Show Notes
On this return episode of The OML Podcast, hosts Mike Fina, the Executive Director of the Oklahoma Municipal League, and Dave Andren, the Research Director of OML, discussed the challenges and strategies for municipal funding in Oklahoma. highlighting Oklahoma's near-last ranking in overall state funding for cities and towns. They also emphasized the need for diversified funding sources and the impact of aging infrastructure, rising public safety costs, and the regressive nature of sales tax, which Oklahoma cities and towns exclusively rely on. The conversation also touched on the historical context of municipal funding and the importance of educating the public and legislators.
More from The OML Podcast
Dave flies solo (no Mike) at the OML conference, joined by Suzie Paulson, Associate General Counsel at the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group (OMAG), and Micah Gaudet, a national expert on AI in local government. The three discussed artificial intelligence in municipal government, including how to use it to its fullest while also implementing important safeguards.
Live from the OML conference in Tulsa, Mike and Dave spoke with Claremore City Manager John Feary about what's happening in his city. They also talked about economic development, retaining young talent in cities and towns, investments in core services, data centers, the constitutional convention and more.
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Inflation is normal, but the recent increase in costs feels like another level. Just look at the rising cost of fire trucks. In this episode, Mike and Dave are joined by Christian Rinehart, general counsel of OML, and Matt Sill, with the law firm Fulmer Sill. Matt discussed his research into market manipulation within the fire equipment industry, along with a current lawsuit he is leading and how it could impact cities and towns.