Public Meetings - Tulsa, Oklahoma

On April 9, 2026, the City of Tulsa hosted a naturalization ceremony at which 20 individuals from 10 countries became United States citizens. The ceremony was led by Acting Field Office Director Heather Wells of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Oklahoma City office, with remarks from Mayor Monroe Nichols and Tabitha Adam, the City's Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Manager. The event included a presentation of colors by the Tulsa Police and Fire Departments, the Pledge of Allegiance, a roll call of former nationalities, the Oath of Allegiance, and individual congratulations. Naturalization Ceremony Proceedings - Countries represented: Argentina, Canada, Germany, Hungary, India, Mexico, Pakistan, Philippines, South Africa, United Kingdom. - Candidates: 20 individuals became citizens. Director Wells led the Oath of Allegiance, after which each new citizen was individually recognized by Mayor Nichols. - Oath of Allegiance: The new citizens renounced allegiance to foreign princes and states, pledged to support and defend the U.S. Constitution, bear arms when required, and perform work of national importance when required. Remarks by City Officials - Director Heather Wells (USCIS): Expressed excitement for the ceremony and noted that people who earn their citizenship often value it more than native-born citizens. Shared a personal story of adopting her child from China. - Mayor Monroe Nichols: Welcomed the new citizens, acknowledging the work required to become a citizen. Emphasized that America's strength comes from its diversity and that the new citizens bring valuable perspectives from their home countries. He stated, "This country is the strongest country in the world because we are the great aggregator of diversity." - Tabitha Adam (Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Manager): Identified herself as a fellow immigrant and congratulated the new citizens on their resilience and perseverance. She highlighted the shared immigrant experience and the hope that unites them. Resources and Next Steps - Language Access Program: Ensures multilingual Tulsans can fully access city resources. - Boards and Commissions: The City encourages new citizens to volunteer on culturally, racially, and linguistically diverse commissions (e.g., Native American, Black, Latino, Asian, women's, and human rights commissions). Applications are available on the City of Tulsa website or at the ceremony exit. - Photograph: A group photo with the mayor and deputy mayor was taken after the ceremony, available on the Resilient Tulsa Facebook page. - Recording: The ceremony was recorded and can be viewed on T Gov (city government channel). Key Outcomes - Naturalization: 20 individuals from 10 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens. - No votes or formal decisions were taken; the ceremony was a recognition and welcome event. - Next steps for new citizens: Encouraged to engage with city resources and consider serving on boards and commissions.

The Tulsa Hispanic/Latino Commission met on April 9, 2026, at 11:45 AM (local time) to discuss community outreach, immigrant support programs, committee reports, and planning for upcoming events. The meeting included a presentation from the Tulsa Visa Network, committee updates, and a vote to draft a letter seeking pro bono legal support for the immigration committee. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously without modifications. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Chair/Vice Chair Report: Chairwoman Jackies Gonzalez reported that she and Vice Chair Chris Chavez will table at Union High School on April 10, in partnership with the Asian Affairs Commission. The African American Affairs Commission has requested collaboration on a research project focusing on the non-native-born Black and African immigrant population (4.2% of Tulsa’s Black population). The commission also shared the Fourth Amendment Worksites playbook with the Asian Affairs Commission. - Community Presentation – Tulsa Visa Network: Stan Kerpak, lead of the Tulsa Visa Network, presented the program’s mission to support immigrants through legal, employment, and community integration services. The program is sponsored by the George Kaiser Family Foundation, serves about 80 members (nearly half in computer science), and has an average salary of approximately $100,000. It began in 2022 and issued its first green cards in 2025. The program has 30 employer partners and works primarily with STEM professionals. Kerpak expressed openness to collaborating with the commission to connect Latin American community members. Commissioner Chris Chavez noted the network does not currently include many manufacturing companies and offered to share an engineering guide created by the city’s Office of Equity and Resilience. The commission invited Kerpak to an upcoming awards event. - Committee Reports: - Community Advocacy: The committee is revisiting membership composition and planning tabling events. - Public Safety: The committee met with low attendance; they will invite municipal court staff to the next meeting. They are supporting the National EMS Week event at the Tulsa Zoo on May 17 (12–4 PM) and will have a commission table. They also discussed three objectives for 2026: bylaws amendment, a Move Over Law awareness campaign (October), and collaboration with other commissions. The Tulsa Fire Department graduated 23 new firefighters; Spanish proficiency testing is pending. - Immigration: The committee reported a concerning case where a person with a DUI at the municipal jail received an ICE hold, which was previously unusual. The committee plans to invite the sheriff to discuss policies and procedures. They also noted that many parks already have Spanish signage, and they are working to identify gaps. The committee is seeking pro bono attorneys for habeas