Public Meetings - Tulsa, Oklahoma

During this meeting, the Commission heard a presentation from Willie Barney (Empowerment Network) on the Tulsa Empowerment Network's collective action plan, reviewed committee reports, approved previous minutes, and received public comments on early voting access and community events. The meeting lasted approximately 1.5 hours and included 18 commissioners present. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the August 11, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - A member of the public expressed concern about the lack of an early voting polling place in North Tulsa during the recent election, calling it a civil rights issue. Commissioner Tracy Love Chandler noted that Commissioner Margaret Love has been working with elected officials and the election board, and that early voting had moved from the county election board to a location in East Tulsa, which is not accessible for many seniors. - Jariek Wortham (Jag Tulsa Arts Group) promoted the fifth annual Citywide Creative Festival (September 24–27, 2026), which includes a cinema social, art crawl, workshops, fashion show, and gala—most events free. She also mentioned a volunteer sign-up opportunity. - Additional announcements were made about the Non-1-8 Day festival (September 18), St. Monica Church’s centennial, a health fair, Toast of Tech Week, and the Black Wall Street Nation Festival (September 25–27). Discussion Items - Guest Presentation: Willie Barney (Omaha Empowerment Network) presented on the Tulsa Empowerment Network’s progress. Since launching in Tulsa in January 2024, the network has hosted 18 events with over 1,500 registered participants and 700 unique attendees. Key slides highlighted that $2.15 billion flows into Black households in Tulsa annually, and there are nearly 400 Black-owned businesses with employees. A collective action plan has been developed around eight core areas (e.g., economic development, housing, education). Monthly meetings are held on the third Saturday at 36th Street North Event Center, with the theme shifting monthly. The next meeting on September 19 will focus on updating the action plan and engaging runoff candidates for District 1. - Executive Committee Report (Chair Wilson): The committee is working to consolidate a survey/census for African American residents to identify conditions for success and barriers. They are seeking a data-collection partner for validation. The commission has grown to 18 members (out of 23 seats) and is recruiting additional organizational representatives. - Policy Committee Report (Commissioner Ray): The committee reviewed the August 25 election results (District 2, 3, 5, 7 incumbents re-elected; District 9 new; District 1 runoff) and is creating a graphic to explain the election timeline and voter turnout to the community. - Community Engagement & Cultural Promotion Committee: Noted upcoming events and the monthly newsletter. - Education & Skill Building Committee (Commissioner Love Chandler): Announced the third annual Dr. Wimberley’s Excellence in Education Awards. Applications are open for six categories (Difference Maker, Outstanding New Educator, Trailblazer, Guiding Light, Excellence in Academic Instruction, and Leader in Educational Excellence). The event is October 27 at the Center for individuals not in traditional school settings. Catering has been donated (Black-owned business), and monetary awards are planned. Commissioners are asked to share applications and solicit donations. - Human Rights Commission (via Deputy): An ordinance change has removed the requirement that complaints be initially filed through the city clerk. The commission is now working with IT, City Council, and other departments to enable electronic filing, improving accessibility. Currently, complaints can be initiated via 311 with a short intake. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes from August 11, 2026. - Directives: - Policy committee will develop a voter timeline graphic. - Education committee will continue soliciting award applications and donations. - Human Rights Commission will proceed with electronic filing implementation. - Commission members were encouraged to attend the September 19 Tulsa Empowerment Network meeting to help update the collective action plan. - Next Steps: The executive committee will finalize the survey/census and seek data validation partners; the chair will follow up on poll location concerns with the policy committee and Commissioner Love. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

