Public Meetings - Tulsa, Oklahoma

The Public Works Committee, chaired by Councillor Director Wright, met on April 29, 2026, to consider two appointments to city commissions, discuss the proposed Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG) franchise ordinance, and receive updates on refuse, stormwater, water, and sewer collection fees for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. No votes were taken; the meeting served as a discussion and information session. Appointments to City Commissions - Simone Gitten was introduced as a nominee to the Greater Tulsa Area African American Affairs Commission, filling a vacancy. She shared her background as a Tulsa Remote participant, her work in ed-tech, and community involvement. The committee expressed support, and her confirmation vote is scheduled for May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. - Fatima Linares appeared for reappointment to the Greater Tulsa Area Hispanic Latinx Affairs Commission. She has served since 2014 and chairs the education committee, organizing the Tomaji Bera Awards. She attended 9 of 11 meetings and lives in District 4. Her confirmation vote is also set for May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Discussion: Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG) Franchise Ordinance - Sarah Davis (Council staff) provided an update on the franchise ordinance, which grants a 20-year term at a 4% rate for ONG, with additional funds going to the public ways fund for right-of-way maintenance and corridor enhancements. Key changes include ADA compliance standards (Section 307) and improved coordination for facility relocation (Section 308). - Justin Frederick (ONG) explained the annual rate review process with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, noting that recent rate increase notices are part of that routine review and not extraordinary. - The committee discussed the 20-year term, technology updates (removing pager/fax requirements), and the importance of ADA compliance. No vote was taken; a public hearing is scheduled for May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Discussion: Refuse, Stormwater, Water, and Sewer Fee Updates for FY 2026-2027 - Refuse (Terry Ball, TEAR): The current refuse hauling contract expires September 30, 2026, and a new contract with New Solutions begins October 1, 2026, running through 2036 with a five-year renewal option. New trucks with AI camera systems for contamination detection and service verification will be introduced. The residential rate increase is 4%, though underlying costs rose more. Backyard service will be consolidated to a single $20 fee (up from $5.36/$9.43). Optional services (additional carts, bulky waste) will see price increases. The bulky waste fee rises from $10 to $20, but remains subsidized. Green waste changes: TEAR exited the commercial green waste business; a new commercial gate opened. The residential green waste site remains free for residents. The household pollutant disposal facility set a new customer record. TEAR's fund balance is projected to decrease from $14 million to $4.5 million by FY 2030, partially due to inflation and new contracts. The committee discussed the need for public outreach on the new rates and medical exemptions for backyard service. - Stormwater (Terry Ball): The stormwater utility rate increase is 7%, raising the monthly residential bill to $14.65 (about $0.03/day). The increase supports the 8th year of a 12-year Black & Veatch study, new staff and equipment for MS4 compliance, and capital projects. The stormwater fund relies solely on utility charges. Key projects include Hager Creek storm sewer and 43rd & Sheridan flood mitigation (FEMA BRIC grant pending). The committee discussed private vs. public ownership of detention ponds and the impact of infill development on stormwater systems. - Water and Sewer (Eric Lee): The water rate increase is planned at 6% (up from 4% originally) and sewer at 3% (down from 5%), balancing the two funds. Major capital needs: $400 million over five years for water system expansion, including expanding AB Jewel treatment capacity and addressing pressure issues in South Tulsa. Sewer capital is $360 million over five years. The committee discussed PFAS monitoring, private sewer line issues, and the need for additional resources for repairs. The utility bill for water and sewer is expected to increase by about $3.90 per month. The cost to replace water lines has more than doubled from $20 per inch-foot to $50. Key Outcomes - The appointments of Simone Gitten and Fatima Linares will be voted on by the full council on May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. - The ONG franchise ordinance will be discussed at a public hearing on May 6, 2026, with a first reading and potential vote later. - The committee acknowledged the proposed fee increases for refuse (4%), stormwater (7%), water (6%), and sewer (3%) for FY 2026-2027, but no formal action was taken. The increases will be part of the budget process. - TEAR will provide informational materials to council members for public outreach on the new refuse rates and services. - The water and sewer departments will present a comprehensive compensation study to the council in the coming months.

