The 2018 Class of Leadership Rogers County (LRC) spent a day engaging with leadership from both the City of Claremore and Rogers County, taking a deep dive into the processes of local government. The day began with a tour of the Rogers County Courthouse, and a series of panel discussions with county leadership.
The first panel discussion centered on the county judicial process, and featured remarks from Judge Sheila Condren, District Attorney Matt Ballard, County Court Clerk Kim Henry and Undersheriff Jon Sappington. The class learned that Rogers County is unique in the fact that the courthouse is home to two court dogs. During her remarks, Judge Condren praised the court dog program, stating it was greatly benefiting Rogers County’s youngest residents during their courtroom experiences.
County Treasurer Jason Carini, County Clerk Jeannie Heidlage, and Commissioner Ron Burrows also spoke to the group, highlighting the daily operations at the courthouse and how each office works together. The panel also stressed the importance of collaboration within the courthouse to implement efficiencies and interoffice communication.
The class also toured the Amos G. Ward Detention Center. The facility was constructed in 2000, and has been struggling with overcrowding issues for many years. The center is built to house 250 inmates, but the average inmate population at the facility is over 300. In order to help combat this issue, Rogers County has implemented alternative court programs to divert people from being incarcerated. However, this is not solely a county issue; overcrowding and increased prison populations are plaguing jails across the state.
In the afternoon, the LRC team visited the City of Claremore Planning and Development office to learn more about the daily operations of city government. Claremore City Manager Jim Thomas, along with department heads from each of the city divisions, spoke to the class. Each highlighted their unique job position and explained how each city department works together to operate city functions. Thomas also shared the findings of the Claremore Dreams 2025 initiative and discussed the development of the city’s strategic vision.
To end the day, the group visited the Rogers County 911 Call Center and witnessed firsthand what happens when residents call 9-1-1. The facility dispatches calls to emergency personnel across Rogers County and plays a major role in ensuring the safety of regional citizens.
If you would like more information about Leadership Rogers County, please visit our website at leadershiprogerscounty.org or visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/pg/leadershiprogerscounty
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