JUNE 2024 • OKCCHAMBER.COM
CLICK FOR FULL STORY LA28 ANNOUNCES UPDATED VENUE PLAN, INCLUDES OKC
IN THIS ISSUE: 8
Vortex Doors Opens Service Center in Oklahoma City Staying Competitive in Tourism A Q&A with Visit OKC President, Zac Craig Bricktown Canal Celebrates 25th Anniversary
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LA28 ANNOUNCES UPDATED VENUE PLAN, INCLUDES OKC
Possible venue for the LA28 Summer Olympic Games.
The LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games proposed the first series of updates to its venue plan that will stage some of the most popular Olympic and Paralympic sports in world-class arenas and stadiums, creating the ideal experience for athletes and fans. While Southern California has more professional and collegiate sports venues than any area in the United States, there is no Canoe Slalom venue that exists locally (or anywhere in the Western US), and the largest Softball venue in Southern California seats fewer than 2,000 people, which does not meet the expected spectator demand for Softball at the Olympic Games. Instead of undertaking additional construction projects to build temporary venues for these sports, LA28 will assign Canoe Slalom and Softball competitions to the world- class venues in Oklahoma City. These assignments are also in alignment with the IOC’s Olympic Agenda 2020+5 recommendation which emphasizes sustainability by encouraging the use of existing venues beyond the region of the Host City. Both the Canoe Slalom and Softball venues in Oklahoma City are built to international competition standards, ensuring a high-quality experience for athletes and fans, while allowing LA28 to realize cost savings and revenue gains to support its balanced budget. LA28 also recognizes that the Oklahoma City community has consistently
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Possible venue for the LA28 Summer Olympic Games.
supported top events for both sports and is confident that they will for these Olympic competitions as well. The leadership of the City of Oklahoma City, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, Riversport OKC and USA Softball have been working closely with LA28 to develop a plan to support Los Angeles’ delivery of the 2028 summer Olympics by hosting all Canoe Slalom and Women’s Softball events in Oklahoma City. “Oklahoma City has hosted many international competitions at our unique, world-class whitewater and softball venues,” said Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt. “We are confident we will be an outstanding partner to
LA28 in creating a dynamic environment for Olympians and fans. We are excited about the opportunity to support one of America’s great global cities, Los Angeles, and work closely with the LA28 organizing committee to ensure that the 2028 Olympic Games are a success.” All proposed venue changes have been assessed in consultation with each respective International Federation. The IOC Executive Board has approved these venue assignments for Olympic sports, pending approval from the City of Los Angeles. Changes to venues for Paralympic sports will require approval from the IPC Governing Board in the future.
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A New Noninvasive Treatment for Essential Tremor OU Health is the first and only health system in Oklahoma to offer an incisionless treatment for patients with medical refractory essential tremor that can result in improvement in hand, head and body shaking as well as increased mobility through a same-day treatment. Called “Focused Ultrasound,” the new technology is for essential tremor patients who have not responded to medication, or who cannot take it. Focused ultrasound for essential tremor is an FDA-approved, non-invasive procedure that’s transforming patient care. The procedure uses ultrasound waves to target the specific areas of the brain responsible for tremors. Guided by MRI, the soundwaves pass safely through the skull and soft tissues to focus heat on only the targeted area, providing relief from symptoms. With no surgical cuts or permanent implants necessary, there is minimal to no risk of infection, and the treatment is often performed on an outpatient basis. Many patients can expect to resume normal activities within days.
OU Health is proud to be the first in Oklahoma to offer this revolutionary treatment.
