'Lifetime of service': Former OKC Ward 3 Councilman Larry McAtee passes away

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - According to the City of Oklahoma City, former OKC Ward 3 Councilman Larry McAtee has passed away at age 87.

The City says McAtee served Ward 3 from 2001 to 2021, making him the second longest-serving councilperson in OKC history. He had been reelected in 2005, 2009, 2013 and 2017.

“Councilman Larry McAtee was a model public servant who connected with his constituents on a personal level to solve problems and seize opportunities,” Mayor David Holt said.

Officials say he was a passionate advocate for neighborhoods, trails, economic development and beautification for more than two decades. McAtee played a major role in the trails master plan as well as the trails wayfinding signage master plan. He also contributed to the economic development in Bricktown and along the Oklahoma River.

“Though his first priority was always his ward, Larry was also a contributor to the many citywide accomplishments we realized during his two decades of service, including the passage of three MAPS initiatives and the arrival of major league professional sports. We are grateful for his lifetime of service, and we send our deepest condolences to his family.” added Holt.

McAtee served on multiple boards and trusts including:

• Airport Trust (chair).
• Economic Development Trust (chair).
• Sports Facilities Oversight Board (chair).
• Water Utilities Trust.
• Trails Advisory Committee.
• Legislative Committee.
• Audit Committee.
• Emergency Medical Services Authority.
• Riverfront Redevelopment Authority.

Oklahoma City even named the park at Crystal Lake in Ward 3 after him in 2023.

"It was an honor to serve the residents of Ward 3 and the City of Oklahoma City for 20 years,” Councilman McAtee said at the dedication. “It was my privilege to serve alongside neighborhood leaders and City Staff who were passionate about growing and improving our great City. May God continue to bless the City of Oklahoma City."