After a previous contentious discussion, Atoka County Commissioners at their Monday morning meeting approved the purchase of a new server for the Assessor's Office, a key decision among a range of county business.
The meeting, presided over by Chairman Ethan Settlemire and attended by Commissioner Jesse Dunlap, County Clerk Christie Henry, Sheriff Kody Simpson, Court Clerk Angie Nuttall, Assessor Joe McClour, and Treasurer Kim Harkey, saw several significant actions, including support for local road repairs and continued efforts on county facilities.
The approval of the Assessor's server, budgeted at $18,000, marked a positive resolution following a recent meeting where the request had been denied. Treasurer Kim Harkey initiated a discussion by asking about alternative cloud-based options for the server, seeking the most feasible solution.
The turning point for the server's approval came with Commissioner Jesse Dunlap's intervention. Dunlap emphasized the county's direct responsibility, stating, 'It's our duty... it is in the courthouse.' He went on to clarify that he had $40,000 in unused funds for gravel and fuel within the Use Tax fund. Demonstrating a proactive approach, Dunlap offered to utilize a portion of these saved funds to cover the server's cost.
He underscored his commitment by adding, 'They (schools) bought it last time, we'll do it this time,' indicating the county would take on the responsibility this time rather than relying on external entities. The board subsequently approved the purchase, reallocating the necessary budget with the $18,000 addition for the server.
In other important business, the commissioners addressed a request for assistance from the Southern Oklahoma Nutrition Program (SONP). The program, which provides and delivers meals to the elderly across Atoka County, sent a letter to the county detailing their critical need. It was revealed that SONP is currently delivering 71 meals daily while only being funded for 51, leading to expenses that exceed its budget.
Furthermore, the program currently maintains a waitlist for services. After discussion about the program's vital role and funding challenges, the commissioners opted to table this item for further consideration.
For Digital Map Solutions, the contract for fiscal years 2025-2026 was discussed. Assessor Joe McClour had previously determined the initial cost was not feasible, leading to an adjustment of the contract to an amount not to exceed $8,500. This revised contract was approved.
Efforts to maintain and improve county facilities continued with a progress report on the Atoka County Health Department's roof. New specifications for the roof project have been received, and the board moved to go out for new bids, aiming to secure the best option for the necessary repairs.
Finally, the commissioners approved a significant measure to support local infrastructure through the Choctaw Community Fund. They authorized the allocation of $10,000 per district to assist with ongoing road repair projects across Atoka County.
The meeting also included routine approvals for past meeting minutes, claims for payments, payroll, and various resolutions concerning county operations, road machinery leases, and agreements with local entities, ensuring the smooth administration of county affairs.
