Ponca City Public Schools Expansion May Leave 92-Year-Old Woman Without A Home

Ponca City Public Schools are looking to expand their athletic facilities. The district is planning to build a new soccer pitch. 

Neighbors in the area say the cost is too high and they’re not talking about the price. 

"Years ago, growing up we had a big patio that took up about a third of the south lawn. We'd have cookouts there and spend a lot of family time here. I remember grandpa teaching me archery," reminisced Brad Whitsitt. 

Whitsitt fondly reflected on his favorite memories at his grandparents’ house on the corner of 6th Street and Comanche Ave. In Ponca City. 

The home was built by his grandfather in 1950 and memories hold it together just as much as mortar. 

"Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas, every holiday we were here," said Whitsitt. "Mom would make supper and we'd sit around in the living room, around the tree and open presents." 

The owner of the home, 92-year-old Francis Welch, may be out of a home if the soccer pitch plans move forward. 

"I've been told that it would literally kill her to move at this point. She suffers from dementia, and this is a familiar place for her," explained Whitsitt.  

His cousin, James Welch added, "They have a long history here and it's just a shame to try to force her out at her age. Out of everything she's loved and known.' 

Ponca City Public Schools have been working towards the new soccer field since back in 2007. They began to buy land in the area to make it a reality. Welch’s attorney said the city even passed a ballot bond last year to fund the new field. 

"It just blindsided them on the ballot they thought ‘yeah, it's great let's build these nice places.’ They didn't know they'd be taking the property," said Whitsitt. 

The school district cites eminent domain as justification for Francis' expulsion. 

"It just feels like betrayal almost. My family has put so much blood, sweat and tears into this city. It'd be devastating," said Whitsitt. 

The other home on the property is owned by another member of the Welch family. The relative is represented by the same attorney. 

The family and Ponca City Public Schools will begin court proceedings on Thursday, June 30.