A Tulsa City Councilor has recently raised concerns about the Kirkpatrick Heights project, claiming it serves as a “false front” for what she believes to be less than genuine planning efforts. Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper voiced her grievances during a community meeting held to discuss developments on the Kirkpatrick Heights Master Plan, an initiative led by PartnerTulsa aimed at revitalizing 56 acres in North Tulsa, particularly the Greenwood neighborhood.
For more than 16 months, PartnerTulsa has conducted community planning, culminating in the formation of the Greenwood Legacy Corporation (GLC) aimed at overseeing this redevelopment. The project involves significant community engagement, consisting of a Community Governance Working Group that includes nearly 30 volunteers who dedicated a year to researching governance practices. The meeting’s purpose was to appoint board members to the GLC and encourage community participation in the governance structure.
Councilor Hall-Harper distributed a letter at the gathering, which contained a sharp critique of PartnerTulsa’s actions. She cautioned local residents and business owners, stating that the organization has not acted in the best interests of District 1, but rather contributed to its ongoing degradation. Hall-Harper’s allegations suggest a lack of transparency and that key decisions were made behind closed doors, denying elected officials a role on the board.
In response to Hall-Harper’s concerns, PartnerTulsa issued a statement expressing support for the GLC’s leadership and its dedication to establish governance structures. They emphasized their aim to pursue a “bold, community-led future” and assured the community that the GLC is well-situated to lead the transformative work outlined in the Master Plan.
Dr. Lana Turner, Chair of the GLC, has defended the organization against Hall-Harper’s criticism, emphasizing that the project’s foundation is deeply rooted in community input. She stated, “We are not a front,” highlighting that the GLC’s creation was a direct outcome of community consensus in which Hall-Harper participated. Dr. Turner reminded attendees that the board’s recommendations had been made in collaboration with community members, aiming to address collective concerns and aspirations.
However, Hall-Harper’s critique points to a deeper issue of trust within the community. Business owner Cleo Harris articulated this sentiment, suggesting that the political divide regarding the project is detrimental to efforts aimed at rebuilding Greenwood. He lamented the feeling of mistrust that seems to permeate discussions surrounding redevelopment, emphasizing that Greenwood should not be viewed as a “land grab,” but rather as a neighborhood striving to reclaim its identity and promise after years of neglect.
In a broader context, the Kirkpatrick Heights project represents a significant opportunity for the community of North Tulsa to address longstanding inequities and promote growth. The Master Plan aims not just for physical redevelopment, but also for fostering wealth-building opportunities, particularly for Black Tulsans and descendants of the 1921 Race Massacre victims. Community-led initiatives have shown promise in promoting equitable development when transparency and accountability are at their core.
Yet, the divergent opinions on the Kirkpatrick Heights plan encapsulate the ongoing struggle between community input and institutional decisions. As redevelopment unfolds, it will be vital to ensure that local voices are not only heard but also integrated into the planning process. Listening to community members and fostering open channels of communication can help to rebuild trust.
The Kirkpatrick Heights Master Plan stands as both a beacon of hope for revitalization and a battleground for differing visions of what that revitalization should entail. Moving forward, it is crucial for all stakeholders—community members, local leaders, and development organizations—to prioritize unity over division. This collaborative spirit will be essential for the success of the project as it seeks to uplift the North Tulsa area.
In conclusion, the Kirkpatrick Heights project serves as a illuminating case study in community engagement, development challenges, and the pressing need for transparent governance. Fostering trust through inclusive practices and addressing the diverse needs of all stakeholders can pave the way for a successful and truly transformative outcome that reflects the aspirations of the North Tulsa community. The voices of local residents must continue to be amplified in this process to ensure that the redevelopment truly serves their needs and honors the rich history of Greenwood.
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