Council approves live‑fire training building and names KickingBird Golf advisory member

The Edmond City Council approved a contract with Lone Star Tactical Buildings totaling $487,256.06 to construct a Live Fire Training Center and appointed George Derry Myers to the KickingBird Golf Advisory Board to fill the unexpired Ward 4 term of Rick Lashley.

Fire Chief Terry Eschter described the training structure as a two‑story arrangement of interconnected steel modules built for direct fire contact that will allow the department to simulate real fire and smoke conditions safely. "I am glad to say that there will be minimal to 0 ongoing cost with this training building," Chief Eschter said, explaining the structure's design and training capabilities.

Council members moved to approve the contract following the chief’s presentation; the motion carried unanimously (5‑0). Earlier in the meeting the council also approved the Ward 4 appointment of George Derry Myers to the KickingBird Golf Advisory Board, with the term expiring on June 30, 2027. That motion likewise passed 5‑0.

Council members praised staff for attention to operating and maintenance costs and asked clarifying questions about long‑term expenses and capital upkeep; staff said they expected minimal ongoing costs tied to this specific training building. There was no public opposition on these items during the meeting.

The council approved the contract and the appointment as part of the consent and individual consideration items; implementation will proceed through the city’s procurement and project management processes.