OU Health Physicians — Neurosurgery Clinic 1000 N Lincoln Blvd, Suite 4000 Oklahoma City, OK 73104 (405) 271-4912
To make an appointment or for more information, visit us at OUHealth.com/EssentialTremor
LEADERSHIP NOTES
STRATEGIC PLAN SETS DIRECTION FOR OKLAHOMA CITY’S GROWTH Your Chamber has been working closely with the City of Oklahoma City and Alliance for Economic Development of OKC to create an economic development strategic plan for our community. Our work began with a deep dive into the data, comparing progress with peer and aspirant cities. That research was followed by engagement – first at our Leadership Summit last fall, where more than 100 Chamber members worked together to identify our most pressing concerns and possible solutions. Next, focus groups and surveys allowed input from over 370 people, which was compared to best practices nationally. Throughout the process, we had a dynamic steering committee of community leaders giving guidance and input throughout. In April, we reconvened our Leadership Summit to introduce the key pillars of the plan: Quality of Place, Economic Growth, Education, Marketing and Storytelling, and Civic Engagement. These pillars were identified to maximize our current advantages and opportunities for growth. The community plan will require efforts from the city, the Alliance, the Chamber and many partners to realize its full potential. As we finalize components, one important outcome will be during our next Forward Oklahoma City program. Beginning next year, this effort will include activities in each of the five pillars, marrying vision with the potential to advance our region and building on past successes while elevating new opportunities for the future. As we embark on this process, this is a moment to suit up and be a part of Oklahoma City’s next phase of growth and development. Our team is strong and ready to take this next step – together. Thank you for your continued dedication to OKC and the region! CONTENTS 17 State of the Aerospace 11 City unveils three projects funded by Better Streets, Safer City bond program 14 Rankings Roundup 17 Oklahoma City Ranks #2 for Best Metro for Small Businesses Nationwide
CHRISTY GILLENWATER President & CEO
READ CHRISTY’S VELOCITYOKC ONLINE STORY OF THE MONTH
The Journey of Oklahoma City’s MAPS 3 Initiative VELOCITYOKC.COM/ CHRISTYSPICK
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CALENDAR (Events are subject to change. Consult okcchamber.com/events for the most recent updates.) JULY 10 UPCOMING EVENTS 100 N Broadway, 34th Floor OKCChamber.com/JulyForum JULY 23 State of the City 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oklahoma City Convention Center 100 Mick Cornett Dr. OKCChamber.com/City AUGUST 7 State of the Schools 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. National Cowboy & Western Chamber Forum 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Petroleum Club Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St. OKCChamber.com/Schools AUGUST 21 Chamber Forum 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Petroleum Club 100 N Broadway, 34th Floor OKCChamber.com/AugustForum
During the July Chamber Forum, we’ll discuss the new strategic economic development plan that will chart our city’s course for the future. Hear from leaders who are stepping up to help guide the strategy and learn how you can be a part of making this new vision a reality. The forum will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., July 10, at the Petroleum Club Downtown Oklahoma City, 100 N. Broadway, 34th floor. Participating on the panel will be: • Mark Beffort, CEO, Newmark Robinson Park • Mike Jackson. Senior Vice President of Government Relations & Policy, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber • Jeff Seymour, Executive Vice President of Economic Development, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber The cost to attend the July Chamber Forum is $45 for Chamber members and $55 for nonmembers. To register, click here. The Chamber Forum series brings thought leaders together to discuss major initiatives, programs and current issues that impact Oklahoma City’s business climate, economy and community. Visit the events page on the Chamber website for up-to- date information on this and other events the Chamber hosts throughout the year. Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor Cox Communications and Silver Sponsor ADG | Blatt. Economic Development Strategic Plan to be topic of July Chamber Forum
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The Chamber’s recent State of the Aerospace event was a celebration of the aerospace industry’s growing presence in Greater Oklahoma City. A myriad of information was shared about the tremendous potential for growth due to the rise of unmanned aerial vehicles and systems, as well as challenges the industry still faces. Attendees enjoyed hearing from leaders in the industry who are driving growth and influencing the future of flight in Oklahoma. Keynote speaker Steve Fendley, President, Unmanned Systems Division – Kratos Defense and Security Solutions was joined by panelists James Grimsley, Executive Director of Advanced Technology Initiatives – Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and David Zahn, Research Pilot, Ames Research Center – NASA. Fendley touched on the growth of Unmanned Aerial Systems for the Department of Defense and the potential for Oklahoma to grow its influence in the sector. “In our region, there are more than 290 firms and 43,000 workers in the sector, with a payroll that exceeds $3.4 billion,” said Fendley. “We expect to see this tremendous growth in both the public and private sectors continue.” STATE OF THE AEROSPACE
“We must focus on skills and technologies that are leading the future, like advanced manufacturing, automated intelligence, data analytics and cybersecurity,” said Fendley. The panel discussion covered unmanned aircraft systems, advanced air mobility and was moderated by Kent Shortridge, Vice Chair of Military and Aerospace. “What we’re trying to figure out now, is what is the viable safety infrastructure needed to integrate the airspace,” said Colonel Shane Riley. Fendley noted how unmanned aerial systems are going to apply to our basic lives now, what our military does, what our adversaries think, and how we prepare as a nation. “It’s really a complex equation when you look across all those things.” While aerospace is a complex mission spanning across the country, Fendley stressed that Oklahoma approaches aerospace components differently by desiring expansion and commitment above all else. “What we have seen is constant support and constant belief in the mission and a constant commitment,” Fendley said. “And that’s the most important, right?” “We expect to see tremendous growth in both the public and private sectors continue,” said Steve Fendley, President, Unmanned Systems Division – Kratos Defense and Security Solutions
The largest, single-site employer in Oklahoma, Tinker Air Force Base, is expecting to see a continued increase in employment and workload. Pratt and Whitney is also completing a new facility south of Tinker to house their continued growth, and additional growth is anticipated from Northrup Grumman as well. Fendley noted that as workload increases, so do the opportunities for small businesses and subcontractors to support DOD missions.
