City of Columbus

Multiple Stakeholders and Entities Working on Short-Term and Long-Term Solutions for Residents at Latitude Five25 The City is working with Franklin County and other service providers to secure interim housing for displaced residents. - learn more

City of Columbus Receives Global Sustainability Recognition, Showcases Progress on Climate Action Plan The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) –a global environmental nonprofit dedicated to supporting and advancing local climate action efforts – has recognized Columbus as one of 122 “A List” cities. - learn more

City Seeks New Nominees for 2022 Columbus Hall of Fame Induction Mayor Andrew J. Ginther is asking residents to nominate new candidates for the Columbus Hall of Fame. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Releases Proposed 2023 General Fund Budget Mayor Andrew J. Ginther released his proposed 2023 General Fund budget – the largest-ever in city history. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Unveils Safety Spending in Proposed 2023 Operating Budget Mayor Ginther announced that more than $705 million will be allocated for neighborhood safety in his proposed 2023 Operating Budget. - learn more

City Leaders Outline How $1.5 Billion Bond Package Would Support Public Safety Mayor Andrew J. Ginther outlined how the proposed $1.5 billion bond package on the ballot this fall would support neighborhood safety throughout Columbus. - learn more

City Leaders Promote Home Repair and Lead Remediation Programs for Columbus Residents Community leaders gathered to promote several home repair and lead remediation resources available to Columbus residents. - learn more

Fran Ryan Center Named to Honor Former Councilmember’s Commitment to Senior Community Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that the Broad Street Arts and Senior Campus will be named The Fran Ryan Center. - learn more

City Leaders Outline How $1.5 Billion Bond Package Would Support Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Mayor Ginther outlined how the proposed $1.5 billion bond package on the ballot this fall would support the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. - learn more

City’s Chief Diversity Officer Damita Brown Stepping Down to Pursue New Opportunity The Executive Director of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Damita Brown, has offered her resignation to pursue a professional opportunity in the not-for-profit sector. - learn more

Cultural Arts Center Renamed to Commemorate Priscilla R. Tyson’s Impact on the Arts Mayor Ginther joined current and former city officials to announce that the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department’s Cultural Arts Center has been renamed the Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center. - learn more

City of Columbus Launches Police Athletic League for Local Youth Mayor Ginther announced the Columbus Police Athletic League, a program where officers volunteer to work with youth ages 6-18 in organized sports and other programs. - learn more

City of Columbus Seeking Applications for Civilian Police Review Board Vacancy The City of Columbus is currently accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Civilian Police Review Board. - learn more

Mayor Ginther and Community Leaders Outline Proposed Affordable Housing Bond Package Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and community leaders outlined how the proposed $200 million affordable housing bond. - learn more

BBI Logistics Lays Out Columbus Expansion Plan BBI Logistics, one of Central Ohio’s fastest-growing companies, gathered with community leaders today to lay out its plans to develop its first corporate office in Columbus’ Arena District. - learn more

City and County Distribute Additional $20 Million for Rent and Utility Assistance The City of Columbus and Franklin County have authorized distribution of another $20 million in federal Emergency Rental Assistance Funding. - learn more

City Leaders Showcase Right Response Unit’s Successful Inaugural Year Mayor Andrew J. Ginther joined city and community leaders to highlight the successful first year of the Right Response Unit. - learn more

Mayor Ginther to Attend Communities in Action: Building a Better Ohio At the White House on Wednesday Mayor Andrew J. Ginther will be attending a White House forum on Wednesday that highlights how recently-passed federal programs are helping residents across Ohio and right here in Columbus. - learn more

City of Columbus Awarded $2 Million Federal Grant for Healthy Homes Program Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today announced a $2 million federal grant supporting the Healthy Homes Program. - learn more

City Opens Support Centers for Columbus Students Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that the city is partnering with area nonprofits to open numerous support centers for students impacted by the teachers strike. - learn more

Mayor Ginther, City and Neighborhood Leaders Break Ground to Rebuild Hudson Street Mayor Andrew J. Ginther joined city and neighborhood leaders today to formally kick off the reconstruction of Hudson Street between I-71 and Cleveland Avenue. - learn more

