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Over the past few years, Oklahoma City has been in a period of dynamic growth. This growth has brought out the best of our city’s culture and allowed a multitude of businesses to flourish. That prosperity wouldn’t be possible without the tireless endeavors of civic leaders like Russell Perry and James ‘Jim’ Tolbert III.
Both leaders will receive recognition at tomorrow’s Oklahoma City Urban Renewal Authority (OCURA) and Oklahoma City Redevelopment Authority (OCRA) meetings for their commitment to the city and investment in the city’s future.
Mr. Perry founded The Black Chronicle and is the founder and owner of Perry Publishing & Broadcasting, a family company in OKC, which owns and operates radio stations across the state. In 1999, Mr. Perry was nominated to serve as the Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce, making him the first African American to serve in this position in the state’s history. Mr. Perry has sat on the board of the Oklahoma City Urban Renewal Authority for 20 years, where he works with other civic leaders to find new opportunities to breathe life into the city.
Mr. Tolbert’s service on OCURA spans over 25 years. As chairman and president of the First Oklahoma Corporation and the founder of the Full Circle Bookstore, Mr. Tolbert’s professional career is deeply rooted in our community. Beyond those accomplishments, he has a long history of active involvement in the development of downtown Oklahoma City. Notably, his work includes the development of Bricktown and leading the Myriad Botanical Gardens project, serving as chairman of the Myriad Gardens Foundation and a member of the Myriad Gardens Authority.
Both leaders’ long tenures as stewards of Oklahoma City have significantly contributed to the state of the city that we know today. Their decades of service set OKC on a path not only toward economic development, but also toward cultural vibrancy.
Mr. Perry and Mr. Tolbert symbolize just how vital local leaders are for shaping the city’s future and exemplify what it means to invest in a community with both strategic vision and heart. Their guidance and accomplishments will continue to serve as a roadmap for how the city makes strategic decisions for growth. It is forward-thinking and endlessly committed leaders who ensure that OKC’s progress continues to reflect the vibrant spirit of our city.
Kenton Tsoodle is the president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.
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