Neighborhood Rights Bill Signed

News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Gov. Brad Henry has signed a bill to protect homeowners from zoning changes in their neighborhoods.

The Neighbors Right to Know Act will require those requesting a zoning change allowing the building of multi-family housing facilities to notify affected property homeowners by mail.

"This is a tremendous victory for homeowner and neighborhood rights," said state Rep. Eric Proctor, D-Tulsa. "Neighbors have the right to know what is going to be placed in their backyard that could potentially affect their property values and family's safety."

Proctor wrote the bill after the Tulsa Housing Authority approved the YMCA's plans for a multi-story complex at Yale Avenue and Admiral Place without notifying neighbors, prompting hundreds of complaints.