This meeting encompassed two distinct proceedings: the final meeting of the Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission (TMAPC) and the inaugural meeting of the newly formed City of Tulsa Planning Commission (CPTC). The session included a farewell to outgoing TMAPC commissioners, election of CPTC officers, approval of a consent calendar, a public hearing on a rezoning request for a 17-acre multifamily development, and organizational matters for the new commission. Consent Calendar - Item 1 (CPTC): A routine item on the consent agenda was approved unanimously by the commission without being moved to a public hearing. The staff recommendation was adopted. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 – CO23 Rezoning (Southeast 71st & Union): More than 20 residents and stakeholders spoke, predominantly in opposition. Key concerns included: - Insufficient notice of the developer’s May 7 community meeting; many nearby residents reported not receiving letters. - Traffic congestion on two-lane Union Avenue and surrounding arterials, exacerbated by ongoing highway construction at 61st and 81st Streets. - High concentration of low-income housing in Council District 2; speakers argued this development would add to an existing burden. - Developer characteristics: out-of-state (Dominium from Dallas), past legal allegations (class-action regarding parking charges), and concerns about long-term property management. - Safety: proximity to a high-pressure Oneok gas line, impact on fire station response, and potential conflict with Jones Riverside Airport flight patterns. - Environmental impact: removal of mature native trees, stormwater runoff, and lack of sidewalks and bike lanes. - A few speakers supported the project, including a representative from Housing Forward, who cited the need for affordable workforce housing and noted that 60% of Tulsa residents qualify for the income levels proposed. - Councilor Archie (District 2) spoke, expressing concern about the lack of comprehensive community engagement and the concentration of subsidized housing. He requested a continuance to allow a community meeting on September 14. Discussion Items - Item 2 – CO23 Rezoning: Staff presented the proposal for up to 275 multifamily units on nearly 17 acres, with a development plan including 135-foot building setbacks, 8-foot concrete wall, 30-foot landscape buffer, and lighting restrictions. The applicant emphasized compliance with the comprehensive plan and West Highlands/Tulsa Hills Small Area Plan, which designate the area for higher-density development. The developer clarified the project is Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) affordable housing, not Section 8, and that tenants are working families. - Item 3 – Lucent Valley Preliminary Plat: A preliminary plat for a mixed-use development at 41st & 129th East Avenue, including single-family and commercial lots, with requested modifications for extended block lengths. Staff recommended approval. - Organizational Items: - Election of officers: Commissioner Walker as Chair, Commissioner Krug as Vice Chair, Commissioner Hood as Second Vice Chair. - Approval of meeting dates for remainder of 2026 and all of 2027. - Adoption of policies and procedures for the new CPTC. - Introduction of Comprehensive Plan amendments (to be voted on in October). Key Outcomes - Item 2 – CO23 Rezoning: Approved with a vote of 5-1-1 (Commissioners Bullmash, Garcia, Hood, Krug, Shivel voted yes; Commissioner Walker voted no; Commissioner Turner Addison abstained; Commissioner Humphrey was absent). The motion was to approve pursuant to staff recommendation. The decision is a recommendation to the City Council, which holds final authority. - Item 3 – Lucent Valley Preliminary Plat: Approved unanimously, including the requested modifications to subdivision regulations. - Item 5 – Meeting Dates: Approved unanimously. - Item 6 – Policies and Procedures: Approved unanimously. - Item 7 – Comprehensive Plan Amendments: Introduced for discussion; no vote taken; scheduled for formal action at the October 7 meeting. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after the vote on item 8.

The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission (TMAPC) held its final meeting on September 3, 2026, marking the dissolution of the joint city-county planning body. The meeting was brief, lasting only a few minutes, and consisted solely of approving the previous meeting's minutes and closing remarks by commissioners. No public comments or substantive discussion items were presented. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the minutes from Meeting No. 2967 (August 19, 2026) via a motion by Commissioner Hood, seconded by Commissioner Shivill. The vote was unanimous with no opposition. Key Outcomes - The commission approved the minutes as the only official action. - Chairman Walker and other commissioners expressed gratitude to departing members Commissioners Craddock, Whitlock, Q, Fugate, and staff (notably Susan Miller) for their service. - The commission adjourned with a motion by Commissioner Craddock, seconded by Commissioner Whitlock, concluding the final TMAPC meeting. Future planning functions will be handled by separate city and county commissions. Note: The meeting date of September 3, 2026, is used per the summary instructions, though the agenda listed September 2, 2026.