City Leaders Announce $5 Million in Funding for Columbus Non-Profits Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, Council President Shannon Hardin and Councilmember Shayla Favor announced the recipients of the city’s $5 million Elevate grant program. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces New Location for Community Sports Park Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced the Community Sports Park promised as part of the city’s commitment to keep the Crew in Columbus will be located at Kilbourne Run in Northeast Columbus. - learn more

City of Columbus Launches Certification Program for LGBTQ+ Businesses Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced a partnership with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce to certify Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Business Enterprises. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Unveils 2022 Capital Improvements Budget Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today released the proposed 2022 Capital Improvements Budget. - learn more

City of Columbus Proposes $1.5 Billion Bond Package to Finance Capital Improvements, Expand Affordable Housing The City of Columbus will ask voters to approve a $1.5 billion voted bond package this fall to finance capital improvements in neighborhoods across the city. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces Columbus Housing Strategy Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced the Columbus Housing Strategy, which will tackle Columbus’ housing shortage to ensure housing affordability for current and future residents. - learn more

Columbus Recreation and Parks is Helping Neighborhoods to Beat the Heat Columbus Recreation and Parks will open cooling centers at five regional community centers through Thursday, June 16, to give residents a place to cool off during this week’s extreme heat. - learn more

City Leaders Unveil Public Art on the Scioto Peninsula, Kick Off 2022 Columbus Arts Festival Mayor Andrew J. Ginther joined city and community leaders to unveil three new pieces of public art that decorate and beautify the recently completed Starling Garage on the Scioto Peninsula. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Names Kathy Owens Director of Finance and Management Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced Kathy Owens will serve as the Director of the Columbus Department of Finance and Management. - learn more

Mayor Ginther, Council Increase Police Staffing, Park Lighting to Promote Summer Safety Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has sent legislation to Columbus City Council to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Fraternal Order of Police allowing additional overtime for police officers during the summer months - learn more

City Announces More Than $16 Million in Summer Programming for Columbus Youth Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced $16.2 million in city support for summer programming for Columbus youth. - learn more

City of Columbus Launches Financial Empowerment Center Columbus announced the launch of the Columbus Financial Empowerment Center, which provides free financial counseling with licensed professionals for all Columbus-area adults. - learn more

Columbus Finance Director Joe Lombardi Tapped to Lead SWACO After more than 30 years of service to the City of Columbus, Joe Lombardi announced he will be leaving his role as Director of the Columbus Department of Finance and Management. - learn more

City of Columbus to Hold Induction Ceremony for 2021 Hall of Fame Mayor Andrew J. Ginther will induct the late Mary Teresa Funk, Maude Hill, Ned Pettus, Jr., PhD and the late Reverend Dr. James Preston Poindexter into the Columbus Hall of Fame. - learn more

Columbus Selected to Participate in National Heat-mapping Campaign The City of Columbus is one of 16 municipalities selected to participate in a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration heat-mapping campaign. - learn more

Columbus Accepting Nominations for the 2022 Shellabarger Illuminator Award The City of Columbus is accepting nominations for the Shellabarger Illuminator Award. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Appoints Kristen Atha Director of Public Utilities Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has appointed Kristen Atha Director of Public Utilities. - learn more

City of Columbus Announces New Clean-Energy Jobs Program Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced $1.5 million to IMPACT Community Action to implement Empowered! – a new clean-energy jobs program geared toward Columbus residents ages 18-24. - learn more

City Leaders Announce $19 million to Support Human Service Efforts Throughout Columbus City leaders announced $19 million for local human services organizations working to address homelessness, infant vitality and workforce preparedness, among other critical social needs. - learn more

City of Columbus and Central Ohio Crime Stoppers Partner to Catch Illegal Dumpers The City of Columbus and Central Ohio Crime Stoppers are seeking the community’s help in identifying suspected illegal dumpers caught on camera. - learn more

Columbus Women’s Commission Launches Next Phase of Equity Campaign The Columbus Women’s Commission today announced the next phase of its signature equity campaign titled “The Columbus Commitment: 100 Adopters. 100 Days. 100% Committed.” - learn more

City of Columbus, Greenspot Smart Mobility Expand Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure The City of Columbus and Greenspot Smart Mobility are partnering to expand charging accessibility for electric vehicle (EV) drivers with three new public charging station locations. - learn more

