Pipeline operator says offices to be consolidated

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – The operations in Tulsa and Oklahoma City of pipeline operator Williams Cos. will be "significantly reduced" if a proposed merger between Williams and Energy Transfer Equity is completed.

A filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission says that due to commodity price market conditions, Williams and Energy Transfer Equity are analyzing steps to reduce administrative expenses.

The filing says as part of that strategy, ETE has determined it will be necessary to consolidate corporate offices and headquarters of both companies in Dallas.

Williams employs 1,000 people in Tulsa and a few hundred in Oklahoma City.