During a recent government meeting in Muskogee, residents voiced concerns about local services and the treatment they received from city officials. One citizen, a 79-year-old resident, shared her frustrations regarding interactions with the dog pound, police department, and revenue department over the past two years. She expressed feeling disrespected and targeted during these encounters, highlighting a specific incident where she was treated poorly while seeking assistance. The resident emphasized the importance of respectful treatment from city officials, stating, \"We are the ones... when we come to you all, or when we come to staff, they're the ones that are important.\"

Following this, another speaker, Pat Cassica, addressed the need for improved quality of life for veterans in Muskogee. She proposed initiatives to ensure that every veteran has access to housing, particularly focusing on the approximately 1,164 veterans in the area. Cassica suggested exploring grants and partnerships to provide tiny homes for veterans, citing the affordability of such housing options. She also advocated for the establishment of a day center to assist homeless individuals and proposed banning panhandling, which she believes undermines the dignity of veterans.

The discussions highlighted significant community concerns regarding the treatment of citizens by local authorities and the urgent need for resources to support veterans and the homeless population in Muskogee.