Community coalition launches campaign for new Oklahoma City arena

A community coalition led by Mayor David Holt and Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Chairman Sean Trauschke launched the Keep OKC Big League campaign today to support extending Oklahoma City’s temporary one-cent sales tax to build a new arena in downtown Oklahoma City.

“Our community has a very clear choice on December 12,” said Mayor David Holt. “We have the opportunity to secure the presence of the Oklahoma City Thunder and the NBA for another generation, and to make Oklahoma City a stronger destination for the best touring concerts, shows and other events. To that question, I say yes.”

Holt’s campaign co-chair Sean Trauschke said Oklahoma City has always succeeded when we invest in ourselves. “It is the best way to keep Oklahoma City growing and thriving,” he said. “And this is an investment we need to make. The importance of the arena, and of the Thunder to the city’s economic growth is evident. Our city has been forever changed by the presence of the NBA,” said Trauschke.

The team’s presence here provides a direct economic benefit to our city of $600 million a year. “The presence of the NBA gives us a leg up when competing for jobs and talent,” he continued. “Their value is also proven out in the growth in the region’s gross metropolitan product since the team’s arrival, with growth dramatically outpacing other metros that do not have a team.”

The campaign includes individuals and organizations from across the city. “The enthusiasm we have received for our effort has reinforced for me how much our city values this important asset,” said Holt. “Our support grows larger every day and I encourage anyone who wants to be involved and help us secure a victory to reach out to the campaign.”

Holt also reminded the crowd that Oklahoma City is the third smallest market in the NBA and the 42^nd market in the United States. There are 18 markets larger than OKC without an NBA team. Several of them have a better arena than Oklahoma City right now. 

“This is what we’re up against, guys,” said Holt. “The truth of this matter is, no one thinks we should have this team, except for the people in this city, the people who own this team, and the people I’m looking at right now. It is Oklahoma City versus the American sports world.  700,000 versus 330 million. And we’re gonna win.”

“We cannot take this vote for granted,” said Trauschke. “If you care about this city and want to join in our effort, visit our website at www.keepokcbigleague.com. There is information there about how you can get involved and make sure we keep OKC big league,” he concluded.