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Consider approving the Kids First: Neighborhood Cleanup and Beautification Plan and take action as deemed necessary.
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INITIATOR: John Ratliff, City Manager
STAFF INFORMATION SOURCE: John Ratliff, City Manager
BACKGROUND: The Kids First Initiative was first introduced by Mayor Booker during his New Year Address on January 13, 2025, with a mission to prioritize the well-being of children by fostering a community where they can learn, play, and thrive in a safe environment. The initiative is structured around three key pillars: Clean Up and Beautification, Dilapidated Properties, and a Homeless Action Plan. During the January 14, 2025 meeting, the City Council passed a motion directing the City Manager to develop a comprehensive Kids First Throttle Up Plan to clean up and beautify Lawton within one year, ensuring safe and clean neighborhoods for children to thrive. The plan includes: Identification of all non-compliant properties by a set deadline and steps to bring them into compliance with existing ordinances and policies; A public education campaign prior to enforcement, in alignment with the True North Culture Statement; A one-year enforcement timeline, aiming for 90% compliance by a set date and 99% compliance by the final deadline; Creation of a specialized department reporting directly to the City Manager or Deputy City Manager to oversee implementation; A Department Director with leadership skills equivalent to a Command Sergeant Major in the U.S. Army to ensure strong execution and accountability; True North training for all assigned personnel to guarantee consistent, respectful, and effective enforcement; and Funding from PROPEL 2040 Beautification and Dilapidated & Dangerous (D&D) funds, where applicable. This agenda item considers approving the Kids First: Neighborhood Cleanup and Beautification Plan, which will provide a structured and effective approach to improving community aesthetics, ensuring compliance with city ordinances, and creating a safer, cleaner environment for Lawton’s families.
EXHIBIT: Kids First: Neighborhood Cleanup and Beautification Presentation
KEY ISSUES: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE: N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: Approve the Kids First: Neighborhood Cleanup and Beautification Plan.