Oklahoma County defers $250,000 economic development contract with Chamber affiliate after commissioners seek more reporting

The Oklahoma County Board of County Commissioners on June 23 deferred consideration of a $250,000 economic development agreement with an Oklahoma City economic development foundation that county staff described as affiliated with Chamber of Commerce entities, after commissioners requested clearer reporting and accounting for how county funds would be used.

Dennis Pruitt, speaking for the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce and representing the Oklahoma City Economic Development Foundation, told the board the organization is prioritizing aerospace and defense work and touted recent federal wins. "Since July 1, 2025 we've secured $172 million in federal funding," Pruitt said, citing federal awards that include support for aircraft and hangar projects and a vertiport groundbreaking. He said the Chamber leverages county funds with partner funds and that the $250,000 is combined with other resources for trade shows, marketing, research and site visits.

Commissioners asked for more specific accounting of the county dollars. Staff and the Chamber representative agreed to amend the reporting language so the Chamber will provide biannual verbal reports "that include a breakdown" showing how the county's $250,000 is spent. The Chamber representative described expense categories and said about 37% of direct expenses in a recent period went to Cornerstone, a lobbyist firm that helped secure federal funds.

Several members of the public opposed the expenditure, with speakers saying the county should prioritize direct services and criticize Chamber influence on local politics. After discussion, the board voted to defer the item until the next meeting so the contract language could be revised to include the requested reporting changes.