CHICKASHA – City sales tax collections exceeded $1.5 million in a single reporting period for the first time in the community’s history, the Economic Development Council announced.
According to the most recent report from the Oklahoma Tax Commission, sales tax receipts for the latest period surpassed $1.5 million, reflecting continued growth in retail activity, dining, services, and tourismrelated spending in Chickasha. The report represents actual sales tax from March 16-31 and estimated sales tax from April 1-15, according to the OTC.
“This marks a major milestone for the local economy,” CEDC Executive Director Jim Cowan said.
The CEDC also tracks information about the local hotel/motel tax, employment, building permits and visitor traffic.
“This is a historic benchmark for Chickasha and a clear sign that our local economy is gaining momentum,” Cowan said. “When residents choose to shop local and when new businesses choose Chickasha, it directly strengthens the city’s ability to invest in infrastructure, public safety, and quality-of-life projects.”
Sales tax is the primary source of operating revenue for the City of Chickasha, supporting core services such as police and fire protection, street maintenance, parks and recreation, and other critical community functions.
Mayor Zach Grayson credited local businesses and residents alike for the record collections.
“This achievement belongs to our business community and the people of Chickasha,” he said. “Their commitment to investing here at home keeps dollars circulating locally and helps us build a stronger, more vibrant city.”
Several factors have contributed to the positive trend in collections, Cowan said, including:
•New commercial and retail developments like McAlister’s Deli and Wingstop.
•An increased number of regional visitors drawn by community events and attractions.
•Ongoing efforts to promote Chickasha as a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the city’s trade area of more than 120,000 people.
Cowan, who also serves as president of the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce, commented on a new upcoming shop local campaign – “Love Where You Live” – which will be a part of the Festival of Freedom that kicks off next week.
“Our community will have an opportunity to finish the city’s fiscal year strong in the next few weeks by supporting local businesses. The Chamber will give away $250 weekly in local gift cards as a reward for shopping locally.”
The CEDC’s mission is “to grow jobs, attract investment, and broaden the city’s tax base,” Cowan added. “Reaching this $1.5 million milestone is evidence that our long-term strategies are yielding results. We are committed to sustaining this growth by supporting entrepreneurs, assisting expanding businesses, and working with partners at the city, county, and state levels.”