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City manager reports steady midyear finances; tourism manager outlines plans to boost visitation
Summary
The city manager reported that revenues and expenditures are tracking close to projections at midyear, highlighted capital projects (airport terminal, water treatment upgrades) and grant work, and the newly introduced tourism manager outlined 2026 plans to grow events and overnight stays.
City Manager (unnamed in the transcript) presented a midyear budget update showing general fund revenues at approximately 47.8% and expenditures at about 45.17% through midyear, and said there were no major warning signs at present. The manager highlighted the MacAlester Public Works Authority, sales- and use-tax trends, lodging-tax increases, and a portfolio of capital projects and grants.
On the revenue side, staff reported sales tax receipts year-to-date of roughly $4,511,184 versus a budgeted $4,591,344 (a shortfall of about $80,000) and general-fund revenues to date of $8,436,374. The manager highlighted a transfer from the MacAlester Public Works Authority of $1,635,000 that is not included in the general-fund projection. Staff also noted an outstanding TIF balance for the Shops at McAlester of about $376,583.11 and discussed DWSRF project lists and gaps in funding for 11 projects that currently lack identified funds.
In the staff report, Tourism Manager Rebecca Kearns formally introduced herself and outlined 2025 successes and 2026 plans including continued support for established signature events (Italian Festival, Dancing Rabbit Music Festival, Oktoberfest), the launch of a Midwinter Wonderland program and efforts to grow niche tourism such as automotive, heritage and music events. Kearns said McAlester’s strategic geographic location between Dallas and Tulsa helps drive visitation.
Staff also described capital investments: a recently opened airport terminal (~$2,000,000); ongoing water-treatment-plant upgrades with project cost stated at approximately $2,400,000; purchases of a vac truck, a bulldozer and police vehicles totaling just over $800,000; and street and stormwater projects prioritized by condition. The manager noted a hiring freeze used as a mitigation tool and said essential public-safety positions continue to be filled.
Why it mattered: The update signals that city finances are generally on track, while highlighting the reliance on grant funding and the pressure of infrastructure needs. Tourism work is being positioned to support local economic development and hotel occupancy.
What happens next: Staff said they will continue monitoring revenues, fill critical public-safety vacancies as needed, and return with follow-up project updates and funding plans. Tourism said it will advance a visitors guide and expanded winter programming in 2026.
