Our next election is August 27.

We surveyed mayoral and city council candidates to understand their perspectives on crucial issues impacting humans and animals in Tulsa. A very big thank you to all the candidates who participated! You can read their responses below.

  • Not all candidates participated in the survey. We tried to ensure they had an opportunity before this website went live, August 12th.

    • We sent our 1st email on July 15th.

    • We sent a second email on July 25th

    • We sent a text to the number they filed with or listed on their website on 8/1

    • Texts and/or voicemails were sent to the remaining mayoral candidates 8/8

  • Enter your address HERE.

  • Find out HERE.

City Council Survey

The welfare of Tulsa’s human community is deeply intertwined with the welfare of its animals. What are your thoughts on the mutual benefits of human and animal wellbeing, and how do you plan to support this synergy in our community? Tell us your vision for Tulsa.

Q1

  • Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper: (Website)

    I believe all of God’s creation should be treated with dignity and respect. I have and will continue to support the city initiatives regarding care for animals. I have strongly supported the funding to build kennels at the Day Center as well as increasing funding for a new multi-million dollar facility for Tulsa Animal Welfare.

    Angela Chambers: (Website)

    While I am not a pet owner, I understand and believe in protecting the rights of those who are pet owners. I do realize and understand some of the important concerns regarding animals. As City Councilor, it will be important to me to work with organizations to ensure we are protecting and/or creating policy that protects the well being of both humans and animals. I also plan to address the issues regarding stray dogs in District 1.

  • Anthony Archie: No Response

    Stephanie Reisdorph (Website):

    I am currently working as a mental health therapist and have a huge heart for animals. I understand how much animals help us. I have come up with an idea to link those with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression with strays for the mutual benefit of humans and animals. Animals can help humans reduce loneliness, stress, anxiety, depression and even reduce blood pressure. Pets boost our dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin which are our bodies feel good chemicals. Oxytocin is known as the love chemical which fosters bonds with others. When dogs and humans interact they both experience a surge in oxytocin. When someone adopts an animal, I frequently hear them say, "I didn't save them, they saved me." People who don't own animals or who have never owned them should be aware of the advantages and think about adopting them. I would like to call an initiative like this something like Paws for Purpose.

    Rhene Ritter (Website):

    As someone who works for a nonprofit organization that serves people experiencing homelessness, I understand how unsettling it can be for our community to see people and pets who do not have adequate shelter and other life sustaining resources. It feels helpless many times to see stray animals on the streets in the heat or that the shelters are so full resulting in loss of life. My focus will be not only to advocate for stricter spay and neuter enforcement but also to ensure the pet owners are aware of and have access to low or no cost services to ensure their pets are well cared for and don’t accidentally breed, exacerbating the problem.

  • Jackie Dutton: No Response

    Susan Frederick: No Response

  • Councilor Laura Bellis (Website):

    I firmly believe how we treat our most vulnerable, our city’s animal community, is reflective of who we are as a society. Across the country, data shows that people are feeling as lonely as ever. This alone is reason to prioritize the wellbeing of human-animal relationships that provide symbiotic mentally healthy companionship. There, too, exists a deeper connection between the lives of humans and animals alike and the role of the city in creating accessible infrastructure. Just as the built environments of our cities can contribute to human loneliness, the built environments of our cities can pose obstacles to the wellbeing of our animal companions. That is why investing in accessible green space, shaded sidewalks, and extreme-weather adapted infrastructure is a key focus of the work I do.

  • Alicia Andrews: No Response

    Karen Gilbert (Website):

    I agree that the human community plays a big part in the welfare of our animals. I would love to see more volunteers helping with our animals. The Humane Society does a really good job of having volunteers taking dogs out and interacting in the community.

    It has shown a great response, and pups are getting adopted. When I first served on the Council, Mayor Bynum and then Councilor Bynum would highlight a dog or cat at the beginning of our meetings. We had a great response with adoptions through that program. Right now, I don’t feel enough is being done to highlight our animals.

    I think it would be great to get youth involved and work with TPS. If students need volunteer hours, why couldn’t they come in and help after school or on weekends?

  • Councilor Christian Bengel (Website):

    There's no question that studies show the impacts on us as humans when we bring animals into our lives.  These relationships built on love and trust give us the profound sense that no matter what challenges or problems we might face, we have these creatures that can restore our balance.  Tulsa's animal advocacy community is certainly faced with an overabundance of animals.  My 4 cats, 3 ferrets, and 2 dogs certainly speak for my own family’s support.

    Uriah Davis (Website):

    Animal Welfare is vital to the success of the city. Having proper and adequate policy ensures both citizens are able to freely move around w/o worries of getting attacked by a stray. I want to support this synergy by looking into  creating pilot programs that will help the city get more employees for animal welfare, While creating better access to spay services across the city. This would include updating education and making sure it is accessible in different languages.

  • Councilor Lori Decter Wright (Website):

    The way a city treats its most vulnerable, including citizens and animals, is a reflection of our morals. I have always been an advocate for protecting vulnerable populations. A key example of this is pushing to fund a low barrier shelter that allows pets for folks experiencing homeless, using city funds to build kennels at the Day Center, and prioritizing funding to build a new multi-million-dollar facility for Tulsa Animal Welfare. I would love for Tulsa to lead the state in compassionate regulation of animals. I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the level of needs in our city that are often exacerbated by poor public policy at the state level and animal welfare definitely suffers because of this, too. Unless the state legislature changes some of their policies, I am afraid Tulsa will have to continue to be on the defense of poor state policies and try build a wider, stronger safety net that we already have. That said, I have a demonstrated track record of pushing for policy and funding improvement at City of Tulsa to address what we can and things over which we have purview.

    Eddie Huff (Facebook): Animals are a vital part of the human economy. Whether as for families with children or companions for the elderly, they are a vital part of the health of those they support and live with.

  • Councilor Phil Lakin (Website):

    I agree that the simultaneous well-being of humans and animals is vital and mutually beneficial. Currently, we have a public safety problem with the number of loose dogs – some aggressive – that roam our streets. In a perfect world, and with some planning (which is outlined in other answers below), I think Tulsa should and can decrease the risk associated with loose animals, which will improve the quality of life for residents in multiple ways, including the ability to enjoy walking in neighborhoods and on our trails Systems.

