Tulsa Animal Services gives construction, staffing and outreach update; pushes to recognize ACOs as first responders

At its Oct. 13 meeting, the Bridal Welfare Commission heard an update from Sherry Carrier, director of Tulsa Animal Services, on progress at the department’s new animal services facility, changes to staffing and recent community outreach efforts.

Carrier said construction is advancing and Timberlake Construction provided a three-week look-ahead that includes finishing storm drainage, continuing interior walls and starting joist and decking. "We had our beam raising ... it's gonna go pretty quick from here," Carrier said. She said the project is "target[ing]" a July completion window next year but cautioned that weather could delay the schedule.

The updates matter because the new facility and staffing affect the department’s capacity for sheltering, field response and community programs. Carrier told commissioners the department has recently filled several positions and now has seven animal control officers (with a lead structure that would make the total…