SUMMARY: The LOFT report reveals massive mismanagement at the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services under former Commissioner Ali Friesen. Investigations found the department underestimated Medicaid costs, overspent on pet projects like an $18 million Super Bowl commercial and a half-million-dollar Hip-Hop Nutcracker movie, and misused millions meant for child crisis care and social services grants. Executive salaries nearly doubled, and funds were shifted across budgets to cover overruns. The new law prohibits such malfeasance, potentially leading to criminal charges. Critics blame Governor Kevin Stitt for failing to remove Friesen despite worsening financial issues.

LOFT report uncovers what led to multi-million dollar budget shortfall

Stay informed about Oklahoma news and weather! Follow KFOR News 4 on our website and social channels.

https://kfor.com/
https://www.youtube.com/c/kfor4news
https://www.facebook.com/kfor4
https://twitter.com/kfor
https://www.instagram.com/kfortv4/

Source

SUMMARY: A man in his 50s went missing at Arcadia Lake after jumping off a boat to cool off but was unable to swim. His companion tried to help him back aboard, but the boat drifted away, leaving him stranded. Police, fire, and dive teams launched a search that lasted late into Saturday night but was halted due to underwater currents and conditions. The search resumed Sunday using sonar, locating the man 32 feet deep. The dive team recovered his body in a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies. Police have not released his name, and the family mourns the tragic loss.

KFOR News

Stay informed about Oklahoma news and weather! Follow KFOR News 4 on our website and social channels.

https://kfor.com/
https://www.youtube.com/c/kfor4news
https://www.facebook.com/kfor4
https://twitter.com/kfor
https://www.instagram.com/kfortv4/

Source

SUMMARY: Frustrations continue in Norman over a proposed turnpike that could uproot parts of East Norman. The turnpike appears in the city’s 2045 Transportation Plan, recently approved by the Norman City Council, sparking taxpayer concerns about growth management and development. Critics argue the city should focus on infill rather than expanding into East Norman. Although the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled in 2006 that turnpikes cannot be used for economic development, the proposed route remains in city and Access Oklahoma plans as a long-term planning document. City officials say inclusion on the map doesn’t guarantee construction, but residents question why it’s shown if not intended.

Turnpike frustration continues in Norman

Stay informed about Oklahoma news and weather! Follow KFOR News 4 on our website and social channels.

https://kfor.com/
https://www.youtube.com/c/kfor4news
https://www.facebook.com/kfor4
https://twitter.com/kfor
https://www.instagram.com/kfortv4/

Source