David Laughlin
The Stephens County Board of Commissioners met Monday for their regular meeting. Although the topics on the agenda had a broad range, the bulk of the discussion revolved around a presentation given by Director of the Stephens County Public Safety Communications Authority, Robert Lynn.
Lynn presented CodeRED for Stephens County. CodeRED has already be instituted in Marlow, and proved to be a success. During the Jan. 28 ice storm residents of Marlow were kept informed by the status updates provided by CodeRED through their land line phone, mobile phone or text message.
Lynn said Duncan has approved the steps to implement CodeRED in Duncan. He said the price is directly linked to the population. In addition to the instant updates in emergency situations, Lynn discussed adding another aspect to the updates.
Lynn said CodeRED can send out notifications from the National Weather Service.
“If something is happening, say out in Empire, well, it is not going to notify the people in Bray,” Lynn said.
Lynn said residents wouldn’t have to sign up for the CodeRED notifications, but would have to sign up for the weather updates.
Stephens County Undersheriff John Smith said, “CodeRED is only as good as the information put out there.”
The Board delayed a decision. The Board requested Lynn obtain more information regarding CodeRED for rural communities in the County.
In other action:
n The Board accepted the resignation submitted by Otis “Buddy” E. Rozell as a member of the Stephens County Fair Board of District 2.
n The Board approved a claim against the Oklahoma Department of Transportation regarding a Wildhorse Creek right-of-way acquisition and fencing costs.
n The Board approved a resolution for disposing of equipment from District 2.
— David Laughlin is a reporter for The Duncan Banner. He can be reached at 580-255-5354, Ext. 144, or via e-mail at david.laughlin@duncanbanner.com.
