Lake Lawtonka concession bid tossed out

The City of Lawton is going back to the drawing board, in terms of managing School House Slough.

City staff has been operating that Lake Lawtonka concession since long-time operator Kent Waller ended his lease Dec. 31, 2022.

City administrators have been exploring options for months and had been negotiating with Lawton businessman Scott James, who submitted the sole bid to assume all School House Slough operations. But, acting in their capacity as the Lawton Water Authority on Tuesday, trustees/council members rejected the bid, citing a “change of direction” as city staff seeks an operator for the convenience store and lakeside fueling system. Staff members said separating those operations from the concession as a whole should encourage more bidders.

Deputy City Manager Dewayne Burk said those plans will move forward quickly, so Lawton could have someone ready to take on those tasks early next year, before the lake recreational season gets underway. Burk said Requests for Proposals would be released soon, with proposals to be accepted by the city until Jan. 15.

Mayor Stan Booker said strict requirements that had been part of the first proposal have been eased, which should encourage bidders. An operator with five years experience in the management and operation of convenience/general stores is preferred, but not required (the original proposal required 10 years experience). Applicants also are asked to submit a five-year business plan.