Vote February 10, 2026
Your vote! Your choice! Make it count!
My Vote for the Rock Creek Entertaiment DistRICT TIF
When I voted for the Rock Creek Entertainment District TIF, it wasn’t about hype or headlines. It was about whether Norman should leverage a public-private partnership opportunity that could expand our sales tax base without raising tax rates on residents.
In Oklahoma, cities are heavily dependent on sales tax to fund core services like public safety and parks. If we want to protect our general fund long-term, we have to be thoughtful about projects that grow revenue instead of just spending it. The TIF structure allows new growth in a defined area to help fund the infrastructure needed to make that growth possible and it does not increase anyone’s tax rate.
I also fully supported the referendum petition process. Council action was required before residents could legally pursue a public vote, and I respected that process from start to finish. The courts reviewed it. The Supreme Court upheld it. That’s how our system works, and I followed the city charter as written.
I understand that reasonable people disagree on this project. I’ve heard from both supporters and opponents. My vote was based on research, long-term fiscal responsibility, and what I believe positions Norman to strengthen its revenue base without putting additional burden on homeowners.
I don’t see this as a win or a loss for one side. I see it as part of a broader effort to build a city that can sustain itself financially while continuing to invest in the services residents depend on.
Sincerely,
Joshua Hinkle
Host Committee
