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Wagoner economic development authority leases property for fireworks stand, approves hay-baling bids procedure and budgets small-business grants
Summary
The Wagoner Economic Development Authority approved leasing 1303 S. Macquarie for a fireworks stand, authorized advertising for hay-baling bids on authority-owned properties, and proposed three $5,000 small-business grants administered through a nonprofit; the body also reviewed WIDA budget items for events and tourism.
At a special called meeting immediately following the council and public-works sessions on May 20, the Wagoner Economic Development Authority (WEDA/WIDA) took several administrative steps related to property use, revenue and small-business support.
The authority approved leasing 1303 South Macquarie to Joshua Hughes for operation of a seasonal fireworks stand at the same rental rate used for a recent property in front of Walmart (the motion passed on roll call). The board recorded the lease amount as consistent with prior years (transcript reference to the same price as a prior lease).
WEDA also authorized advertising for bids to bale hay on EDA-owned property in the industrial park. Staff explained past practice had included private individuals baling or mowing, and the advertised bid approach is intended to return revenue while reducing city equipment and labor costs. The motion to advertise and accept bids passed by roll call.
On program spending, the board reviewed a proposed small-business grant program. Staff recommended three $5,000 grants administered through a nonprofit to reduce perceived conflicts and to ensure due diligence. The discussion explored alternative models (matching grants or façade improvements) and whether grants should require local match; board members argued for nonprofit administration this year to avoid the city directly adjudicating awards. The draft WIDA budget also carries event sponsorship lines (Summerfest, Lions Club barbecue, Fourth of July and Christmas-related items) and reserves for the Junction Development Project; staff noted event funding flows between EDF and WIDA were adjusted this year to cover special events.
The authority also received materials on WIDA reserves, prior donations and the proposed budget for the coming fiscal year. No additional board-level long-term commitments were taken at the meeting beyond the lease and authorization to advertise for hay-baling bids; staff said they would follow up on grant-administration details and recommended nonprofit partners for grant disbursement and criteria.
