Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Shawnee public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in public safety with high priority
Scam alert targeting permit applicants
Fraudsters are impersonating the city to trick permit applicants into wire transfers — one applicant lost $7,000. The city never takes wire transfers, and its emails end in .ok.gov, not .us.com.
Firefighting equipment cost and wait time litigation
The consent agenda included two replacement fire vehicles, a pumper refurbishment, and a contract with Landmark Construction for the Fire Station 1 remodel, all tied to the 2027-2031 capital plan.
Fire department fleet investment
The commission approved two new fire vehicles, a refurbishment of the 2008 E-One pumper, and the Landmark Construction contract for the Station 1 remodel — all under the 2027-2031 capital plan.
Public Camping and Public Conduct Ordinance
The city now has a new ordinance banning public camping and public urination/defecation, effective immediately via emergency clause. Earlier drafts were softened to avoid hurting Expo Center event traffic, and police no longer must verify shelter availability before citing.
Leftover 2018 half-cent sales tax — public safety funds
Fire officials said remaining public-safety dollars from the 2018 half-cent tax can't cover both a fire training structure ($1-6 million) and Fire Station One renovations, and asked the Commission to steer the money toward Fire Station One.