Lawton City Council discusses stadium concerns and upcoming community events

The City Council of Lawton convened on August 26, 2025, to address several community concerns and updates, with a focus on local infrastructure, public safety, and community events.

One of the primary discussions centered around the underutilization of Ron Stevens Stadium, which has remained vacant for over a year. Resident David Burkett raised concerns about the stadium's condition and the need for its revival, suggesting that it should be used more effectively given the community's investment in its upkeep. The council acknowledged that the stadium is owned by local public schools and encouraged Burkett to reach out to the school board for further action.

Public safety was another significant topic, as resident Christina Boswell expressed frustration over the lack of speed bumps in her neighborhood, despite previous requests. The council assured her that they would follow up on her concerns, emphasizing the importance of addressing safety issues for vulnerable community members.

Martina Davis Prudhomme voiced her dissatisfaction regarding delays in fulfilling her open records request, claiming intimidation from city officials during her inquiry. This highlighted ongoing tensions between residents and the city government, with Prudhomme indicating plans to escalate the matter legally.

In positive news, the council shared updates on upcoming community events, including a Department of Defense mandated power outage exercise scheduled for September 10, which aims to test the installation's operational capabilities without power. Additionally, the annual remembrance run on September 11 was promoted as a community gathering to honor those affected by past tragedies.

The council also celebrated the successful launch of a new city website designed to improve accessibility and communication with residents. The website features a chatbot for inquiries and a banner for urgent updates, reflecting the city's commitment to enhancing citizen engagement.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's efforts to address community concerns while promoting upcoming events and improvements in city services. The discussions revealed both challenges and progress in Lawton, with a clear focus on fostering a responsive and engaged local government.