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VORTEX DOORS OPENS SERVICE CENTER IN OKLAHOMA CITY
OKLAHOMA CITY - Irvine, CA-based Vortex Doors has announced the opening of its newest service center location in Oklahoma City, creating 30 new jobs and an investment in the local economy of $350,000. “Oklahoma City is a growing business hub with a large working population. We feel the business community could benefit from the reliability and longevity that Vortex brings,” said Rob Knapp, chief operating officer, Vortex Doors. Vortex has been in business since 1937 and has a rich history of specializing in all types of commercial and industrial door repairs and replacement services, including hangar and large-scale doors. Vortex discovered that while there are a lot of hangar door manufacturers in the country, there aren’t as many service companies to support and repair these doors. “Because they are critical to the aviation and aerospace operations, we expanded our hangar door services on a national level giving customers a reliable and highly experienced team to service these doors throughout the country,” added Knapp. Vortex has experience with a variety of aviation-related companies including Spaceforce, Virgin Galactic, NASA, and military bases across the United States. “Our abundant workforce and strong business community make Oklahoma City the ideal choice for Vortex’s newest location,” said Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce. “With the aerospace industry being the
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second largest and fastest growing industry in the state, Vortex’s specialization in hangar door operation is a welcome addition.” Located at 30 NE 38th Terrace, the newest Vortex service center joins the other 47 service centers in 13 states. Unique to Oklahoma City will be the support of the exclusive Hangar Door Division. “This division is a team of our most experienced technicians, engineers, and project managers specialized to ensure the best, most cost-effective solutions for the aviation and aerospace industries,” added Knapp. “We are excited to welcome Vortex Doors and are grateful for their commitment and investment to Oklahoma,” said Hopper Smith, Brigadier General (ret.), Executive Director of The Oklahoma Department of
Commerce. “Our state’s pro-business policies make it the ideal place to support Vortex’s growing operations.” The Oklahoma City team leader/manager is Jeff Burbine and the customer service leader is Jillian Young. For service or additional information call 405-451-5517.
Congratulations to Chamber members on their recent Grand Openings! To see the schedule of upcoming Grand Openings or subscribe to the Grand Openings calendar, visit okcchamber.com/grandopenings. GRAND OPENINGS
The Learning Experience at Hefner & Council 10701 N. Council Road OKC, OK 73162 Paseo Art Association 3024 Paseo Drive OKC, OK 73103 Swing 365 14201 N. May Ave. Suite 208 OKC, OK 73134 Direct 2 Completion 1015 N. Broadway, Suite 301 OKC, OK 73102
Stride Bank 1225 N. Broadway Ave. Suite 106 OKC, OK 73103 Almonte Library 2727 SW 59th OKC, OK 73119 Trulo Management 2145 Watermark Blvd. OKC, OK 73134 MAPS 3 Senior Health & Wellness 13600 S. Western Ave. OKC, OK 73170
“This destination has changed so dramatically. Our competitive cities budgets are more than double what we have to spend, so for us to really be able to compete for business and sell this city the way it deserves to be sold, this increase is vital.” Competitive cities budgets are significantly higher, but so are their hotel tax rates. Oklahoma City, at 14.13% currently, is significantly lower now that competitive and surrounding cities such as Tulsa (16.52%), Austin (17%), Kansas City (18.35%) and Fort Worth (xx). At the new rate of 17.88%, Oklahoma City will still be competitive for meetings and events. The additional funding for tourism and meetings promotion and development would attract more visitors by scaling marketing efforts to attract meetings and conventions, large events, and leisure travelers. “We know that today’s tourist is potentially tomorrow’s resident or business owner,” said Gillenwater. “It is so important for our community’s growth to create a stronger tourism brand – it grows our hospitality industry and employment, and it also importantly has a positive impact on our business development efforts and goals of attracting critical workforce.” The vote would be held on August 27 and registered voters within the City of Oklahoma City would be eligible to vote.
