Tulsa Council reviews $1.5M budget plan for Financial Empowerment Centers

The Tulsa Council Urban & Economic Development Committee meeting on May 14, 2025, spotlighted the financial dynamics of the Family Empowerment Center (FEC) program, revealing a significant reliance on private funding. The program, which serves vulnerable populations, costs approximately $600,000 annually for its two providers, with a total expenditure over four years estimated at around $1.5 million, rather than the previously discussed $2.4 million.

During the meeting, it was clarified that the majority of funding has come from private sources, with some support from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars. This funding model distinguishes Tulsa's approach from other cities, where municipal governments often cover the entire cost of similar programs. The discussion highlighted the importance of partnerships, particularly with the municipal court, which has counselors on-site to assist clients in reducing fines.

The committee also reviewed the impact of the FEC across various districts, noting that all districts have participants benefiting from the services. The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration and funding to sustain the program, emphasizing its critical role in financial empowerment for Tulsa residents.