Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce

EDMOND PRIORITIES

• Medical Examiners Office – Support legislation for funding of a new building and equipment for the State Medical Examiner’s office.
• Transportation – Seek assistance from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation in addressing critical infrastructure needs for the City of Edmond.
• 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.
• Support performance based incentives including the Oklahoma large and small Quality Jobs Program.
• Strengthen access to Career Tech programs and services for employers and students.

GOVERNMENT PROGRAM– Efficiency in state government is a key to maximizing resources.

• Oppose unfunded/underfunded/unfairly funded legislative mandates as it affects education, business and municipal operating budgets.
• Support efforts of Oklahoma cities and the Oklahoma Municipal League to repeal binding arbitration for police and fire unions in contract disputes.

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, Edmond Public Schools and 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.
• Support “Enrollment Based Funding” for public and higher education.
• Ensure equitable distribution of monies required to fulfill legislated mandates.
• Continue commitment to fully fund the Teachers Retirement System and increased health care costs.
• Support legislation to strengthen health insurance options for public education employees, with a focus upon obtaining affordable premiums and competitive coverage packages for individuals and families.
• Oppose any legislation intended to allow college students to carry concealed weapons on campus.
• Support the funding of the Oklahoma Tuition Equalization Grant program for Oklahoma college students.

To download the PDF version of the Edmond Chamber 2011 Legislative Agenda, please click here!