Once again, the restaurants at our state parks are closing, this time at the end of this month. I wish I knew what the answer is to this problem. I’d like to see a stable operator come in and make these restaurants work for our state parks. This is the second park vendor contracted with the state to have issues. The first is still in a lawsuit with the state.
I’m also hearing from constituents again on parks needing maintenance. We did provide some money in our state budget in 2024 for maintenance at our parks, but I know that hasn’t stretched as far as was hoped. We also have to remember, we invested $17 million in our park restaurants, and that hasn’t seemed to work out. I’m sure this is something we’ll continue to examine.
At the Capitol, we’re continuing to hold interim studies. Next week we’ll have studies on industrial wind and solar, oil and gas, water, transportation, the cost of homeowners insurance and more.
On the topic of wind energy, we’ve been seeing several wind turbine blades travel through Latimer and Pittsburg counties daily. I reached out to the Department of Transportation about permit fees for the oversized loads. Depending on the exact route, the transporters are paying between $600 to $1,000 per trip. If you are inconvenienced by one of these giants, at least know that the state does receive some benefit.
As always, thank you for allowing me to serve you. It is a true pleasure. If there is ever anything I can do for you, I can be reached at (405) 557-7381 or by email at jim.grego@okhouse.gov. -END-
Jim Grego serves District 17 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Latimer County and parts of LeFlore and Pittsburg counties.
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