Oklahoma House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, and members of the House Republican Caucus visited Ardmore this week as part of the ongoing Capitol to Community tour, an initiative designed to connect state leaders directly with local residents, businesses and organizations to better understand community priorities and challenges.
On Monday, legislators spent a full day engaging with Ardmore leaders and stakeholders during tours, presentations, and discussions that highlighted the city’s economic strengths, innovation, and commitment to public service.
The day began with presentations from City Manager Kevin Boatright and Chamber President & CEO Bill Murphy. Attendees then participated in a walking tour of the city’s Depot District and downtown area, where local revitalization efforts and small business growth were on display.
Members also heard from Steve Rhines, President and CEO of the Noble Research Foundation, and Jake Foster, CEO of Kerr Pumps, both of whom shared insight into the role of Ardmore’s private sector in driving innovation, sustainability and workforce development.
The afternoon included tours of major employers at the Ardmore Industrial Airpark, including DOT Foods, Michelin, Murray State College’s Ardmore Campus, Southern Tech, and King Aerospace, showcasing Ardmore’s unique blend of education and infrastructure investment. The day concluded with a panel discussion on mental and community health, featuring Jessica Pfau, CEO of Lighthouse Behavioral Wellness Centers, and Daryle Voss, President and CEO of Mercy Ardmore.
“The Capitol to Community series allows us to spend meaningful time in cities across Oklahoma, seeing firsthand the partnerships that make our state stronger,” said Speaker Kyle Hilbert. “Ardmore stands out for its balance of economic development and community care.”
Representative Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, said the event was an important opportunity to showcase the city’s growth and leadership:
“Ardmore is a community that never stops moving forward,” said Rep. Townley. “Whether it’s the groundbreaking research at Noble, the work happening at Kerr Pumps and King Aerospace, or the dedicated efforts of our educators and healthcare professionals, Ardmore continues to be a driving force in southern Oklahoma. I’m proud to welcome Speaker Hilbert and my colleagues here to see the incredible work being done.”
The Capitol to Community tour will add two more destinations including Lawton and Guthrie.