    Beyond this, I think Tulsa is poised to be a place where we continue to build pet-friendly spaces and recreational areas, have more accessible veterinary care to ensure the proper care of animals, and expand educational programs so residents learn more about caring for animals and the benefits (especially emotional) that animals can provide to their owners. Continuing to strengthen partnerships with local shelters and rescue organizations is vital as well, as it will ensure that animals in need receive proper care and attention.

    Chris Cone (Website):

    The welfare of Tulsa’s human community is indeed deeply intertwined with the welfare of its animals. Healthy animals contribute to the wellbeing of people by providing companionship, emotional support, and empathy. To support this synergy, I plan to advocate for stronger animal protection laws, support local shelters, and promote community programs that encourage responsible pet ownership. Together we can foster a culture of mutual care and respect, we can enhance the quality of life for both humans and animals in Tulsa.

  • Councilor Jayme Fowler: No Response

    Carol Bush (Website):

    I have been an animal lover my whole life! I have had dogs in my life since I was 7 years old. And they have been there for me in the worst of times and the best of times. I do believe that there is synergy and animals provide emotional support, comfort and love to humans. I also enjoy wildlife that exists in our community. I love hearing the owls at night, watching the hawks soar, seeing the bats at dusk and even the occasional fox that roams the neighborhood. As humans keep encroaching on habitats we need to learn mutual respect while keeping neighbors safe and pets safe.

    Lee Ann Crosby (Facebook): 

    I will support the community by combining efforts with agencies to ensure that all Tulsans, including animals, will have access to medical and shelter care in the future. By collaborating with these agencies, we will work towards providing comprehensive healthcare and shelter services for the entire community. Our collective efforts will ensure that no one is left without the necessary care and support they need. Together, we will create a future where the well-being of all Tulsans, including our beloved animals, is prioritized and protected.

    Julie Dunbar (Website):

    I’ve been involved with animal rescue throughout my life. Until recently, this involvement was informal – my children and I would rescue the animals we found on the streets and find their homes or, if nobody claimed them, find new homes for them. Almost a year ago I became formally involved with animal welfare and rescue. A friend of mine and I transported a van full of dogs, cats, and a couple of rabbits to Iowa and Wisconsin for OAA. I also started volunteering for OPCS every other week helping clean kennels and walk the dogs in their care. I have also worked a minor amount with Unchain OK, taking people kiddy pools and other supplies.

    I say all of this to share how deeply embedded I am in the animal rescue/welfare community. I wish I had time to do more, but I realize that by running for City Council I will be able to do a greater amount of good, so I am presently puttIng more effort into my campaign.

    Most of us are familiar with Gandhi’s statement, “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” If this is the standard, and I believe it is, many cities and states are failing, including Tulsa.

    As a licensed mental health therapist, I recognize the vital importance of animals for an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. This is proven in evidence-based research, resulting in ordinances and laws such as those that allow for therapy animals. I will continue to advocate for ordinances such as these.

    I would also like to be a liaison with Tulsa Animal Welfare and area rescue organiztions. Tulsa needs someone on the council who actively participates in creative solutions for our animal welfare challenges, and is ready to put more funding into making these solutions a reality.

    One example of this support is for organizations creatively tackling these problems. These solutions would raise awareness and integrate animal welfare/rescue animals into the community. Such activities could include taking dogs to senior care facilities, the airport, schools, and other public and private sectors. This enhances the animal’s life, increases publicawareness of the need for more fosters and adoptions, and brings attention to the need for additional funding for spay/neuter programs. It can also encourage more people to volunteer with these organizations because many in the rescue world are facing burnout and compassion fatigue and more volunteers are vitally important.

    Another example of what I would advocate for is support for organizations working tirelessly to educate the public about the needs in animal welfare, and the dire situation being faced by animal welfare/rescue entities. I’m grateful TAW is starting to publicize a weekly report card of activities at their facility. It’s a harsh reality that doesn’t feel good to face, however if we don’t face it we will never find solutions.

    I’ve been going to council meetings since last October so have a sense of what is happening at City Hall. I’ve been grateful to realize several councilors support and advocate for improvements in the animal welfare situation in Tulsa. More needs to be done. We need someone on the council who has first-hand experience and knowledge of the animal welfare challenges we face in Tulsa so we can turn the tide. I will be that person.

    Matthew Nelson (Website):

    My vision would be to see adoption programs set up at every major venue, i.e. State fairs, Expo exhibitions, grand openings, all fee free. The people who organize such adoption events take on these tasks by dipping into their own pockets for financing. The kindness in their hearts to see animals find their forever homes should be more than enough to cover the cost of a single booth.

Can you share any animal welfare issues in Tulsa you are aware of or helped resolve as a citizen or city councilor and how you responded? Please elaborate on this, including any successes or obstacles you encountered.

Q2

  • Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper: (Website)

    An ongoing issue I have in my district is loose dogs roaming the neighborhoods.  Most of these dogs tend to be of the pit bull breed. I have and continue to work with animal welfare to address these issues prioritizing human safety first. While also trying to ensure that the animals are properly treated.

    Angela Chambers: (Website)

    District 1 has a severe ongoing issue with stray dogs. As City Councilor, I plan to work with agencies and council to address this matter. In preliminary discussions I have found that it will be imperative for resolutions for the issue to be financed in whole are part by local government. Additionally, I will specially search out state and federal funding to assist in the financial components for a long-term resolution.

  • Anthony Archie: No Response

    Stephanie Reisdorph (Website):

    I am aware of the struggle our city has with strays and overcrowded shelters. With these problems in mind, I have taken in a family members pets when they could no longer care for them and have also taken in a stray. I encountered an obstacle with the stray I took in as he was sick. I think it would be helpful to provide more education to people who are interested in taking strays in.

    Rhene Ritter (Website):

    For many years now, I have seen first hand the challenges our neighbors face when they need to utilize an emergency shelter or need someone to care for their pets so they can seek medical treatment or rehabilitation. As a citizen, I support local nonprofits like Pause4Paws, DVIS and the Tulsa Day Center which have chosen to take on the task of serving pets. I know that serving people in crisis isn’t easy and adding the complexity of serving animals is going above and beyond. If elected, I will continue to ensure local organizations have support. Additionally, after working for the City of Tulsa for 12 years I am poised to utilize my expertise and in-depth knowledge of municipal operations and fiscal oversight to ensure the new Tulsa Animal Welfare shelter building is built timely and includes all of the necessary amenities for our homeless pets to have a safe and healthy place to stay.