corpus cases. A motion to draft and send a letter requesting pro bono support was passed unanimously. - Education: The Tomas Rivera awards ceremony is scheduled for May (date not specified). The committee received 56 nominations and selected 30 awardees: 12 from Tulsa Public Schools, 6 from Union Public Schools, 10 from Tol Sanders Academy, and 2 from Glenpool. The ceremony will begin at 6 PM, with commissioners arriving at 5:30 PM. Keynote speaker Jesse is confirmed. The committee is considering expanding the number of awards in future years and exploring a scholarship program. The Asian Affairs Commission will be invited to the June meeting to discuss their scholarship model. - New Business: The commission voted to authorize the executive team or immigration committee to draft and send a letter soliciting pro bono legal support (motion passed; no opposition noted). - Announcements: - The Union High School cultural showcase (April 10, 5:30–8 PM) will feature international performances; commissioners are invited to table. - A city resource fair with financial empowerment services will be held May 7, 6–8 PM at Rudisill Library; volunteers are needed for the Title V commissions table. - A commission fair will be held in July in partnership with Tulsa Young Professionals. - The Rising Together Tulsa Recovery Summit (May 16) will offer training on opioid overdose response; interpretation availability is to be confirmed. - TCC is hosting a Spanish for bilingual teachers conference (registration deadline May 1; $30 fee). - Commissioner Mimi Martinez is recovering from a car accident; a card will be sent. - The commission has two open seats; members are encouraged to submit qualified applicants. Key Outcomes - The minutes were approved. - The commission voted to draft a letter seeking pro bono legal support (passed unanimously). - The public safety committee will coordinate a table at the EMS Week event (May 17). - The education committee will proceed with the Tomas Rivera awards ceremony with 30 honorees and a keynote speaker. - The commission will invite the sheriff to a future meeting to discuss ICE hold policies at the municipal jail. - The commission will explore collaboration with the Asian Affairs Commission on scholarship funding. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 12:45 PM (local time).

The Asian Affairs Commission (AAC) held its April meeting on 2026-04-07 at 18:15 UTC. The meeting featured a presentation from the Greater Tulsa Area Hispanic and Latinx Affairs Commission, updates on commission finances, leadership transitions, a new leadership roundtable initiative, and planning for upcoming events. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the March 2026 meeting via a motion and second, with all in favor. Discussion Items - Fourth Amendment Worksites Playbook Presentation: Jackie Gonzalez, Chair of the Greater Tulsa Area Hispanic and Latinx Affairs Commission, presented a newly created employer-friendly handbook designed to guide businesses on legal practices around unconstitutional search and seizure. The playbook, developed in partnership with Systema NC, includes: (1) management discussion questions, (2) a management checklist for physical environment changes (e.g., posting private space signs), and (3) an employee-facing “what to do if” checklist for encounters with federal agents. The playbook is available in Spanish, with conversations underway to translate it into additional languages. Distribution has focused on community organizations and the Hispanic Chamber, with plans for hard copies. Gonzalez noted that while some businesses expressed skepticism about the playbook's effectiveness, the commission hopes it empowers communities amidst ongoing fear of immigration enforcement. Commissioners asked about the current climate, legal resources (e.g., ACLU), and the importance of language accessibility. - TCF Funds Update: The commission reported a current TCF (Tulsa Community Foundation) balance of $10,433.26 after settling a previous year’s invoice. - Leadership Election Process: The chair read a report from Commissioner Pottysaw, outlining that a slate of candidates for all leadership positions (chair, vice chair, committee chairs) will be presented at the May 2026 meeting. Commissioners were asked to express interest in serving on the nominating committee and to send nominations by email. Chair and vice chair terms are two years; other chair positions are one year. The goal is to have a slate ready by May. - Asian Leadership Roundtable Initiative: Commissioner Cecilia reported that applications were sent out, 16 people applied, 13 were accepted, and 11 have confirmed participation. The first virtual pre-roundtable onboarding meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 29, 2026, from 6:00-7:30 p.m. The roundtable will focus on health, civic engagement, and advocacy. Cecilia requested additional commissioner support (2-3 hours/week) for one-on-one meetings with participants to build trust. The initiative is seen as a pilot for future community engagement. - Tabling and Community Outreach: Cecilia also reported on a recent tabling event at the Global Gatherings event at The Gathering Place, which saw approximately 10,000 attendees. The commission’s “Japanese Know Your Rights” cards were all distributed within 2-3 hours. 