The Tahlequah Area Chamber of Commerce Announces Support for Capital Improvements Sales Tax Extension to Strengthen Local Economy

Tahlequah, OK – The Tahlequah Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has voted 
to support the extension of the existing sales tax dedicated to capital improvements projects
which will be on the ballot during the Special Election on August 25, 2026. This measure is 
vital to ensuring continued growth and investment in the community, supporting quality of 
life projects that benefit both residents and businesses alike.
The extension of this sales tax is not a new tax but a continuation of an existing investment 
in Tahlequah’s future. Revenue generated from this initiative will help our community 
continue to improve services and create new quality of life opportunities, making Tahlequah 
an even better place to live. The City of Tahlequah created the Capital Improvements 
Committee in February 2025 to retain feedback from the community. Through multiple 
surveys and over a year of work, that committee created a list of projects that this 
community wanted and saw the greatest benefit in pursuing. That list includes a new 
amphitheater, an event space with municipal services adjacent, water recreation activity 
improvements, lighting and safety improvements, and others, all chosen by the residents of 
Tahlequah. As more amenities are created by the capital improvements tax extension, 
maintenance of the new amenities and existing ones is paramount. As part of this year’s
extension for the existing 0.75% capital improvements sales tax, 0.50% would be put 
towards those capital improvements projects while 0.25% would be permanently sent to the 
City General Fund in an effort to make sure funding is available to support those projects 
and the many other areas our City contributes such as police, fire, parks and rec, and many 
others.
“The Chamber stands behind this initiative because it directly impacts the economic and 
quality of life of Tahlequah,” said Nathan Reed, President/CEO of the Tahlequah Area 
Chamber of Commerce. “The projects presented will create a strong community with 
continued opportunities to grow. These projects not only support the residents in providing 
new things to do, but also to businesses as they can increase visitors to our area. Hosting 
events in the new event center and shows at the amphitheater will give locals new and more 
opportunities but can also bring in more people who may not come to Tahlequah.”
Supporting this measure means supporting the future of Tahlequah. With these funds, the 
City can continue to invest in projects that foster economic stability, enhance public spaces, 
and provide long-term benefits for generations to come. The Chamber encourages all 
residents to stay informed, understand the impact of this decision, and participate in the 
upcoming election.
For more information on the Capital Improvements sales tax extension and its impact on 
Tahlequah, please contact Taylor Tannehill, Tahlequah’s city administrator, at 918-931-
9810.