  • Jackie Dutton: No Response

    Susan Frederick: No Response

  • Councilor Laura Bellis (Website):

    I have learned a lot about the issues of animal welfare in Tulsa, particularly because of the enthusiasm and dedication of my constituents to this issue. With a background in public health and reproductive care, it is deeply inspiring to see the amount of effort being put into this work for both healthy animals and healthy humans. As a councilor, I serve on the animal welfare working group, where I have sought to bring my constituent concerns to light, and with their guidance have pushed forward policies that update standards for animal welfare and living conditions. 

    I hear on a regular basis from the nonprofit and volunteer animal welfare community how overburdened and exhausted they are. I’ve actively worked with my colleagues to more fully fund and staff our city’s animal welfare team to reduce this burden. We still have miles to go and could not possibly do it alone without those individuals and organizations partnership and support.

    I also believe that Tulsa must invest in a trap, neuter, release program that can take a long-term and sustainable approach to addressing our stray animal populations which pose a risk to humans, pets, and wildlife, while also recognizing the dignity and rights of animals. And most importantly, we need to alleviate the crisis that is our current shelter capacity. I am immensely grateful for the work that Tulsa’s animal welfare, sheltering, and service providers are doing for our community. But I am also aware of the immense strain that the status quo has on their operations. That is why I have worked hard, and will continue to work hard, to get more City investment into our animal welfare system and increase capacity for service provision.  

  • Alicia Andrews: No Response

    Karen Gilbert (Website):

    When our daughter went through TCC, she volunteered as a foster through one of the rescue groups. This just wasn’t her doing this, our whole family was involved. We all cared for the dogs in her care and helped get them to adoption events. The best part, yet the worst part, was going to pick them up and find out they had been adopted. I know today we don’t have the space with the rescue groups. Again, I think it’s a great earning opportunity for youth to get involved.

  • Councilor Christian Bengel (Website):

    As is obvious over the last couple of years, our Council has fully supported any and all proposals for funding in the realm of animal welfare.  IOT funding of a new facility, additional kennels at the Day Center, it all points to the City's commitment in supporting this mission. The significant population and overburdening in our City's TAW is both alarming and saddening, we also supported funding for additional staffing, ARPA funds to bring comfort, along with ordinance amendments for care of animals primarily left outside for their protection, and a new facility.

    https://www.tulsacouncil.org/post/city-council-approves-ordinance-updating-standards-of-humane-pet-care 

    https://www.cityoftulsa.org/apps/COTDisplayDocument/?DocumentType=CouncilDocument&DocumentIdentifiers=1898

    Uriah Davis (Website):

    I have assisted others in transporting their pets to get spayed. To elaborate, we had an older lady that had multiple pets (Cats) that would let them run the place. They were taken care of very well except in the aspect like clockwork she was asking if anyone wanted kittens. As we know, having a pet can be a significant burden if resources are stretched out. After unsuccessfully getting some kittens adopted I ask the lady if she had thought about spaying the cats because letting them just breed can cause issues in the neighborhood. She stated that she didn’t know where to go and how they could afford it. I assisted her with getting the information, transporting the family of four cats ( that we could get to agree), and paid for the services (with her making a contribution out of pride). 

    The main obstacles that come with animal welfare are education and access to services. Low cost services can be too far away for folks that lack transportation. The information that is posted is not posted in multiple languages which can create a barrier to access. Cost is the largest barrier as citizens are having to stretch out the dollars more these days. There are more people living paycheck to paycheck that ever before and this directly affects animal welfare because less folk will look into spaying or thet services because they come with a cost that competes with kitchen table issues. 

    In the case of district 6, cost and transportation are the biggest issues. Depending on citizen status they may not be able to get a low cost voucher (due to not having proper id) and the spca is not accessible without transportation. I would love to brainstorm some ideas to address this issue. ( have one or two already.)

  • Councilor Lori Decter Wright (Website):

     I have been one of the few City Councilors focusing my policy work on revising ordinances and advocating for increased funding for Tulsa Animal Welfare and our community partners who serve on the front lines across our city every day. I convened the City Council’s Animal Welfare Working Group, and we meet monthly with staff from City Experience and Tulsa Animal Welfare. We also work with the Tulsa Animal Welfare Commission as needed. We recently researched, drafted, and passed updates to our City ordinances to ensure animals are not improperly tethered and also put protections in for extreme hot weather conditions. Learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/WrightforTulsa/posts/pfbid0xteARCn7cXvnzCKU7yCQBaQ229XfL2qHj7XsrpREhJKLGPDAHQRtQRYAbxW4ec2Al

    I     was also on the Council where we revised and updated a number of animal welfare regulations ordinances in 2021: https://www.tulsacouncil.org/post/animal-ordinance-updates

    I have consistently advocated for more funding for Animal Welfare, including the new facility, staffing, and equipment. Furthermore, I approved ARPA Funding for community partners to offer spay/neuter clinics.

    You can learn more about the work I have been doing with City Council as it pertains to Animal Welfare, here: https://www.tulsacouncil.org/search?q=Animal+Welfare

    As a citizen, I have been involved with rescuing and rehoming pets over the years and currently have four dogs and a cat that were all adopted from other situations before they came to us. Our family treats our pets like family. I am frequently connecting neighbors and friends to local rescue agencies as well. Whenever I learn of resources I contact Oklahoma Animal Alliance. For example, I recently came across an insulated doghouse up for donation and called Jamee Suarez to coordinate pickup. Our neighborhood has a lot of dogs that get loose or dumped and me and my family spring into action to either reunite those dogs with their owners or get them to safety with community partners.

    Eddie Huff (Facebook): I have only seen some cases of individuals with good intentions getting over their heads and causing bigger problems and greater damage in taking in and trying to care for too many animals. These situations are always very sad for both the animals AND the well however wrong intentioned individuals. Then we have the opposite matter of the cruel animal abuse situations. I am happy to see dog parks, such as we see at Hunter Park, and others and would love to see more animal-friendly parks.

