Seminole youth council pitches entertainment center to council, citing jobs and tourism benefits

A group of youth council members presented a proposal to the Seminole City Council to build an entertainment and family center in town featuring a bowling alley, mini golf and an arcade.

The students (introduced by name during the meeting, including Ava Adams and Addison Hill) said local options for teenagers and families are limited in bad weather and during summer months, and that many youths travel to Shawnee and Oklahoma City for activities. "So what we're asking of you, city council members, is we would like to build an entertainment center," one student said during the presentation. Presenters suggested three potential locations (a field across from the softball court, a site off I-40 at 9099 adjacent to a commercial property, and a property near the Children's Museum/oil museum) and outlined marketing and funding ideas, including foundation grants and a community match.

Council members praised the students' work and encouraged next steps. One councilor suggested creating a work group or committee to keep momentum and to help translate the students' plan into action steps. City staff and several councilors noted potential sources of funding and local anchors (Seminole State College, existing events and attractions) that could support demand.

What happens next: Council asked for continued engagement between the youth council and staff; presenters were thanked and invited to stay involved as the idea is explored further.