On April 29, 2026, the City Council held a budget meeting at 1:00 PM to discuss the proposed FY2026-2027 budget and capital plan for code enforcement. Representatives from the Planning and Neighborhoods Department, including Director James Wagner and Code Enforcement Manager Brent Richard, presented a comprehensive plan to eliminate the code enforcement backlog, improve communication with property owners, and add new staff positions. The discussion also covered data on case volume, process improvements, and technological upgrades. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were identified. Discussion Items - Backlog and Case Volume: Code Enforcement Manager Brent Richard reported that case volume has increased 56% from 2018 to the end of last year. The department averages 17,000–18,000 cases per year. Priority 1 and 2 cases are handled within a week, but Priority 3 cases (about 82% of the backlog) — including trash, junk, debris, tall grass, and inoperable vehicles — have the longest wait times. The backlog peaked last summer at 3,000–3,500 cases and currently stands at 1,641. - Two-Customer Approach: The department is shifting from focusing solely on the complainant to also treating the property owner as a customer. Early engagement with property owners is intended to increase voluntary compliance and reduce the need for abatement work orders. Tools include a voluntary compliance toolkit (a one-pager and website with dump passes, roll-off dumpsters, etc.), postcards and text messages sent as courtesy notices before an official inspection, and a work order information sheet. - Process Improvements: The current process involves a complaint, inspection, mailed notice, 10-day reinspection, and then abatement work order if non-compliant. The proposed process adds an early courtesy notification (postcard and text message) before the official inspection, giving property owners a heads-up to address potential issues before an inspector arrives. This early communication is expected to leverage the 68% voluntary compliance rate seen when property owners are aware of a problem. - New Positions and Resources: The proposed budget includes funding for three new code inspectors and one office administrator. The office administrator will handle early notifications and administrative tasks, allowing a currently desk-bound code inspector to return to the field — netting four additional field officers. Additional abatement funds are also included to address anticipated increases in inspections and to replenish funds that typically run dry by year-end. Costs for text messaging and postcards are also budgeted. - Simulation Results: A simulation applying the three new inspectors to last year’s backlog (starting at 1,463 cases) showed it could be reduced to 99 cases over the summer. With the net four officers, the department expects an even greater impact, aiming to eliminate the backlog by July. - Clarification on Budget Positions: Director Wagner explained that the budget page labeled “Multifamily Housing” was a typo; it actually refers to the “Office of Performance and Accountability,” where three vacant positions were eliminated. No positions were cut from the multifamily housing inspection group, which retains four code inspectors and two fire marshals. Two previously eliminated positions were funded by a contract with the Tulsa Housing Authority that was not renewed. The originally requested supervisor position is no longer needed due to those reductions, and the department is considering adding a neighborhood inspector to avoid a net loss in capacity. - Technology and 311 Integration: A new public dashboard map is set to go live within the next two weeks. It will display all active and recently closed cases (30-day history) by address and geographic area, with a legend explaining statuses. Citizens will be able to see whether a case has been received, is in progress, or closed. The map will also have a layer for council districts and potentially for neighborhood associations. The department is also working with 311 to fix app issues, such as linking a closed case to its specific address and allowing users to add notes after filing. - Absentee Landlords and Vacant Properties: Council members raised concerns about out-of-state absentee owners who do not respond to notices. The department maintains an active investors list to help connect interested buyers with such properties. For properties that don’t respond, the standard process applies, and the 10-day notice cannot be accelerated due to state law. However, summary abatement (immediate work order) is possible if an owner has been a violator within the previous two years. - Business and Dilapidated Structures: For commercial properties, notification mirrors residential procedures; for dilapidated structures or boarding-ups, full legal research is conducted to notify all lien holders. The department is working to connect owners with developers for redevelopment rather than demolition, but noted that finding investors for commercial projects is more challenging than for residential. - Councillor Harper’s Vacancy Improvement Program (VIP): Councillor Harper mentioned a forthcoming Vacancy Improvement Program. Director Wagner confirmed that a new Housing Program Coordinator position is proposed in the budget to administer that program and other affordable housing redevelopment efforts. Key Outcomes - The council received the presentation and engaged in detailed discussion. No formal votes were taken. - The meeting was adjourned after the presentation and Q&A. - The department will continue to refine its early notification processes and is working with 311 on app improvements. - The new dashboard map is expected to be live within the next two weeks. - A future meeting will focus specifically on all new staffing positions across departments, including code enforcement’s proposed new roles.