The Chamber is supporting an effort to increase the City’s hotel tax to provide more funds for the promotion of Oklahoma City as a visitor destination. The Oklahoma City Council is set to vote on the proposal May 21. “The improvements made in this community over the past 30 years have created a dynamic destination for meetings and tourism,” said Christy Gillenwater, president of the Chamber. “Unfortunately, the money available to really share that story with the world has not grown, and that hampers our ability to tell the story and sell what we have to offer.” The tax is only charged to people who stay overnight in a hotel or rent a home-sharing property in the City of Oklahoma City. The current tax is 5.5% and the increase would take the total tax to 9.25%. The increase would bring in an additional 11.6 million annually, with 75% of the increase going toward direct funding to promote and/or foster convention and tourism development. The remainder of the increase would go toward event sponsorship(13.3%), a vital tool for attracting events, OKC Fairgrounds improvements (6.7%) and OKC Convention Center improvements (5%). “The amount provided for promotional purposes hasn’t been increased since the tax was instituted in 1972,” explained Zac Craig, president of Visit OKC. STAYING COMPETITIVE IN TOURISM
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May brought the completion of three quality of life infrastructure projects funded by the Better Streets, Safer City bond program passed by voters in 2016. CITY UNVEILS THREE PROJECTS FUNDED BY BETTER STREETS, SAFER CITY BOND PROGRAM
concession stands with restrooms, children’s play areas and spectator seating. “It is so exciting to see this latest phase of Woodson Park’s development,” Parks and Recreation Director Melinda McMillan-Miller said. “These new amenities add to the successful Wendel Whisenhunt Sports Complex to the west of Interstate 44 and will allow residents to play on top quality sports fields for generations.” ALMONTE LIBRARY Replacing a popular, and well-used temporary location, the new Almonte Library is open at 2727 SW 59th St. The temporary location opened in 2011 while Southern Oaks Library was being renovated and became so popular that a new $6.6 million library was included in the voter- approved Better Streets, Safer City Bond program. The new library is more than 20,000 square feet, nearly double the temporary location. It features a Makerspace, podcasting studio, drive-up book drop, shaded outdoor space for story time, playground equipment and more. The library’s collection includes more than 40,000 books, magazines, DVDs and other forms of media in English, Spanish and Vietnamese. The building also features two large artworks by local OKC artists. Metropolitan Library System CEO Larry White, Ph.D., said. “As we celebrate this milestone, we recognize that libraries are more than just repositories of books; they are vital community spaces that promote literacy, foster lifelong learning, and provide equal access to information for all. The Almonte Library embodies our commitment to inclusivity, digital access, and the preservation of knowledge, serving as a beacon of enlightenment and empowerment for generations to come.”
PASEO STREETSCAPE Oklahoma City’s historic arts corridor received a $4 million facelift with a streetscaping project, focusing on improving the district’s walkability and ADA access by replacing sidewalks, repaving streets and upgrading handicapped parking. The project also includes new benches, trash cans, bike racks, message boards, streetlights, landscaping, irrigation and added pet waste stations. “We are so excited to celebrate all the stakeholders involved who made this project possible and appreciate the funding we received from the City,” Paseo Arts Association Executive Director Amanda Bleakley said. Funds from the Better Streets, Safer City bond program were also used to install water and electrical infrastructure to support festivals held in the district, including the Paseo Arts Festival, a popular Memorial Day weekend event attracts thousands of people annually. WOODSON PARK One of Oklahoma City’s original parks, Woodson Park, received a significant upgrade with a new athletic complex at 3403 S May Ave. The $13-million Athletic Complex includes six lighted diamond fields, four lighted rectangle fields, two
Mayor David Holt celebrates significant milestone for south OKC during The Almonte Library opening, a voter-approved Better Streets, Safe City Bond program.