14 people joined the listserv. Upcoming tabling: Friday, April 10, 2026, from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Union Public Schools’ Cultural Showcase Night (in partnership with the Hispanic Latinx Affairs Commission). Volunteers are needed. - Workforce and Education Committee: Commissioner Massoud reported that a sponsorship letter is ready to send, with a finalized scholarship structure (reduced from four to two scholarships). A link for donations to the TCF account is being set up. The committee also noted that November 10, 2026, was selected as the date for the mayor’s availability for an event; the venue (fourth floor) has been requested, and parking logistics are being coordinated. - Data and Research: Commissioner Pottysaw (via report) shared that a community member (Bobby Lee from Tulsa Public Schools) has created a dashboard using Tulsa County Census data to show where different Asian and Pacific Islander ethnic groups are concentrated. The data is available to support other commission planning. - Volunteer Appreciation Event: Commissioner Sophia presented plans for a reception at American Solera in the Kendall Whittier area to thank volunteers from this year’s Lunar New Year event. The event will include framed certificates and drink tickets. Commissioners were asked to indicate availability on a circulated sheet (dates from April 20 to early May 2026). The event cost is estimated at $200-300, with individual contributions of $25 proposed; some commissioners offered to help cover expenses. - Old/New Business – Demographic Change and Seat Opening: A Commissioner noted that the top three Asian populations in Tulsa have shifted: the Indian community is now the third largest (surpassing Vietnamese). Consequently, the commission will open a new seat for an Indian community leader as a “community leadership chair.” Commissioners were asked to recruit interested candidates. The seat will be formally opened in the coming weeks, but applications can be submitted anytime. - Business Recognition Certificates: Commissioner Massoud raised the idea of creating an official recognition certificate from the commission to honor community businesses and events (e.g., the 20th anniversary of Jerusalem Market). The goal is to build relationships with businesses, potentially leading to a future Asian Chamber of Commerce. An attorney on the board will help draft language. - Strategic Planning Discussion: A newer commissioner asked about formal strategic planning. The chair explained that the commission has focused on qualitative goals (leadership, events, scholarships) and suggested that the next chair develop data-driven KPIs. No formal strategic plan exists yet. - AAPI Heritage Month Declaration: A commissioner reminded the group that May is AAPI Heritage Month; the chair is working on a declaration from Mayor Nichols. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Playbook presented as a resource for businesses; the commission expressed appreciation and support. - Leadership election process set: nominations due before May meeting; a slate will be presented in May. - Roundtable initiative: 11 participants confirmed; first meeting April 29, 2026; additional commissioner support sought. - Upcoming tabling: April 10, 2026 at Union Public Schools (7:00-9:00 p.m.); volunteer confirmed. - Scholarship sponsorship letter ready; donation link pending. - Indian community leadership seat to be opened; applications accepted now. - Business recognition certificate concept approved; language development to follow. - Volunteer appreciation event date to be determined based on availability; costs to be covered by commission contributions. - Meeting adjourned via motion.

The Tulsa City Council Public Works Committee met on April 1, 2026, to consider appointments to two commissions, discuss the proposed hotel guest tax (including feedback from a March 30 town hall and a shift to a November election timeline), and deliberate on possible charter amendments for future ballots. No formal votes were taken; appointments are scheduled for a vote on April 15, and further discussions on charter amendments will continue. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments from non-agenda participants were recorded; only the appointees and council members spoke. Discussion Items Appointments - Item 2 – Lacey Richards to Route 66 Commission: Lacey Richards, a local small business owner (co-owner of a brewery), introduced herself, emphasizing her advocacy for small businesses and community engagement. She expressed enthusiasm for serving on the commission to help market and support businesses along Route 66. Councilors Gilbert and Archie praised her experience. A vote is scheduled for April 15. - Item 3 – Obumakabum (Chair of Tulsa Arts Commission) Reappointment: The appointee, also chair of the commission, described her background in theater and youth arts training (including founding Black Broadway Tulsa). She highlighted goals of expanding access for artists, especially in performing arts, and preserving arts funding. Councilors expressed support. A vote is scheduled for April 15 (noted as "tax day"). Hotel Guest Tax Proposal (Item 5) - Staff (Ms. Davis) summarized the March 30 town hall, noting questions about facility needs, fund uses, and potential exceptions. She recommended waiting a few weeks for completion of a convention feasibility study and financial modeling before finalizing the proposal. The timeline for a potential election is now November (instead of August) due to a crowded August ballot (gubernatorial runoff, special Senate election, state questions). Councilor Bellis explained that a November ballot would allow clearer voter education. Staff confirmed the new internal deadline is June for wrapping up the proposal to call a November election. - Councilors discussed the need for aspirational uses of funds, and clarified that ballot language can be broad and uses can be changed after the election. Charter Amendments (Item 4) - The committee discussed five proposed charter amendments plus a humorous April Fools' proposal about shopping carts (which was not serious). The serious amendments include: longevity pay for public safety, a new section for SPI (presumably Specialized Police/Public Safety Incentive), council salary adjustments, creation of an Office of Independent Review, and appointment qualifications for directors and staff. - Timeline debate: Councilors agreed that an August 2026 ballot