DURANT, Okla. (KXII) – “Our main focus is safety, whether it’s road safety or public safety through the Sheriff’s Office,” said the District 1 County Commissioner.

Bryan County government is asking voters to approve an additional “penny” sales tax that would be split into two proposals. Three-quarters of a percent would go toward road and bridge maintenance and another quarter of a percent would go toward the sheriff’s office.

Currently, only a half-cent sales tax is in effect. First District Commissioner Scott Goad says a vote for either of these proposals would be an investment in Bryan County’s future.

“If we could get both proposals passed, we’d be looking at a cent and a half,” Goad said. “So we’re looking at an extra cent on every dollar, and it adds up. And I understand that. But a small investment would bring big results to the county.”

Goad’s district has the highest population density of the three counties that make up Bryan County. He says his to-do list includes many heavily traveled roads that Proposition 1 aims to address.

For example, South Ranchette Rd in the Mead area, Streetman towards Lakeside and Leavenworth Trail, the shortcut from Highway 70 to Colbert.

Proposal two could result in more deputies being deployed on campus to protect students and staff.

A similar proposal failed in 2021. Goad says that this time the right team is in place and they want to be transparent about how funds are allocated.

Goad says many people think he and his opponents have a ton of money at their disposal that they don’t want to spend on these adjustments. But that’s not the case.

If both proposals receive a majority, he believes Bryan County could finally gain an edge over surrounding counties.

“Almost everywhere in southeastern Oklahoma, at least in our area and the counties we border, the rate is 2%,” Goad said.

Funds Goad says Bryan County needs to maintain roads and ensure law and order.

“As a taxpayer, I don’t want to pay higher taxes,” Goad said. “I just know we have no other way to raise county revenue. The only other option we have is to pass a sales tax.”

The deadline to register to vote is October 1. You can also change your affiliation, address, etc. Forms can be downloaded from the County Board of Elections’ OK Voter Portal in the courthouse at 402 W Evergreen St, Durant, OK 74701.

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