The city laid off 21 officers last week because of budget cutbacks, but 18 of them were rehired this week using federal stimulus grant funds.

While city officials and the police union try to find the funds to rehire the remaining officers, fundraising efforts are under way to help them financially. They have also received job offers.

“Right after the 21 got laid off, we were trying to come up with something fast, inexpensive and easy to do,” said Officer Marcella Brannon, second vice-president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 93.

A pancake breakfast will be held Saturday to raise money for the officers.

“We wanted to be able to get some money in their hands,” Brannon said. “We don’t know how long they are going to be without a paycheck. So when the 18 got their jobs back yesterday (Wednesday), we decided to go ahead with the breakfast.”

Brannon said the money raised will be divided among the three officers. The wife of one of the officers is pregnant and is due to have the baby any day, Brannon said, adding that “people can bring baby goods, too.”

Last week after the layoffs were announced, the officers were notified that the Tulsa Public Schools Police

However, those positions don’t include medical benefits, said TPS Police Chief Gary Rudick. One of the officers is injured and the other — the one who will soon be a new father — said medical coverage is a priority.

At least one of the officers was considering the position, and the city was working with the school district to provide the equipment that would be needed.

In addition, the city has two open positions as airport officers, Mayor Kathy Taylor’s office announced Thursday.

Tulsa Police Chief Ron Palmer has informed all three officers of these employment options.

“I’m pleased that the city of Tulsa could form this partnership with Tulsa Public Schools to ensure these officers continue to receive a paycheck,” Taylor said in a written statement.

“These are two good employment options for these young officers. Ultimately it will be their choice to accept or reject these jobs,” she said. “It is my hope that they will accept one of these positions until the city and TPD are financially able to rehire them.”

Pancake breakfast fundraiser

When: 7 to 10 a.m. Saturday

Where: Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian, 4102 E. 61st St.

Cost: $5 a person

People who want to donate may also send money to the FOP lodge.

Checks should be made to:

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 93

P.O. Box 2473

Tulsa, OK 74101