The Public Works Committee met on September 2, 2026, to consider a reappointment to the Human Rights Commission, a general obligation bond issuance, a cable franchise ordinance, and the annual flood insurance report. No public comments were heard. Discussion Items Reappointment of Joyce Roberts to the Human Rights Commission - Joyce Roberts, a 30-year employee at American Electric Power and a representative of the Indian Health Care Resource Center on the Human Rights Commission, presented her work over the past year. She highlighted leading research efforts with La Kendra Carter to update complaint forms, reviewed best practices from peer cities, and identified improvements to modernize the process. She also noted that Councillor Gilbert helped remove a city clerk barrier in filing complaints. Roberts reported that the Commission submitted a memo to the mayor’s office and city council demonstrating a disparity in geographic representation on authorities, boards, and commissions by council district, with Districts 3 and 6 currently underrepresented. She expressed a desire to work with the committee to increase participation. The committee thanked her and noted that a vote on her reappointment would occur at the city council meeting on September 16 at 5 p.m. General Obligation Bond Series 2026A – $65,660,000 - Chad Becker from Treasury presented the ordinance for the issuance of $65,660,000 in general obligation bonds, authorized by a previous election. He explained that this was step two of the process following a resolution approved on August 26. The ordinance provides for registration of the bonds and levies the principal and interest repayment to a sinking fund. The ordinance was on first reading at this meeting; second reading and a resolution to award the bonds to the best bidder will be considered on September 16. Cox Communications Franchise Ordinance - Jeff Stevens from the city legal department introduced an ordinance to adopt a new chapter in Title 15 granting a non-exclusive franchise to CoxCom LLC dba Cox Communications for a 10-year term. He noted that Cox approached the city seeking a traditional cable franchise rather than remaining a right-of-way occupant, likely spurred by the acquisition of Cox by Charter Communications. The franchise maintains the status quo with a 5% video service fee and the same capital contribution fee. No questions were raised by the committee. Flood Insurance Coverage Improvement Plan Annual Report - Eric Lee and Joan Goswick from the Water Department presented the annual report for the program for public information and flood insurance coverage improvement plan for 2026-27, as part of the city’s participation in the Community Rating System (CRS) since 1991. Goswick detailed outreach efforts including articles in City Life bill stuffers, notifications to residents behind levees, 11 different targeted letters for floodplain residents, and letters for repetitive loss areas (properties with two or more flood insurance claims over 40 years). The report also covered a flood insurance expo and goals to improve communication. During discussion, Councillor Bingle asked about private versus public stormwater drainage mapping and permitting for yard modifications that affect water flow. It was clarified that the city pays for elevation certificates and that the Tulsa Viewer online floodplain map allows residents to check their property. Councillor Dutton requested the website (cityoftulsa.org/floodcontrol) and noted that 311 is the contact for further questions. The committee noted that the report is being adopted and the map updates should be completed by the end of the month. Key Outcomes - The reappointment of Joyce Roberts will be voted on by the full city council on September 16, 2026. - The bond ordinance passed first reading and will return for second reading and award on September 16. - The Cox Communications franchise ordinance was presented without objection and will proceed to a full council vote. - The resolution adopting the annual flood insurance report was presented and discussed; no formal vote was taken during the committee meeting, but it is expected to advance.