The Urban and Economic Development (UED) Committee of the Tulsa City Council met on April 29, 2026, at 10:45 AM CDT (16:45 UTC) under the chairmanship of Councilor Anthony Archie (District 2). The committee discussed several items including appointments, rezoning applications, budget amendments, affordable housing fund allocation, and a major proposal to amend the use of $5 million in Kirkpatrick Heights–Greenwood funds. No formal votes were taken; all items will proceed to the full City Council. Appointments - Michelle Verdeau (District 1) was nominated for appointment to the Greater Tulsa African American Affairs Commission (Greenwood Cultural Center seat, term expiring May 1, 2029). Ms. Verdeau was not present; the item was rescheduled. - Anna Tao (District 7) was reappointed to the Asian Affairs Commission (term expiring January 1, 2029). Ms. Tao spoke about her work on the Luminary Awards and a forthcoming scholarship for AAPI high school seniors. The committee will vote on her reappointment at the May 6 City Council meeting. Rezoning Applications - Z7854 (Northeast corner of E 11th Street and 131st E Avenue): Request to rezone from CS to CG to allow a tortilla manufacturing facility (low-impact manufacturing) and an event center (under 250 persons). The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission (TMAPC) voted 8–1 to recommend approval. Staff noted no public opposition. The item was discussed and will move to the full council. - Z7855 (Properties at northeast and southeast corners of 42nd Street and Union Avenue): Request to rezone from RS-3 to RM-3 for development of approximately 136 apartment units. TMAPC voted 9–0 to recommend approval. Councilor Archie noted that neighbors he spoke with supported the project. No public opposition was heard. Budget Amendments - Supplemental Appropriation $5,000 (General Fund): Recognized from donation revenue for the Office of Financial Empowerment’s April and May financial literacy events. Staff noted that the funds will cover materials and supplies. - Transfer of $260,641.88 (Emmett Till Cold Case Program Subfund): To move funds between account groups for forensic genetic genealogy work related to potential 1921 Race Massacre victims, aligning with revised DOJ guidelines. - Supplemental Appropriation $100,000 (Social and Economic Development Non‑Federal Subgrant): Recognized from Humana Health Horizons to support operations of the financial empowerment center, with $80,000 for salaries and $20,000 for other services. Councilor Bellis praised the department’s success in securing external grants. Affordable Housing Trust Fund Allocation - Tulsa Square Apartments (Hotel Conversion): The committee considered a resolution to allocate up to $269,408 in Affordable Housing Trust Funds to Oakview Hospitality Group. The project will convert a former Clarion hotel into 147 units (studios and one‑bedrooms). 73 units will be reserved for households earning below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI, cap $37,000), and the remainder for those below 120% AMI. Construction has started on the fourth floor, with completion expected by mid‑May. The developer plans to hire a local management company and has coordinated with nonprofits (Family & Children’s Services, HEROES Hope) to ensure lease‑up. The item was discussed and forwarded. Major Discussion: Amendment to Improve Our Tulsa 2023 Sales Tax Expenditure Policy (Brown Ordinance) - Proposal: Councilor Paul Harper (District 1) introduced an ordinance to amend the 2023 temporary sales tax expenditure policy to redirect $5 million previously allocated to "Kirkpatrick Heights–Greenwood Area Plan Implementation" to District 1 Economic Development Projects, administered by the Tulsa Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) in partnership with the Historic Greenwood District Main Street program, rather than by Partner Tulsa / the Greenwood Legacy Community Development Corporation (CDC). - Presentations: Belinda Radney (Executive Director, Historic Greenwood District Main Street) and Rose Washington (President, TEDC) outlined a phased implementation approach focusing on land infrastructure, visioning, and market‑driven development, similar to successful models in Kendall Whittier, the Pearl District, and the Market District. Frenchell Bridgett (Director of Economic Development, City of Tulsa) supported the proposal, arguing that the new CDC would "untie the shoelaces" of Greenwood’s momentum. - Councilor Harper’s Position: He stated that the CDC was created without adequate community input and that he, as the elected representative, had been ignored. He emphasized that the funds remain in District 1 but with a different facilitator (TEDC) that has community trust and a proven track record. - Council Discussion: Councilor Lori Decker‑Wright expressed support, noting the successful use of Main Street programs in other districts. Councilor Gilbert clarified that the project is at 31st and Memorial, not Skelly and Yale (a previous error). Councilor Dutton asked about the specific hotel (former Clarion). Councilor Bangle praised the repurposing. Councilor Bellis (via Councilor Gilbert) asked about leveraging existing CDC funds ($2 million plus a $1 million federal grant); Councilor Harper responded that the CDC work can continue but the $5 million should be pivoted to ensure community promises are kept. - Outcome: The committee held a public hearing (required) and discussed the ordinance. A vote is scheduled for the May 13 City Council meeting. Additional public hearings will occur on May 13. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during this committee meeting. All items will be forwarded to the full City Council for action. - The reappointment of Anna Tao will be voted on May 6. - The Brown ordinance (Item 10) will have a public hearing and vote on May 13. - The committee will reconvene at 1:00 PM on the same day (April 29) for further business. Note: The agenda and minutes were not available for this meeting; the summary is based solely on the raw transcript.

