McAlester residents shared their views during a public hearing on a proposed Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district along the George Nigh Expressway. The City Council had previously approved a joint resolution with the Pittsburg County Board of Commissioners to fund the project, but the plan is still under discussion.
The Mid-McAlester TIF Review Committee recommended the plan on Feb. 24, 2025. The plan aims to boost private investment, create jobs, and revitalize land near U.S. Highway 69. It includes infrastructure upgrades, commercial incentives, and other improvements.
A second public hearing is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. March 25 before the next council meeting. If approved, the TIF district would not require the city to fund infrastructure but would instead invest new tax revenue in the area.
The district will operate until June 30, 2034, or until it generates $10 million, whichever comes first. The developer will receive a portion of sales tax revenue will go to the developer, and the Frink-Chambers School District will receive 2% of funding.