City Announces Next Generation of Police Body Camera Technology Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced a nearly $19 million investment to equip Columbus Police officers with cutting-edge technology for body-worn cameras (BWC) and in-car cameras. - learn more

2022 State of the City Full text of the 2022 State of the City - learn more

Mayor Ginther Signs Legislation Repealing Mask Requirements Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has signed legislation approved by Columbus City Council, effectively eliminating the requirement to wear a face covering indoors in the City of Columbus. - learn more

$8 Million in Columbus-Franklin County Small Business Recovery Funds Available for Immediate Access An additional $8 million is now available through the Columbus-Franklin County Small Business Recovery Fund to help Central Ohio small businesses continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. - learn more

Columbus, Central Ohio Municipalities Discuss Lifting Local Face Covering Requirements Central Ohio municipalities to consider lifting local face covering requirements in the coming weeks. - learn more

City of Columbus Appoints Jacqueline Hendricks-Moore as Inspector General Jacqueline Hendricks-Moore has been named the first-ever Inspector General for the City of Columbus. - learn more

Mayor Ginther and First Lady Shannon Ginther Announce New Columbus Women’s Commission Members Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and First Lady Shannon Ginther announced six new Commissioners on the Columbus Women’s Commission. - learn more

Columbus Joins Power A Clean Future Ohio Mayor Andrew J. Ginther is proud to announce that Columbus is joining Power A Clean Future Ohio. - learn more

City of Columbus Releases First-ever Climate Action Plan Mayor Andrew J. Ginther joined business, environmental and community leaders to unveil the city’s first-ever Climate Action Plan. - learn more

Columbus Leaders Issue Roadmap for Equitable Pandemic Recovery Community leaders today issued the recommendations of a yearlong effort to build a roadmap for an equitable community recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Appoints Bernita Reese as Columbus Recreation and Parks Director Mayor Andrew J. Ginther appointed Bernita Reese to serve as director of the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Releases Proposed 2022 Operating Budget Mayor Andrew J. Ginther released his proposed 2022 General Fund budget. - learn more

City of Columbus Names Interim Leader and Opens Search for Permanent Public Utilities Director Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced Deputy Director Ann Aubry will serve as Interim Director of the Columbus Department of Public Utilities pending the departure of current Director Tracie Davies. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Unveils Safety Spending in 2022 Operating Budget Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that more than $660 million will be allocated to the Department of Public Safety in his proposed 2022 Operating Budget. - learn more

City Officials Outline Plans to Fully Distribute $50 Million Affordable Housing Fund City and community leaders today outlined the plan to fully allocate the city’s $50 million bond fund dedicated to affordable housing projects. - learn more

City Leaders Unveil Proposed 2021 Capital Improvements Budget Mayor Andrew J. Ginther along with leadership from Columbus City Council today unveiled the proposed 2021 Capital Improvements Budget. - learn more

Public Utilities Director Tracie Davies to Depart After almost 13 years of service to the City of Columbus, Public Utilities Director Tracie Davies will be leaving to accept a position as Delaware County Administrator. - learn more

City Announces Funding for New Sullivant Ave. Police Substation and Real-Time Crime Center in Linden Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today announced $15 million in proposed funding to support construction of the new Sullivant Avenue police substation in the Hilltop and Real-Time Crime Center in Linden. - learn more

City of Columbus Announces Nearly $9 Million in Support for Central Ohio Shelters The City of Columbus announced $8.8 million in American Rescue Plan funding for programs that provide immediate and long-term support for central Ohioans experiencing homelessness. - learn more

City of Columbus Extends Outdoor Dining Program Again The outdoor seating pilot program will extend through November 14. - learn more

Mayor Ginther and Community Partners Announce Details for New Solar Park Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, along with other city, energy and community partners, announced that the planned Columbus Solar Park will power Clean Energy Columbus. - learn more

Linden Fresh Market and Charitable Pharmacy opens to provide needed access to fresh produce and health care services in historic neighborhood Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced the Linden Fresh Market and Charitable Pharmacy are officially open. - learn more

City of Columbus Announces $3.5 Million for New Child Care Initiatives Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced $3.5 million in American Rescue Plan funding to support working families and address critical labor shortages in the child care industry. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Signs Executive Order Requiring Face Masks in Indoor Public Spaces Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today signed an executive order declaring a State of Emergency in the City of Columbus and requiring that face masks be worn by individuals age 6 and older while in indoor spaces accessible to the public. - learn more

