During a recent government meeting in Tulsa, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the allocation of federal funds intended for housing rehabilitation in North Tulsa. One resident emphasized the need for immediate financial support for his home, asserting that he has been actively working since 1993 to improve his neighborhood and that the funds should prioritize local needs.
The discussion highlighted the frustrations of residents who feel that their community has been overlooked in favor of other organizations. The speaker insisted on utilizing HUD money specifically for North Tulsa, rejecting suggestions to collaborate with existing rehabilitation organizations, stating, \"Tulsa, stop misusing our money. We want our money, and we don't wanna share it with anybody else.\"
Another resident, Bernice Alexander, shared her family's struggles with local government actions that she described as punitive, including issues with water service and property maintenance. She criticized the city for failing to address longstanding problems in the area, linking these issues to a broader historical context, including the unresolved impacts of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
Alexander called for accountability and transparency regarding the federal funds allocated to the community, expressing frustration that despite significant financial resources, the conditions in North Tulsa remain dire. She urged the council to recognize the needs of the community and take corrective action to ensure that residents benefit from the resources intended for their improvement.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to consider the residents' concerns, although the path forward remains uncertain as community members continue to demand action and accountability from local government officials.