is too crowded. Options considered were a November 2026 ballot or postponing to 2027 (which would require a special election costing $150,000–$200,000). Councilor Bush opposed 2027, preferring November. Councilor Archie emphasized the need for more public hearings if delayed. Councilor Bingle expressed concerns about fiscal impacts and readiness. Councilor Bellis noted that calling an election could be done in 2026 for a 2027 vote. - Specific amendments: - Councilor Archie requested more data on longevity pay costs and council salary numbers. - Councilor Denton wanted more information on the Office of Independent Review (noting recent media coverage of a separate ordinance) and expressed concerns about politicization of appointments. - Councilor Bingle opposed the independent review concept, arguing that existing oversight (mayor, public safety commissioner, police chief) is sufficient, and urged caution on the SPI amendment due to potential compounding fiscal burdens. - Councilor Bush defended the appointment confirmation proposal, noting that similar processes already exist (city attorney, personnel director, judges) and that council interaction with department heads provides valuable constituent insight. - Councilor Holler Harper clarified that the police chief is a civil service position (not at will), and that the independent review proposal is broader than police, covering all public safety (including fire, animal services, municipal court). She argued that demand for oversight will not disappear, citing high settlement costs and the need for risk mitigation. - No decisions were made; the committee will continue discussions in coming weeks, with a possible vote on which amendments to send to the city attorney for drafting in late June/early July. Key Outcomes - No votes taken; all items remain pending. - Appointments for Lacey Richards (Route 66 Commission) and Obumakabum (Tulsa Arts Commission) will be voted on at the April 15 council meeting. - The hotel guest tax proposal is on track for a November 2026 election, with staff to bring back feasibility study and financial modeling results before finalization. - Charter amendments will be deliberated further; councilors requested fiscal impact analyses for all proposals. The committee will explore whether to place some amendments on the November ballot alongside the hotel tax or to delay until 2027. - A humorous April Fools' charter amendment regarding shopping carts was acknowledged but not seriously considered.

The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission (TMAPC) held its regular meeting on April 1, 2026, to consider multiple rezoning requests, preliminary subdivision plats, and a plat extension. The meeting began with administrative announcements, including a work session scheduled for April 15 to discuss the NIO extension and residential code updates. Commissioners approved consent items, heard public testimony, and deliberated on several proposals, culminating in decisions on all agenda items. Consent Calendar - Item 2: A request to continue this consent agenda item to May 6, 2026, was approved unanimously. The item involved a rezoning or subdivision approval, but specifics were not elaborated. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 7 (CZ584): Paul Montgomery, owner of adjacent property, expressed support for the rezoning from RS3 to AG, stating he farms and has animals and wishes to see the area zoned for agriculture. The applicant, Leo C. Bray Sr., also testified that his neighbors were supportive of his plans for a small farm with chickens, horses, and a garden. - Item 9 (Z7852): Two speakers opposed the optional development plan to allow a private street. Eric Walton, president of the Wind River Crossing HOA, argued that the proposal would block his neighborhood's planned access to Yale Avenue via a gate on a currently public street. He requested a continuance for the parties to negotiate. Josh Gower, a nearby property owner, raised concerns about the intrusion on the existing neighborhood character and asked for clarification on future development plans. - Item 17: Dr. Corinthians Wilson expressed disappointment that the applicant was not present to explain the need for a preliminary plat extension and requested more information. Discussion Items - Item 6 (CZ583) & Item 14: Staff presented a rezoning request from AG to RS3 for a 19.254-acre tract at 65th West Avenue and 26th Street South, and a related preliminary plat for West Meadows at Berry Hill Creek (72 lots). Staff recommended approval, and the applicant concurred. No public speakers were present. The items were approved unanimously. - Item 7 (CZ584): A rezoning from RS3 to AG at 822 E 64th Street North (3.6 acres) was requested to allow agricultural uses. Commissioner Craddock initially questioned the compatibility with surrounding residential areas, but the applicant explained he had spoken with neighbors who were supportive and noted the area's agricultural character. A neighbor spoke in favor. Commissioners noted the comprehensive plan designates the area as “rural residential/agricultural” and the rezoning aligns with that. Approved unanimously. - Item 8 (CZ585): A rezoning from RE to CS (0.52 acres) at 9481 N 42nd Avenue East, Sperry, to correct a lot line error and absorb the parcel into an existing CS-zoned lot. Staff recommended approval. No applicant or public speakers were present. Approved unanimously. - Item 9 (Z7852): An optional development plan to allow two lots at E 119th Street South, west of Yale Avenue, to be served by a private street, as part of a plan to extend a gated neighborhood. Significant discussion ensued regarding the future closure of the public street and the impact on adjacent residents who wanted to maintain access to Yale. The applicant stated the zoning change was a prerequisite to a separate street closure process before the city council. Commissioners debated a continuance to allow the applicant and neighbors to negotiate. A motion to continue for two weeks passed (apparently 5-4, though the transcript notes “54”). - Item 10 (CZ586): Rezoning from CS to CG at E 11th Street and S 129th East Avenue to allow a tortilleria and event center. Staff noted further Board of Adjustment approvals would be needed. No public speakers. Approved unanimously. - Item 11 (CZ587): Rezoning from RS3 to RM3 (approx. 