EDMOND — Last week the Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma (ACCO) attempted to alter the traditional formula for distributing road and bridge funds to counties. This change was related to a one-time appropriation of $25 million by the state. It was designed to be a “fair” allocation of the monies. However, it was anything but equitable to Oklahoma County.
By dividing the funds evenly between all 77 counties and placing decision-making authority regarding spending in its circuit engineering districts (CEDs), ACCO abandoned any objective standard of allocation. No consideration was given to traffic counts, bridge conditions or to gas taxes paid by a county. In short, this scheme would have taken your gas taxes and subsidized the bridge and road repairs of other counties.
When your county commissioners voiced opposition to this plan, the reaction from ACCO was regrettable. What are the results of our action? First, the state Department of Transportation said it will not deviate from the standard allocation formula. Second, there will be serious consideration about the propriety of paying dues to an organization that has continued to lobby against the interests of urban county residents. Your tax dollars should work for you, not against you.
You need know that these outcomes would not have happened had your commissioners not acted. The board has maintained a commitment to protecting your tax dollars and using them in the most effective manner possible. I will continue that commitment for the citizens of Oklahoma County.
(Stan Inman of Edmond serves as District 3 Oklahoma County commissioner. He is up for re-election this year with former Rep. Ray Vaughn stating his intention to run as well.)
Opinion
Protecting our highway funds
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LETTER: Supporter: Duncan shows passion for children’s needs
To the Editor:
The families in the Edmond Public School District are fortunate to have Kathleen Duncan as their advocate on the Edmond Board of Education. Duncan has worked tirelessly for the welfare and benefit of the Edmond schools’ students. -
LETTER: Teacher supports Duncan’s re-election
To the Editor:
On Feb. 14 patrons of District 2 have an opportunity to re-elect the current president of the Edmond School Board, Kathleen Duncan. Duncan has served as a board member for 10 years. When people move to the Oklahoma City area, they buy a home here because of the exceptional quality of Edmond Public Schools. This speaks to Duncan’s goal of “Excellence in Education for All Edmond Public School Students.” -
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To the Editor:
Kathleen Duncan understands the diverse issues that effect our schools. She carefully studies the district’s issues and works tirelessly as an advocate for all students. Her votes as a board member have an impact for years to come and she takes that responsibility very seriously. - LETTER: Reader says incumbent's personal agenda in the way
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Income-tax phase-out would create economic boom
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Route 66 history, architecture has spot in hearts, minds
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