U.S. Department of Justice to Review Columbus Division of Police The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) accepted the City of Columbus’ invitation to review the Columbus Division of Police and provide assistance through its Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office. - learn more

City of Columbus Opens Search for Permanent Recreation and Parks Director The City of Columbus and the Recreation and Parks Commission is accepting applications for a permanent director of the Columbus Department of Recreation and Parks - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Appoints Robert Clark as Director of Public Safety Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced the appointment of Robert Clark as the Director of Public Safety effective on Sep. 26, 2021. - learn more

City Awards $12.2 Million in COVID-19 Rental Assistance to Help Keep Vulnerable Residents in their Homes Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Columbus City Councilmember Shayla Favor announced the award of $12.2 million to 26 community organizations through the city’s Stable Housing Initiative - learn more

City to Require Employees and Visitors to Wear Masks in City Buildings Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that starting Monday, August 16, 2021, all employees and visitors to city buildings must wear masks, regardless of vaccine status. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces $13 Million for Design, Construction of Improved Aquatics Facilities Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced $13 million to improve the aquatics facilities at Glenwood and Windsor community centers in the Hilltop and Linden, respectively. - learn more

City of Columbus, Community Leaders Showcase Success of Alternative Response Pilot Program Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today joined City Council President Shannon Hardin and leaders from Public Safety and Public Health to highlight the effectiveness of the Alternative Response Pilot Program. - learn more

City and FOP Reach Agreement on Three-Year Contract The City of Columbus has reached an agreement on a three-year contract with the Fraternal Order of Police that was approved by members through a vote that ended on Saturday. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces New Funding for Initiatives to Reduce Violent Crime Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today announced $400,000 in funding for two crime reduction programs led by Franklin County Municipal Court Judge Jessica D’Varga and Franklin County Prosecutor G. Gary Tyack. - learn more

Safety Director Ned Pettus, Jr., Announces Retirement After 40 years of service to the City of Columbus, Public Safety Director Ned Pettus, Jr., today announces his retirement. - learn more

City of Columbus Launches New Interagency Partnership to Prevent, Reduce Gun Violence The City of Columbus announced a new partnership between the Columbus Division of Police, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). - learn more

City of Columbus Awarded $25 Million Federal Grant for Columbus Crossroads Project The City of Columbus will receive $25 million from the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant program to support Phase 4 of the Columbus Crossroads Project. - learn more

City of Columbus to Reopen City Facilities Now that health orders have been lifted and our community is resuming normal operations, the City of Columbus will reopen its downtown campus and other public city buildings beginning in July. - learn more

Juneteenth to Become Paid Holiday for City of Columbus Employees in 2022 Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that in celebration of Juneteenth full-time City of Columbus employees will be granted an additional paid holiday. - learn more

City Announces American Rescue Plan Funding The City of Columbus has received $93 million in federal funds out of an expected $187 million from the American Rescue Plan (ARP) to provide assistance in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. - learn more

Columbus Named Finalist in Bloomberg Philanthropies 2021 Global Mayors Challenge Columbus is one of 50 Champion Cities selected today as finalists in the 2021 Global Mayors Challenge, a global innovation competition that identifies and accelerates the most ambitious ideas developed by cities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Advances Legislation Establishing Roles and Responsibilities of Civilian Police Review Board Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced legislation that codifies the Civilian Police Review Board is complete and has been advanced to the Columbus City Council for consideration. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Appoints Elaine Bryant Chief of Police Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced Elaine R. Bryant as the first-ever African American woman and external candidate to serve as chief of police for the City of Columbus. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces New Leadership Position, $10 Million Investment and Other Initiatives to Expand Support for Affording Housing in Columbus Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther joined civic and business leaders to announce Erin Prosser as the City’s first-ever assistant director of housing strategies. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces Launch of Summer Programming for Columbus Youth Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today joined community partners to announce several programs and resources for central Ohio youth to keep them safe, healthy, active and engaged during the summer. - learn more

2021 State of the City Mayor Ginther presented the 2021 State of the City. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Names Robin Davis, Kathy Owens Deputy Chiefs of Staff Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today announced Robin Davis and Kathy Owens have joined his senior leadership team in the office of the mayor. - learn more