The Asian Affairs Commission of Tulsa met on September 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM CT. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a formal transition of leadership, a vote on the commission's 2026–27 focus area (small business support), nomination of a Human Rights Commission liaison, and reports on community events and initiatives. The commission also received public comment from a representative of India Fest. Discussion Items - Leadership Transition: Outgoing Chairwoman Gilpin formally passed the baton to new Chair Parisa, who expressed gratitude for the commission's growth and influence. The commission acknowledged the foundation laid and excitement for the upcoming year. - Proposal for 2026–27 Focus on Small Business Support: Chair Parisa presented a detailed proposal to focus the commission's work on understanding and addressing the decline in Asian-owned business ownership in Tulsa. She noted that the Equality Indicators show business ownership in the Asian community has dropped to less than half of its 2018 percentage. The guiding question is: "What has contributed to the decrease in business ownership in our community since 2018 (actually since 2021 when it began to decrease), and what does our business community need to thrive?" The proposal includes a three-phase plan: (1) listening and mapping (identifying Asian-owned businesses, understanding data, and partnering with the Tulsa Asia Collective), (2) blueprinting and learning from other cities (e.g., Oklahoma City's Asian Chamber), and (3) bringing recommendations to city leadership. The commission discussed success metrics (qualitative, e.g., gathering more information, identifying policy changes), the need for culturally relevant and bilingual resources, and the possibility of translating materials. Commissioners expressed support for the plan, noting its potential to educate business owners on permits, licensing, and city regulations. The proposal also includes transitioning existing projects (Tulsa Asia Fest and the Luminary Award scholarship) to community entities to free up commission capacity. - Human Rights Commission Liaison Nomination: Chair Parisa nominated Commissioner B (Peretis) to serve as the commission's liaison to the Human Rights Commission (HRC). Commissioner B expressed gratitude and highlighted her everyday work supporting Tulsans' access to human rights. The role includes representing the Asian community, sharing updates, and contributing to HRC's work on authorities/boards/commissions representation and modernizing the human rights complaint process. - Committee Reports: - Cultural Events Committee: Vice Chair Cecilia Wynne reported on India Fest, which took place August 29, 2026, with over 4,000 attendees, 36 vendors, 4 food vendors, and Mayor Nichols attending. The event was featured on all four local television stations. Commissioner Wynne also shared upcoming events: a South Asian Performing Arts Foundation dance performance on September 20, Mid-Autumn Festival in OKC on September 26, and a request for a commissioner to speak at the Twisted Arts Film Festival screening of "Tens Across the Borders" on September 26 at 5:30 PM at Circle Cinema. She also updated on the AANHPI Leadership Roundtable initiative, with a session on community interviews scheduled for September 24. - Luminary Awards Committee: Commissioner Massood announced that the third annual Luminary Award nominations will open this week, with a due date of September 30. Awards categories: Champion of Workforce Development, Excellence in Education, Community Leadership, and Business Leadership. The ceremony is set for November 9 at 6 PM at City Hall, with Mayor Nichols presenting the awards. Refreshments will be provided; entertainment is still being considered. - Data and Research Committee: Chair Parisa reported on efforts to connect with Pacific Islander communities, specifically noting two high school principals at Webster High School with high populations of Chukies and Marshallese students. She mentioned a student-led leadership committee interested in a statewide conference. She also shared that the city's partner Tulsa has begun posting more small business opportunities after the commission's feedback. - Cultural Events Committee (handoff): Chair Parisa stated that conversations are ongoing to hand off Tulsa Asia Fest to a community entity, and she expressed confidence in a successful transition. - Announcements: - Commissioner Massood highlighted that Gyros by Ali has opened a second location, a positive sign of business growth. - Chair Parisa previewed that the Human Rights Commission will soon announce a Humanitarian of the Year award recipient from the Asian community. - The commission has at-large seats open; applications are ongoing. Key Outcomes - Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes: The September 2, 2026 meeting began with a motion to approve the minutes from the previous month. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. - Vote on 2026–27 Focus on Small Business Support: The commission voted unanimously to adopt the proposal as the official focus for the year. The motion was made, seconded, and passed with all in favor. Chair Parisa noted that specific monthly plans can be adjusted as needed. - Nomination of Human Rights Commission Liaison: Commissioner B (Peretis) was nominated and unanimously approved as the commission's liaison to the Human Rights Commission for the upcoming year. - Adjournment: A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Rex, an event planner for India Fest, provided a public comment summarizing the success of India Fest held on August 29, 2026: over 4,000 attendees, 36 vendors, 4 food vendors, and Mayor Nichols' visit. The event was covered by all four local TV stations.

