The McAlester City Council held its regular meeting on September 23, 2025, where the primary focus was a detailed financial update for August 2025. City Finance Director Miss Swift presented the report, highlighting key figures and trends in the city's financial health.

As of the end of August, the city has completed 16.67% of its fiscal year. The general fund revenues were reported at 15.6%, slightly below the expected 16%, while expenditures were at 16.16%. This has resulted in a shortfall of approximately $377,000 in the general fund. The Municipal Power and Water Authority (MPWA) fund showed a more favorable position, with revenues at 16.1% and expenditures at 11.12%.

Miss Swift noted that the financial report has evolved over the years, incorporating feedback from council members to enhance clarity and presentation. A new, more visually appealing version of the report is expected to be introduced next month, which aims to streamline the information provided.

The report also included a breakdown of sales tax revenues, which for August totaled $1.472 million, just shy of the monthly budget of $1.482 million. Comparisons to previous years indicated a slight decline in sales tax revenue, but the city remains optimistic about future growth as new developments are anticipated.

Additionally, the council discussed the hotel and motel tax, which brought in $94,000 for August, marking the second-highest revenue in the last three years. This increase was attributed to recent retail openings and other local events, although specific causes were not detailed.

The meeting concluded with a review of the city's bond payments and financial strategies moving forward. The council expressed a commitment to monitoring financial performance closely and adapting strategies as necessary to ensure fiscal stability.