Investment to Advance Linden-McKinley STEM Agriculture Pathway Program The City of Columbus is supporting the Columbus City Schools’ implementation of an innovative agriculture-based college and career readiness program at Linden-McKinley STEM Academy. - learn more

City and County Officials Announce Competition to Address Housing Affordability Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, City Councilmember Shayla Favor, Franklin County Commissioners President Kevin Boyce, and Franklin County Treasurer Cheryl Brooks Sullivan unveiled a housing design competition, inviting architects, designers and builders to submit design concepts to address housing access and affordability in central Ohio. - learn more

Columbus Residents to Begin Receiving 100% Clean Energy in June Residents and small businesses in Columbus will begin receiving electricity from renewable energy resources in June 2021 through a voter-approved community choice aggregation program known as Clean Energy Columbus (CEC). - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces Appointments To Civilian Police Review Board Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced his appointments to the Civilian Police Review Board (CPRB) which will provide civilian oversite of police for the first time in Columbus history. - learn more

Columbus Selected to Develop Financial Counseling as Free Public Service for Residents in Need The City of Columbus and the national Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund) announced their selection to receive more than two years of funding and technical support to implement proven financial empowerment programming in Columbus. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Rolls Out Anti-Violence Plan Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, along with Councilmember Mitchell J. Brown and other city and community leaders, announced new and expanded programs to address increased violence in Columbus. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Appoints Damita Brown Chief Diversity Officer Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has appointed Damita Brown Chief Diversity Officer in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. - learn more

Vision Zero Columbus to Implement First Action Plan The Vision Zero Columbus Action Plan 1.0 lays out a set of two-year strategies to make safety the number one priority of the Columbus transportation system. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Appoints Jeffrey Happ Fire Chief Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that after a thorough and thoughtful process and an exhaustive search outside of the Division of Fire, he has selected Interim Chief Jeffrey Happ to be the next Fire Chief for the City of Columbus - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Announces 2020 Inductees into the Columbus Hall of Fame Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced today that he will induct the late Golda M. Edmonston, Reverend Leon Troy Sr., Ann B. Walker, Catherine Willis and Sanborn "Sandy" Wood into the Columbus Hall of Fame. - learn more

City of Columbus Awarded Federal Money for Rental Assistance The City of Columbus today announced $26.8 million in federal funding designated for rent and utility assistance. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces Chief Quinlan Not to Remain Police Chief Mayor Andrew J. Ginther released a statement regarding the Police Chief. - learn more

City of Columbus Downtown Campus Closures The City’s downtown campus will be closed to the public Tuesday, January 19 and Wednesday, January 20. - learn more

City Accepts Recommendations from Civilian Review Board Work Group Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, along with City Council President Shannon J. Hardin, accepted the recommendations from the Civilian Review Board Work Group. - learn more

Statement from Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Regarding Body Worn Camera Footage Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has issued a statement regarding body-worn camera footage from the Andre Hill shooting. - learn more

Utilities Payment Help Increased to Columbus Residents Affected by COVID-19 The City of Columbus is making additional funding from the 2020 federal Coronavirus, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act available for utility assistance grants to Columbus residents. - learn more

Columbus Celebrates Sustainability Accomplishments: Issue 1 Win and Top Environment Rating From International Organization Two developments are keeping the City of Columbus as a national and regional leader in sustainability. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Releases 2021 Proposed Operating Budget Mayor Andrew J. Ginther released his proposed 2021 General Fund budget. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Announces 2020 Capital Improvements Budget Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced the 2020 Capital Improvements Budget (CIB) which includes nearly $113 million in new infrastructure projects to support police reform, increase affordable housing and invest in Columbus neighborhoods. - learn more

City of Columbus and Partners Announce Learning Extension Centers The City of Columbus and other partners today announced a coalition of Learning Extension Centers around the community. - learn more

City of Columbus Extends Outdoor Dining Program The outdoor seating pilot program for restaurants and bars has been extended through November. - learn more

Columbus Selected to Participate in New Program to Tackle Budget Crises and Advance Equity with Support from Bloomberg Philanthropies Bloomberg Philanthropies today announced that Columbus is one of 30 cities that will participate in the What Works Cities City Budgeting for Equity and Recovery program. - learn more

