Council adopts Crutchfield neighborhood economic development plan amid complaints from North Tulsa residents

The Tulsa City Council adopted an ordinance approving the Crutchfield neighborhood economic development project plan after a public hearing that drew multiple speakers from North Tulsa raising concerns about displacement and the use of federal entitlement funds.

The project plan is intended to provide an economic structure and funding mechanism to support growth and investment in the Crutchfield neighborhood, including new housing at varying affordability levels and commercial development. The plan was presented to the council as a tool to encourage private investment in the area.

Several public commenters said they worry the plan will draw resources away from North Tulsa, which speakers described as a federally designated entitlement community that has faced historic disinvestment. “I have a very serious problem with this because the way I have read that it's going to be set up, it is going to virtually put a lot of people that lived in that area that was supposed to have first choice to go back into this neighborhood … will not be able to because of the mixed use pricing,” said James Alexander Jr., who urged the council not to allow changes that he said would displace long-term residents.

Bernice Alexander, another speaker, questioned whether the city had consulted federal authorities and said she would “make an inquiry” to the Justice Department about whether the federal provisions for North Tulsa had been considered. She and other speakers referenced historical racial violence and argued funds intended for North Tulsa were being distributed elsewhere.

Stuart McDaniel also addressed the council during the Crutchfield hearing and other commenters said the sector plan process historically has not always reflected neighborhood voices. Speakers urged the council to ensure the plan preserves affordability for current residents and to clarify how tax increments and other funding tools will be used.

The council approved the Crutchfield plan as part of a package of ordinances (items 7 a through 7 f, with 7 c pulled earlier). The roll call for that package recorded affirmative votes and the mayor’s agenda item was carried to adoption.

Councilors did not adopt specific amendments on the floor related to guarantees for local preference or detailed funding flows; speakers and councilors asked staff to provide follow-up information about which revenues and funding mechanisms (including any federal HUD-related funds or tax increment financing) will support the plan.

The council’s action adopts the project plan; staff will return with implementing details and clarifications about eligibility, funding sources and timelines.