Edmondite residents and city leaders gathered at Mitch Park to discuss the impact of a proposed bond package totaling $231 million.
Property owners would pay for it and contribute to road, park and safety improvements. The proposed bond would raise property taxes by more than 14%. And while most agree that the way we pay for it needs to be improved, many are either divided or undecided.
“It’s new to people, so it’s hard to understand. We’re trying to get out there and explain as much as we can,” Edmond Mayor Darrell said. Ta. Davis.
If approved, the general obligation or GO bond program would fund 22 projects, with $151 million earmarked for road projects. “It’s a response to what people are saying. This is a problem and the city is listening to you and getting it, and it’s time for us to do something about it.” Edmond Alliance 2050 said Todd McInnis.
Edmond resident Elena Seliman stopped by after seeing the sign around town. It says I’m going to vote, but what does that mean? That’s what I thought. ” Edmond resident Elena Seliman said.
Seliman is on the fence. “The only reason I make decisions is property taxes, but you know, we have to work together to get things done,” Seliman said.
Lydia Li was determined. “The team is no, no, no,” Edmond resident Lydia Lee said. She agrees improvements are needed, but says not everyone can afford to pay more. “Families on fixed incomes, seniors on fixed incomes, this is going to impact them,” Lee said.
The second largest portion of the funding, $70 million, will go toward park improvements.
The remaining $10 million will go towards replacing the cramped and aging fire station, which was built in 1983. “That fire department received 2,029 calls last year in 2023,” said Edmond Fire Department Deputy Chief Chris Denton.
The three projects will be listed separately on the ballot, and if approved, the bond will increase property taxes regardless of whether you vote for one or all of them.
