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[COLUMBUS, OH] Columbus City Council President Shannon G. Hardin joined Council Finance Chair Nick Bankston and Councilmembers today to unveil more than $18.5 million in amendments to Mayor Andrew J. Ginther's $1.2 Billion 2024 Operating Budget. The amendments invest in efforts to maintain and improve the quality of life in the city with a focus on safe and healthy neighborhoods, affordable housing, workforce development and programs for youth.
"Council is planning to vote on a balanced budget for 2024, with amendments that reflect the priorities we hear from residents in town hall meetings, budget hearings and even when they talk to us at the grocery,” said Council President Shannon G. Hardin. “Folks in Columbus are not shy when they tell us they want to be safe in their neighborhoods, are worried about increased housing costs, worried about kids, and want more help preparing for the jobs of the future. This budget shows our values and priorities in providing Columbus residents with the high-quality neighborhood services they deserve as our city continues to grow."
The proposed amendments were developed after five public hearings using available carryover funds. Council will not use any of the City’s Rainy Day savings fund or Federal ARP funds in this balanced budget.
“This budget is a testament to the vibrancy and growth our city is experiencing, however, more importantly, it is a representation of the strength, perseverance and resiliency of our community,” says Councilmember Nick Bankston, chair of the Finance and Governance committee. “I am thankful to my colleagues for making thoughtful and equitable amendments to this budget that reflect Council's guiding priorities of Housing, Safety, Jobs, and Improving quality of life.”
Highlighted priorities for 2024 include:
- President Shannon G. Hardin's focus on community violence prevention and STEM career development for underrepresented youth.
- President Pro Tem Rob Dorans' continued investment in workforce development through record-sealing support for increased job and housing opportunities for restored citizens.
- Councilmember Nick Bankston's emphasis on small and minority business support for growth and sustainability, along with funding for youth programs.
- Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla's allocation for reproductive healthcare assistance and continued support for the 614 Beautiful program, enhancing neighborhood aesthetics through community art.
- Councilmember Nancy Day-Achauer's investment in our neighborhood parks, particularly for areas lacking access to recreation centers.
- Councilmember Shayla Favor's support for fair housing enforcement and funding for CRIS and Legal Aid to address the residential crisis at Colonial Village.
- Councilmember Melissa Green's financial backing for federally qualified healthcare centers and community addiction recovery services.
- Councilmember Emmanuel V. Remy's support for low-income residents' vehicle repairs and neighborhood clean-up programs.
- Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche's funding for organizations to operate during extreme weather and support for Sustainable Columbus, which provides job training in the clean-energy sector.
The Council will review and table the 2024 Operating Budget with amendments at the February 26, 2024 meeting, with a final vote scheduled for March 4, 2024. Upon adoption, the budget ordinances will be sent to Mayor Ginther for his signature.
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