Enid commissioners table demolition decision for Simpson Museum to Dec. 16; owner vows repairs

The Enid Mayor and Board of Commissioners voted 7-0 to table the city—s dilapidation case against the Simpson Museum property at 228 East Randolph Avenue and set a December 16 deadline for the owner to provide a scope of work, a signed contract and a certificate of liability insurance.

The municipal code appeal followed a code-enforcement timeline presented by Assistant City Manager Scott Morris. Morris told the commission the structure had been declared dilapidated after a roof collapse and multiple missed deadlines for debris removal and structural repairs. Morris said the city first began outreach in 2024 and declared the building dilapidated on Aug. 26, 2025, after the owner failed to meet agreed dates for debris removal and structural plans. "Due to the lack of progress and the failure to meet any of these dates on the agreed timeline, the building was declared dilapidated," Morris said.

Owner Rick Simpson appeared at the meeting and said he has attempted to get contractors to bid on repairs but was told by multiple workers they were unwilling or told they could not work on the building. Simpson disputed that the city or commissioners wanted the building demolished and said the museum draws visitors from across the country. "We've always had free admission for people because it's one of few things people can afford to go to in Enid," Simpson said. "I've been trying to get it fixed. But we haven't been able to get any estimates. Period."

Supporters, including local volunteers and preservation advocates, addressed the commission during public comment, urging more time and assistance to preserve the museum. Community volunteers and a consultant who has been coordinating repair efforts described a recently obtained engineer report and said a structural engineering firm, Hutton, is preparing a scope of work and cost estimates. Cole (a supporter who spoke at the meeting) told the commission the engineering report was delivered to the owner and contractor the day of the meeting and said Hutton had indicated a likely two-week timeframe to produce a full scope.

Commissioners said they do not want to remove the building but must balance historic preservation with public safety. One commissioner noted the city loses money when it demolishes properties under lien enforcement. The commission agreed to reconvene the matter on Dec. 16, and the tabling motion specified that the owner would return with a written scope of work, a signed contract or proof of a contract assignment, and a certificate of insurance. The motion to table carried 7-0.

The staff timeline and photographic evidence in the agenda packet showed interior collapse, water infiltration and several failed load-bearing beams; code staff said portions of the building are cordoned off and not accessible to the public. Code staff and community representatives asked the commission for time to allow Hutton and local subcontractors to finalize estimates and contracts.

If the owner fails to meet the December 16 benchmarks, the record indicates the city may proceed with enforcement actions under the cited municipal code section.