Tulsa launches Saving Our Homes initiative to assist residents facing tax debt

The Tulsa Tribal Nations Relations Committee convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and infrastructure improvements in the city. The meeting focused on two primary agenda items: communication strategies and traffic safety enhancements.

The first item addressed was the Tulsa Planning Office's efforts to improve communication with citizens. Officials highlighted the importance of reaching out to residents, particularly those who have not previously engaged in planning efforts. The Planning Office is utilizing social media platforms, such as Facebook, and a customizable email newsletter to keep the community informed and involved in city planning processes.

Following this, the committee discussed the ongoing construction of a diverging diamond interchange (DDI) at Memorial Drive and the Creek Turnpike. This approximately $13 million project, funded through federal and state sources, aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance safety at a notoriously busy intersection. Currently, the intersection experiences around 47,000 vehicles daily and approximately 34 accidents each year. The DDI design will allow traffic to temporarily switch to the opposite side of the road, facilitating smoother transitions onto highways and reducing points of conflict between vehicles and pedestrians.

Officials emphasized that while the DDI is a new concept for Tulsa, it has been successfully implemented in other communities, resulting in a significant reduction in collisions and improved traffic flow. They encouraged residents to exercise patience as they adapt to this new traffic pattern, assuring them that clearer signage will guide drivers through the interchange.

The meeting also introduced the "Saving Our Homes" initiative, aimed at assisting low-income residents at risk of losing their homes due to tax debt. This program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, offers up to $4,000 in assistance for eligible households to help clear titles or pay back property taxes. To qualify, applicants must meet specific income criteria and reside in designated census tracts. The initiative is set to conclude on August 31, prompting officials to urge residents to apply early.

In conclusion, the Tulsa Tribal Nations Relations Committee's meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing communication with its residents and improving infrastructure for safer travel. The initiatives discussed reflect a proactive approach to community engagement and support for vulnerable populations, with follow-up actions planned to ensure successful implementation.