Oklahoma City Budget Prioritizes Core Services, Public Safety and Future Investments

Oklahoma City's fiscal year 2027 budget reflects a focus on maintaining core city services while responding to slower revenue growth and preparing for future investments across the community. 

The $979 million operating budget funds the City's day-to-day operations and includes support for 5,089 full-time positions. 

"Our primary focus is, and always will be, delivering high-quality services to our residents," City Manager Craig Freeman said. "I'm grateful to department heads for the thoughtful and disciplined approach they brought to the budget process." 

Public safety remains a major priority, with more than half of the City's General Fund dedicated to police and fire services. The budget includes $1 million for a new firefighter wellness program, while the Police Department will continue carrying forward 20 frozen uniform positions and reduce one civilian support position. 

Several departments made staffing and operational adjustments. Public Works added positions to support upcoming general obligation bond projects, while Utilities added eight positions and shifted certain operating costs to its trust fund. The City Manager's Office added positions to support development of the future downtown arena, and the Municipal Counselor's Office added two attorneys to assist with public safety and bond-related work. 

Other departments, including Parks and Recreation, Development Services and General Services, reduced or restructured positions as part of efforts to align spending with projected revenues. 

Sales tax remains Oklahoma City's largest revenue source, funding many of the services residents use every day. Additional revenue comes from property taxes, hotel taxes, franchise fees, permits, licenses and service charges. 

The budget is guided in part by resident feedback gathered through the City's annual survey process. Key priorities include public safety, transportation, financial stewardship, recreation, economic development and maintaining high-quality city services. 

City leaders said the budget positions Oklahoma City to continue delivering essential services while supporting major initiatives, including MAPS projects, infrastructure improvements and future bond-funded investments.