Two Purcell residents are vying for your vote to serve on the Purcell City Council in the seat currently held by Mayor Graham Fishburn, who decided not to seek re-election.

The election is February 10.

Here are the questions and the answers sent in by Danny Henderson and Adam Demorest.

Demorest:

1. What prompted you to run for city council?

Since graduating from Purcell High School in 1988, I have always had a goal of one day giving back to the town that gave so much to me. Purcell provided a safe place to grow up, caring community members, an outstanding education that eventually led me to earn a pre doctorate degree in Educational Leadership, and athletic opportunities that resulted in a basketball scholarship to Eastern Michigan University and a coaching career with experiences across the world.

My love for Purcell ultimately brought me back home after retiring from education in Michigan in the summer of 2022. Upon returning, my priority was caring for my father-in-law and then my parents, all of whom were battling terminal illnesses. When time allowed, I began attending Purcell Parks and Recreation Board meetings and eventually became chairperson.

After my mother passed away this fall, I felt called to devote more time to serving the city. When community members encouraged me to run for city council, I recognized it as an opportunity to help guide the city’s policies, development, and services while representing the people of Purcell. I believe I can make a positive difference, and that is why I decided to run.

2. Where do you see challenges in the City of Purcell?

Rather than deficiencies, I see challenges, many of which are shared by communities across Oklahoma. These include funding, resources, growth, tax base limitations, infrastructure maintenance, and long term revenue.

One of our most pressing challenges is water infrastructure. Purcell is growing and is projected to continue growing with new housing and the planned north south interchange. That growth will place additional strain on an already stressed water supply. It is critical that we prepare now so our citizens are supported before, during, and after this growth.

Another challenge is preserving our small town traditions while growing responsibly. Maintaining the close knit, caring feel of Purcell as we expand is essential.

A more immediate challenge is student safety along Green Avenue near the high school and junior high. I was encouraged by the recent special City Council meeting that brought together city staff, school administrators, and community members. The council is already exploring both short term and long term solutions.

Finally, a challenge faced by many organizations is unity. Purcell has limited resources, but we are fortunate to have many strong organizations, including Parks and Recreation, Tourism, the Chamber of Commerce, Faith Based Organizations, Operation Care, Lions Club, Rotary Club, and the Historical Society. Throughout my career, I have focused on bringing groups together as one team. Last year, I helped organize a town hall that brought several of these organizations together, resulting in collaborative projects like improvements to the tennis courts and expanded pickle ball opportunities. I want to continue fostering cooperation so we work together, not separately, for the benefit of our community.

3. What do you think are the positives about Purcell?

I could talk about the positives of Purcell for a long time. In fact, people I worked with in Michigan knew about Purcell because I spoke so often about what makes this town special.

Purcell is a small but powerful community that truly cares about its people. From Christmas lights and Operation Christmas to Treats on the Trail, the Fourth of July celebration, and the Music Festival, we consistently bring people together while helping others.

People may initially come to Purcell for festivals, antique stores, sports, restaurants, hotels, or shopping, but it is the people and the community that keep them coming back. To me, Purcell represents the heart of Oklahoma, hard work, caring for others, perseverance, and a strong sense of community. These values are already here, and I believe we can continue building on them to make Purcell the best place to live, visit, and be educated.

4. If you could change one thing about the city, what would it be?

That is a difficult question because I love Purcell as it is and appreciate how it continues to grow. If I could change one thing, it would be attracting a business or businesses that align with our community values, provide a sustainable source of revenue for the city, and positively promote Purcell while increasing tourism.

A sustainable revenue source could help address many of our challenges on a yearly basis while adding value to our community. That would be a w for both the city and local businesses.

5. What do you think you bring to the table for the betterment of Purcell?

I made a conscious decision not only to move back to Purcell after retiring, but to actively give back to the city that shaped who I am. Purcell is my home, and I am committed to helping make it the best it can be.

Because I grew up here, graduated from here, and was able to pursue further education and professional experiences as a result, I bring a wide range of leadership skills. These include leading both small and large organizations, bringing diverse groups together, making people feel valued, organizing complex projects, managing time effectively, motivating others, communicating clearly, and overcoming challenges.

Combined with my deep love for this community, I believe these experiences will allow me to serve effectively and help ensure Purcell continues to thrive.

Henderson:

1. What do you think you bring to the table for the betterment of Purcell?

My background in federal civilian personnel management and senior leadership has equipped me to manage public resources responsibly while maintaining effective services.  I have led large military organizations through challenging budget constraints and complex decisions with accountability and transparency.  I am an approachable, forward-thinking leader who values open dialogue and practical solutions.  I am committed to supporting continued progress and serving the best interests of the citizens of Purcell.

2. What prompted you to run for City Council?

I grew up in a family where helping others was just what we did. From school days to nearly three decades working in different federal agencies, I’ve always found myself in leadership roles – whether at school, church, college, or work – focused on serving people.  After moving to Purcell, I wanted to keep that tradition going by becoming involved with the City. Before this, my family lived in Tuttle, Oklahoma for almost nine years where we enjoyed helping our neighbors, joining school programs, and supporting local organizations.  Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep serving and make a difference in Purcell, using what I’ve learned over the years to help our community thrive.

3. Where do you see deficiencies in the City of Purcell?

Operating a municipality has its challenges.  With upcoming highway projects by ODOT and OTA, Purcell’s leaders must pro actively plan for expanded critical services like fire, police, water, sanitation, and water treatment. I believe it is imperative that seeking expert guidance for planning and budgeting while regularly updating citizens on progress is required.  I can work with others to develop a ‘way-ahead’ that can benefit the City. Also, having robust scheduled maintenance and upgrade plans for utilities and streets without increasing taxes or rates is an important effort to develop. Pursuing state and federal grants or other sources will help offset costs, while supporting the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council can support the city’s growth and residents’ needs.

4. What do you think are the positives about Purcell?

Purcell is in a great spot – it’s easy to get to Norman and the Oklahoma City metro area, which makes it a nice place to live. The City has practically everything needed from shops and health care to home builders and plenty of other services.  Purcell Public Schools do a solid job of getting students ready for life with good classes and lots of activities outside of school that help everyone get involved with the community.  Plus, there’s no shortage of groups and opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to join in and be part of this community.

5. If you could change one thing about the city, what would it be?

Previous efforts to enhance the City’s appearance are a credit to those who made it happen. That is noticeable by the median project on Green Avenue from the north side to Washington Avenue.  Additionally, the updated improvements on Main Street provide safe and easy access to the multiple businesses and offices, including the attractive antique market. Purcell Lake has been impressively developed and the activities associated around it serve our citizens with a strong sense of civic pride. Purcell should continue those types of enhancements by ensuring a ‘game plan’ is developed for additional improvements.  Efforts made to have a strong first impression will go a long way with visitors to Purcell.