The Tulsa City Council met at 5 p.m. on April 29, 2026, with all nine councilors present. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, a reappointment, a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to amend the expenditure policy for the 2023 temporary sales tax, approval of routine items, and an appeal hearing. The public hearing on the sales tax amendment drew 15 speakers with sharply divided views. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the April 15, 2026, meetings (items 1A and 1B) unanimously. - Approved the reappointment of Ashley Webb to the Sales Tax Overview Committee (item 2A) unanimously after a public comment from John Hopines. - Approved items 4B through 4J (including resolutions on affordable housing trust funds, a travel donation from Bloomberg Philanthropies, and a Cinco de Mayo event application) unanimously after a public comment from John Hopines. - Approved ordinances 7A (rezoning), 7B (auditor duties), and 7C (easement closure) unanimously, with the emergency clause on 7A. Bree Barrett spoke in support of the rezoning. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3A – Public Hearing on Proposed Ordinance Amending Title 43M (Sales Tax Expenditure Policy): The council entered the public hearing unanimously. Fifteen speakers signed up; seven were in favor, five were opposed, and two were undeclared. Key speakers and their positions: - John Hall (Executive Director, Greenwood Legacy Corp): Opposed the amendment, arguing it would destabilize the Kirkpatrick Heights Greenwood Master Plan implementation that involved nearly 2,000 community voices. He stated the $5 million was specifically for that plan and should remain with the community-led governance structure. - Christy Williams (Chair, Beyond Apology Commission): Supported transferring the $5 million to the Tulsa Economic Development Corporation (TEDC), citing TEDC's proven track record with projects like OASIS Fresh Market and Moton. - Rose Hardwick (District 1 resident): Supported the amendment, expressing concern that the district's elected councilor was excluded from major decisions. - Jack Henderson (former councilor): Opposed the amendment, arguing the funding was voted by the people and should stay where it is. He accused Councilor Hall Harper of trying to move the money for personal reasons. - Tyler Duncan (small business owner, Cherokee Nation member): Questioned the choice of TEDC and suggested other CDFIs like Cherokee Nation. He did not state a clear position but raised concerns about transparency. - James and Bernice Alexander: Opposed the amendment, accusing Partner Tulsa of working to displace Black residents and urging the council to honor voters' intent. - Matisse Mason (childcare business owner, nonprofit leader): Supported the amendment, sharing a personal story of TEDC's help with a business loan and arguing TEDC is a trusted partner. - Mary Williams: Opposed the amendment, warning that disempowering voters breeds apathy and mistrust. She urged the council to respect the voter-approved measure. - Seta Bayes (owner of historic Vernon AME church tours): Expressed support for transferring the funds to TEDC, stating the community needs to examine receipts of work already done. - Greg Taylor (District 1 resident): Supported the amendment in spirit, calling for equitable land transfers and reparations, but did not explicitly endorse the specific ordinance. - Ashley Phillipson (Chair, Tulsa Development Authority): Opposed the amendment, arguing that the original voter-approved language tied the $5 million specifically to the Kirkpatrick Heights Greenwood Master Plan implementation, not broad economic development. She warned that redirecting funds would erode public trust in future ballot measures. - Terry Gateward (retired city employee, small business owner): Opposed moving the money, citing mistrust from past reallocations, but praised TEDC's work in general. - Kayan Caymus (community member): Opposed the ordinance, asking the council to dig in with the people who have been working on the master plan for years and to honor the certainty of public funding. - Berlinda Radney (Executive Director, Historic Greenwood District Main Street; member of Citizens Advisory Team): Remained agnostic but acknowledged community distress and the complex history of urban renewal. She noted the master plan boundary is fluid and cautioned against resurrecting blight studies. - Item 4F/H/J: John Hopines spoke in support of the affordable housing trust fund allocation, the Bloomberg Philanthropies donation, and the Cinco de Mayo event. - Item 7A: Bree Barrett spoke in support of the rezoning. Discussion Items - The council did not deliberate on the proposed ordinance (item 3A) during this meeting; only public testimony was received. - Item 10 – Appeal Hearing (Property at 5707 N. Frankfurt Ave.): Mr. Adatula, the property owner, requested more time to address the nuisance finding. He stated he had attempted to sell the property and now plans to use it for his nonprofit (Joseph Aditula Foundation) once he obtains 501(c)(3) status. Councilor Hall Harper clarified that the property is secured and clean. The council moved to grant a 90-day extension to August 5, 2026, and all councilors voted in favor. Key Outcomes - Public hearing held on the proposed ordinance to amend the 2023 temporary sales tax expenditure policy; no vote was taken. The ordinance will be considered at a future meeting. - The council granted a 90-day extension (to August 5, 2026) for the property at 5707 N. Frankfurt Ave. to allow Mr. Adatula time to bring the property into compliance or sell it. - All consent agenda and second-reading items were approved unanimously. - Councilor Bengal announced that the Route 66 centennial event (May 28-30, 2026) has reached over 3,000 registered cars from 41 states and still needs volunteers.

