A separate computer database system was established for the refund program providing capability for data entry of claimant information, validation, record keeping, maintenance, claims listings generation and check writing. City staff provided free notary services to 16,383 claimants, including in-home notarizations to homebound citizens. Outreach services such as claim assistance and notarizations were provided at area Parks Senior Citizen Centers. The popularity of the Senior Citizen MAPS Sales Tax Refund Program with Oklahoma City senior citizens was clearly evident. Also apparent is City staff's ability to manage the challenges associated with administering a broad-based sales tax refund program.
Staff is available to answer any questions or provide additional information.
A sixth sales tax refund period resulted from the approval of the sales tax extension. The final approval and denial dockets for the sixth year refund period were approved by the City Council on May 2, 2000. Claim forms and instructional brochures were mailed to citizens who received a refund the previous year and upon request to new applicants. Forms were also available during the filing periods at City Hall, the City Treasurer's Office, area metropolitan libraries, and from the City's web site. Six-Year Summary Following are some of the significant highlights of the Senior Citizen MAPS Sales Tax Refund Program.