Tulsa Animal Welfare Commission Meeting – May 11, 2026

The Tulsa Animal Welfare Commission met on May 11, 2026, at 11:45 AM (UTC) to discuss updates on the new animal services facility, a proposed budget increase, and a planned spay/neuter education campaign. The meeting included approval of minutes and a brief discussion on first responder legislation.

Consent Calendar

• Minutes Approval: The commission unanimously approved the minutes of the previous meeting as submitted by staff. Motion by a commissioner, seconded, and passed by roll call vote: Paul – aye, Queenswall area – aye, Stecky – aye.

Discussion Items

• New Animal Services Facility Update: Staff reported on construction progress, including concrete work, walls, tile, drywall, and painting. Keys are expected on September 22, 2026 ("9:22"). The office, community room, and volunteer room are taking shape. Commissioners expressed excitement and were invited to tour.
• Staff Update and Budget Proposal: Current staffing is nearly full, with one ACO position open due to promotion. The proposed budget for the upcoming year would increase team members from 45 to 53. Hiring will begin July 1, 2026, with an expedited process through HR. Commissioners noted the improvement in staffing levels.
• Spay/Neuter Campaign Kickoff (Tentative June 2026): Staff outlined an educational and informational campaign, including a free public clinic. Data from Best Friends Animal Society shows that in 2025, the community performed over 11,000 sterilization procedures, with Tulsa Animal Services contributing over 4,600. However, calculations indicate a need for an additional 8,000–10,000 procedures annually to address the crisis. Commissioners praised the data-driven approach and emphasized the importance of culture change through education. The campaign aims to reduce shelter intake and euthanasia over the next three to five years.
• Old Business – First Responder Status: A commissioner inquired about progress on securing first responder status for animal welfare officers. No update was provided. The commission will discuss a legislative model from Texas at a future meeting and may engage legal counsel to pursue the matter in the next session.

Key Outcomes

• Approved previous meeting minutes unanimously.
• Received updates on facility construction (keys expected September 22, 2026) and budget proposal (45 to 53 staff, hiring July 1).
• Endorsed the spay/neuter campaign kickoff planned for June 2026, with continued data gathering and partnership with Best Friends Animal Society.
• Agreed to revisit first responder status legislation at a subsequent meeting after reviewing a model from Texas.