The Urban and Economic Development Committee met at 10:30 a.m. on September 2, 2026, to consider appointments to city commissions, amendments to zoning code overlays for two neighborhoods, and a presentation on accessibility challenges from the Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges. An agenda item (Item 6, a resolution) was postponed by the sponsor. Appointments - Anne Chang was introduced as a nominee to the Asian Affairs Commission, replacing Sophie Noche, with a term expiring January 1, 2027, representing Council District 4. She described her professional work in Tulsa boosterism and her family's involvement in the Chinese Association of Greater Oklahoma City. The appointment will be voted on at the September 16 council meeting. - Brian Humphrey was introduced for reappointment to the Greater Tulsa African American Affairs Commission, with a term expiring May 1, 2029. He has perfect attendance (11 of 11 meetings) and serves as current chair. He highlighted his background in banking and focus on economic development, housing, and youth initiatives. The reappointment will be voted on at the September 16 council meeting. Discussion Items - Zoning Code Amendment (ZCA 40) – Renaissance Neighborhood Character Overlay: Susan Miller and Austin Chapman from the planning office presented a text amendment to the existing neighborhood character overlay for the Renaissance neighborhood. The amendment adds requirements for a minimum roof pitch, applies standards to all residential buildings (not just single-family and duplexes), and seeks to require garages to be either detached or rear-loaded (staff is refining language to meet neighbors' requests). The goal is to preserve the historic character and prevent

The Tulsa City Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting covered routine approvals, appointments, a sales tax overview committee report, several special event applications, and a notable appeal seeking an exception to the data center moratorium. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Minutes (Items 1A–C): Approved minutes from the August 19, 2026 regular (4:00 PM and 5:00 PM) and special (6:15 PM) meetings. Unanimous vote. - Appointments & Reappointments (Items 2A–D): Approved appointment of Fawn (FiFi) Martin to the Greater Tulsa Area African-American Affairs Commission (term through May 1, 2028), Christopher Sighinolfi to the Tulsa Stadium Trust (term through September 2, 2031), reappointment of Kathy Taylor to the Tulsa Public Facilities Authority (term through July 31, 2028), and reappointment of James Turner to the Tulsa Preservation Commission (term through October 1, 2027). Unanimous vote. - Mayor’s Items (4B–N): Approved Change Order No. 1 for a temporary asphalt trail ($60,950.00), six travel donations (total $7,836.90 from various entities), and eight special event applications including the Tulsa Firefighters 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Yom Kippur Outdoor Service, Tulsa Symphony Fireworks, Handmade Market, Breakfast on Boston, Bike MS Oklahoma, and Elgin Park 10 Year Anniversary. Unanimous vote. - Authorities, Boards & Commissions (5B–C): Approved final plats for LDF Park (two lots, two blocks on ±29.33 acres, south of E. Admiral Pl. and I-44) and Southern Hills Eleven (one lot, one block on ±1.61 acres, south of S. Harvard Ave. and E. 61st St. S.). Both had received administrative approval from TMAPC staff. Unanimous vote. - Ordinances – Second Reading (Items 7A–G): Approved three rezoning ordinances (Z-7868, Z-7869, Z-7870) as recommended by TMAPC; four budget amendment ordinances: $58,514 for historic preservation grant (Oklahoma Historical Society), $45,000 General Fund and $3,064,000 