  • Councilor Phil Lakin (Website):

    I have proudly supported multiple animal welfare efforts during my tenure as a councilor, including multiple layers of allocations (general operating budget, ARPA/Federal funds, private donations, and funding from sales tax packages) to design and build the new animal shelter and to keep the current facility and animal welfare department functional and operational. At Tulsa Community Foundation, where I serve as CEO, I created the fund that is being used to collect private donations needed to properly complete and finish out the shelter. In addition, and as I stated in last year’s survey, I am a strong advocate for creating an endowment to ensure exceptional operations at the shelter, and properly maintain and update various capital equipment and the shelter in general. I’m working with a donor on what may be a potentially very large lead gift to seed this endowment, and am hopeful that the gift materializes.

    Beyond the shelter, I listened to your pleas for additional staff during the budget hearings this year and took them to heart, as I told you I would. As vice chair of the Council, the other councilors and I decided to add funding to the budget for additional staff; this action added 4.5 positions to the shelter to better meet demands. While I was not on the working group that studied the ordinance changes, I supported the changes based on the superb work of so many volunteers. And, in a recent capital budget, the Council and I supported the inclusion of equipment (an X-ray machine and medical supplies, I believe).

    On a smaller scale, I have been involved in individual cases, where I’ve had reports of abuse made to me as a councilor, even during the weekend, and have worked to intercede with the animal welfare officers and Tulsa Police to resolve the safety and welfare issues for the affected animals.

    Chris Cone (Website):

    The surge of panhandlers with pets in Tulsa is a growing concern, as it endangers the lives of the animals, their owners, and commuters. Addressing this issue is important to me, and I propose collaborating with other council members and relevant organizations to find effective solutions. One idea is to provide stakes that can be pushed into the ground, allowing pets to be safely tied up away from the street while their owners panhandle. This would help ensure the safety of both the pets and the people driving on these streets. There must be a way to support homeless pet owners while keeping everyone safer.

  • Councilor Jayme Fowler: No Response

    Carol Bush (Website):

    As a citizen when I see lost dogs or strays, I always try and catch them so that cars don’t hit them and find their home. I am a cyclist so over the decades I have rescued more dogs than I can count. I even rescued a litter of kittens that had been dumped on the side of the road and stuffed them in my jersey to take them home. I worked with my vet to find homes for them. I have rescued a cat and a couple dogs from the pound before they were euthanized - they were such good pets! I really have not encountered any obstacles. I just get mad when people dump their animals.

    Lee Ann Crosby (Facebook): 

    While working in the field, I have had numerous interactions with Tulsa Animal Welfare (TAW). During my time at the shelter, we collaborated closely with TAW to ensure that our clients' pets received proper vaccinations and were spayed or neutered. I have personally encountered individuals whose animals were impounded, and in such cases, I assisted in locating their dogs and guiding them through the process of reclaiming their pets. Through our efforts, we were able to ensure that the dogs were up to date on their vaccines and were also neutered.

    Julie Dunbar (Website):

    I’m painfully aware of the lack of resources afforded to the spay/neuter efforts within the Tulsa community. This is creating a crisis in animal welfare/rescue, a community already bursting at the seams with unwanted dogs and cats. I will tackle this with increased resources to help enforce spay/neuter laws and increase the ability for more Tulsa citizens to get their animals spayed/neutered. Furthermore, I will support public education efforts so people understand the severity of the challenges we currently face.

    Another obstacle is backyard breeders and the increased demand for Doodle breeds. Backyard breeders often do not provide adequate care for their dogs and have been known to dump unsold dogs in the country or at shelters. Furthermore, they contribute greatly to the overpopulation problem. I would like to be a part of collaborative efforts at the local and state levels to minimize this.

    The overpopulation problem has further unintended consequences, such as dumped animals being used as bait in dog figh:ng rings. I will do everything I can to rid Tulsa of this horrendous crime. I realize this needs to be dealt with at a state level as well and will collaborate with state officials to alleviate it.

    As previously stated, there are so many obstacles, however I’m also seeing some successes. One of them is the dogs being fostered and adopted through TAW and rescue organizations. I was walking some OPCS dogs a few weeks ago and had the gift of watching one of them get adopted. Even though it was just one dog, I’m grateful for each dog that finds a home. I’ve also been a part of, and seen, many transports to other states to save some of the OPCS and OAA dogs. The efforts our welfare/rescue communities are putting into saving as many dogs as possible are impressive.

    Matthew Nelson (Website):

    Where I used to live in Tulsa had a large population of very mistreated animals. Knocking on neighbor’s doors with flea shampoo, food, and dog bowls only goes so far. The main obstacle I faced was the lack of compassion for the animal they chose to bring into their lives in the first place.

Tulsa has a severe overpopulation of unsterilized and unvaccinated animals in homes, on the streets, in neighborhoods, and in our municipal shelter.

Currently, only 2 organizations regularly provide spay and neuter services at a lower cost for Tulsans (Tulsa SPCA and Spay Oklahoma). Both are consistently booked out for weeks (even longer for large female dogs), resulting in unwanted births and even more unsterilized animals. If elected, what specific measures would you advocate for to increase accessible spay/neuter/vaccination services to help this crisis?

Q3

  • Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper: (Website)

    I have supported adding funding to the city budget for additional medical staff as well as better medical equipment for the animals. I have also voted in favor of using ARPA dollars to fund more spay and neuter services.

    Angela Chambers: (Website)

    Currently, I do not have enough understanding reading the approaches that are noted below. However, I am very open to working through finding the best resolutions.

  • Anthony Archie: No Response

    Stephanie Reisdorph (Website):

    I think it would be great to have mobile vaccination clinics especially in low income neighborhoods. I think it would be great to provide some programs where animals can be picked up for spay/neutering in low income neighborhoods where consistent transportation can sometimes be a barrier.

    Rhene Ritter (Website):

    If elected, I will work with local veterinary clinics and animal rescue organizations, the experts who are closest to the issue, to create better strategies to address the overpopulation of unsterilized and unvaccinated animals in Tulsa. The city should also be seeking solutions based on what has worked in other cities. Although we have ordinance in place to address the problem, it has not been prioritized for whatever reason whether it be lack of funding, lack of staff, or both. I will work with the city to see whatit will take to enforce those ordinances.

