The Edmond City Council held a special meeting on May 12, 2025, to discuss the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2025-26. A significant focus of the meeting was the budget allocation for various community projects and economic development initiatives.
During the discussions, it was noted that the budget for parks is projected to increase by approximately $200,000 to $300,000 compared to the previous year. Last year's budget for parks was around $1.3 million, which included funding for events such as Liberty Fest and the Hope Center, as well as contributions to the museum, which operates as a separate fund. The current budget proposal reflects a total increase that includes $100,000 earmarked for improvements at Guthrie Airport. These enhancements are aimed at making the airport more self-sustaining and boosting its capacity to attract more visitors and businesses.
Council members emphasized the importance of a well-functioning airport for economic development, highlighting that a sustainable airport is crucial for attracting businesses and fostering growth in the region.
The meeting also included procedural motions, such as a brief recess for council members, which was approved unanimously. Following the break, discussions resumed with a focus on economic infrastructure development, with specific budget figures being addressed.
Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing community resources and supporting local economic initiatives through strategic budget planning. The next steps will involve finalizing the budget and ensuring that the proposed allocations align with the city's long-term development goals.