Columbus Tops 30,000 Home Energy Audits in 2020 The City of Columbus’ Sustainable Steps program celebrated a key environmental protection sustainability milestone on October 7 - surpassing 30,000 home energy audits in Columbus within two years. - learn more

City Seeks to Repeal Bar and Restaurant Curfew Legislation to repeal Ordinance 1821-2020 that imposes a 10 p.m. curfew on bars and restaurants will be presented to Columbus City Council tonight for a vote. - learn more

City of Columbus Announces Trick or Treat Date and Time Following the guidelines released by the Ohio Department of Health and in line with the recommendation of MORPC, the City of Columbus will allow trick-or-treat on Thursday, October 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. - learn more

City of Columbus Announces Precinct Election Official Leave Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, along with Columbus City Council President Shannon G. Hardin and Franklin County Board of Elections Director Ed Leonard announced a Precinct Election Official Leave Program to encourage City of Columbus employees to work the General Election on November 3, 2020. - learn more

Hundreds of Small and Minority Businesses Receive Funding From the City and Franklin County Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, along with Columbus City Council President Shannon G. Hardin and Franklin County Board of Commissioners President John O’Grady announced that more than 850 small, minority and women-owned businesses have received more than $8.3 million from the Columbus-Franklin County COVID-19 Small Business Response and Recovery Fund. - learn more

Local Organizations Cheered for Environmental Success through GreenSpot The City of Columbus’ annual GreenSpotLight awards celebration recognized three businesses for their outstanding sustainability practices - learn more

Local Human Service Agencies to receive CARES Act Funding Mayor Andrew J. Ginther was joined by Columbus City Councilmember Priscilla Tyson and Franklin County Board of Commissioners President John O’Grady to announce $20 million in funding to human services organizations that provide programs that address essential needs of Columbus and Franklin County residents. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Appoints Advisory Committee to Support Economic Recovery from COVID-19 Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that he will convene a Recovery and Resiliency Advisory Committee. - learn more

City of Columbus Facing $41 Million Reduction in Revenue in 2020 Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Columbus City Auditor Megan Kilgore announced that the impacts of COVID-19 have drastically reduced revenue expectations for 2020. - learn more

Nationwide Children’s Hospital Receives $2.5 Million Grant from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to Expand Teen Health Programs in Columbus City Schools The Office of Population Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently awarded Nationwide Children’s Hospital a $2.5 million grant to support and expand its school-based adolescent healthcare services within Columbus City Schools (CCS). - learn more

City Releases Plan, Launches New Program for Financial Empowerment The City unveiled a Financial Empowerment Roadmap that includes startling findings about the state of financial security of Columbus women and families. - learn more

City of Columbus Celebrates Win Changing the Eviction Process The City of Columbus and the Legal Aid Society of Columbus celebrated a victory on a decision by the Tenth District Court of Appeals that prevents landlords from evicting tenants without appearing in court. - learn more

City of Columbus Announces Temporary Outdoor Seating Pilot Program In an effort to assist local restaurants during the Public Health Emergency Order declared by Mayor Andrew J. Ginther in March, the City of Columbus is implementing a pilot program that will allow restaurants to expand outdoor seating in Columbus. - learn more

Mayor Ginther, City and Partners Kick-Off Community Choice Aggregation Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, along with other city, energy and community leaders, announced the selection of a preferred electricity supplier, kicking off the community choice aggregation initiative as part of the city’s goal for 100% clean energy by 2022 and to be carbon neutral by 2050. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Announces 30x30 Challenge to Address Systemic Racism in the Workplace Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, along with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, announced the 30x30 Challenge to ensure the City of Columbus is a diverse and inclusive workplace. - learn more

Mayor Ginther, County and Community Partners Address Increased Violence Mayor Andrew J. Ginther was joined by other city, county and community leaders to address the increase in violence in Columbus, laying out collaborative initiatives to reach at-risk youth. - learn more

Maureen L. Stapleton hired as CelebrateOne Executive Director Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that Maureen L. Stapleton will serve as Executive Director for CelebrateOne, the city’s initiative to reduce infant mortality - learn more

City Division of Power Announces Available Funding for Electric Bill Payment Assistance The City of Columbus’ Division of Power today announced that roughly $300,000 in funding is available for the Pandemic Payment Relief program. - learn more

