Two Eureka High School (EHS) graduates will unite this fall at Eastern Oklahoma State College (EOSC), where they hope to continue a tradition of excellence in meat judging.
Addison Westerman will join the EOSC Meat Judging Team under the direction of Coach Jade Edwards, a fellow EHS graduate. Both competed in meat judging throughout their 4-H and FFA careers.
Edwards, a 2018 EHS graduate, competed in collegiate meat judging before accepting a coaching position at EOSC. Now entering her fourth year as head coach, she will welcome her first Greenwood County student to the team.
“I am extremely proud to have a student from Greenwood County on my team,” stated Edwards. “I think it speaks volumes about the 4-H and FFA judging programs here. I know from my time judging in Greenwood County that Addison will come with the preparation and work ethic needed to be successful at the collegiate level.”
Westerman and Edwards were both members of the Greenwood County 4-H Meat Judging Team, coached by Carla Davis and Jeanna Beeman, where they earned national recognition. Edwards was a member of the 2017 Kansas 4-H National Meat Judging Team that placed third in the nation, while Westerman competed on the 2024 Kansas national team that earned national runner-up honors. Both also received numerous individual honors in 4-H and FFA judging competitions.
Council members unanimously approved both 207 N. Main and 224 N. Main Street to be in a state of immediate hazard after hearing reports that the structures have continued to deteriorate. Officials said both buildings have experienced roof damages and could damage neighboring properties. The property at 224 N. Main, owned by ......, has also suffered a second-floor collapse. The property at 207 N. Main is owned by ..................... Despite previous citations issued to the property owners, the hazardous conditions have not been corrected. The declarations allow the city to proceed with the next steps authorized under state law for dangerous structures.
During committee reports, Council Member Jeff Marks raised concerns about mowing conditions at Greenwood Cemetery. Mayor Stephen Coulter cited staffing shortages, frequent rainfall, and the demands of multiple street projects as contributing factors but said city crews continue working to catch up on maintenance. Marks emphasized the importance of keeping residents informed about the challenges and the city’s plan to address them. Clerk Renee Burk stated she was unaware of complaints as calls hadn’t been made or directed to the city office.
During public comments, Steve Brown provided an update on the Fourth of July parade and other community events. Brown encouraged the city to schedule next year’s Independence Day fireworks display well in advance and discussed whether the event should return to July 4 after being held on July 3 this year because of fireworks contractor availability. The council agreed to hold the 2027 celebration on Saturday, July 3, since Independence Day falls on a Sunday. Brown also announced that the annual Christmas Parade will be held Saturday, Dec. 5, with the start time moved from 6 p.m. to 5 p.m. to improve safety for participating children.
Under old business, Steven Buckley of JEO Consulting Group presented the draft of the city’s Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Action Plan. The federally funded planning effort examined crash data, sidewalk conditions and pedestrian accessibility throughout Eureka while identifying priorities for future transportation improvements. Recommendations include improving sidewalk connectivity, enhancing intersection safety, upgrading crosswalks and expanding ADA accessibility. Buckley said completing the plan will better position the city to pursue future federal transportation grants for safety improvements. No actions were taken on the proposal at this time.
The council held three executive sessions, totaling 25 minutes. Two sessions were held for legal matters with Clerk Burk and City Attorney William McClendon, attending via telephone. No action was taken. The council also held an executive session for personnel (evaluation). After returning to open session, the council approved a .25 cent pay increase for Bryson Kern.
The next city council meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 27, at 7 p.m. at the Eureka Public Library.
