Press Release: DAEDF Forced to Take Legal Action to Protect Best Interest of Duncan Citizens and the Future of Duncan’s Economic Development

June 3, 2024

DUNCAN, OKLAHOMA – The removal of Duncan Area Economic Development Foundation (DAEDF) from the upcoming June 18^th sales tax ballot by the City of Duncan is the latest attempt by the city to make a grab for control of economic development revenue and resources.

Things have not always been so contentious between the two entities; however, changes in office often bring about changes in policies, procedures, and how business is conducted. Under the current Mayor and Council, the relationship between DAEDF and the City of Duncan has gradually eroded and has forced DAEDF to take decisive legal action against the City of Duncan. A declaratory judgment lawsuit was filed by DAEDF against the City of Duncan on May 15, 2023. This legal move came in response to the city's controversial attempt, on February 28, 2023, to question the ownership of property controlled by DAEDF through its contract with the Duncan Economic Development Trust Authority (DEDTA), threatening DAEDF’s ability to fulfill its mission of fostering economic development and improving the lives of Duncan area residents.  The City of Duncan then filed a lawsuit on January 27, 2024, in relation to land donations to DAEDF by Duncan Industrial Authority in 2018 and 2021, further escalating the tension and potentially impacting the community's economic future.

The current dispute arises from the City of Duncan's efforts to seize DAEDF's assets by questioning the validity and legality of DAEDF's Contract for Services with the DEDTA. However, this challenge holds little legal merit and ultimately hinders economic development in our community. The real estate and monies in question have been a cornerstone of DAEDF's operations for years, enabling it to effectively carry out its mission and demonstrably benefiting the area. As a non-profit, DAEDF has no owners but exists for the benefit of our community. All funds created through DAEDF's activities are reinvested into additional economic development initiatives. Moreover, the contract between DAEDF and DEDTA has been in place for three decades and its legality has never been challenged. This long history of successful cooperation suggests that the City's current efforts are misguided and could be costly for both parties if they end up in further litigation.

DAEDF President Lyle Roggow explained the rationale behind the lawsuit filed by DAEDF: “We regret that it has come to this point, but we are left with no alternative but to protect DAEDF’s assets and its mission through legal means. The real estate DAEDF owns is essential to the work we do, and any attempt by the city to acquire these assets would jeopardize our ability to serve the community and drive economic growth."

“The Board of Directors and DAEDF's members are confident this lawsuit goes beyond just safeguarding our mission. It's about defending the very principles of transparency and responsible governance that our community has entrusted us with through repeatedly voting to designate a quarter-cent sales tax to DAEDF to use for real estate purchases, new commercial building projects, and other activities that stimulate economic growth.”

In the wake of recent events, DAEDF has garnered significant support from community leaders, local businesses, and organizations alike. Roggow expressed gratitude for this support, saying, "We are grateful for the outpouring of support from our community. It reaffirms our belief in the importance of our mission, and we remain committed to standing up for what is right."

“Regardless of the outcome of the lawsuit, DAEDF remains steadfast in its dedication to the betterment of the Duncan area and its residents. We are open for business as usual, ready to continue our work of building a strong economy for Duncan and surrounding areas,” stated Roggow.

About Duncan Area Economic Development Foundation

Duncan Area Economic Development Foundation (DAEDF) was started in 1993 when business leaders decided to diversify the community's industry mix. A dedicated sales tax passed by the citizens allowed the program of work to begin. DAEDF is involved with workforce, STEM, internship activities, a business incubator, and business attraction and retention. 

###