The Tulsa Board of Adjustment held its 1381st meeting on April 28, 2026, to hear seven agenda items, including an appeal of a historic preservation permit denial, several variance requests, and special exceptions for assembly and industrial uses. The board approved three items, denied one, continued one, and had one withdrawn. No public comments were made on the routine consent calendar. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from Meeting 1380 (April 14, 2026). Public Comments & Testimony - BOA 24026 (Appeal – Fence at 1601 S. Trenton Avenue): Two neighbors spoke in opposition to the appeal. Deanne Paisley (1530 S. Trenton Ave.) stated the fence was not a dog run as claimed and that preservation rules must be followed. Chip Atkins (1531 S. Trenton Ave., member of the preservation subcommittee) testified that he personally informed the contractor of the need for a certificate of appropriateness before construction, but was ignored. He argued that granting the variance would reward noncompliance and undermine historic preservation code enforcement. Discussion Items - BOA 23980 – Withdrawn: Item number two was withdrawn by the applicant before discussion. - BOA 24026 – Appeal of Historic Preservation Permit Denial (1601 S. Trenton Avenue): The applicant, Kevin Kalstrom, appealed the Preservation Commission’s denial of a permit for a six-foot privacy fence extension in the street yard of the Swan Lake Historic District. Staff reported that the fence blocked views of the house’s north facade, violating Design Guideline G.1.4. The Preservation Commission had offered alternatives (lower height or relocation) that were not pursued. Kalstrom cited safety concerns (a sex-offender neighbor) and claimed other properties had similar fences. The board found no error by the Preservation Commission and upheld the denial. - BOA 24029 – Variance to Increase Accessory Building Floor Area (3536 E. 23rd Street South): The applicant sought to expand an existing detached garage by 94 square feet (to 594 sq ft total) in an RS-3 district, citing drainage issues and the need for modern vehicle storage. Board members questioned the hardship; some considered it a personal convenience rather than a unique lot condition. The case was continued to the May 12, 2026 meeting, with a request for revised plans showing compliance at 500 sq ft. - BOA 24030 – Special Exception for Assembly Use (1212 E. 45th Place South): The Tulsa Ballet requested a special exception to permit a large indoor assembly use (over 250 persons) in a CS district, to allow construction of a 600 sq ft vestibule canopy for weather protection. The ballet has operated at the site for over 20 years. The board approved the special exception unanimously. - BOA 24032 – Special Exception for High-Impact Manufacturing (SE corner of 36th St N and Mingo Road): Agile Space Industries sought a special exception to allow a rocket engine testing facility in an IM district. Representatives described testing small maneuvering thrusters (approximately 3x3x3 foot test chamber) inside a vacuum chamber with scrubbed exhaust. The facility is expected to employ 20–30 people eventually. The board approved the special exception. - BOA 24033 – Variance to Reduce Street Setback (1601 E. 15th Street South): The applicant, Mike Thedford of Wallace Design Collective, sought to reduce the required 10-foot CS setback to 3 feet for a restaurant expansion on a property split-zoned CH/CS. The existing building was non-conforming; the new design would be larger but still set back similarly to adjacent buildings. The board approved the variance, citing the unique zoning configuration of the existing building. - BOA 24034 – Variance for Dynamic Display Sign Size and Location (5425 E. 11th Street South): The applicant requested two variances: to increase the permitted sign area for a dynamic display sign and to allow it within 200 feet of a residential district. The sign (108 sq ft, LED) had already been installed on an existing structure on Route 66. The applicant argued safety and visibility due to topography. The board denied both variances, finding the hardship insufficient and the sign size potentially distracting. - BOA 24035 – Variance to Reduce Street Setback (1048 East Young Place North): The applicant sought to reduce the required 20-foot RS-4 street setback to 18 feet 7 inches to build a three-bedroom, two-bath home on a uniquely small lot (70 ft deep). The lot was created by an uneven historical subdivision. The board approved the variance, noting the lot’s unique shape and that the requested setback was the minimum necessary. Key Outcomes - BOA 24026 – Appeal denied (unanimous decision to affirm Preservation Commission denial). - BOA 24029 – Continued to May 12, 2026, for revised plans. - BOA 24030 – Special exception approved (unanimous). - BOA 24032 – Special exception approved (unanimous). - BOA 24033 – Variance approved (unanimous). - BOA 24034 – Variances denied (unanimous). - BOA 24035 – Variance approved (unanimous).