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In our case, people thought Michigan was old Detroit in an old manufacturing building that is all broken down, falling apart, maybe crime ridden maybe with corruption. The other thing they thought is that is cold. So we're there to correct misperceptions, give them the real picture so they consider it as a place to visit, or maybe live, or consider it as a place to work or to engage with. That's an important job. Zac - What should we be considering right now as a destination from a marketing perspective? Dave - I literally thought I would see some oil wells, the old tiny things and then I thought I would see more brown. I was really surprised to see so much. I had no idea I'd modern everything and really cool everything. So I would love to have you tell that story. I was getting ready for this meeting and asked about budget and was surprised to hear what it was, because a city of this size should have I think about twice that budget. Your overall operating budget is $5.7 million and paid media is probably around a million. In Michigan on the lower peninsula, there's a little place called Traverse City. It's a really beautiful place, and basically a summer resort. Their operating budget is $12 million. They're a city of 11,000 people. Their metro is about 200,000. Detroit is not that much bigger than this area and their budget is between $12 and $14 million. So you're competing against resort communities like Traverse City and you are competing with markets like Detroit. You really need more firepower to get out there.
A Q&A WITH EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT, DAVE LORENZ
At the April Chamber Forum, Visit OKC President Zac Craig sat down with Dave Lorenz, and an executive consultant with MMGY, a national marketing agency that specializes in visitor marketing. He formerly worked for many years with
DAVE LORENZ Executive Consultant MMGY
Travel Michigan and was one of the creators of Pure Michigan, a brand and marketing campaign that changed the perceptions of the state of Michigan. Zac – Dave, tell us your first impressions of Oklahoma City. Dave - I've never been to Oklahoma and I'm so impressed, I cannot tell you how impressed. I've been here for less than 24 hours and I can say this genuinely, authentically meaning this, I could live here and be happy. This is a great place. Zac – First, I want to talk about just the mission of a convention or visitors bureau or destination marketing organization. What should residents of our community know about the role of these organizations? Dave – You are the storytellers, you're the people who are out there telling the story about a place, about a people, about the many experiences you can have when you come to this place. This is the place that maybe you've never thought of before we want to make sure you know what the real place is like.
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Zac – Funding is also a challenge for us at the state level. Their budget is capped at $5.7 million. Dave - So I'm from out of state. It's not appropriate for me to say that's ridiculous. So I won't say it but for comparison, Arkansas spends $30 million. I expect Michigan to spend $50 million next year. Zac – Let’s talk about Pure Michigan and how that concept developed. Dave- Think about this. 25,000 mornings give or take, it's all we get. So why not live some of those days or at least most of those days in a place where you can live your life fully. With purpose and passion. And you can do that here in our state. You can do that here in your community. The reality is you can do that anywhere where people are proud of their communities. So that's what we tried to instill and it worked. And by doing that, I am absolutely sure we helped with the renaissance of Detroit, our biggest city, our biggest challenge. That city was falling apart, so many problems, but the people of the city were tired of those problems.
I do believe that the Pure Michigan campaign reminded everybody that it's time that we woke up, fought back because our state and our cities were worth fighting for. Not just our communities but our future. So you think about your community here, is your community worth fighting for? Is your community worth investing in? I mean investing in properly where it's going to be here the way you want it to be for future generations. Think about what you're most proud about in this community. Is it the people? Is it the surroundings? Is it the things that you've helped work on? Is it the attractions, the amenities, the stories to tell? And is this the community you want your kids and grandkids and neighbors’ kids, future generations to live in, to come back to, or to stay in? If you can say yes to that, this is the community you should help invest in by making sure that your entire economic setting is fully working together in all ways, making sure that your tourism association is funded appropriately. And I'll also say do all you can to keep your state tourism office moving forward fully funded as well. It makes such a big difference.
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RANKINGS ROUNDUP
Oklahoma City has proven to be an up-and-coming scene for job opportunities, the housing market, tourism and more. We are thrilled to highlight some of Oklahoma City’s top rankings awarded so far this year.