TMUA Sewer Operating Fund (FY27 start), $23,632.32 between departments in the 2014 Sales Tax Fund, and $1,418,714.51 between water/sewer capital projects. Unanimous vote. - Appeal (Item 10A): Granted an exception to the Data Center Moratorium (Ordinance No. 25764) for T20 Mining Group, LLC, allowing conversion of a Bitcoin mining operation to a small-scale data center at 5555 and 5665 S. 129th E. Ave. The appellant argued the project is net neutral in electric load and lower noise/water impact. Council found good cause for the exemption. Vote: 9–0. Public Comments & Testimony - John Huffines spoke in support of the appointments and the special events for Yom Kippur and Breakfast on Boston, offering religious reflections. He also spoke on the STOC report, praising the committee’s work. - Kennedy Ireland (resident on Indianapolis Avenue) opposed rezoning Z-7868 (7A) for a coffee shop/drive-thru near the University of Tulsa. She alleged TU was disingenuous about operating hours (originally stated 6–11 PM, later changed to 4 AM) and raised concerns about traffic congestion, emergency vehicle access, and parking lot design. She requested a pause. Councilor Bellis clarified the rezoning only covered a parking lot and had already been approved at first reading; the vote was to codify it. Discussion Items - Sales Tax Overview Committee (STOC) Report (5A): Chair Ashley Webb reported that 2027 police patrol unit orders dropped to 52 (down from 90–100); storage costs for the Crybaby Hill statue reached $22,500; two geotechnical studies ($8,050 and $931) were completed; 41st & Yale street improvements are pending coordination with OU Stevenson Cancer Center; Ben Hill Park design public meeting held August 13; 91st between Harvard and Yale project opened on time despite missing contractor incentive; 71st & Sheridan intersection bids came in at $3 million. Councilor Lakin asked about 41st & Yale timeline; Webb promised details. Councilor Bellis asked about Dreamkeepers Park; Webb noted the packet included a 78-page traffic study. - Rezoning Z-7868 (7A) Discussion: Councilor Archie asked if only the parking lot was involved; Councilor Bellis confirmed and explained the rezoning had been voted on the previous week, with this vote to codify. Bellis said she would work with the resident on traffic mitigation. - Appeal Discussion (10A): Attorney Doverspike (representing T20 Mining Group) described the existing Bitcoin mining operation (50 megawatts, noisy outdoor fans) and the plan to convert to a small data center inside the warehouse (up to 55 megawatts, water-cooled, lower noise). Water use estimated at 1–2 million gallons/year (much less than a golf course). Councilor Bellis confirmed the project is net neutral on electric load and aligns with the moratorium’s intent to address hyperscale facilities. Councilor Dutton queried water usage; Councilor Archie asked about expansion potential and explained Bitcoin mining. Councilor Doctor Wright (district councilor) stated no neighbor concerns and supported the appeal. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approvals for all consent items, minutes, appointments, mayor’s items, final plats, second-reading ordinances, and the appeal. - Appeal granted for T20 Mining Group exception to the data center moratorium (9–0). - Council announcements: Councilor Hall Harper announced a town hall meeting with new Police Chief Jonathan Brooks on September 14, 2026, at the 36th Street North Event Center. - No public hearings or new business. - Item 8B (Eviction prevention resolution) was pulled from the agenda before the meeting. --- Note: The meeting took place on September 2, 2026, as confirmed by the agenda and the chair’s opening remarks.

