A significant restructuring of Tulsa's city government was unveiled during the Council Budget & Special Projects Committee meeting on May 7, 2025. The proposed executive order aims to revise the city charter by abolishing previous divisions and creating two new divisions: Public Administration and Public Safety. This move is designed to streamline operations and enhance management efficiency, overseeing approximately 89% of the city’s budget and around 4,200 employees.

The Public Administration division, led by Mike Miller, will manage 61% of the overall city budget, while the Public Safety division, headed by Laurel Roberts, will oversee 28% of the budget. Additionally, three new departments were established: the Department of Neighborhoods and Planning, the Department of Animal Services, and the Department of Resilience and Equity, which will include various community-focused initiatives.

The committee discussed the implications of these changes, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and coordination among the newly formed divisions. Members expressed excitement about the integration of Animal Services into Public Safety, a long-discussed topic, and highlighted the need for effective collaboration across departments to ensure successful implementation of capital improvement projects and community initiatives.

As the city prepares for the upcoming fiscal year, the proposed budget reflects a significant increase of $945,000 for the mayor's office, attributed to the transfer of positions from the former Department of City Experience and the addition of staff focused on homelessness and housing initiatives. This budgetary growth aims to align the mayor's office more closely with the responsibilities and priorities identified by the council.

The committee is set to take action on the executive order by May 21, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in Tulsa's governance as it seeks to enhance operational efficiency and address pressing community needs.