'Automated': State Capitol lawn mowers set to save green, OMES says
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – On Monday, the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES), alongside Gov. Kevin Stitt and the Oklahoma Division of Government Efficiency (DOGE-OK), revealed new automated lawn mowers to service the State Capitol grounds.
The technology is expected to cut maintenance expenses while continuing to upkeep the grounds.
According to OMES the state has purchased seven automated mowers for $24,000. The “Auto Mows” are set to replace traditional contracted landscaping services that totaled between $350,000 and $600,000 annually.
“This is a smart, efficient use of taxpayer dollars,” Gov. Stitt said. “We are always looking for ways to reduce spending while maintaining top-tier services. By embracing automation, we’re saving hundreds of thousands of dollars each year and setting an example for how government can operate more efficiently.”
According to OMES:
- The mowers naturally manage weeds in the grass without requiring herbicides or pesticides
- Each mower is equipped with GPS tracking and built-in alarms to ensure security
- For added safety, the mowers automatically shut off their blades if lifted