Members of the Norman Delegation, including Sen. Mary Boren and Reps. Jared Deck, Annie Menz, and Jacob Rosecrants, released a joint statement about the planned consolidation of HUB 107 services into the Central Oklahoma Community Mental Health Center’s Alameda location before the transition on Friday. The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is moving the peer-led center, which has provided food, clothing, pet supplies, and vaccinations since 2022. The delegation expressed concern that the move could remove hygiene resources for unhoused residents and affect nearby facilities, stating, “The loss of hygiene resources for our unhoused neighbors is an issue of personal and public health,” and “Prioritizing short term savings over public safety will have long term consequences that affect everyone,” according to the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
The Norman Delegation noted that HUB 107 has served as a buffer between the unhoused community and nearby businesses and residents, warning that its closure could lead to more public incidents. They also criticized the short notice given for the consolidation, saying that less than two weeks was insufficient for such a major change. The delegation referenced financial challenges faced by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and said the state’s cost-saving measures could negatively affect the community. They emphasized their concern by stating, “Short term savings rarely result in long term gains,” as reported by the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
The Norman Delegation expressed concern about the reduction of services at HUB 107, despite supporting the retention of staff and most programs. They noted the effect on vulnerable residents and the need to balance fiscal decisions with essential community services. “The state has a responsibility to this community which has provided critical access for so many services over the past century, and we are working to hold the state accountable to that,” the delegation stated. They said they will continue advocating for accessible housing and mental health support as the transition moves forward, as stated by the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