  • Jackie Dutton: No Response

    Susan Frederick: No Response

  • Councilor Laura Bellis (Website):

    The overpopulation and under-resourcing of healthcare services for vulnerable animals is a major issue that needs to be addressed.  Not only does this crisis proliferate undue suffering among our animal friends, it creates public health hazards in our human communities as well. I believe the city must work directly with animal welfare organizations and service providers to expand our capacity. This not only requires finding more funding for the city’s own Department of Animal Welfare, it also requires finding ways to leverage partnerships to reduce redundancies and optimize resources. 

    As a former educator, I know how critical community education is as well. I supported funding for an animal welfare outreach position and support further scaling that work to reach diverse communities, especially our immigrant communities in culturally appropriate and responsive ways to ensure they are informed on these issues and are empowered to take action.

  • Alicia Andrews: No Response

    Karen Gilbert (Website):

    Spay/neuter of cats is one of the easier and more cost-effective ways to address a key target for animal welfare. Where spay/neuter capacity exists, I would focus it intensely on the main sources of animals that are overwhelming shelters: free-roaming cats, female dogs and cats, and large-breed dogs. Spaying free-roaming community cats not only benefits the cats themselves but, on a much larger scale, prevents the birth of more kittens, most of which will die before even reaching adulthood.

    Even though this is a complex issue, and while some may believe mandatory spay/neuter laws will compel more pet owners to sterilize their pets and thus, fewer pets will be born, and fewer unwanted pets will end up in shelters – this has been proven in communities across the country to be untrue. In fact, every data-based study of mandatory spay/neuter laws has demonstrated that such laws do NOT increase spay/neuter compliance rates, nor do they reduce shelter intake, nor are they cost-effective for local governments. Based on this research and more, every major animal organization in the United States opposes any type of mandatory spay/neuter legislation, including the ASPCA, the Humane Society of the United States, Best Friends Animal Society, the No Kill Advocacy Center, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Kennel Club.

    These laws unfairly discriminate against low-income families and have been proven in cities across the country to be ineffective at improving community safety or lowering the population of unwanted pets. Families who simply cannot afford or cannot access veterinary services for their pets are forced to surrender their pets (or their pets could be seized by Animal Control) It’s a very complicated issue.

  • Councilor Christian Bengel (Website):

    As Councilors, we can advocate for the care of animals with the mechanisms at our disposal, but the true responsibility for this crisis lies with the citizens of Tulsa.  The citizens must understand that ownership of animals requires that the life they bring into their homes or their lives requires true commitment (https://www.cityoftulsa.org/taw). 

    We have folks breeding litters without justification, except for financial gain.  I would state that true animal advocates never rehome or adopt out animals that haven't been sterilized.  Every single animal advocacy organization must have the same commitment as well as education of costs.  Funding sources are always the biggest hurdle, and whether veterinarians use a sliding scale of income.

    Uriah Davis (Website):

    I would want to create an incentive to vets / vet hospitals to help with increasing these services at a more affordable cost. This may be in the form of a tax deduction or something similar in nature. I would also want to tap Oklahoma State university to see if there are any ideas or options they could provide as their hospital in Stillwater deals with quite a bit of service for the city of Stillwater.

  • Councilor Lori Decter Wright (Website):

    As a City Councilor I have voted to fund spay and neuter services with ARPA dollars:
    https://www.fox23.com/news/t-town-tnr-using-granted-funds-to-provide-free-spay-neuter-services-for-owned-cats/article_adc24400-9462-11ee-9b3a-fba0bc264840.html

    I also advocated adding more funding in the city budget so additional medical staff could be hired at Tulsa Animal Welfare and they could acquire their own x-ray machine.

    Eddie Huff (Facebook):

    I cannot answer this honestly as I have not looked into the matter. I think this is a national problem, not just a local one. I would be happy to look into the matter however.

  • Councilor Phil Lakin (Website):

    Though I’m such a novice in this space compared to all of you who serve our community as well-educated and passionate professionals and volunteers, it sure seems like we need to replicate the successful efforts implemented in other communities to control our pet population through free or low-cost, high-volume spay and neutering programs.

    From all the data I’ve seen (and common sense), it appears that the number of intakes/euthanasians/adoptions decrease when stray and/or unwanted animals are not reproducing. Our shelter is obviously shouldering significant expenses related to sheltering and promoting the adoption of animals. Ideally, these sheltering expenses could be spent on keeping animals from needing shelter/adoption, through spay and neutering programs. Managing toward this inflection point, where expenses can be shifted from the shelter to the spay/neuter program will not be easy and it’s probable that outside, one-time funds will be needed to ramp up and sustain the program in its early years. Once sheltering/adoption rates begin to decline, expenses could be dedicated to spay/neutering programs, so population rates stay low and manageable.

    Chris Cone (Website):

     I’d be in favor of allowing licensed veterinarians who establish clinics in Tulsa that focus on spay and neuter services to receive long-term property tax incentives to start or expand their practices. This approach not only encourages new business growth but also protects the animal population by reducing the number of stray and unwanted pets. By supporting these clinics, we can promote responsible pet ownership, and alleviate the burden on local animal shelters. Furthermore, such initiatives can create jobs and stimulate the local economy, benefiting the entire community.

  • Councilor Jayme Fowler: No Response

    Carol Bush (Website):

    I am a huge proponent of spay/neuter! And we need more places that will do it at a reduced cost. I wish it was mandatory. As a councilor I will look at possible ways to better fund spay/neuter programs. I know we looked at it when I was a state representative but those bills never made it out of committee.

    Lee Ann Crosby (Facebook): 

    If elected as the city councilor for district 9, I would prioritize coordination with stakeholders, animal advocacy groups, and fellow city council members to develop a comprehensive plan aimed at increasing funds for existing agencies that provide lower-cost services. By allocating additional resources to these agencies, we can empower them to expand their programs and better meet the animal-related needs of Tulsa. This collaborative approach will ensure that our community's animals receive the care and support they deserve.

