The McAlester City Council reviewed the city’s proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget, regional healthcare updates and ongoing development activity during Tuesday’s meeting.
City officials presented a preliminary budget focused on maintaining services, infrastructure improvements and long-term financial stability.
The proposed budget also includes more than $5.4 million in infrastructure projects, including street reconstruction, sidewalk improvements, sewer and water line replacements, lift station upgrades and water tower maintenance. Officials said 16 water infrastructure projects funded through state revolving fund programs have already been completed, with additional projects planned.
Councilors approved an agreement increasing the daily jail rate paid to the Pittsburg County Detention Center from $50 to $65 per inmate because of rising operational costs.
The council also accepted completion of the U.S. 69 Sewer Crossing Project and approved a final payment of $57,248 to Lone Hickory Cattle LLC. City officials said the roughly $400,000 project resolved longstanding odor issues tied to an aging lift station and had been in development for more than 20 years.
Councilors additionally approved amendments to the current fiscal year budget to recognize increased revenues and adjust expenditures, including a FEMA-funded stormwater project near the softball fields and additional police overtime expenses tied to staffing shortages. City staff said the changes are part of the normal year-end budget process.
Community Development Director Jayme Clifton also reported continued growth in local development, noting building permit valuations reached a record $43.8 million in 2025 while housing development remains a major priority for the city.