UPDATE: The city of Yukon, Oklahoma, has confirmed that the controversial Sunset Amphitheater project will not move forward. Mayor Brian Pillmore made the announcement during a city council meeting on Tuesday, stating that the decision follows a detailed economic feasibility study.
The proposed amphitheater, designed to accommodate 12,500 attendees, was projected to generate billions in economic impact within the first decade. However, the study, costing the city $60,000, revealed troubling financial implications, including potential losses in sales tax revenue.
“We’re not supporting moving forward with this project,” Pillmore stated in an interview with News 4, underscoring the importance of prioritizing the community’s long-term interests. The feasibility study warned that Yukon could lose over $91 million in sales tax revenue to Oklahoma City due to a tax-sharing agreement with Venu Group, which would only yield the city around $30 million.
The Venu Group was set to purchase 25 acres of land for less than $500,000 and split ticket fees with the city. However, Yukon’s additional financial burden included the need for 4,000 parking spots and a substantial portion of a $98 million construction cost. Pillmore expressed concerns about the project’s return on investment, stating,
“It did show some return for the city of Yukon, but I don’t think it was a significant enough return on investment for us to move forward.”
Pillmore emphasized that the city remains open to future developments but insists they must align with Yukon’s interests. “Yukon is open for business, but we have to find the things that are the right return on investment and the right fit for our community,” he affirmed.
Residents were encouraged to view this decision as a commitment to responsible growth rather than a rejection of development opportunities. Pillmore confirmed there would be no revisiting of the amphitheater project, stating it is now considered “closed at this point.”
The announcement has sparked discussions among community members about potential alternative uses for the land and the future of economic development in Yukon. As the city looks ahead, local stakeholders await further clarification on what projects might emerge to fill the gap left by the canceled amphitheater.
Stay tuned for updates on Yukon’s development strategies as the city continues to explore viable options that benefit the community.