• Oklahoma City ranks No. 6 for Market with the Lowest Income Needed to Purchase a Home / Zillow • Oklahoma City ranks No. 7 for Cheapest U.S. City for Concert Travel / Upgraded Points
• Oklahoma City ranks No. 1 for Lowest Cost of Living Among Large Cities / C2ER • Oklahoma City ranks No. 1 for Cheapest Rent Among Large U.S Metros / C2ER
• Oklahoma City ranks No. 9 in Job Creation in the U.S. in a U.S. / U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics • Oklahoma City ranks No. 14 for Best Cities to Buy a House in America / Niche • Oklahoma City ranks No. 16 for Best Places to Live in the U.S. / U.S. News
• Oklahoma City ranks No. 2 for Best Metro for Small Businesses Nationwide / Forbes Advisor • Oklahoma City ranks No. 3 for Best City to Move to in 2024 / Forbes Home • Oklahoma City ranks No. 3 for Metro with the Highest Percentage of Family-Owned Businesses / OnDeck • Oklahoma City ranks No. 5 for Hottest Job Market in 2023 / Wall Street Journal
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BRICKTOWN CANAL CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY
Downtown Oklahoma City will commemorate 25 years of the Bricktown Canal on Tuesday, July 2. Celebratory events will include many family-friendly activities and programs designed to celebrate the special anniversary of an Oklahoma City landmark that has attracted visitors from across the state and beyond. The Bricktown Canal anniversary celebration will be the first of many Independence-themed events during the week. Fireworks at the Flagpole, an event hosted by the Bricktown Association and the Oklahoma Opry featuring live music from multiple artists, will follow on July 3, and an OKC Baseball Club game against the Las Vegas Aviators will end in a firework finale on July 4. The construction of the Bricktown Canal is one of the initial MAPS projects that led Oklahoma City’s transition to the dynamic city it is today, with many attractions, events and landmarks covering the area. With community members willing to invest, the city has achieved a significant increase in development. Even today, the Bricktown Canal continues to impact the downtown Oklahoma City area, generating over $629 million, supporting 5,331 jobs and contributing to an additional 2,347 jobs, according to the Bricktown Association and the City of Oklahoma City’s economic impact study. After 25 years of operation, the canal continues to be a fundamental anchor for Oklahoma City, with much growth and development surrounding the landmark. Within the next 10 years, Oklahoma City expects multiple new projects influenced by the presence of
the Bricktown Canal, such as The Truck Yard, The Oklahoma Opry, a multipurpose stadium and The Boardwalk at Bricktown. The Bricktown Canal’s most popular feature is the Bricktown Water Taxi. Bricktown’s water taxis have been operating the 40-minute, historical-themed ride since its opening in 1999. Along the water taxi’s route, participants not only learn about the origins of the canal and the history of Oklahoma City, but the ride also features recent artwork, such as the Centennial Mural and ArtAfloatOKC. The surrounding aspects of the canal are maintained through many downtown partnerships, including Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department, Bricktown Association, the downtown Business Improvement District and more. The Bricktown Canal is a vital aspect of the Downtown Oklahoma City experience. Twenty-five years later, the structure’s importance and contributions to Oklahoma City has not changed, ensuring it is a part of the city worth celebrating.
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Businesses who join the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber are part of the largest coalition of businesses in the state and make the Chamber’s work in the community possible. Each member level is identified on the listing below.
