By Rep. Jim Grego
Nothing is ever concrete in politics, and last week’s elections confirmed this suspicion. Three incumbent state senators lost their seats as well as one incumbent House member. Several more House and Senate members will be decided in runoff elections in August, so possibly another one or two incumbents may be replaced. Oftentimes we forget the power of the ballet box. Once again this past election cycle shows that the voters are in charge, as they should be.
Congratulations to Brandon Tatum on being named executive director for the Regional University System of Oklahoma. Eastern Oklahoma State College is not a part of this organization. I have met several times with Brandon Tatum discussing issues related to Eastern in his role as Governor Stitt’s chief of staff. I always found him to be a good listener and willing to discuss issues. I believe he will be a good fit for this position and wish him the best.
The Oklahoma Broadband Office announced this week that it is now accepting competitive proposals for a second round of grants to expand high-speed internet access throughout the state. Eligible internet service providers can submit proposals through a portal on the OBO’s website for a chance to be awarded part of $159 million in federal grant funds through the American Rescue Plan Act’s Capital Project Fund. The portal launched Monday and closes Monday, July 8.
Finally, summertime is definitely here with consecutive days of 100-degree-plus temperatures. Please check on your neighbors and family to make sure they are handling this extreme heat. On the plus side it is excellent hay weather, and the yields seem to be good.
As always, thank You for allowing me to serve you. I can be reached at (405) 557-7381 or by email at jim.grego@okhouse.gov.
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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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