The Tulsa Development Authority (TDA) held its annual board meeting on August 27, 2026, to consider routine approvals, officer elections, a public art installation, a land sale contract, budget reports, and staff updates. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the August 3, 2026 special board meeting and authorized the TDA annual schedule for regular board meetings in 2027. No items were removed from the consent agenda. - It was noted that board member Elian Hertada has resigned and is awaiting reappointment. The board discussed the need for the mayor to appoint a replacement with city council approval, as per the bylaws. A future update to the bylaws was mentioned for the September agenda. Discussion Items - Public Art Installation at Whittier Square (Item 6): A resolution was presented to approve a public art installation on TDA-owned property adjacent to the Kendall-Whittier Library. Jamie Pearson, public art consultant for Kendall Whittier Main Street, presented the project, which is funded by an Oklahoma Dept. of Transportation grant with matching funds from American Heritage Bank and the Lesher Foundation (no city funds). The project includes landscaping with native plants, solar lighting, a water line, and a 2,000-pound steel sculpture titled "The Shape of Kendall Whittier" designed by Hightail Creative. Community outreach involved Growing Together, elementary schools, Tulsa Parks, and Bike Club. The timeline: grass removal underway, water line installation imminent, sculpture installation mid-to-late October, planting late October, lighting by January 2027. The board asked about vagrancy prevention; the response emphasized visible care, wild oat barriers, and collaboration with the library. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Contract for Sale of Land at 752 East Queen Street (Item 7): A contract with GPN Properties for private redevelopment of the parcel was presented. The project will use the City of Tulsa's pre-approved T-Town Home Catalog plans for a multi-tenant unit. The developer (Nick GPN) was present. The board noted this is the first project using pre-approved plans. The contract was approved unanimously. - Budget-to-Actuals Report (Item 8): Lyn Kane presented the monthly report for the first month of the fiscal year. Revenues were low due to pending reimbursement from a TIFIA grant (still under review by the Dept. of Transportation). Expenditures were $23,000, mainly for Kendall Whittier Improvement District invoices. Cash balance and investment mix were reviewed; a typo on page six (showing 70% instead of 100%) was noted. The Lansing fund had no significant issues. The report was received. - Staff Report: Gary reported on Moton phase one: an architect (Fabric Design) has been engaged for parcel configuration drawings; community engagement with the advisory board will follow. Other updates: tour of completed home at 346 East Zion, quiet title work on tax-auction properties, and meeting with mayor's staff on urban renewal plans. Nia highlighted the ULI workshop on Saturday (closed to public, 30 selected community members) using a fictitious case to discuss development in Carriage Crossing, and ongoing engineering analysis for GIS data. Also, INES grants: three check-ins with community grantees; a social media post was being released to highlight neighborhood projects. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous: consent agenda approved, officers re-elected (Aisha as Secretary, Erica as Assistant Secretary, Lyn as Treasurer), resolution for public art approved, and contract for sale of land approved. - A future agenda request was made for updates on the GLC cooperative and conveyance agreements and the selection of their elders council/board. - The board acknowledged the resignation of Elian Hertada and the need for the mayor to fill the vacancy to maintain a quorum.

The Tulsa Development Authority (TDA) and the TAO held their annual board meeting and regular monthly meeting on Thursday, August 27, 2026, starting at approximately 9:00 AM. The meeting began with the TAO regular meeting, followed by the TDA annual meeting. Both sessions were combined into one extended meeting. Trustees reviewed and approved consent items, elected officers, appointed committee members, approved a contract for a strategic evaluation of Main Park Plaza, approved a public art installation resolution, authorized the sale of land for private redevelopment, and received updates on budgets, staff activities, and community initiatives. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (items A through E) was approved unanimously by the TAO board after no items were removed for separate discussion. - The TDA board approved the consent agenda consisting of minutes from the August 3 special board meeting and authorization of the TDA annual schedule for regular board meetings in 2027. Discussion Items - Election of Officers (TAO & TDA): Renita presented the slate of officers for the next year. For TAO: Vice Chair Andy McMillan, Treasurer Joan Parkhurst, Assistant Treasurer Lynn Kane, Secretary Aisha Blakely, and Assistant Secretary Erica Rivers. For TDA: Aisha Blakely (Secretary), Erica Rivers (Assistant Secretary), and Lynn Kane (Treasurer). Both slates were approved unanimously. Trustees expressed appreciation for continued service. - Appointment of Committee Members: The TAO chair confirmed that all current committee members and chairs agreed to continue in their roles. No