Business Improvement District

Is there a Business Improvement District in Chickasha?

On October 5, 2026, the Chickasha City Council approved a proposal to develop a Downtown Organizational Plan, in order to consider the creation of a Business Improvement District (BID) in collaboration with downtown property owners. A BID is a funding mechanism in which property owners contribute towards a fund supporting certain shared services and projects within the district, such as maintenance, beautification, and programming.

If approved, the BID would include a portion of Downtown Chickasha. This proposal is still in the early stages and most details are to be determined. A BID must be approved by the majority of property owners within the proposed boundaries.

What is a Business Improvement District (BID)?

A Business Improvement District creates a dedicated fund for specific services within the district boundary. The exact services are set by the proposal approved by property owners. The typical scope of a BID’s services are maintenance (e.g. of sidewalks), beautification, and events and marketing. It allows property owners to use their own resources for their shared benefit, rather than relying on public funding and assets.

A BID is funded by an added property tax assessment, the rate of which is set by the property owners. It does not replace or divert any existing sales or property taxes. The district is managed by a dedicated staff. The purpose of the BID is to improve quality of life and safety, and in so doing increase foot traffic and sales in the area.

Where will the BID be located?

The map at right, from the City of Chickasha, illustrates the boundaries of the Central Business District (“Downtown”). A portion of this district may be additionally designated as the Business Improvement District. The exact boundaries are to be determined and will be set by the final proposal.

What are some of the benefits of a BID?

  • With dedicated funding for quality-of-life projects, people who live, work, or shop downtown can enjoy a cleaner, safer, more walkable environment.
  • Business owners enjoy enhanced curb appeal, visibility, and marketing. Abandoned, vacant buildings are more likely receive attention.
  • More visitor traffic and visitor spending increases sales tax revenue, allowing the City of Chickasha to make more improvements in all areas of town.

More Frequently Asked Questions

The work plan approved by the City Council projects no less than 16 weeks from the start of the process to the final draft. Stakeholder meetings with affected property owners are expected to begin early next year. The BID will not go into effect unless and until it is approved by the majority of affected property owners.

BIDs are funded by an added tax assessment based on value, in addition to existing property taxes, on properties within the district. Residents and property owners outside the district are unaffected. It does not impact existing revenue streams.

The City Council approved a one-time payment to a consultant to organize discussions and draft any potential proposal. The long-term expenses associated with the BID will be covered by the added assessment.

If approved, the BID will be governed by an independent board of stakeholders, as selected by the property owners.
A BID has a fixed term of ten (10) years, after which the property owners have the option to re-approve the district for another term.