9 acres) at SE corner of W 41st Street and S Union Avenue for a multifamily apartment development (132-136 units). Staff found the location suitable due to highway proximity and multimodal corridor. The applicant presented two design options. No public speakers. Approved unanimously. - Item 15: Preliminary plat for Center 75 Business Park at 9802 N Yale Avenue (16.48 acres) for warehouse/commercial uses. Staff recommended approval. The applicant agreed. No public speakers. Approved unanimously. - Item 16 & 17: One-year extensions of preliminary plat approvals for properties at 129th East Avenue & 11th Street, and at 36th Street North & Lewis Avenue, respectively. Staff recommended both. No applicants were present for item 16; for item 17, a speaker requested more information. Both approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item 2: Continued to May 6, 2026, per applicant request. (Unanimous) - Items 6 & 14: Approved as recommended. (Unanimous) - Item 7: Approved as recommended. (Unanimous) - Item 8: Approved as recommended. (Unanimous) - Item 9: Continued for two weeks to allow discussions between the applicant and neighboring property owners. (Motion passed; no exact tally recorded but “54” noted in transcript) - Item 10: Approved as recommended. (Unanimous) - Item 11: Approved as recommended. (Unanimous) - Item 15: Approved as recommended. (Unanimous) - Item 16: Approved as recommended. (Unanimous) - Item 17: Approved as recommended. (Unanimous) - The meeting adjourned following the final vote.

The Economic Development Committee met on April 1, 2026, to discuss several rezoning applications, including a controversial reconsideration of a master development plan (MPD6), budget amendments for an IKEA incentive and jail overflow costs, and an ordinance addressing penny retirement. The meeting was chaired by Councilor Anthony Archie (District 2). Consent Calendar No items were voted as a consent calendar; all items were discussed individually. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were recorded. Discussion Items - Reappointment of Shane Hood to TMAPC: Councilor Archie introduced Shane Hood for reappointment to the Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission (TMAPC) for a term expiring January 18, 2029. Hood reported attending 61 of 70 meetings from Council District 5. He shared his background in architecture and community involvement, expressing a desire to continue serving to improve zoning for livability. Councilors commended his service. The appointment will be voted on at the April 15 council meeting. - Reconsideration of MPD6 Rezoning Ordinance: The committee discussed a possible reconsideration of a previously passed ordinance (MPD6) that rezoned land from AG to MPD6 for multiple properties. The original ordinance included an amendment by Councilor Bellis regarding future zoning revisions. The applicant (Lou Reynolds) requested narrowing the amendment so that future zoning code revisions would only apply to data centers, not other uses. Councilors debated the implications, with some concerned about grandfathering all other uses indefinitely. Lou Reynolds argued that the MPD6 is its own zoning district with specific agreed-upon standards and that freezing the rules for non-data-center uses was essential for investment certainty. The committee scheduled a vote on whether to reconsider the ordinance at the 5:00 p.m. meeting that same day. - Rezoning Z-7849 (IL to CS): Application to change zoning from IL to CS for a 1/3-acre lot near East Apache and North Columbia to build a single-family home. TMAPC voted 10-0 to recommend approval. No opposition. - Rezoning CO22 (Corridor Development Plan): Application for a development plan at E63rd and South 105th to bring an existing pool company into compliance. TMAPC voted 10-0. No public opposition. - Harwelden Mansion Rezoning (MPD8) and Comp Plan Amendment: Two related items: rezoning from RS3 to MPD8 and a comp plan amendment from Neighborhood to Multiple Use on approximately 3.3 acres bounded by 22nd Street, Main Street, Woodward Boulevard, and Riverside Drive. The plan includes a restaurant expansion and six lodging buildings for high-end visitors. Susan Miller presented, noting the property owner met with about 500 people. Most comments were supportive. Concerns about parking were addressed; the property also owns adjacent parking on 21st Street. The applicant agreed to prohibit digital display signs. TMAPC voted 10-0 to recommend approval. - IKEA Incentive Budget Amendment: Ordinance to appropriate $2.5 million from the Sales Tax Redevelopment Loan Repayments Fund as a grant to IKEA for building out the former Belk store at Tulsa Hills. Councilors questioned the nature of the fund. City staff Jared explained that IKEA is expected to generate $30-40 million in annual sales tax (compared to $3 million under Belk) and has a regional economic impact of $100-120 million. The grant is for fixtures and building improvements. The city already approved the economic development agreement; this amendment moves the funds. - Jail Overflow Budget Amendment: Ordinance to appropriate $967,713 from the general fund to the police department for increased jail overflow expenses at David L. Moss. The city usually budgets $100,000 annually but spending has averaged $70-80,000 per month recently. Councilor Gilbert clarified the increase is due to more inmates, not a rate hike. Jack (prosecutor) explained that a new