The Tulsa Authority for Recovery of Energy (TARE) Board met on April 28, 2026, to discuss routine consent items, staff reports, financial updates, intergovernmental agreements, and a refuse fee proposal for City Council. The meeting also included announcements about a community garden and the retirement of a long-serving board member and outside counsel. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board approved the minutes from the March 24, 2026 focused committee meeting and the March 31, 2026 poll board meeting by a motion and second. (No roll call vote recorded.) Staff Reports and Updates - Manager's Report: The manager reported that in March, no recycling carts were removed for contamination. The AEL (processing facility) experienced crane issues and planned outages, contributing to waste diversions. The twice-a-week refuse service lost 18 customers. At the mulch site, 2,731 Tulsa residents and 212 MOU customers visited, with 46 vehicles coming for firewood despite warm weather. Bulky waste tonnage increased by 40 tons year-over-year. Intergovernmental tonnage decreased by 77 tons from previous months, returning to normal levels. Illegal dumping was up 11 tons from last year, and 3.14 tons of dead animals were collected (city and county combined). - Household Pollutant Collection Facility (HHP) Report: In March, 455 cars visited the HHP, collecting 39,248 pounds of pollutants (87 lbs per customer). The swap shop had 162 customers taking 593 items (1,662 pounds diverted). The facility operated one fewer day compared to March 2025, but numbers remain strong. Insulation installation is ongoing. In response to board questions, staff agreed to gather data on repeat versus one-time customers. Discussion included collaboration with neighborhood associations to inform renters, but the facility's permit restricts commercial waste; however, neighborhood cleanups with address lists have been accommodated in the past. Monthly Financial Report (Ending March 31, 2026) - Revenues: Total revenues of $31.9 million are at 77.41% of the annual estimate, ahead of the planned 74.58%. Charges for services totaled $31 million, approximately $793,000 over budget. - Expenditures: Total expenditures of $39.3 million are at 83.18% of the annual estimate, slightly ahead of the projected 77.38%, partly due to encumbrances and commitments ($12.4 million). Actual expenses were $26.8 million. - Year-End Process: The budget office has requested year-end reappropriation requests from departments to ensure funds for purchases not completed by fiscal year-end. Intergovernmental Agreements - County MOU for Data and Bulky Waste Pickup: The board voted to continue the Memorandum of Understanding with Tulsa County for data and bulky waste pickup. A motion to accept was made, seconded, and passed. - Metropolitan Environmental Trust (MET) Second Joint Cooperative Agreement: The agreement requires signatures from the MET Council and board member Terry, which are not yet obtained. The board tabled the item to the May meeting. The current agreement does not require notification until April 30, so the delay is acceptable. Refuse Collection Fees and Changes of Service - The board reviewed the final version of the refuse fee proposal to be presented to the City Council on April 29, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Board members were invited to attend; some indicated they would be present. Public Comments and Announcements - A board member announced the completion of a community garden at 5101 East Pine Street, using mulch from the city's mulch site. The garden has 19 raised beds, seven fruit trees, and will receive two beehives next week. Donations of plants are welcome. The speaker thanked the board for the mulch. - The board was informed of the full retirement of Steve Schuler, who served on the TARE board and as outside counsel for 15 years. The board expressed gratitude and planned a future dinner to honor him. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from March 24 and March 31, 2026. - Approved continuation of the county MOU for data and bulky waste pickup (motion passed). - Tabled the MET joint cooperative agreement until the May meeting to obtain missing signatures. - Noted the refuse fee proposal presentation to City Council on April 29, 2026. - Next meeting: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 3:30 PM in conference room 10 North at City Hall, 175 East 2nd Street. The board chair will be absent.

The Tulsa Development Authority met on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 16:45 UTC, chaired by Vice Chair Carl Bracey in the absence of Chair Philism. A quorum was present. The board approved several items, including an extension for a development project, a mutual termination of a contract, and a new amendment for a large parcel development. The board also reviewed the proposed budget and discussed strategies for supporting small-scale developers. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously, with no items removed. Discussion Items - Amendment to Contract for Sale of Land – 22 North Utica: The developer requested a second amendment to extend the timeline for a congregate-style residential project. The project now includes 45 units (up from 40). Construction is planned to start June 1, 2026, and be completed by December 2027. The board approved the amendment unanimously. - Termination of Contract for Sale of Land – Axum Company, LLC: The contract was mutually terminated effective April 20, 2026. The $800 good faith deposit was retained by TDA. The board approved the termination unanimously. - Amendment with Home Run LLC for 23 Parcels (Martin Luther King Boulevard): The board approved the form of the first amendment, which establishes a lot-by-lot release framework for the remaining 23 parcels. The approval is subject to no material changes from the developer's attorney. The property was originally part of a 2005 contract with Ultim Homes, foreclosed in 2008 and purchased by Home Run in 2016. - Budget Presentation: Staff presented the proposed TDA operating fund budget and Lansing budget. Notable changes include no management fee to TAO (saving $50,000), increased interest revenue projections, and addition of TIFIA grant expenditures. The budget is expected to be finalized next month. - Staff Report: Updates on urban renewal plans for Crosby Heights (focusing on discussions with Councilor Bellis) and Greenwood Unity Heritage (councilor declined to discuss). Also, Archer property RFPs were covered. - Discussion on Developer Support: Board members discussed challenges faced by small-scale developers, including financing, design, and navigating the system. Ideas included building a network of local banks, providing educational resources, and potentially using TDA's unique position to articulate friction points to other entities. No formal action was taken. Key Outcomes - Approved second amendment for 22 North Utica (unanimous vote: Carl Bracey, Elliot Hurst, Jennifer Griffin, Steve Mitchell). - Approved termination of contract with Axum Company, LLC (unanimous). - Approved form of first amendment with Home Run LLC, subject to no material changes (unanimous). - Budget to be brought back next month for final approval. - Staff to continue work on historic revenue streams and future planning for TDA assets, including a potential board retreat discussion.

