A proposal to honor the legacy of former Kingfisher Mayor Robert Walter through improvements at Walters Park was presented by Brian Walter during the May 11, 2026 Kingfisher City Commission meeting.
Walter addressed the commission and shared plans for a memorial site at Walters Park, located on the west side of the city’s historic swinging bridge. The proposal includes creating a scenic destination area overlooking the park, Uncle John Creek, the swinging bridge, and the town’s only waterfall.
Walter explained that the area, originally built as tennis courts through a federal Land and Water Conservation grant, has fallen into disuse over the years. The courts later served as a skate park before those ramps were relocated to Newville Park.
“Walter Park is nothing more than blank pavement today,” Walter told commissioners.
Robert “Bob” Walter, Brian’s father, served on the Kingfisher City Council during a key period in the city’s development and rotated into the mayor’s position under the city’s former system of government. Walter said his father was part of the leadership team that helped transition Kingfisher from the old “city fathers” style government into the modern city manager system still used today.
Walter also noted his father’s name remains on memorial plates attached to generators at the city power plant, recognizing his contributions to the community.
The proposed improvements would include a swing and seating area designed to encourage visitors to walk across the bridge and enjoy the natural scenery. Walter said the project aims to honor both his father’s legacy and the original intent of the federal grant program by expanding outdoor recreation opportunities while protecting natural resources.
Walter requested the city approve $25,000 for the project, adding that he had previously discussed the proposal with City Manager Jim Thomas and understood the project may already be included in future budget considerations.
No formal action was taken during the meeting, as the agenda item was presented for discussion only.
Photos by AAN Jack Quirk
