McAlester accepts $5.8M wildfire-mitigation grant and approves $290,000 in equipment purchases

The McAlester City Council voted to put federal/state wildfire mitigation funding into operation and purchase heavy equipment to support fuel-reduction work along utility easements and other high-risk corridors.

Staff described a $5.8 million grant for right-of-way clearing and fire-break creation and recommended purchasing two 75 skid steers from Warren Cat at about $145,000 each (total approx. $290,000) using grant funds. The council approved the purchase by roll call.

Mayor Justin Few said the grant was awarded because federal reviewers judged the city’s fire danger to be "so catastrophic" that it warranted substantial mitigation funds. Staff said a contractor already began clearing corridors and that the project includes creating 100-foot swaths where needed, opening access for utility crews and emergency response.

Union representative David Perry asked whether the fire department provided oversight on how the clearing and mitigation work is prioritized; staff said the project was coordinated early with department heads and that the contractor and state forestry guidance will be used for safe clearing and burn practices.

Councilors also discussed how the city will maintain cleared corridors after initial contractor work. Staff said equipment purchases are part of a multiyear approach that will include hiring personnel and buying maintenance gear to sustain fire breaks after the contractor completes initial work.

What’s next: the council authorized purchases and confirmed project oversight responsibilities; staff will manage easement access, contractor work, and long-term maintenance planning under grant rules.