BET removes funded projects from future forecast tracker; proposal to add tracker as recurring Budget Board item fails

Members of the Oklahoma County Budget Evaluation Team moved to clean up the future forecast tracker and remove projects already funded from the ‘future’ list, and they voted down a proposal to make the tracker a recurring agenda item for the Budget Board.

A motion to remove line item 4 (the new detention center construction Phase 1) from the future forecast tracker passed after discussion, with the chair announcing a 5–3 vote in favor of removal. Committee members who supported removal said funded items should not appear on a tracker intended to highlight unfunded future needs; opponents said keeping the items visible could aid transparency.

Following that motion, members voted to remove additional funded projects (examples discussed included asbestos removal, court services contracts and the Investors Capital Building) from the tracker. Several members recommended a separate 'funded' tab or clearer labeling so funded projects remain discoverable without cluttering the future forecasting view.

A separate proposal to add the future forecast tracker as a recurring Budget Board agenda item was debated. Supporters said recurring presentation would keep long‑range projects in elected officials' minds; opponents argued BET’s role is to recommend funds for the current fiscal year and that the watch list already highlights near‑term items. On a roll call the motion failed (3 yes, 4 no, 1 abstain).

Committee members asked staff to ensure the tracker identifies funding sources and to coordinate with infrastructure and policy committees on operational readiness (mechanical systems, transportation, meals) for new facilities before BET considers funding requests.