Council weighs consultant for large roof claim at Holdenville Central; OMAG caution raised

Council members spent a substantial portion of the meeting discussing a roof‑leak claim at Holdenville Central Metal Finishing and options to pursue reimbursement for repairs.

A presenter summarized packet materials and said the initial inspector submitted a claim and that a consultant named Josh Rhodes — described in the packet as a rural construction consultant — offered to represent the city on the claim and would take a contingency fee. "He wants 12% to consult for," said the speaker (Speaker 10).

Presenters and council members warned of potential policy conflicts. One council member read language from OMAG urging caution about granting a third party an interest in a claim because that could risk OMAG denying payment. Another member said he had spoken with attorneys about options if litigation was required, and the group discussed the potential need for outside counsel.

Council members described significant structural damage at the plant, including widespread leaks and hail damage noted in an inspection that estimated substantial repair costs; speakers described the building as increasingly deteriorated without immediate patching options. Several council members said they wanted more information about the consultant’s services and the possible legal and insurance ramifications before committing to a contingency arrangement.

What’s next: council asked staff to obtain more information on the consultant and to return the item for a future meeting after further review. No contract or consultant engagement was authorized at the meeting.