CORE
PARTNER+
Asinine Signs Signs & Advertising Displays Mr. Glenn Linden..........................(918) 230-0056
Harrison Energy Partners Air Conditioning & Heating - Commercial Mr. Walter Pendelton.................(405) 658-8376 3100 N. Santa Fe Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118-8803 www.harrisonenergy.com The Hertz Corporation Automobile Renting & Leasing Equipment Rental & Leasing Ms. Jessica Mollica.....................(405) 775-3620 The Learning Experience at Hefner and Council Child Care Services Mr. Bhavesh Patel.........................(405) 812-4806 10701 N. Council Road 4601 Isabella Road Norman, OK 73072-5228 https://thelearningexperience.com/centers/ oklahoma-city-hefner-and-council/ OK Wildcatters Sports Complexes & Entertainment Centers Mr. Jeff Kretchmar.......................(405) 218-9300 1001 N. Broadway Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73102-5811 https://thewildcatters.com 5601 Northwest Expressway Warr Acres, OK 73132-5232 www.hertz.com Saltgrass Steak House Restaurants Ms. Sarah Graviss........................(405) 680-0010 1445 W. I-240 Service Road, Suite 13 1510 W. Loop S. Houston, TX 77027-9505 https://www.saltgrass.com/location/saltgrass- oklahoma-city/ Sit Still Kids Salon Beauty Salons / Barber Shops / Spas Ms. Jackie Irwin.............................(405) 266-5537 2740 NW 140th St., Suite B 601 NW 14th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73103-2209 okc.sitstillkids.com
Tabor Water Solutions Water Treatment Mr. Kyle Tabor................................(405) 506-2634
T&T Industrial Inc. Manufacturing & Distribution Mr. Carson Tesch.........................(405) 506-0170 1021 S. Rockwell Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73128-2214 https://tandtindustrial.com
14500 Chambord Drive Yukon, OK 73099-5470 www.asininesigns.com
304 N. Meridian Ave. Suite 23 Oklahoma City, OK 73107-6535 taborwatersolutions.com
CIO Suite Computer Consultants Mr. Kent Barner...............................(214) 952-3190 14555 Dallas Parkway, Suite 100-204 Dallas, TX 75254-4318 www.ciosuite.com Cunningham & Mears Legal Services Mr. Ryan Cunningham................(405) 232-1212 Direct 2 Completion Program / Project Management Mr. Andy Rine.................................(405) 768-3407 1015 N. Broadway, Suite 301 Oklahoma City, OK 73102-5849 www.d2completion.com JAG Ventures DBA: Extra Space Self Storage Storage Mr. Austin Peck..............................(405) 335-6303 13600 S. Meridian Ave. 201 NW 132nd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73114-2305 www.extraspace.com 5104 N. Francis Ave., Suite 102 Oklahoma City, OK 73118-6043 www.cunninghamandmears.com Hampton Inn Oklahoma City Northwest Hotels & Motels Meeting / Banquet Facilities Mr. J. Paul Crone..........................(405) 947-0953 3022 N.W. Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 73112-5403 https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/okcnthx- hamton-oklahoma-city-northwest/
Tricord Roofing, LLC Roofing Contractors
ADVISOR
Ms. Cheri Whitnah......................(405) 933-8600 10600 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 16-604 Oklahoma City, OK 73170-4256 www.tricordroofing.com
Cline Construction OK LLC Construction Companies Real Estate Developers Mr. Chris Cline..................................(405) 301-3447 3825 NW 166th St., Suite A1 Edmond, OK 73012-9228 https://www.clineconstructionok.com/ Lively Hotel on OAK Oklahoma City, Tapestry by Hilton Hotels & Motels Ms. Jonnie Leckie........................(405) 849-4777 5101 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73112-8073 https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/okcupup- lively-hotel-on-oak-oklahoma-city/
Veritas Development Architects & Builders Services Mr. Ryan McNeill 5101 N. Pennsylvania Ave. 8908 S. Yale Ave., Suite 428 Tulsa, OK 74137-3598 oakokc.com
Wooden Hearts Boutique Trophies & Awards Wedding Supplies & Services Mrs. Amber Flansburg..............(405) 488-5773 7749 Doris Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73162-4388 www.woodenheartsboutique.com
ASSOCIATE
Lorec Ranch Home Furnishings Retail Dr. Kari Lopez..................................(405) 948-0018 4111 W. Reno Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73107-6531 www.LORECRanch.com Native Wrecking Services, LLC Contractors - Demolition Mr. Bart Leonard..........................(405) 924-0084 407 W. 15th St., Suite 4 Edmond, OK 73013-3668 nativewrecking.com Trademark Exteriors Restoration Construction Companies Roofing Contractors Mr. Bobby Dickerson, III..........(405) 833-2000 36 NE 52nd St.