    Julie Dunbar (Website):

    Turning the tide on the spay/neuter challenges requires a multifaced approach. Other cities and states have found much greater success than Tulsa regarding spaying and neutering. I would start conversations with leaders from these cities/states to see what ideas we could bring to Tulsa. This could include programs that go into the schools to educate children about the benefits of spaying/neutering, tax incentives for businesses that offer vouchers for free/reduced spay/neuter clinics, and con:nued efforts to obtain grants that provide money for free/reduced spay/neuter clinics.

    We also need to provide more low-cost or free spay/neuter clinics. However, this does not help people with limited transportation, in which case we need mobile spay/neuter clinics to meet people where they are. Citizens also need a greater awareness of the gravity of the problem. This could done with city-led media and social media campaigns informing the public about the health benefits of spaying/neutering, as well as how to get pets spayed/neutered.

    Something I would like to see done is a cost analysis of the amount of money Tulsa spends torun TAW vs the amount it would take to provide more spay/neuter programs. It seems like it would be more effective to take a proactive rather than reactive approach to this problem.

    Collaborating with those already in the animal welfare and rescue communities is another crucial component in finding solutions. People with an intimate knowledge and understandingof the problem need to be part of the conversation.

    Our pet overpopulation problem is something we should not ignore as Tulsans. We need tostart taking steps now to turn things around. I recognize the need for greater awareness and funding to make a dent in the problem and am ready to provide this as a city councilor.

    Matthew Nelson (Website):

    Funds need to be made available to low-cost spaying and neutering programs. It is vital that we expand the availability of these programs to curb the growing number of unhoused pets. Without these programs, it becomes a much more expensive and morally difficult issue.

In addition to accessible spay/neuter/vaccination options, communities that have improved the condition of their shared human-animal welfare have incorporated some of the following:

  1. Addressing restrictive housing policies 

  2. Increasing budgets for pet retention programs such as accessible vet care and pet food banks

  3. Increasing municipal shelter staffing and capacity to address animal behavioral challenges

  4. Increasing municipal shelter staffing to include adoption counseling

Which of these approaches would you like to support in Tulsa? Which of these would you like to learn more about?

Q4

  • Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper: (Website)

    They all sound like great approaches.  The last 2 approaches I have already supported and will continue to support on the council.  I would like to learn more about the first 2 approaches. I will listen to the experts working in this space to determine the prioritization of approaches.

    Angela Chambers: (Website)

    All of the approaches are definitely necessary to explore further. I am open to gaining a full understanding of the approaches and work through what is best for Tulsans..

  • Anthony Archie: No Response

    Stephanie Reisdorph (Website):

    I have a background working in public housing at the City of Tulsa's Housing Authority so I would like to work on addressing restrictive housing policies. I would like to learn about all of the other approaches to find the best fit for our city.

    Rhene Ritter (Website):

    I would like to learn more about restrictive housing policies and pet-retention programs as I’ve never heard of those. I know that in my nonprofit work, the staff who provide direct client services are amazing at supporting clients’ pets to ensure they remain together and well cared for. I love the idea of pet food banks! I feel like Tulsa’s homeless service providers serve clients’ pets fairly well but unless someone accesses those services they may not know this resource is available or hate to ask for help. As for addressing animal behavioral challenges, I know first hand how expensive and challenging this can be to address. I rescued a lab when she was nine months and it became evident fairly quickly that she had experienced trauma before we got her and we’ve spent thousands to help her find peace. Unfortunately, she is still unable to be in the same room with other animals due to her reactivity, even after trying multiple different training methods. I would support and encourage the provision of behavioral training at the Tulsa Animal Welfare shelter that was provided through in-kind services or donations. I would definitely support increased staffing at TAW. It would be great if the staff were able to be trained to provide adoption counseling, integrated into their current work. I recently talked with a former TAW employee who also expressed concern for the mental well-being of the staff due to the trauma experienced when working in a shelter. If it’s not already happening, staff should also be receiving continuous opportunities for mental health support both individually and with their peers.

  • Jackie Dutton: No Response

    Susan Frederick: No Response

  • Councilor Laura Bellis (Website):

    I am always looking at approaches that other communities have taken to address challenges similar to those we face here in Tulsa. I am particularly interested in addressing restrictive housing policies, as pet policies are one of many restrictive policies that disempower tenants and homeowners and increase housing costs for the whole market. I also would like to learn more about how other communities have implemented these pet-retention programs. One of my primary focuses on the council is ensuring equitable access to opportunity in Tulsa, and that extends to animal companionship. Increasing municipal shelter resources is also a key need, however, limited city resources mean that bringing in outside partners to provide pilot programs of the mentioned services would be the best path forward. 

  • Alicia Andrews: No Response

    Karen Gilbert (Website):

    I would definitely support increasing municipal shelter staffing and capacity to address those animal behavioral challenges and include adoption counseling. I would like to know more about restrictive housing policies. I would have to do more investigating on increasing budgets for pet retention programs and how the city budget can assist.

  • Councilor Christian Bengel (Website):

    The 3H task force has been addressing some of the concerns surrounding issues in restrictive housing related to animals.  Funding mechanisms over and over are going to be the challenge in costs. Private properties maintain the right to protect their properties from negligent pet owners whose animals have destructive tendencies.  While throwing money seems like the most logical solution to all of these problems, I equally believe that pet ownership isn't a new social dynamic. 

    Because of irresponsible ownership, we've had to amend our ordinances to protect them.  My hope is that with better education, the identity of grant funding sources, and the City continuing its support and advocacy of these missions, we'll see declines. Again, the City Council has supported animals without hesitation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atRXLKngQMg

    https://www.cityoftulsa.org/press-room/path-to-home-tulsa-day-center-breaks-ground-on-new-animal-shelter/

    Uriah Davis (Website):

    I want to learn more about all of them. I am already wanting to look into housing policy for increased development. Staffing is one that I will work on increasing because that is a must for some of the potential solutions that I would want to offer. This would include all areas of animal welfare including adoption.

  • Councilor Lori Decter Wright (Website):

    I would need to learn more about the first two and the second two I have been advocating for since I have been on the City Council.

    Eddie Huff (Facebook):

    As I am as much if not more for personal responsibility, I am not in favor of the city taking responsibility for the care of other people’s animals. I am for making people more aware and responsible as well as helping them in that regard. It should be that way whether animal or human adoption.

