Bartlesville City Council has approved a significant funding decision that will enhance local infrastructure and financial stability. During the meeting on August 4, 2025, the council discussed the city’s financial performance, revealing that the general fund sales tax exceeded expectations by approximately $300,000, marking a 1.6% increase over budget. Additionally, use tax revenues surpassed projections by $491,000, or about 10%. This positive financial outlook is attributed to a conservative budgeting approach that has allowed the city to maintain essential services without the need for cuts.

The council also addressed the wastewater and water revenue, which, while slightly below budget expectations due to drought conditions, still showed a 4% increase compared to the previous year. Sanitation services exceeded budget expectations by 2.3%, contributing to an overall strong revenue year for the city.

In a key infrastructure development, the council approved the base bid for the North Sunset Boulevard Bridge project, which includes deck reconstruction and guardrail improvements. Bright Lighting Inc. from Tulsa won the bid at $2,014,369.32, significantly lower than competing bids. However, plans for a parallel pedestrian bridge were put on hold due to delays in grant funding and ongoing audits related to parks funding.

The council emphasized the importance of local spending to sustain services funded primarily through sales tax, urging residents to shop within city limits. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue monitoring financial performance and infrastructure needs, ensuring that Bartlesville remains on a path of responsible growth and community service.