Investigative Report: Jessica Zwirtz’s Controversial Decision Regarding TSET Built Environment Grant
In a surprising turn of events, Jessica Zwirtz, the City Planner for The City of Wagoner, took a firm stance against pursuing the TSET Built Environment Grant in the fall of 2023. This grant, which could have injected a substantial $500,000 into the development of Lincoln Park, was met with an unequivocal “No” from Zwirtz.
The TSET grant program offered two distinct avenues: one for shovel-ready projects, specifically earmarked for Lincoln Park, and another for design and planning initiatives, with a more modest sum of $150,000 up for grabs. Zwirtz, however, opted to apply for the latter, intending to leverage it for a comprehensive rewrite of the city’s existing plan.
When questioned about her refusal to write the grant for Lincoln Park, Zwirtz’s response was curt: “No, if Dwayne (Elam, city superintendent) tells me to write that one I will.” This defiance not only raised eyebrows but also contradicted her claim that the city could not apply for both grants—a statement that, upon investigation, turned out to be false.
The consequences of Zwirtz’s decision were significant: two lost grant opportunities that could have significantly benefited the community. Her actions put her at odds with her employer, THE MAYOR, and several members of the city council.
The burning question remains: What occupies Jessica Zwirtz’s time as City Planner if not the betterment of the city? Her role inherently demands a commitment to enhancing the community, and her recent choices have left many wondering whether she truly fulfills that duty.
As this investigation unfolds, we will continue to scrutinize Zwirtz’s actions and seek answers on behalf of the citizens of Wagoner. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
Leave a Reply