Oklahoma lawmakers have passed the “Build Act,” also known as SB 2060, aiming to support housing growth and infrastructure development across the state. Governor Kevin Stitt says the law is designed to help Oklahoma keep up with its rapid population growth by encouraging new development and expanding infrastructure.
As more families and businesses move to Oklahoma, state leaders say there is an urgent need for more homes, roads, utilities and public services. The Build Act introduces a new tool called “master development districts” to help finance these projects.
What Is the Build Act (SB 2060)?
The Build Act authorises the creation of master development districts. These are special districts that can finance public infrastructure improvements within a defined area.
Under SB 2060, these districts can:
- Levy special assessments on property within the district
- Finance public improvements
- Issue bonds to fund infrastructure projects
However, the total amount of bonds issued cannot exceed the total cost of the improvements being financed.
Here’s a simple summary:
| Feature | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Master Development District | Special area created for infrastructure development |
| Special Levies | Charges placed on property within the district |
| Bond Authority | Districts can issue bonds for project funding |
| Approval Requirement | 100% of property owners must consent |
How Are Districts Created?
The law outlines different approval processes depending on where the proposed district is located:
| Location | Approval Needed |
|---|---|
| Unincorporated county land | Majority vote of county commissioners |
| Inside a municipality | Approval by the city’s governing body |
| Partly in both areas | Joint approval by both city and county officials |
Before a district can be created, 100% of property owners within the proposed area must consent. Officials must also determine that the project supports long-term development goals.
If someone wants to challenge the creation of a district, they must file a protest within 10 business days after official approval.
What Can These Districts Do?
Master development districts have broad authority to manage infrastructure, including:
- Supplying water
- Managing wastewater disposal
- Handling stormwater drainage
- Changing land elevation
- Navigating waterways within the district
Each district will be governed by an independent board of supervisors. Municipalities are required to enter into agreements with these districts to outline responsibilities and cooperation.
However, the law clearly states that these districts cannot:
- Provide electric service
- Provide natural gas service
- Build or own electric or gas utilities
- Contract with unauthorised providers for electricity or gas
This limitation ensures that existing utility regulations remain intact.
Governor Stitt’s View on the Build Act
Governor Kevin Stitt strongly supports the Build Act. He says Oklahoma is experiencing major growth, with more people relocating from other states.
According to Stitt, Oklahoma is now among the top ten states for growth. He has even pointed to reports showing that more people are moving from Texas to Oklahoma than the other way around.
Stitt believes the Build Act will:
- Encourage more housing construction
- Improve infrastructure
- Keep housing affordable
- Support economic expansion
He described the bill as one of his biggest achievements, saying it will “spur more development and more housing starts in Oklahoma.”
Why This Matters for Oklahoma Residents
Rapid growth brings opportunities but also challenges. Without enough housing and infrastructure, communities can face higher home prices, traffic congestion and strained public services.
Supporters of the Build Act argue that master development districts will:
- Speed up construction projects
- Reduce financial pressure on local governments
- Provide structured funding for improvements
Critics, however, may raise questions about special levies and long-term financial commitments tied to bonds.
Overall, the Build Act represents a major policy shift in how Oklahoma plans and pays for development. As the law is implemented, residents and developers will be watching closely to see how these new districts impact housing supply, infrastructure quality and long-term affordability across the state.