The Partner Tulsa Board of Trustees convened on April 23, 2026, with a quorum present. The meeting covered consent agenda items, an amended affordable housing agreement, a retail consulting contract renewal, three community impact grants, a draft budget discussion, monthly budget actuals, and a comprehensive staff report. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda items A through E were approved unanimously by roll call vote. Discussion Items Item 5 – Amendment to Affordable Housing Trust Fund Agreement for 22 North Utica - Vicky presented a request to approve an amended and restated agreement for the 22 North Utica project. A $1.4 million award from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund was made in 2024. The project has undergone changes, and the new timeline is approximately 18 months, with completion expected by the end of next year. The item was previously reviewed and approved out of the full review committee. The board approved the amendment unanimously. Item 6 – Second Renewal of Retail Strategies Consulting Contract - Michelle presented the second and final renewal option of the contract with Retail Strategies, originally awarded in spring 2024. The scope and budget remain unchanged from the prior year. Discussion included: - Trustee Tyler Duncan asked about measurables; Michelle cited contacts with new-to-Tulsa retailers, the IKEA project, and backfilling empty commercial spaces as key metrics. - Trustee Katie Plohocky questioned the benefit of attracting national brands versus investing in local Tulsa businesses. Michelle explained the dual approach: attracting national brands for sales tax revenue and a new small business director starting in May to support local businesses. - Trustee Paul Bracey expressed concern about the contractor working simultaneously for multiple municipalities and questioned loyalty. Michelle offered to provide a list of other clients and noted Tulsa’s proactive outreach (e.g., the IKEA soft offer). - Trustee Steve Mitchell argued that outsourcing provides credibility and reach that an internal hire cannot match, drawing parallels to industry practices. - Trustee Tyler Duncan noted the finality of this renewal; next year the board will go out for RFP. The motion to approve passed unanimously. Items 7, 8, 9 – Community Impact Initiative Grant Agreements - Staff presented three $30,000 grant agreements with Columbus Neighborhood Association, South Peoria Neighborhood Connection Foundation (fiscal agent: South Tulsa Community House), and Tulsa Dream Center (fiscal agent for South Haven Neighborhood Association). The grants are part of a $90,000 set-aside for FY2026 to demonstrate the impact of small investments. The selection process involved collaboration with the Tulsa Planning Office, Mayor’s Office of Public Partnerships and Public Art, and city council recommendations. A data-driven rubric using the Neighborhood Conditions Index (NCI) was used. - Trustee Katie Plohocky commended staff for refining the selection process based on past feedback. - Trustee Tyler Duncan asked about handling outlier neighborhoods that are staples but score low on NCI. Staff acknowledged a discrepancy and will adjust weighting in the future; a fourth project (in the Neon Quarter) is being added to address equity. - All three grant agreements were approved unanimously by separate roll call votes. Item 10 – Discussion of Draft Budget for FY2027 - Lynn presented the draft grants and operating budgets. The grants budget shows revenues equal expenditures. The operating budget reflects: - Removal of Build Back Better Regional Challenge (BBBRC) grant monies from operating to grants fund (currently $104,000 excess). - Salaries include two new positions (director of small business and economic incentives manager, starting May 18). - Adoption of GovSense accounting system (with optional CRM) is included, increasing computer maintenance costs. - Legal expenses increased 25% due to additional TIF activity. - Travel and training increased for new staff and GovSense implementation. - Debt service still includes two remaining payments on revenue bonds (pay off in spring 2028). - Projected surplus of about $300,000, potentially rising to $650,000-700,000 once Oakview Group (OVG) revenue for Civic Center parkade is included. - Trustee Katie Plohocky requested a future report showing TIF revenues versus expenses (including administrative and legal costs) and similar data for small business support. Item 11 – Monthly Budget to Actuals - Lynn reported an operating surplus of $1.8 million versus an anticipated deficit of $200,000 at this point in the year. Key variances: higher legal costs due to TIF activity, and higher other services due to BBBRC activities (small dollar amounts). Overall financial position is strong. Item 12 – Monthly Staff Report - Gary presented on behalf of staff (Renita, Mike, Karen attending training). Highlights: - Working with ODOC and INCOG to submit recommended census tracts for Opportunity Zone 2.0. - Finalizing private activity bond application process. - Fair Oaks project plan changes; targeting LDARC meetings in May. - Crutch Rail project plan amendments moving forward. - Project Anthemeta announced for Fair Oaks Innovation Park; a microsite for the park launched. - A robotics trophy from Darnaby Elementary (partnering for after-school programs) was presented. - LATAM program (Latin America to Tulsa) by Tulsa Venture Capital recruiting biotech companies. - Vicky provided updates on asset management: elevator modernization at Civic Center parkade (halfway through repairs), concrete repair study ongoing; Moton project RFP and disposition strategy; Archer property RFP (one proposal received, response needed in weeks). - Gary noted that the term "urban renewal plans" is statutory and the blight study process is being updated by the Center for Economic Development Law to focus on lack of investment rather than property conditions. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Amended and restated agreement for 22 North Utica (Affordable Housing Trust Fund) approved unanimously. - Second renewal of Retail Strategies consulting contract approved unanimously (final option; RFP next year). - Community Impact Initiative grants of $30,000 each to Columbus Neighborhood Association, South Peoria Neighborhood Connection Foundation, and Tulsa Dream Center (for South Haven Neighborhood Association) approved unanimously. - Draft budget discussed; final approval scheduled for next month. Trustee requested future data on TIF revenue vs. costs and small business support. - Monthly budget to actuals noted as favorable. - Staff directed to include full parking report in future packets. - Meeting adjourned without objection.