3825 NW 166th St., Suite B5 Edmond, OK 73012-9227 tmexteriors.com
The following member companies increased their investment in the Chamber, demonstrating strong support of the Chamber’s efforts to drive the region’s economy. To increase your investment, contact the Membership Division of the Chamber at 405-297-8949 or membership@okcchamber.com. MEMBER UPGRADES
ADVISOR
GH2 Architects, LLC Architects Mr. Matt Janey...............................(405) 601-5300 712 W. Sheridan Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73102 www.gh2.com
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ECONOMIC INDICATORS
OKLAHOMA CITY RANKS #2 FOR BEST METRO FOR SMALL BUSINESSES NATIONWIDE Least Risky Metros for Small Businesses (2024)
PROPERTY CRIME RATE (PER 1,000 RESIDENTS)
CYBER CRIME RATE (PER 1,000 RESI- DENTS)
GDP GROWTH RATE
REGION- AL PRICE PARITY
CORPORATE TAX RATE
MINIMUM WAGE
RANK
METRO
1
RALEIGH-CARY, NC 1.6%
2.5%
98.38
$7.25
17.36
85.84
2
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 0.9%
4.0%
91 .35
$7.25
30.77
34.32
3
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
1 .4%
4.9%
95.68
$7.25
66.32
41 .11
4
NASHVILLE, TN
0.9%
6.5%
96.58
$7.25
19.56
43.11
5
AUSTIN, TX
2.8%
0.0%
98.83
$7.25
36.24
201 .16
6
CHARLOTTE, NC-SC 0.8%
2.5%
96.89
$7.25
27.86
41 .17
7
LAS VEGAS, NV
-0.6%
0.0%
96.53
$11 .25
18.91
43.83
8
ATLANTA, GA
0.5%
5.8%
98.75
$7.25
22.49
23.02
9
KANSAS CITY, MO-KS 0.1%
4.0%
92.15
$7.25
48.35
25.41
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX
10
1 .3%
0.0% 103.52 $7.25
30.36
61 .31
SOURCE: FORBES ADVISOR, APRIL 2024
• OKC ranked #2 in the nation for least risky metro for small businesses by Forbes. • The report analyzed metrics focused on financial risk, safety risk, and workforce and customer risk for the 50 largest metro areas with available data. • OKC ranked ninth lowest in Forbes’ cybercrime metric, experiencing 34 crimes per 10,000 residents, which is lower than the study average of 82. • The state of Oklahoma experienced only $1.39 billion in retail crime costs in 2021, significantly less than the study average of $4.2 billion.
For comprehensive Economic Indicator and Regional Data, please visit your Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Economic Development Division at www.greateroklahomacity.com/economicindicators or contact Eric Long, Research Economist, at 405-297-8976; elong@okcchamber.com DID YOU KNOW? Get regional demographic data, consumer expenditure information, labor force data for the Greater Oklahoma City Region and more at greateroklahomacity.com.
17
BOB FUNK, JR. Prodigal Vice Chair, Education and Talent JUDY J. HATFIELD, CCIM Equity Commercial Realty Advisors, LLC Vice Chair, Membership RHONDA HOOPER Jordan Advertising Vice Chair, Business and Economic Inclusion 2024 OFFICERS
TERESA ROSE, JD Communities Foundation of Oklahoma Chair SEAN TRAUSCHKE OGE Energy Corp. Immediate Past Chair JOHN HART Continental Resources Treasurer MICHAEL F. ROSS INSURICA/American Fidelity Assurance Company Corporate Secretary CLAYTON I. BENNETT Dorchester Capital Vice Chair, Strategic Planning
RICK MUNCRIEF Devon Energy Corporation Vice Chair, Innovation and Bioscience J. LARRY NICHOLS Devon Energy Corporation Vice Chair, Economic Development / Forward Oklahoma City DAVID E. RAINBOLT BancFirst Corporation Vice Chair, Government Relations W. KENT SHORTRIDGE Oklahoma Natural Gas Company Vice Chair, Military and Aerospace CHRISTY GILLENWATER Greater Oklahoma City Chamber President & CEO
ISSUE #3591 - June 2024 Editorial staff Cynthia Reid Designer Billy Callan 405-297-8900 thepoint@okcchamber.com okcchamber.com twitter.com/okcchamber
facebook.com/okcchamber VeloCity (ISSN 1075-6264) is published monthly by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber,
BILL LANCE The Chickasaw Nation Vice Chair, Convention & Visitors Development
123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $15 per year included in Chamber membership; nonmembers, $25 per year within the U.S.. Periodicals Postage paid at Oklahoma City. Advertising rates upon request. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising.
TOM J. MCDANIEL American Fidelity Foundation Vice Chair, MAPS Development JENNY LOVE MEYER Love’s Travel Stops Vice Chair, Marketing and Communications
with Mayor David Holt
Tuesday, July 23 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Oklahoma City Convention Center $100 Chamber members | $125 nonmembers
Sponsor tables of eight with additional recognition are available for $2,000. Register online at www.okcchamber.com/events
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