The Mayor of Altus serves as the elected representative of the community and presides over City Council meetings, helping guide policy decisions and strategic direction for the city. As a key figure in local leadership, the Mayor works closely with the City Manager and department heads to ensure effective governance, responsive public service, and a strong connection between city operations and the citizens of Altus. The Mayor also represents the city at public events, regional partnerships, and state-level discussions, advocating for the continued growth and well-being of the community.

Robert Garrison is a proud lifelong resident of Altus, Oklahoma, and the son of a U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sergeant. Born at Travis Air Force Base in California, he moved to Altus with his family in the early 1970s when his father was stationed at Altus Air Force Base. After his father’s retirement, the Garrison family made Altus their permanent home.

Mr. Garrison is a graduate of Altus High School and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Social Studies from Oklahoma State University. He has dedicated his professional career to education, serving in the Altus Public School system for decades. He taught Honors American History at Altus Junior High before moving to Altus High School, where he took over the Advanced Placement U.S. History program. He was named Altus Public Schools District Teacher of the Year during the 2004–2005 academic year.

Family is a cornerstone of Mr. Garrison’s life. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Rhonda, and together they have raised three children, all of whom have been active members of the Altus community. His children have pursued careers in education, healthcare, and leadership, and continue to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.

Mr. Garrison’s career also includes years of coaching multiple sports, including football, women’s basketball, baseball, volleyball, and track and field. He has served on the State Track Coaches Association Advisory Board and was named Oklahoma Coaches Association Region 4 Track Coach of the Year. Under his leadership, teams have earned state championships and runner-up titles, and individual athletes have earned top honors at the state level.

In addition to his work in education and athletics, Mr. Garrison has been actively involved in civic service. He was part of the committee that drafted the current Altus City Charter and was elected to the Altus City Council in 2019. At the council’s first meeting following his election, he was appointed Vice Mayor.