In Oklahoma, cities and towns are very limited on options to raise revenue for public infrastructure and services like streets, police, fire, and parks. Sales tax revenue collected from purchases made inside city limits is by far the largest funding source for the City of Edmond's general budge . While General Obligation Bonds for specific capital improvements funded by a property tax are an option used by most large cities in our state, Edmond voters have not approved a GO Bond for streets, public safety, or parks since 1980. 

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Since sales tax revenue is the lifeblood of Edmond's municipal government, it is essential that the city pursue policies that encourage residents to shop locally, allow local businesses like shops and restaurants to grow, attract new businesses that will bring additional tax revenue to Edmond, and incentivize the types of housing needed for the Edmond families who want to work and shop here. 

 

While the Edmond community is supportive of local businesses, data shows $15-20 million in sales tax leakage - primarily to Oklahoma City - occurred in the past year due to Edmond residents leaving city limits to shop, dine, and seek entertainment elsewhere. It is very important to remember that only purchases made inside Edmond city limits contribute to our streets, police and fire services, parks, etc. Many commercial areas in north Oklahoma City - including the Memorial Rd. corridor, Chisholm Creek, and Quail Springs Mall - have Edmond addresses and zip codes, but are not inside Edmond city limits. Check out our full Sales Tax Leakage Report here. ​​

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Edmond Alliance supports

• Increased funding for the Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) to recruit new businesses and grow Edmond's local economy

• Funding and resources for Visit Edmond to attract tourism and events to Edmond

• Sales tax rebate programs for new developments that will generate a significant return on investment in new sales tax revenue

• Tax Increment Financing (TIF) 

• Creation of Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) 

• Development of Edmond's commercial corridors, including Covell Rd. and I-35, to bring new sales tax revenue into Edmond from nearby communities

• Investment in Downtown Edmond infrastructure

• The University District Plan for redevelopment of the neighborhood between the University of Central Oklahoma campus and Downtown Edmond into a mixed-use entertainment district. ​