Town of Freedom approves resolution to apply for $40,000 grant

 

November 1, 2018



A special meeting was held by the Town of Freedom last week for further discussion and action on the Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) grant. Looking to take advantage of the financial assistance, board members Shad Brackin and Terry Smith, along with town clerk Cindy Reed, have been hashing and rehashing specifics on remote read water meters.

Going over a pre-application checklist, the group (minus Rolando Galindo) approved the resolution to request the maximum amount of $40,000 in grant funds. The project would impact the water infrastructure of 155 residences and 21 businesses and, according to members of the board, a top priority for rural economic development.

Freedom’s current meters do not meet Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) approval, and an update would, of course, change that. The new DEQ-compliant structures would also be compatible with future projects such as gas meter updates and replacement.

The remote read water meter project is the only project request this year, and if approved for the whole $40,000, would only require the Town of Freedom to contribute $19,470.

After approving that resolution, Brackin, Smith and Reed talked about the contract needed with Alfalfa Electric Cooperative (AEC) for service on the new tornado siren. AEC donated the pole and insulation to Freedom, saving the town about $1,500. Members decided the $325 contract fee was beyond fair and reasonable and approved the PO for AEC service.

The Chamber of Commerce town Christmas tree was briefly discussed, as Smith voiced concern on safety of its placement. The matter was tabled and will reappear as a line item on the Nov. 12 agenda.

 

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