I recently had the opportunity to visit with an executive of the firm building the lithium battery recycling plant in the McAlester Industrial Park. What impressed me was the fact they are already operating a smaller scale facility in Atoka, but they chose McAlester as their site for expansion. Rail availability is one of the deciding factors in this location. This facility will bring many jobs to our area and a much needed economic boast.
Joe Echelle, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority director, came to McAlester this past week for a town hall-type visit with the local chamber and community leaders. My belief is that Oklahoma has one of the best turnpike systems in the nation, and Joe Echelle is the heart of it. Sometimes people would like to dissolve or reorganize our turnpike authority, but I’ve always had the theory of don’t try to fix what isn’t broken.
I want to give a big “thank you” to our Turnpike Authority, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation and our county and municipal employees who braved the elements to keep our roads open and passable during the recent ice event. Crews started as soon as the snow and ice started falling, and they continue to work. I really appreciate their efforts.
This week, budget hearings are in full force at the Capitol as we hear requests from the “big eight.” These are the agencies that receive the bulk of our funding. I have several questions about privatization of our mental health facilities as well as cuts in after-school funding for childcare. These hearings are my opportunity to get pointed questions answered.
As always, I’m thankful to the constituents of House District 17 for allowing me to serve. If I can help you in any way, I can be reached at (405) 557-7381 or by email at jim.grego@okhouse.gov.
Jim Grego serves District 17 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Latimer County and part and Pittsburg County.
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