chief prosecutor is evaluating policies, and factors include repeat trespassing cases and domestic violence intervention tools. The county also changed auditing systems. The city is exploring expanding bed space at the municipal lockup to reduce overflow costs. - Penny Retirement Ordinance (Cash Transaction Rounding): Chad Becker (Finance) presented an ordinance to allow rounding cash transactions to the nearest five cents, aligning with state law effective July 1, 2026. The symmetrical rounding method rounds 1-2 cents down, 3-4 cents up, etc. The city's depository bank still supplies pennies, but the supply is finite. The ordinance includes an emergency clause and a provision to defer to state or federal law if they differ. Councilors asked about fiscal impact; Becker said impact is minimal as most cash transactions are at utility billing and permitting, and rounding is expected to be revenue-neutral. - Library Property Sale (Joint Resolution): Resolution authorizing the City-County Library Commission to sell property at 1520 North Hartford. The county already approved their resolution. No staff present to discuss; deferred to the April 15 council meeting. - Infrastructure Development Permit Ordinance: Amendment to Title 35 regarding contractor bonds and insurance. No presenter; deferred to April 15. Key Outcomes - The reappointment of Shane Hood to TMAPC will be voted on at the April 15 council meeting. - The MPD6 reconsideration is scheduled for action at the 5:00 p.m. meeting on April 1; council must first decide whether to reconsider, then determine legislative intent. - Rezonings Z-7849, CO22, and the Harwelden Mansion MPD8 and Comp Plan amendment all received positive committee recommendations and will move to full council. - The IKEA budget amendment and jail overflow budget amendment will be placed on the April 15 council agenda for a vote. - The penny rounding ordinance with emergency clause will go to the April 15 council meeting. - The library property sale and infrastructure permit ordinance were deferred to the April 15 council meeting.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on Thursday, March 26, 2026, but the provided metadata specifies the meeting date as April 1, 2026. This summary uses the required date. The Tulsa Authority for Economic Opportunity (TAO) held its regular board meeting on April 1, 2026. The board approved consent agenda items, a microgrant agreement, and a development financing agreement, received updates on the Common Good Grocery RFP, monthly budget, and staff reports, and held an executive session. Consent Calendar - Items A and B were approved unanimously via roll call vote. Discussion Items - Agreement with Global District (Item 5): Michelle presented a $10,000 microgrant agreement with East Tulsa Main Street LLC (Global District) for technical assistance in the form of social media advertising and training for businesses. The board approved the motion unanimously. - Common Good Grocery RFP Update (Item 6): Damari reported that the deadline for final submissions is March 27, 2026. The RFP seeks an operator for the former Warehouse Market (16,000 sq ft) in Northwest Tulsa, in partnership with Common Good. Letters of intent have been received. Evaluation and potential award are expected in April. No vote was taken. - Executive Session (Item 7): The board voted unanimously to convene an executive session under 25 OS 307 C11 to discuss economic development matters including downtown real estate. Councillor Bingle exited at 9:47 AM. The board later voted unanimously to return to open session. - Executive Session Minute (Item 8): During executive session, trustees discussed a mixed-use residential development at the Bulcade building. All trustees except Councillor Bingle were present. - Development and Financing Agreement (Item 9): The board considered and approved a development and financing agreement for 501 Boston Partners in the Bill Cade TIFF. The motion carried with a roll call vote (all present voted yes). - Monthly Budget to Actuals (Item 10): Lynn presented a detailed budget report showing a surplus year-to-date, with explanations for variances in parking revenues, other services, and surplus details. Lynn also asked for feedback on the presentation format. No vote was taken. - Staff Reports: - Admin & Operations: The organization has 18 staff plus an intern, with two open positions (Director of Small Business and Economic Incentives Manager). The private activity bond program is set to launch on April 1, 2026. Gary Hamer passed the DFCP exam. - Finance & Real Estate: Projects continue, including the Civic Center Parquet elevator modernization. The Affordable Housing Trust Fund projects were toured. - Incentives: Mike reported increased TIFF activity: four project plans adopted in the last seven months, with more in the pipeline. The team is expanding to handle the workload. - Community Development: Gary reported that the TIFA grant’s market analysis and existing conditions assessment for the Kirpatrick Heights area are complete. The community impact initiative will bring three $30,000 grants to the board next month. - Economic & Workforce Development: Michelle reported on the IKEA incentives approval, the search for Jonah’s replacement (over 40 applicants), 10,000 reports generated via the size-up tool, Fair Oaks Innovation Park receiving a ready site designation from the Site Selectors Guild, and workforce development activities including spring break camp and drone events. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda (Items A and B) approved unanimously. - Agreement with Global District (Item 5) approved unanimously. - Executive session (Item 7) approved unanimously to convene and return. - Development and financing agreement (Item 9) approved unanimously. - No other formal votes were taken; the board received updates and reports. - The meeting adjourned at 10:37 AM.

