As a lifelong Kingston resident, former Marshall County Commissioner, and someone who has spent nearly two decades in the construction and infrastructure industry, I know firsthand how critical smart development is to the success of our community. When done right, growth creates jobs, strengthens local businesses, and funds vital public services - without burdening taxpayers. That’s why I fully support creating the Pointe Vista Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts.
This project presents a once-ina- generation opportunity to bring more than a billion dollars in investment to Marshall County, fueling tourism-driven economic growth and job creation. Having managed major construction projects, I’ve seen the benefits that come when communities embrace growth strategically. The creation of TIF districts does exactly that.
There’s been some misunderstanding of what exactly a TIF district does. It’s not a handout to the developer, and it’s not a loan taken out by the county. A TIF is an economic tool that uses a portion of new tax revenue brought in by the completed Pointe Vista project to reimburse the developer for their costs improving roads, building water and sewage systems and expanding utility lines along Lake Texoma.
The TIF allows these significant infrastructure updates to occur without the county going into debt or raising taxes. In my years managing large-scale development, I’ve learned that financing is key. Without a TIF, counties and cities are often forced to take on massive public debt or raise taxes to support new developments. Instead, this TIF ensures the costs are covered without placing additional financial strain on residents or governments. The reimbursement only occurs when the project meets milestones established by the county – and the county is never on the hook.
County leadership has wisely negotiated that a portion of the TIF district revenues go towards key services outside of the Lake Texoma shores. Kingston Public Schools is projected to receive an additional $140 million in tax funding over the next 25 years, plus significant revenueforemergencyservices,and other Marshall County needs. This doesn’t even factor in the substantial economic and job impact that the tourism destination will bring to our local businesses.
In my previous role as County Commissioner and current work representing House District 49, I fought for projects that improved our infrastructure, supported local businesses, and made our community stronger. This project does all of that on a scale we’ve never seen before.
Marshall County has an opportunity to build a stronger future without raising taxes or taking on debt. Let’s seize it. I encourage my fellow residents to support this transformational project and provide their feedback to county leadership.
Josh Cantrell serves District 49 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Love County and parts of Carter and Marshall counties.