formal vote was needed; the chair appointed the committees as presented. Trustees noted the committee structure is working well. - Main Park Plaza Strategic Evaluation Contract: Staff presented a contract with WT Partners for a strategic evaluation of the Main Park Plaza parking structure, not to exceed $24,500. The evaluation will analyze four options: reinvestment, concession/public-private partnership, sale, and redevelopment. The timeline is 6–8 months. This is intended as a pilot for an asset evaluation framework to be used across other properties. The contract was approved unanimously. - Monthly Budget to Actuals Report (TAO & TDA): Lynn Kane presented the first-month budget report. Changes to the report format include a new icon (yellow clock) to denote timing issues rather than problems. Revenues were below budget due to timing of certain transfers (e.g., city management agreement, Hangar 80 lease revenue arriving in October). Incentive application fees were above budget due to invoicing the city for administrative fees after a rate increase from 1% to 4% for the affordable housing trust fund. Expenditures were minimal. The TDA budget report was similar, noting low revenues due to TIFIA grant reimbursement delays. Both reports were accepted without issue. - Monthly Staff Report (TAO): CEO provided updates: current headcount is 18 plus one part-time marketing specialist; only one position posted (AmeriCorps). Office moving from floor 7 to floor 11 next month. Transition to legal name "Teo" is underway. Hosted AI workshops with Anthropic and Google for small businesses. Working on employee handbook (fifth draft) and applying for AEDO accreditation by January. Recent activities: toured University of Tulsa for workforce pipeline, sponsored Select Oklahoma conference and State of the State. - Real Estate and Finance Report (TAO): Ashley reported: team selected as host for full-time AmeriCorps member; finalizing real estate coordinator job description; attended networking event with NAREB; toured North Star community project; MacArthur loan closed; ongoing preparation for Robison closing. A trustee requested a future map refresher of properties. - Community Outreach Report (TAO): Gary provided updates: ULI workshop on innovative finance and asset concession grant scheduled for Saturday (select participants only); implementing community impact initiative with four cohorts (all project plans submitted); working on GIS data gaps for engineering analysis in Kirkpatrick Heights. - Economic Development Report (TAO): Sanders reported: Maria's small business training events (26 attendees at one), workforce student engagement (over 1,500 this summer), upcoming drone racing event at Skyway 36. Business attraction highlights: IKEA sign up at Tulsa Hills; Green Hill Industrial Park (1 million sq ft pre-leased, additional 1 million under contract); retail strategies market visit. Sanders announced he is transitioning out of Partner Tulsa within two weeks, moving to a southern neighbor but remaining a supporter. - Public Art Installation Resolution (TDA): Jamie Pearson (public art consultant) presented a resolution to approve a public art installation on a TDA-owned lot at Whittier Square. Project includes native landscaping, solar lighting, and a 2,000-pound steel sculpture painted by local artists. Funded by Oklahoma Main Street grant and matching funds from American Heritage Bank and Lesher Foundation (no city funds). Outreach included community input on the shape of Kendall Whittier. The sculpture will be part of a set of six around the neighborhood. Safety considerations: low-growing plants to discourage loitering, lighting to improve visibility. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Contract for Sale of Land (TDA): Staff presented a contract with GPM Properties for a multi-tenant unit at 752 East Queen Street, using the City's pre-approved T Town Home Catalog. This is the first project using the ready-made plans. The lot's exact number of units is still under determination with planning. The contract was approved unanimously. - Staff Reports (TDA): Updates on Moton project (expecting parcel configuration drawings from fabric design), tour of completed home at 346 East Zion, quiet title work for recently acquired tax auction properties, and meetings on urban renewal plans. Also, the innovative finance workshop and community impact initiative were highlighted. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the consent agendas for both TAO and TDA. - Election of officers for TAO (Vice Chair, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, Secretary, Assistant Secretary) and TDA (Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer) approved unanimously. - Appointment of all committee members and chairs for the coming year confirmed by the chair. - Contract with WT Partners for Main Park Plaza strategic evaluation (not to exceed $24,500) approved unanimously. - Resolution approving public art installation at Whittier Square (parcel south of Kendall Whittier Library) approved unanimously. - Contract for sale of land at 752 East Queen Street to GPM Properties (first use of T Town Home Catalog) approved unanimously. - Both monthly budget reports were received and accepted; no action required. - Staff reports were received with appreciation; a future agenda item requested for an update on GLC agreements and elders council selection. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 11:00 AM.