Operation SAFE Tulsa Displaces Homeless, Raises Neighborhood Safety Concerns

A state-led initiative in Tulsa is causing unintended consequences for local neighborhoods. Residents report a noticeable increase in homeless individuals on their properties following sweeps of encampments. The program, known as Operation SAFE, aims to clear state-owned land of homeless camps and debris.

According to the Oklahoma Governor’s office, the operation wrapped up its Tulsa phase in mid-September. However, some families near areas like 51st and Yale say the problem has simply moved from highways into their communities.

Residents Report Direct Correlation with State Sweeps

Kyndal Baker told News On 6 she observed a significant change in recent weeks. She directly linked it to the implementation of new state policies. “They don’t really know where else to go. And so they’ve been coming into the neighborhoods,” Baker explained.

She described finding a man lying on her lawn watching videos on his phone. A neighbor experienced a similar incident the same day. Several residents believe the influx correlates with police sweeps under nearby highway overpasses.

Safety and Compassion Conflict for Families

The situation creates a difficult dilemma for homeowners. One makeshift camp appeared near a local elementary school before being removed. For Baker, the primary concern is neighborhood safety.

“It’s difficult because you have to make the decision between confronting them and possibly getting hurt, or calling the police,” she said. Residents feel conflicted about involving law enforcement but also fear escalation.

Baker acknowledges the complexity of the homelessness issue. She believes the Operation SAFE solution needed more forethought. “There’s no perfect solution. But I think this solution should have been fleshed out a little bit more before being implemented,” she added.

Governor Stitt Declares Tulsa Phase Complete

Governor Kevin Stitt announced the completion of the Tulsa phase on September 17. Officials reported clearing 64 encampments in a 14-day period. They also removed nearly 1.97 million pounds of debris from state property.

The governor stated that troopers performed the work with “courtesy and professionalism.” He now says local leaders are responsible for preventing camps from reappearing. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol will continue monitoring state land.

News On 6 observed that some cleared sites remain empty. Others, however, are already being reoccupied. This suggests the cycle of displacement and neighborhood concern may continue.

The immediate future remains uncertain for Tulsa residents like Kyndal Baker. While Operation SAFE achieved its goal of clearing state land, the subsequent movement of people into neighborhoods highlights the challenge of finding a lasting solution. The community is now left wondering what comes next.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the goal of Operation SAFE?

Operation SAFE aims to restore order and safety on state-owned property. It involves clearing homeless encampments, trash, and addressing criminal activity from areas like highway underpasses.

How much debris was removed in Tulsa?

State crews removed over 1.97 million pounds of debris during the Tulsa initiative. This was collected from 64 different encampment sites over two weeks.

Why are Tulsa residents concerned?

Residents report homeless individuals appearing on their lawns and near schools. They believe this is a direct result of people being displaced by the Operation SAFE sweeps from highway areas.

What did Governor Stitt say after the operation?

Governor Stitt confirmed the Tulsa phase concluded on September 17. He commended the work of state troopers and shifted responsibility to local leaders to prevent camps from returning.

Are the cleared encampments staying empty?

Observations from local news crews show mixed results. Some sites cleared by Operation SAFE remain vacant, but others have already seen people return, indicating a potential recurring problem.

Trusted Sources

News On 6, News 9, Oklahoma Governor’s Office.