Mayor Bynum discusses budget adjustments and police overtime in recent city meeting

The Tulsa Council Budget & Special Projects Committee meeting on May 21, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding the city’s budget, public safety funding, and community engagement initiatives.

A significant topic was the allocation of grants aimed at addressing high-demand areas during weekends and special events. Officials noted that these grants have been exhausted, raising concerns about future funding for community services during peak times.

The meeting also addressed the operational status of the downtown police office, which has been open intermittently during lunch hours. While there was some community interest, the in-person response was limited, prompting discussions on how to enhance engagement with residents.

Another key point was the clarification regarding the police chief's salary. It was revealed that a reported $22,000 raise was a clerical error, and the chief's salary had not changed since his promotion. This correction will be reflected in the final budget documentation.

The committee discussed the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which includes an increase in overtime pay for police officers. The projected increase of approximately $1 million is attributed to staffing needs and unanticipated events requiring additional police presence. The breakdown of overtime expenses highlighted that the majority is driven by staffing minimums and unexpected incidents.

Additionally, the budget proposal aims to increase the emergency reserve fund from 8.5% to 10%, which would amount to approximately $34.4 million. This decision is part of a strategy to prepare for future emergencies, especially following recent weather-related events that significantly impacted city resources.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to maintaining public safety and community engagement while navigating budgetary constraints. The discussions will inform the final budget decisions as the city prepares for the upcoming fiscal year.