Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce

EDMOND PRIORITIES

• Medical Examiners Office – Support legislation for relocation and new offices for the State Medical Examiner’s Office which would be near the OSBI facility in Edmond.
• Kelly Railroad Overpass – Support legislation seeking matching funding for construction of a railroad overpass at the crossing of Kelly Road between Memorial Road and 33rd Street.
• Workers Compensation – Reforms passed in 2005 are not being fully implemented and Oklahoma courts have overturned some key reform decisions. Support further judicial reforms of
• Workers Compensation.

ECONOMIC GROWTH – Oklahoma must foster opportunities for attracting, retaining and expanding business.

• Support continued funding for a closing fund (Opportunity Fund) which would allow influential added incentives for companies which provide significant new employment in targeted industry sectors.
• Quality Investment Act – Support strengthening the criteria for accessing the Quality Investment funds.
• Strengthen access to Career Tech programs and services for employers and students.

BUDGET – Efficiency in state government is akey to maximizing resources.

•Oppose un-funded/underfunded legislative mandates as it affects education, business and municipal operating budgets.

TRANSPORTATION – A quality transportation infrastructure is critical to sustained economic growth.

• Maintain commitment the transportation and bond program passed in 2008.

EDUCATION – The University of Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma Christian University, the Edmond Public Schools and the Francis Tuttle Technology Center are vital to the continued strength of the Edmond area economy.

• Encourage the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to equitably fund UCO and other universities according to the budget need formula.
• Ensure equitable distribution of monies required to fulfill legislated mandates.
• Continue commitment to fully fund the Teachers Retirement System.
• Support legislation for families of staff and support employees to make it more affordable and competitive for public and private employers.
• Oppose any legislation intended to allow college students to carry concealed weapons on campus.