The main purpose of the structure is to be a center-controlled facility that functions as an emergency center, Tsoodle said. The center whose employees are responsible for implementing the principles of emergency preparedness in the event of an emergency. It will also serve as a short term solution for sheltering tribal members in emergency conditions such as ice storms. “Today you can see a construction team working through the elements and part of the wall that went up towering on scaffolding,” she said. “It is a 20,000 square foot single story building that falls under the guidelines of the CARES Act.”
The center will operate with critical components in order to carry out the necessary measures and be staffed with qualified people according to and depending on the particular situation, said Tsoodle. “One structure we are proud of is the new 80×40 storage unit that is behind the current AOA building on the tribal complex,” she said. “It is a dry warehouse where a large supply of long shelf life food is bought and stored in case of a crisis or emergency.”
Another structure is ready to roll, according to Tsoodle. A new fitness center is also about to be completed. Located in the Red Buffalo Hall. It’s fully stocked with the latest exercise equipment, said Tsoodle. The need for a healthy community has always been important, especially when the pandemic broke out.
Construction work is expected to be completed in early October or late November. During times when there are no emergencies, seniors can use the building to gather around after the virus ends.
Two Continuity of Operations (COOP) centers were purchased in Lawton and Anadarko. These facilities will serve as an outbuilding to the main Carnegie office in the event of an emergency, according to Tsoodle. “The coronavirus is known to attack our upper respiratory tract,” she said. “With more physical activity, we are less likely to have health problems or to have COVID-19 consuming our bodies.”
Most recently, two automatic security gates were installed at the entrance and exit to protect the premises during the pandemic. Tsoodle said during normal times the gates would continue to service the complex for security reasons. The tribe also bought a 10 x 12 foot LED marquee as another tool to communicate with tribe members passing by, Tsoodle said. One of the busiest tribal programs is the Tax Commission, which interacts with the public on a daily basis. Tsoodle said much-needed upgrades were made to keep employees and customers safe. There is now a transit passage for social distancing.
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