The Public Works Committee of the Tulsa City Council met on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at approximately 2:45 PM (convened after call to order). Chair Lori Doctor Wright presided. The committee considered seven agenda items including reappointments, easement closures, license agreements, floodplain map updates, an auditor duties ordinance, and a discussion on the natural gas franchise agreement renewal. Key themes included transparency, right-of-way management, and flood hazard reduction. Item 2: Ashley Webb Reappointment to Sales Tax Overview Committee - Ashley Webb, Chair of the Sales Tax Overview Committee, appeared for reappointment to a term expiring December 31, 2028. He stated he has served approximately 15 years and wishes to continue one more term to share institutional knowledge. Council members praised his service and the committee's oversight of capital projects. The reappointment will be taken up for confirmation at the full council meeting on April 29, 2026. Item 3: Ordinance Closing Utility Easement – 6308 E 109th Street - Paul Zachary of Public Works presented. Homebuilders requested closure of 12.5 feet of a 17.5-foot rear easement to build a new home. All utilities had no objection, and a 5-foot strip will remain for service lines. The committee recommended approval. Item 4: License Agreement – Decorative Driveways at 1918 (District 4) - A license agreement for two colored stained concrete driveways and a pathway with brick and decorative rock within the right-of-way was presented. The improvements were constructed prior to obtaining the license. No objections were raised, and the property owner acknowledged restoration responsibility if utilities need access. The committee forwarded the item. Items 5 & 6: Floodplain Map Revisions (Local & FEMA) - Brooke Adams of Water Resources presented two resolutions. Item 5 adopted updated local regulatory floodplain maps (panels 48, 49, 53) based on a developer-finished FEMA Letter of Map Revision that lowered the base flood elevation by 3 feet. Item 6 adopted FEMA’s June 10, 2026 updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps for panel 53, reflecting a transportation project at 81st & Memorial and Regent Prep projects. Both resolutions were presented and advanced. Item 7: Ordinance Amending Auditor Duties – Data Transparency - Councilor Bellas introduced an ordinance adding a duty to the City Auditor’s office to promote public access to data by identifying, collecting, and providing city data. The City Auditor, Nathan (last name not given), explained this would allow creation of a separate data division, keeping internal audit independent, and enable public release of raw data for analysis. A recent public survey received over 2,100 responses. The ordinance was on first reading; a vote is scheduled for April 29, 2026. Item 8: Discussion – ONG Franchise Agreement Renewal - Sarah Davis (Council Administrator) and representatives from Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG) presented an overview of the franchise agreement renewal process. Key proposals: a 20-year term, increasing the franchise fee from 3.1% to 4% (the charter maximum), generating an estimated $1.4 million annually for right-of-way maintenance. A separate ordinance would direct these funds into the existing Public Ways Fund (created after the PSO franchise). Future steps include a formal ordinance next week, community engagement at May community conversations, a public hearing on May 6, and a potential August 2026 election. Council members asked about community engagement and historical context. Key Outcomes - Reappointment of Ashley Webb to Sales Tax Overview Committee forwarded to full council for confirmation on April 29. - Easement closure recommended for approval. - License agreement forwarded without objection. - Floodplain resolutions (Items 5 & 6) were presented and likely approved under the consent agenda (no separate vote recorded). - Auditor duties ordinance (Item 7) introduced on first reading; final vote expected April 29. - ONG franchise discussion: Formal ordinance to be presented April 29; public hearing May 6; potential August ballot.