The Woodward City Commission on Tuesday named Gary Goetzinger to the Tourism and Convention Committee to fill the vacancy created by the departure of Gary Whitcomb. The Tourism and Convention Bureau has been the subject of discussion recently with regard to spending decisions and budget overruns.
Local realtor Doug Eagon appeared before the Commissioners during the audience participation segment of Tuesday's meeting to lobby for better oversight of city spending. Eagon questioned expenditures made by the Tourism and Convention Bureau, in particular the nearly $100,000 invested in the Windy 100 bike event held over the Memorial Day weekend. To further his point, Eagon cited a $6,700 expense for mis-printed event T-shirts, supplied by an Oklahoma City firm --- when, according to Eagon, local firms were not contacted to submit bids. While none of the commissioners addressed his concern during the meeting, Commissioner Steve Bogdahn did comment afterward. For a video link to these comments and the entire video record of Tuesday's meeting click here.
In other action the City Commission:
Received an update on the Crystal Beach Park and Woodward Conference Center by project architect Jim Hasenbeck.
Approved change orders in the amount of $11,808 requested by Layne Western for Phase One Water System improvements.
Renewed a contract for water service with Terra International Inc.
Approved the amending of contracts relative to the Conference Center with Studio Architecture and Easley Associates, whereby the fees charged to the city would be fixed. This change was necessary to meet a requirement of the EDA grant, a component of funding for the project.
Approved a lease agreement to provide housing for the curator of the Plains Indians and Pioneers Museum.
Approved facilities use agreements with the First United Methodist Youth Ministry for use of Centennial Park on July 31st as well as with Les and Tammy Loomis to provide carriage rides at Crystal Beach Park over the coming year.
For complete video of Tuesday night's meeting click here now.
