Mayor David Holt of Oklahoma City, OK Q&A on How Oklahoma City’s Early Decision Saved Lives During COVID-19
1. What personal barriers have you faced in responding to COVID-19 in your community and how have you overcome them? I don’t think my challenges have been different than any other mayor, but I didn’t run for office to shut down small businesses. I did run for office to protect people, so I’m at peace with what we had to do, but it’s a tough situation to be put in that position. I think you get through it by just being very candid and transparent with your residents.
2. What role has technology played in keeping your city up and running – give an example, if possible? That first month I had my phone in my hand 24/7 and it didn’t matter that I was mostly at my house. It’s really amazing how much you can accomplish today with just a phone. Also, so much of a mayor’s role is communication and having social media has allowed for easy daily updates.
On The Frontlines of COVID-19 with Mayor David Holt of Oklahoma City