance of these grants in addressing community health needs without straining the city’s general fund. As the application deadlines approach, the council will need to act swiftly to establish the necessary policies and submit proposals to secure funding for these vital projects. The meeting underscored a proactive approach to improving public health resources in Pryor Creek, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents.