On the Issues: What is the city's greatest challenge in the next three years and how would you address it?
By Staff Reports on Apr 29, 2013, at 2:22 AM Updated on 4/29/13 at 7:14 AM
Every Monday through June 3, the Tulsa World will publish answers from Tulsa mayoral candidates on questions about major issues.
Dewey Bartlett
Current mayor (elected 2009)
Growing the economic base inside the city limits of Tulsa remains the most pressing challenge for the foreseeable future. Tulsa is clearly moving in the right direction. Jobs are up, violent crime is down, and Tulsa was recently recognized as one of the top five cities in America for entrepreneurs to start a business.
When I took over as mayor in 2009, Tulsa had lost 18,000 jobs; but in my first term, we stopped the economic flow out of our city and have added 9,000 new jobs. Downtown revitalization is becoming a reality, but construction projects demonstrate prosperity throughout all of Tulsa.
Bill Christiansen
Former city councilor (2002-11)
I love Tulsa. I always say wonderful things about Tulsa and its citizens. But I recognize that Tulsa has significant problems that have only grown worse over the past eight years. We must re-focus on improving the basics of vital city functions.
Pressing needs such as secure neighborhoods and well-maintained streets will not change unless we have a change at the top. No more "business as usual" in City Hall. You have a right to know what's going on. You have a right to be heard. I represent the only choice for the people to be engaged at City Hall.
Kathy Taylor
Former Tulsa mayor (2006-2009)
It's time we again focused on building for our future, thinking big and tackling projects that will benefit the next generations. The biggest challenge? Helping Tulsa live up to its potential to be a vibrant city with streets safe to drive on during the day and walk on at night, with opportunity and hope for all Tulsans. A key approach is to work with schools to leverage resources and strengthen our education system. Strong schools mean less crime and a more attractive place for business, resulting in robust sales tax, which means a city better able to provide core services.