  • Councilor Phil Lakin (Website):

    I can and am willing to learn more about all of these. While I don’t think we currently have an adoption counselor, we worked with animal welfare and others to help provide staffing so more time can be spent with people adopting, which is important.

    Personally, I think the Council (and maybe government in general) will have more opportunities to provide funding for the latter two options listed above. I also think (and hope) that the new shelter will help resolve some of the issues we’ve been experiencing. Multiple animals crammed into the same kennel isn’t right and is far from ideal.

    Chris Cone (Website):

    I’d like to learn more about all these programs and believe we should regularly review their budgets in connection with the issues facing our city. There's a lot I can learn from these existing programs, and to say I fully understand the current climate would not be accurate. I support animal retention programs and food banks and would also like to see them expand into "No-Kill" shelters. This approach would help ensure the safety and well-being of animals while addressing the broader needs of our community.

  • Councilor Jayme Fowler: No Response

    Carol Bush (Website):

    Honestly, I would love to learn more about all that you mentioned. I would also like to know what some other cities like ours have done to reduce the number of unwanted pets and pets who live with our homeless population. Huge proponent of best practices.

    Lee Ann Crosby (Facebook): 

    Which of these approaches would you like to support in Tulsa?

    Increasing budgets for pet-retention programs such as accessible vet care and pet food banks. 

    Which of these would you like to learn more about? 

    Increasing municipal shelter staffing to include adoption counseling


    Julie Dunbar (Website):

    I support all of the above. Though I’ve been formally embedded in the rescue community for over a year, I realize I can always learn more about these different efforts. I will attend various committee meetings to understand the creative solutions people in the animal welfare/rescue communities are coming up with so I can take them to the council table. I’m also always willing to meet with individuals who can help me understand the deeper complexities of the issues.

    Volunteering at OPCS, OAA, and Unchain OK, I realize the benefits of having people work with animals that have behavior issues so more dogs are adoptable. Furthermore, with all the foster/adoption returns, I realize the vital importance of adoption counseling. Some people get discouraged and give up when not educated and given assistance, such as adoption counseling.

    We need to do all we can to help people willing to step up and be a part of the solution.

    Matthew Nelson (Website):

    Increasing municipal shelter staffing to include adoption counseling is one I would love to hear more about. Connecting people with the right animal for their forever home is important to lowering recidivism in our shelters. As someone who has adopted 3 dogs from shelters, this is an issue that is near and dear to my heart. One of our dogs had been previously returned to the shelter before we adopted her, and I believe some counseling could have connected that family with a dog that may have been a better fit for them.

Many Tulsa organizations serve pet owners who are facing economic hardship, domestic violence,  and homelessness. How interested are you in meeting with and learning from these organizations during your term?

Q5

  • Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper: (Website)

    I am always eager to learn more about issues facing our communities. It is the best way to raise awareness and learn of best practices. I have met with animal advocates before and look forward to meeting again!

    Angela Chambers: (Website)

     I am very much open to learning about and discussing issues and concerns of my constituents.

  • Anthony Archie: No Response

    Stephanie Reisdorph (Website):

    I have a background working in public housing at the City of Tulsa's Housing Authority so I would like to work on addressing restrictive housing policies. I would like to learn about all of the other approaches to find the best fit for our city.

    Rhene Ritter (Website):

    I have been working in the nonprofit sector for the past six years and partner with many various service providers. In my current job at Housing Solutions, I have had the privilege of advocating for our neighbors facing hardship and will continue to fervently do so. That said, I will continue to work with these organizations to seek solutions and partner to provide resources to ensure they have whatever support needed to continue providing services to our neighbors and their pets.

  • Jackie Dutton: No Response

    Susan Frederick: No Response

  • Councilor Laura Bellis (Website):

    I would be eager to further meet with and learn from these organizations. One of the most important lessons I have learned from my first term on the city council is how many different ways there are to approach providing service, and crucially, how each of those different approaches brings new insights for better providing those services. It is also the case that the same approaches don’t work for all folks, and thus finding new avenues by which to provide services is critical to the work of creating an accessible and equitable city.

  • Alicia Andrews: No Response

    Karen Gilbert (Website):

    I am very interested in meeting with all organizations. I know our system is not the best and is broken. If elected, I would love to put together a task force and bring representatives from the organizations to the table. This would be a task force, not a working group. Working group meetings are not public meetings. Task force meetings are public. If we all want to make a difference, this would be a start with the task force.

    Bringing organizations to the table within the task force would also give everyone else a better understanding of who is doing what and what is missing. I would also bring in representation from the veterinary community.

  • Councilor Christian Bengel (Website):

    The Animal Welfare Commission, and Director Sherri Carrier keep the Council apprised of concerns and the appropriate levers needed on the City's part to address concerns.  The coalition of animal welfare certainly has case for a disheartening crisis, but this is where I would defer to those organizations in their established missions.

    Sherri and I both served with the Tulsa County Sheriff's Office, so I'm more than confident in her ability.  I'm more than happy to meet with outside organizations in how they're partnering with TAW.

    Uriah Davis (Website):

    Sign me up for anyone that wants to help create a solution to this issue that is already over the breaking point. Seeing this experience in various shoes is vital to creating a solution that makes real change.

  • Councilor Lori Decter Wright (Website):

    I am always interested in meeting advocates and learning from community partners and stakeholders. I was unable to attend your coalition’s event in 2023 due to a schedule conflict. That said, I am friends with several members of the coalition and am in regular contact with them especially regarding animal welfare trends or concerns within our city.

    Eddie Huff (Facebook):

    I’d be happy to meet with themmore aware and responsible as well as helping them in that regard. It should be that way whether animal or human adoption.

  • Councilor Phil Lakin (Website):

    Luckily, because of my job with Tulsa Community Foundation, I know many of these organizations well, and know the donors who support their efforts. I’m proud of the work that I supported to help fund the new kennels at Day Center for the Homeless and was delighted to be part of the groundbreaking ceremony. I also worked very closely with Meals on Wheels last year to help to ensure ongoing operations for their clients, many of whom receive food to provide for their pets through their More Than a Meal program. Even with my knowledge of these organizations though, please know that I’m very interested in continuing to learn about the specific steps organizations are taking to serve pet owners.

