LEADERSHIP NOTES
VISITOR ECONOMY: BUILDING OKC’S FUTURE ONE VISIT AT A TIME When people visit Oklahoma City, they experience a clean, vibrant and welcoming community that exceeds expectations. That’s why the visitor economy is vital: It fuels our reputation, drives investment and creates lasting impressions that strengthen our city’s momentum. We saw this firsthand when OKC hosted the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC) conference this summer. Hundreds of economic developers came to our city. Many were impressed with how well- maintained the city looked, how much there was to do, and how OKC felt dynamic. That shift in perception matters. When decision-makers experience our community in person, they return home having experienced OKC as a driven city. That is why the Visitor Development Plan is central to the work of the Greater OKC Chamber and Visit OKC. Visitor development is more than attracting tourists; it’s about creating opportunities for business recruitment, talent attraction and long-term economic growth. From cultural events to major conventions, every visitor fuels our economy while helping us tell OKC’s story. Visitor development also plays a key role in improving air service. A stronger demand supports more nonstop connections and the pursuit of international flights, something our business community has long prioritized. Through the Chamber’s Air Service Task Force, which brings together business leaders and members of the airport trust, we are working to expand options at OKC Will Rogers International Airport. Better air service strengthens our ability to compete globally, attract investment and welcome new opportunities to our city. OKC’s visitor economy is pivotal to building a community where others want to invest, experience and live. By continuing to elevate our visitor experience, we strengthen the foundation built through MAPS and public investments, as well as the private sector development. Let’s keep up the great work welcoming visitors to OKC, because every visit moves us forward. CONTENTS 2 Keep OKC Moving: The path forward through Bond 25 7 State of the Region to highlight growth across central Oklahoma 14 Myriad Gardens and Scissortail Park name new president and CEO 17 Greater Oklahoma City Region Property Tax
CHRISTY GILLENWATER President & CEO
READ CHRISTY’S VELOCITYOKC ONLINE STORY OF THE MONTH
Oklahoma tops list for purchasing power on $100K salary VELOCITYOKC.COM/ CHRISTYSPICK
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