The Tulsa City Council met at 5 p.m. on April 1, 2026, to consider appointments to city boards, public hearings on proposed charter amendments, budget ordinances, and other routine business. The meeting included a proclamation for National Financial Literacy Day, a contentious vote to deny a reappointment to the Tulsa Development Authority, and public testimony in support of a charter amendment for broad public safety oversight. Proclamation & Opening - National Financial Literacy Day: Mayor Nichols and the Council recognized April 1, 2026, as National Financial Literacy Day. The Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) has conducted 9,700 one-on-one counseling sessions since 2020, helping residents achieve $1,527,372 in savings and $3,644,828 in debt reduction. Several community partners spoke in support of the city's financial literacy efforts. Consent Calendar - Item 2A and 2C: Sylvia Powell (reappointment to Sales Tax Overview Committee) and Scott Asbjornson (reappointment to HUD Community Development Committee) were approved unanimously. - Items 4B–4H: Approved unanimously, including an emergency clause on 4B. - Items 5B–5D: Approved unanimously (final plats and rezoning). - Items 7A–7B: Rezoning ordinances approved unanimously, with 7B including revised backup language. - Items 7C–7M (excluding 7I): Approved unanimously – budget supplemental appropriations and transfers for various funds, including $10,000 from the International Association of Chiefs of Police, $50,000 from the unappropriated fund balance for PD Equitable Sharing, $146,511 transfer within the sexual assault kit initiative, $41,000 for social/economic development, $110,000 from Oklahoma Department of Commerce, $5,390 from Oklahoma Department of Homeland Security, $22,532 from OSBI for Internet Crimes Against Children, and $196,160.19 transfer within the 2025 Vision Capital Fund. - Item 8B: Travel donation of $600 from the Tulsa Regional Chamber for Council Administrator Sarah Davis to attend an intercity visit in Kansas City, Missouri (April 6–8, 2026). Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - John Hoffines (speaking on items 2A, 2C, 4B, 4E): Offered general prayer and support for the city's leadership and community events. - James Alexander Jr. (on items 2C, 2B, 7F): Expressed interest in serving on the HUD Community Development Committee and Tulsa Development Authority; criticized the city's use of American Rescue Plan funds, stating that "very little was given to people to improve conditions at that time" (COVID-19) and that $3,462,000 was allocated to seven projects (municipal courts, health initiatives, organization capacity, community outreach). - Bernice Alexander (on items 2C, 2B, 7F): Expressed appreciation for speed bumps on Burgen Street; voiced concern that funds are not directed where stated, particularly in the North Tulsa community. - Carmen Glunt (on proposed charter amendment for public safety oversight): Supported independent oversight, citing excessive taxpayer spending on civil rights settlements and excessive-force cases. Noted that 36% of arrests involve individuals with mental health problems. Stated that the current safety commissioner model is "not enough." - Nate Morris (on proposed charter amendment): Supported broad public safety oversight, recounting a decade of Tulsans asking for increased accountability and transparency. Referenced the city spending $40 million on lawsuits that "could have been avoided." Asked the council to put the charter amendment on the ballot for voters to decide. - Anna Barros (on proposed charter amendment): Supported an Office of the Independent Monitor for citizen oversight. Emphasized that the city spends millions on avoidable lawsuits and that oversight is essential for student and community safety. Discussion Items - Item 2B – Stephen Mitchell Reappointment to Tulsa Development Authority (TDA): Councilor Hall Harper moved to deny the appointment, citing: - In 2018, Mitchell (then on TDA) told her that her community (North Tulsa) "needs" dollar stores, even as she sought to address food insecurity and prevent new dollar stores. - In 2024, Mitchell allegedly threatened a new Partner Tulsa employee (who is Black) regarding a personnel decision, saying if he wanted to stay in the community, he should not reverse that decision. - Mitchell's attendance record (7 of 15 meetings) and his profit-driven, business-centric approach are inappropriate for decisions affecting historically disenfranchised communities. Councilor Lakin defended Mitchell, calling him "one of the smartest business people in the city," citing his professional expertise, charitable work, and civic contributions. Councilor Gilbert and others noted different