Muskogee voters to decide on extending half-penny sales tax by 8 years

Muskogee voters will decide whether to extend an existing sales tax for eight more years. Supporters say it will provide investment and much-needed upgrades.

How would the money be spent?

1. $5 million on upgrades to the public works facility building
2. $10 million on city streets
3. $2.5 million on upgrades to downtown
4. $1.1 million on upgrades to the city library
5. $3.4 million on city hall repairs

Millions of other dollars are also outlined for other upgrades.

Why does the city want to extend the tax?

"When you just have a continuation of a tax, it doesn't seem to alarm anybody or hurt anybody," said Patrick Cale, Muskogee mayor.

Cale says the upgrades are much needed to keep the city up to date.

What do critics say about the proposal?

Mark Hughes and Michael Gregg have already decided they are voting 'no.'

Hughes says he disagrees with the eight-year length of the proposed tax extension. Gregg says other infrastructure should be a top priority and he has concerns about specific details of the projects.

"The information the city's providing for the citizens to make a decision is not adequate," said Gregg.

Where can I learn more about the project?

The city has a website with information HERE.

When can I vote?

Election day is Tuesday, July 8th for registered voters.

Early voting is July 2nd and 3rd from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Muskogee County Election Board.