Bartlesville City Council approves marking unmarked graves of World War 1 veterans

Concerns over water safety took center stage at the Bartlesville City Council meeting on July 7, 2025, as officials addressed the recent contamination issues faced by neighboring Heavener. During the public comments, a resident highlighted the importance of maintaining rigorous water quality standards, urging the council to prioritize compliance with Oklahoma state regulations over federal ones. The resident commended city staff, particularly Terry, for their diligence in conducting regular water tests, which confirmed that Bartlesville has met all necessary federal and state standards.

In a related discussion, the council recognized the efforts of local veterans advocate, Mr. Todd, who brought to light the unmarked graves of two World War I veterans. These soldiers, who died shortly after their service, have remained without proper memorials since their burials in 1918 and 1919. The council unanimously approved a resolution allowing city staff to mark these graves, acknowledging the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by veterans.

The meeting also included announcements of openings on various city boards and committees, as well as a review of the consent docket, which was accepted with one item pulled for further discussion. The council's actions reflect a commitment to community welfare and historical recognition, ensuring that both water safety and veteran memorialization remain priorities for Bartlesville.