    Chris Cone (Website):

    I believe that talking with people on a one-to-one basis is essential to get the full picture. Annual reports are informative, but “boots on the ground” provide a more practical understanding of what’s happening behind the scenes. Speaking with staff would give me greater insight into the challenges each facility faces. I am open to learning more about each organization, their goals, hardships, and hopes for the future.

  • Councilor Jayme Fowler: No Response

    Carol Bush (Website):

    I would like to learn more. I served as a state representative for 6 years. During that time there were not many bills that addressed some of the issues you mentioned. But when they did come up, I always voted in favor of the animals. I voted against cock-fighting legislation - a brutal industry. I voted to unchain dogs.I am a huge proponent of responsible pet ownership. Anything else is abuse in my opinion. I am open to listening, learning and trying to find solutions for our community.

    Lee Ann Crosby (Facebook): 

    I am interested in meeting with Tulsa organizations that serve pet owners who are part of at-risk communities. This is because I believe that by engaging directly with these organizations, we can gain valuable insights into the challenges faced by pet owners and improve the resources available to them. Through collaboration and understanding, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate community that addresses the specific needs of all pet owners, regardless of their circumstances. I am eager to learn from these organizations and contribute to the betterment of resources for pet owners.

    Julie Dunbar (Website):

    As stated previously, I’m willing to meet with any and all individuals and organizations who are putting effort into creatung solutions. The vast numbers of dogs getting dumped and surrendered, as well as the overpopulation caused by a lack of spaying/neutering, is disturbing.

    Though I’ve mainly focused on the canine side of the equation, I realize the feline rescue organizations are facing similar issues and will support them as well. My love for animals includes dogs, cats, etc. I will do what I can to be an advocate for all our vulnerable animals so we can become a society that meets and exceeds Gandhi’s measure of success. Wouldn’t that be amazing?

    I have been involved with rescue long enough to realize animal welfare is facing profound challenges. I’m truly ready to be a part of the solution. I have two rescue dogs and cats and cherish my volunteer time with rescue organizations. This is a topic near and dear to me. I’m so grateful to HAHT for bringing awareness of this need to the people running for office!


    Matthew Nelson (Website):

    We are all in this together. To ensure a healthy, robust community, helping those less fortunate is a matter of necessity. I am very interested in doing my part in meeting with and seeing what I can do as a city counselor and as a member of this community.

A big thank you to the city council candidates that participated!

Mayoral Survey

  • Because running for office is hectic? We don't know, but here's how we tried to make sure they had a chance to participate:

    • Email invites were sent 7/15

    • A reminder email was sent 7/25

    • A text was sent 8/1, and 8/8

    • If able, a voicemail was left 8/8

Tulsa prides itself on 'A New Kind of Energy.' How do you, as a future mayor, envision creating a community that prioritizes the wellbeing of both humans and animals? Share your vision for promoting this interconnected wellbeing across the city.

Q1

Monroe Nichols (Website)

I do believe Tulsa can be a leader nationally, as mayor one way I plan to promote both wellbeing is quick access to well maintained parks no matter what part of the city you live in. Currently, 65% of Tulsans are within a 10-minute walk of a park compared to the median of 74% of the top 100 cities. Additionally, we rank 96th out of 100 comparable cities in public investment in parks. As mayor, I am going to invest in parks as a way toward the wellbeing of all Tulsans, whether they walk on two legs or four.

No response: Casey Bradford, Karen Keith, Brent VanNorman

Tulsa has a severe overpopulation of unsterilized and unvaccinated animals in homes, on the streets, in neighborhoods, and in our municipal shelter. Currently, only 2 organizations regularly provide spay and neuter services at a lower-cost for Tulsans (Tulsa SPCA and Spay Oklahoma). Both are consistently booked out for weeks (even longer for large female dogs), resulting in unwanted births and even more unsterilized animals. If elected, what specific measures would you advocate for to increase accessible spay/neuter/vaccination services to help this crisis?

Q2

Monroe Nichols (Website)

I think about this from two standpoints: 1) being responsible and humane to animals and 2) the broader impact to the community. The issue of stray dogs has become a real safety issue in part of our community impacting everything from kids walking to school to citizens not feeling comfortable taking a walk in their neighborhoods. Given the wide-ranging impact, I will invest the resources necessary to staff up at the animal shelter and partner with private veterinary offices to play catch-up on the current situation in our city. Once we get a better handle on this crisis, my focus is going to be ensuring the leadership at the Animal Welfare Shelter is experienced and focused on outcomes. The entire animal welfare community has to come together on this and City Hall will lead the way. In my administration, this issue will be elevated and I will work with those in the field to ensure we can continue meeting the need. I will make this a top priority as mayor.

No response: Casey Bradford, Karen Keith, Brent VanNorman

Given the evidence supporting animal cruelty as a predictor for human abuse, how will you support the enforcement of existing statues for pursuing and convicting  animal cruelty perpetrators, animal abusers, and dog fighters to protect our animal and human citizens?

Q3

Monroe Nichols (Website)

As mayor, my job is to enforce the law. Animal cruelty will not be tolerated and those who abuse animals will be held accountable, period.

No response: Casey Bradford, Karen Keith, Brent VanNorman

As mayor, your leadership in staffing key positions and developing informed commissions is crucial for advancing effective city initiatives and policies. How will you ensure that your appointees and staff have the necessary expertise with Tulsa's current challenges impacting human and animal wellbeing? How would you leverage this responsibility to achieve your vision, mentioned above?

Q4

Monroe Nichols (Website)

My vision is simple, collectively we become an open access, no-kill community. Accomplishing that goal will not be easy, but I will lean heavily on the commission and a leadership overhaul at the Animal Shelter to get it done. I will rely on input from the Animal Welfare Commission and other contributing commissions inside of city government as well as the input of advocacy groups outside of city government to achieve that open access, no-kill distinction in four years. Achieving this means that I will make appointments based on their alignment with that vision and committed to making Tulsa the best place in the country for animals. For far too long, these issues have been somewhat of an afterthought at City Hall. If I’m elected, those days will come to an end.

No response: Casey Bradford, Karen Keith, Brent VanNorman

Thank you, candidate Nichols, for participating!

Vote August 27 - and share this survey!