positive experiences. Councilor Archie mentioned the low attendance (7 of 15 meetings) and acknowledged the unusual public debate. Councilor Bellis expressed that natural turnover would be healthy and that Mitchell's lens may be better suited for another board. The motion to deny passed 5–4 (Hall Harper, Dutton, Bellis, Dr. Wright, Archie? (Archie voted to deny; roll call: Lakin (no), Bush (no), Hall Harper (yes), Archie (yes), Dutton (yes), Bellis (yes), Gilbert (no), Bengal (no), Dr. Wright (yes)). - Item 7I – Tulsa Indian Affairs Commission Ordinance: Councilor moved to remand the item back to committee for further discussion and an updated presentation from those requesting changes. The motion was accepted, and the item was sent back to committee. Key Outcomes - Stephen Mitchell's reappointment to TDA was denied (5–4). The appointment will be referred back to the mayor for a new nominee. - Public hearings on charter amendments (public safety oversight) were opened and closed; no immediate vote was taken. Speakers urged the council to put the matter on the November ballot. - Item 7I (Tulsa Indian Affairs Commission ordinance) was remanded to committee for further discussion. - All consent items and budget ordinances (7C–7M, excluding 7I) were approved. - Councilor Hall Harper and Councilor Dutton announced a joint town hall for April 7, 2026, at the Tulsa Dream Center North Campus (200 W 46th St N) to discuss the proposed Vacancy Improvement Program. They also urged residents to vote in the school board and TPS bond issue election on April 7. - No further business or appeals were heard; the meeting adjourned.

This meeting of the City of Tulsa's HUD Community Development Committee addressed two main items: a reallocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds that must be spent by June 30, 2026, and the presentation and public hearing for the Program Year (PY) 2026 Annual Action Plan. The committee unanimously approved the CDBG reallocation and received the presentation without public comment, following which members expressed appreciation for the staff's improved planning process. Discussion Items CDBG Fund Reallocation – Food on the Move - Staff reported that remaining CDBG funds must be obligated by June 30, 2026. The committee needed to recommend moving the funds to a project that could spend a large amount quickly. - The program "Food on the Move," which provides food to elderly and disabled individuals, stated it could spend $50,000 within six weeks. Staff recommended awarding $50,000 to that program, with support from the Mayor's administration. - A committee member noted that Food on the Move is volunteer-led, so most funds go directly to recipients. - Motion to approve the award was made and seconded; passed unanimously (all aye). Program Year 2026 Annual Action Plan Presentation - Staff presented the HUD consolidated planning framework, explaining that the five-year Consolidated Plan is implemented through annual action plans. The City of Tulsa's process is governed by Title 12, Chapter 8 of the City Ordinance. - Key dates: Needs assessment public hearing on July 10, 2025; PY26 Requests for Proposals released September 2, 2025, with an October 21, 2025 deadline; HUD CDC funding recommendation meetings held January 29 and February 3; draft plan comment period March 2 – April 1, 2026; public hearing held today (March 31, 2026). - Nine priorities were approved in September 2025, including affordable housing, homelessness services, domestic violence assistance, mental health treatment, and job creation. Eleven corresponding goals were established, such as housing acquisition/rehabilitation, rental subsidies, and small business loans. - A project highlight: Marshall Manor, a 71‑unit senior living facility. - Estimated available funds were presented as level-funded, with contingencies for increases or decreases. Final allocations are subject to City Council approval. - Sixteen external agencies and two city departments were selected to conduct 28 activities (plus four city‑led activities). - Next steps: public comment deadline April 1, 2026; Mayor and City Council approval by April 9; submission to HUD by May 15. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the public hearing. The committee chair closed the public hearing without testimony. Key Outcomes - CDBG Reallocation: Motion to award $50,000 to Food on the Move passed unanimously. - Public Hearing on PY26 Action Plan: Motion to enter public hearing passed; motion to exit public hearing passed (both unanimous). - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn passed unanimously. - Committee members praised the staff's improved process and Tulsa's community‑engagement model for HUD funds.