Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves packages for Hapco manufacturing, Clara Luper center support and a film rebate
Summary
The council approved three separate economic development measures: a manufacturing incentive for Kearney National (Hapco), TIF support for the Clara Luper Civil Rights Center, and a film rebate for Wild Rooster LLC.
In addition to the Scheels matter, the council approved several economic development measures across manufacturing, cultural infrastructure and the film industry.
Kearney National (Hapco): Council approved a joint resolution to allocate up to $175,000 in GEO limited tax bond proceeds to support a Hapco manufacturing project that presenters said would create an estimated 81 jobs over five years, with average wages near $51,000 and capital investment of roughly $51 million. Kenny Soodel and Fred Vermeer said the allocation would be paid as a pay‑for‑performance rebate tied to payroll and job creation; council approved the item by a 7–1 vote.
Clara Luper Civil Rights Center (MAPS / TIF support): The council approved allocations from two increment districts (up to $350,000 from Increment District No. 9 and up to $150,000 from Increment District No. 15) to contribute toward exhibition and storytelling elements for the Clara Luper Civil Rights Center. Christina Beatty, executive director of the Freedom Center, said phase 1 will prioritize a 17,000‑square‑foot facility with classrooms, administrative space and an event hall; the city’s contribution is intended to ensure base‑bid exhibition elements are included. Public commenter Michael Washington objected publicly to aspects of recognition and project history during the discussion; council carried the allocation 7–1.
Film rebate — Wild Rooster LLC: Jill Simpson of the Film & Creative Industries office presented a rebate application for an independent feature film that projects about $3.89 million in Oklahoma City expenditures (70% local crew participation). The calculated local rebate amount was $181,298; council certified the project and approved the allocation unanimously.
Alliance staff and presenters emphasized pay‑for‑performance terms on the Hapco and Scheels items and noted the need to return with contract details. Council votes indicate the measures will proceed to negotiation and contracting phases, with reporting and verification steps required prior to incentive disbursements.
