TulsaNow

Zoning. It’s one of the least sexy words in the English language (right up there next to “orthopedic insoles”). Yet few things inflame the passions of otherwise mild-mannered citizens as much as disputes over zoning.

Tulsa’s land-use ordinances--an incomprehensible amalgam of arbitrary mathematics, ancient mysticism and legal jargon--can flummox even the most intelligent neighborhood activist. Overexposure to our current zoning laws may result in headaches, fatigue, feelings of hopelessness and mental confusion. (If you experience sustained frustration lasting longer than 8 hours, consult your city councilor.)

Because land-use policies affect the quality of life of each and every Tulsan, it’s time to start asking some important questions:

What kind of city do we want Tulsa to be? Do we want to encourage policies that put people first--encouraging human-scaled development, walkability, safety, historic preservation and common sense? Do we want form-based codes that are clear and easy to understand? De we want to eliminate bureaucracy and promote economic development? Do we want to respect the unique needs of individual neighborhoods? If you’ve ever considered these questions, or been frustrated by the status quo…read on!


JOIN US FOR A PUBLIC FORUM – Sept 14
It’s time for another forum! TulsaNow and Sustainable Tulsa will co-host "Time to Twilight Zoning? Building the 'Beautiful' Back into Tulsa!"

Alan Hart of Via Architecture in Vancouver will be the keynote speaker for this event. Alan specializes in urban design, transit-oriented design, sustainable architecture and planning.

What can Tulsa learn from Vancouver? Is there any way to encourage development that puts people and neighborhoods first AND eliminates bureaucracy? What will be the secret to sustainable economic growth? And what are form-based codes, anyway?

LISTEN TO ALAN HART in an interview with Rich Fisher on "Studio Tulsa" (9/13/06).

Mr. Hart will also participate in a panel discussion along with Terry W. Taylor, Urban Redevelopment Specialist from the Oklahoma City Planning Department, and Jamie Jamieson of the "Pearl District" Neighborhood Association. (The Pearl District will serve as Tulsa's pilot program for implementing Form Based Codes.) Audience members will have the opportunity to submit written questions to the panelists. If you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. See you there!

What: “Time to Twilight Zoning? Building the Beautiful Back into Tulsa!”
When: 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 14 (Come early for refreshments and mix/mingle.)
Where: Aaronson Auditorium, Tulsa Central Library

Learn more about Form-Based Codes