Committee forwards artist appointment and a reappointment to city advisory boards for council approval

The Public Works Committee heard introductions and brief remarks from two nominees and agreed to forward both names to the full council for consideration at the scheduled council meeting.

Yotaka (pronounced Yotaka) Starfields introduced themself as an indigenous artist (Osage, Muskogee and Cherokee heritage) with an eight‑year local practice and public murals. When asked about pronouncing their name, Starfields said, “it's a Niscogee name. It means interpreter, listener.” Committee members thanked Starfields for their willingness to serve; staff said the appointment will be considered by the full council at the May council meeting.

The committee also heard from Nathaniel Binion, who sought reappointment to the Infrastructure Development Advisory Board and described a background in commercial refrigeration and construction work and longstanding ties to Tulsa. Binion said he and his company are headquartered in downtown Tulsa and noted prior infrastructure experience. Committee members thanked him and said his reappointment will be placed on the council agenda for the May meeting.

Both nominees were invited to attend the full council meeting for formal confirmation but were told attendance was not required. Committee members expressed appreciation for the nominees’ willingness to serve and offered brief personal remarks; no formal committee votes were recorded at the Public Works Committee meeting.