State Representative Rick West (R-Heavener)
By Rep. Rick West
LeFlore County Sheriff Rodney Derryberry got some good news last week. His office will receive $250,000 to spend on operations, including training, technology, equipment, capital improvements and more.
Grants ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 were awarded to sheriff’s offices in all 77 counties based on the county’s total tangible property valuation.
I’ve talked to Sheriff Derryberry and several of his deputies as well as some Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers about the need to upgrade the radios used by the sheriff’s office. In our area, cell phones don’t always work. It’s critical that the sheriff and his deputies are able to communicate with each other and the patrol as they work to keep the public safe. It’s my hope they’ll be able to use some of this grant funding toward the purchase of new radios.
Public schools also received good news this week. I saw a report by the Commissioners of the Land Office that showed record distributions to public schools, colleges and universities for the third consecutive year. Oklahoma public education this year is receiving $160 million. In 2025, the amount was $156 million, and in $145 million in 2024, for a total of $461 million over the three years. That is split between 507 public school districts and 13 select higher education institutions, but its still money to help educate our children and pay our teachers.
Another bit of good news is that a Freedom Truck is coming July 13-16 to the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center in Poteau. The truck is full of information that helps tell the story of the United States of America on our 250th anniversary. The truck will be open from noon to 6 p.m. July 13 and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 14-16. I believe admission is free to the public.
Like I said, these trucks help tell America’s story of freedom – how 13 independent colonies helped beat the most powerful military force in the world at the time. How we accomplished that is nothing short of miraculous. America has enjoyed 250 years of sovereignty since July 4, 1776, though it was hard fought to gain it and keep it. I would encourage people to come and see this exhibit for themselves and then make up their own mind about the information presented and if our nation is as exceptional as I believe it to be.
I also want to remind everyone that Doug Linehan, the executive director of the Oklahoma Tax Commission, will be visiting our area at 1 p.m. July 29 at the Poteau Library. I encourage anyone with questions or concerns to attend. I’m grateful he’s willing to take the time to travel to meet with us.
Remember to listen to my Capitol update on the radio at 7:35 a.m. every Thursday on KPRV.
As always, if I can help you with anything, please call my Capitol office at (405) 557-7413 or email me at rick.west@okhouse.gov.
Rick West serves District 3 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes part of LeFlore County.
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