New Tulsa budget looks to add 90 cops, 35 firefighters

TULSA, Ok — Mayor G.T. Bynum’s presented budget for Fiscal Year 2017 - 2018 makes use of Vision Funds and forward momentum to “make Tulsa a globally competitive world-class city.”

“With help from my colleagues on the Tulsa City Council, I believe we have developed an initial budget proposal that will set Tulsa on a new course,” Mayor G.T. Bynum said. “Having a safe, well-maintained and innovative city is just as important for our economic growth as it is for our civic pride. This budget represents a commitment to taking action now that will make Tulsa a more globally competitive city in the years ahead.”

The total proposed budget is $824 million, which includes all city funds, operations and capital funding from Improve Our Tulsa and Vision Tulsa. The general fund, which funds most core services and operations, is funded at $269 million.

The City expects a flat growth rate in the general fund for the upcoming fiscal year, but priority investments for citizens will be possible due to Vision Tulsa program funding, modest adjustments in general fund revenue projections, department growth restrictions and revenue from Amazon internet sales.

A release from the city points out the budget highlights: 

Largest one-year infusion of police officers in the history of the City of Tulsa. Three academies of thirty recruits each will allow 90 new officers to be hired to enhance community policing strategies in Tulsa.

Adds three mowing cycles in the city of Tulsa for a total of eight cycles, representing a 77 percent increase in the level of mowing.

Funds the operation of a Public Inebriate Alternative, a substance abuse alternative program that will free up valuable police manpower, decrease municipal courts’ caseload and jail intake, and help citizens with substance abuse.

Implements a “Better Way” Program, an innovative solution to panhandling that partners with local organizations to help place individuals in beautification work programs that help citizens get back on their feet. Albuquerque, NM program.

There's a Better Way - Albuquerque, NM from City of Albuquerque on Vimeo.

Replaces fire apparatuses and safety equipment that is over a decade old and will fund a fire academy of 35 firefighters with the possibility of adding an additional 60 firefighters if approved for the SAFER grant.

Proposes a satisfactory performance increase for all qualified City employees.

Adds Sunday bus service for the first time in Tulsa Transit’s history.

Constructs a variety of new playgrounds throughout the Tulsa Parks system.