LAWTON, Okla. (KSWO) – As Lawton voters decide the fate of the 2024 CIP extension, 7News has been working to learn more about the council’s recent decision to approve a $40 million loan to cover the costs of some 2019 CIP projects.
After attempts to speak with someone in person from the City’s finance department, we were only able to exchange an email.
Here are some of the questions and responses:
- Q: Why weren’t there enough CIP funds to cover the proposed 2019 projects?
- Q: Why approve a loan instead of wait for the funds to come in?
Previously, City of Lawton officials said the 2019 CIP was hindered due to COVID, which is causing them to play catch up with some of the projects.
More questions arose over how the loan was being divided. Of the $40 million, $19.4 million is going toward the Elmer Thomas Aquatic Center.
Officials said this loan will be paid back by 2019 CIP funds, but the city has said repeatedly the Aquatic Center is fully dependent on the 2040 CIP vote.
7News asked for clarification:
- Q: The City has said multiple times the Aquatic Center is dependent on the 2040 extension, but is now being funded by 2019 CIP funds according to city officials, which one is correct?
- Q: How could the Aquatic Center be funded by 2019 CIP if it was still in the very early stages, if existent at all?
7News also asked the city how a Lake Gate operation analysis could be a part of the CIP since it provided no physical changes.
According to the department, by accounting standards, a project includes the process of planning.
A follow up email has been sent for more clarification on some of the answers given as well as a General Fund Revenue Summary document.
Your 7News team will provide an update once we obtain the clarifications.
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