STATE SPOTLIGHT HIGHLIGHTS
The Chamber's State Spotlight event brought together key figures and industry leaders to discuss pivotal topics shaping Oklahoma's future. Governor Kevin Stitt set the tone with a vision for the state's advancement, emphasizing economic development, infrastructure enhancement and education reform as cornerstones of progress. Stitt articulated an ambitious agenda to propel Oklahoma among the top 10 states across critical sectors, highlighting investments in education and strategic allocations to address workforce shortages. He noted a significant $20 million line-item appropriation to expand engineering programs, alongside $17.5 million for teacher scholarships and $12.5 million for targeted workforce initiatives. His focus is on leveraging the state's strengths, including robust energy sectors and federal partnerships, overviewing priorities for sustained prosperity for the 2024 legislative session. Following Stitts' opening keynote at State Spotlight, a panel of experts delved into the intricacies of Oklahoma's tourism industry, with Chamber Chair Teresa Rose leading the panel discussion alongside Secretary of Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage Shelly Zumwalt; Representative Mark Lawson; and Zac Craig, President of Visit OKC. The conversation shed light on the Tourism Development Act's (TDA) profound effects, emphasizing its role in shaping the state's tourism landscape.
Craig highlighted Route 66's appeal and urged targeted investments to maximize its potential, emphasizing heritage preservation and innovative initiatives. He cited TDA-funded projects like the former 21C Hotel and the OAK entertainment district as examples of enhancing cultural landscapes and boosting tax revenue. Representative Mark Lawson stressed tourism's economic importance for rural Oklahoma, advocating for strategic investments like the Route 66 Fund to support local communities. He also championed increased funding for state parks and echoed the significance of the TDA in attracting visitors. Zumwalt noted Oklahoma's 12% tourism growth from 2021 to 2022, emphasizing strategic investment in state parks and endorsing a $15 million increase in the TDA supported by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. She highlighted the TDA's role in driving economic growth through tourism-related projects statewide. Gov. Kevin Stitt, with Chamber Chair Teresa Rose, discussing his vision for Oklahoma’s advancement at the annual State Spotlight event.
From L-R, Visit OKC President Zac Craig, Rep. Mark Lawson, Sec. of Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage Shelly Zumwalt and Chamber Chair Teresa Rose at the State Spotlight event.
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