Also, because of that, it is a big reason OKC is 621 square miles. The need to compete with other cities to capture the sales tax adds just a *few more lane miles to maintain, respond to and serve.

* a hell of a lot

Some context in the world of municipal funding and finances. Oklahoma is the only state in the nation that doesn't allow cities and towns to tap property taxes for day-to-day operations. These voter-approved bonds are one of the only ways to fund large-scale infrastructure projects.

Back atch(a)….ison.

In the past, I would be embarrassed by the words, but these aren’t normal times. I’m only able to do my job and be trusted because of good relationships with the media and public and similar mindsets and values throughout the org. Do we get it right all the time, no, but we try.

I often tell people that one of the reasons I’m still where I’m at is because of the transparency, ethics and the trust people, both internal and external, have in the City and our public servants.

Their rhetoric, demonizing of media and spin, I hate that word but that is what it is, does nothing to make our communities and state a better place for all people.

People like Dan, Carly and Matt, paid by public dollars, should not only be held accountable but serve at the pleasure of the people regardless of political parties.

The dwindling of trust in both of our institutions, caused by hedge funds, lies and mis/disinformation, is one of the big reasons we are in this pickle.

Appreciate that Paul. One of the reasons I get so angry about people like them is that they are serving politicians rather than the people. This includes access to information, records and advocating for local media.

💯

Fitting to close the thread with City Hall’s attic. Yes, we store holiday decorations up there.

Floor plans, electrical docs and maps of where things go after the flush.

A similar door in @cityofokc.bsky.social’s City Hall was left opened recently.

Scratch “be prepared, not scared.”

It has been up for a few months. We were going to announce it but found a few problems at the last minute that would have made it hard for our Action Center staff to manage with a large number of submissions.

Yes, they are there but we haven’t officially shared the links because we are fixing a few issues with the connection to our internal CRM. You can still use it.

Hey Shawn, it hasn’t been released yet. I’ll make sure I get that old link removed.

👋