Tulsa Tech Boom, Halfway House Debate, and Lawmaker's Traffic Stop

Good morning, this is Tulsa Local Pulse for January 24, 2025. We're starting the day with a mix of news and updates from around our city. First off, let's talk about the latest developments in our local tech scene. Tulsa has been designated as an official Tech Hub, with projections indicating 56,000 new tech jobs over the next decade, averaging salaries of $67,000. This is huge news for anyone looking to break into tech, especially with major projects like an AI Center of Excellence and job opportunities spanning AI, drones, and cybersecurity. Companies are flocking to Tulsa, with over 150 new tech companies expected to set up shop in the next few years, bringing in over $1 billion in additional investment capital. In other news, residents are voicing safety concerns over a proposed halfway house in a west Tulsa neighborhood. This development has sparked a heated debate, and we'll be keeping an eye on how this story unfolds. Moving on to our job market snapshot, the tech industry is leading the way with significant hiring announcements. Major players like Boeing, Cloudaction, and ONEOK are creating exciting opportunities across different tech specialties. The average salary for tech jobs in Tulsa is hitting $88,448, with a 27% growth in software developer roles. Local resources like Atlas School and Tulsa Technology Center are offering practical training programs to help people break into tech. In real estate news, there haven't been any major commercial or residential property sales announced recently. However, new development projects are on the horizon, and we'll be providing updates as more information becomes available. From city hall, the Tulsa City Council voted 8-1 to end prayer before meetings, opting for a moment of silence instead. This decision came after a pagan woman gave the opening invocation last fall, which drew significant criticism. In local news, Oklahoma State Senator Regina Goodwin was pulled over by a Tulsa County deputy for failing to stop at a stop sign. Body camera footage shows the deputy handcuffing Goodwin and then putting her in his car. Goodwin's attorney and a Tulsa City Councilor also showed up at the scene. Weather-wise, today is looking sunny with a high of 40 degrees. However, big changes are coming in the long-term forecast, so stay tuned for updates. In new business activity, a Glenpool church's comfort dog is helping New Orleans attack victims and responders. A Bartlesville couple is offering a warming shelter to homeless individuals. Upcoming community events include a performance by an Oklahoma native pianist at Jimmy Carter's funeral. The Tulsa Remote program is also making waves, offering a $10,000 grant and health and wellness benefits to remote workers. In local school achievements, we don't have any major updates today, but we'll be keeping an eye on local sports results and school news. In our feel-good community story, a Collinsville woman is seeking help after claiming sewage from the c This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.