Tulsa Police Chief Ron Palmer gave 155 officers pink slips today, amid city budget problems.  The officers laid off are the lowest-ranking officers who were most recently hired.  They will be getting 2 weeks’ severance pay, along with any unused comp time and vacation time.  Many of the officers had to go to work today and will be on the job until the layoffs take effect next Friday.  The layoffs represent nearly 20% of the total TPD force.  The officers’ last day of work will be January 29^th.  The layoffs will bring the police force to 653.  That is the fewest number of officers Tulsa has had in more than 20 years.

Chief Palmer, who announced his resignation today, delivered the news to the officers affected at the police academy.

“One of my last duties is probably one of my most unpleasant duties, that is telling these kids they’re going to be laid off next week,” said Palmer.

But this is not a done deal.  Union leaders are still negotiating with the mayor and if they come to an agreement in the next seven days, those pink slips can be taken back.

Unlike the fire department, the mayor has not offered to tap the reserve fund to help the police department’s budget.  The union expects to vote on a proposal next week.

Other cities have expressed interest in hiring some of Tulsa’s officers.  The police departments in Austin and Garland, Texas are expected to make recruitment visits to Tulsa soon.