City of Columbus and Partners Announce CARES Act Funding to Increase Family Stability Mayor Andrew J. Ginther along with Columbus City Council and Franklin County announced CARES Act funding to increase family stability. - learn more

Mayor Ginther, Health Commissioner Ask Council to Limit Hours for Bars, Nightclubs and Restaurants Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Columbus Public Health Commissioner Dr. Mysheika Roberts will advance legislation to Columbus City Council Monday, July 27, 2020, to place restrictions on the hours of operations for bars, nightclubs and restaurants. - learn more

City of Columbus and Partners Announce Linden Fresh Foods Market Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and community leaders announced a free food market with pharmacy access funded by the City, the Healthy Families Healthy Neighborhoods Reality Collaborative and Columbus Next Generation Corporation. The - learn more

City of Columbus Announces CARES Act Funding For Columbus City Schools Mayor Andrew J. Ginther along with Columbus City Council President Pro Tem Elizabeth Brown and Columbus City Schools announced CARES Act funding for additional Chromebooks for Columbus City Schools’ students. - learn more

City of Columbus Announces Charter Amendment Mayor Andrew J. Ginther along with Columbus City Council President Shannon G. Hardin, City Attorney Zach Klein and a host of community, business and faith leaders stood announced a charter amendment to codify a Civilian Police Review Board and an Inspector General for the Columbus Division of Police. - learn more

City Announces $15 Million Available for Human Services Providers The City of Columbus announced that $15 million CARES Act funding is available to nonprofit human services providers to ease the impact of COVID-19. - learn more

City of Columbus Announces Grants for Summer Youth Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Council President Pro Tem Elizabeth Brown announced 40 nonprofits will be recipients of $2 million in grant funds supported by the CARES Act to expand summer camps and programming options for Columbus youth. - learn more

Mayor Ginther, City Council, Community Partners Announce $500,000 for Home Repair Assistance in Linden Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Columbus City Council joined community partners to announce $500,000 to assist the Linden community with exterior home repairs as part of The 614 for Linden collaborative. - learn more

City Engages Independent Investigator, Law firm to Investigate Police Response to Protests Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced the hiring of two independent entities to handle investigations into Columbus Division of Police responses to recent protests. - learn more

City Removing Christopher Columbus Statue Today The City of Columbus is removing the Christopher Columbus statue on the Broad Street side of City Hall. - learn more

City of Columbus, COTA and MORPC Launch LinkUS Central Ohio The City of Columbus, Central Ohio Transit Authority, and Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission unveiled LinkUS, a collaborative effort with private sector and neighborhood partners that allows for mobility implementation efforts within the region to be centered under an umbrella program. - learn more

Mayor Ginther Directs Christopher Columbus Statue to be Removed Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today announced that the Christopher Columbus statue on the Broad Street side of City Hall will be removed as soon as possible and placed in storage. - learn more

Mayor Ginther, Chief Quinlan, City Attorney Klein and Council President Hardin Announce Chief’s Advisory Panel and Strict Limits on Use of Tear Gas, Pepper Spray Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, Police Chief Thomas Quinlan, City Attorney Zach Klein and City Council President Shannon Hardin announced the Chief’s Advisory Panel. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Council President Pro Tem Elizabeth Brown provide funding to expand summer programming for Columbus youth Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Council President Pro Tem Elizabeth Brown announced legislation to provide funds to expand summer camps and programming options for Columbus youth - learn more

Mayor to Issue Executive Order, Council to Pass Law Mandating Independent Investigations of Police-Involved Deaths Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced he will issue an Executive Order to require all fatal use of force cases or cases of death in police custody in Columbus to the Ohio Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). - learn more

Mayor Ginther, Council President Hardin and Councilmember Tyson Announce Funding for Human Services Programs Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, Council President Shannon G. Hardin and Councilmember Priscilla Tyson today announced upcoming legislation to provide funding for human services organizations that provide programs to increase the resiliency of Columbus residents. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Rescinds Curfew for City After consultation with Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein, Mayor Andrew J. Ginther will rescind the emergency order which established a 10 p.m. curfew. - learn more

Mayor, Police Chief Report Progress on Implementation of Safety Commission Recommendations Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and Columbus Police Chief Tom Quinlan briefed the Columbus Community Safety Advisory Commission on progress toward implementation of their recommendations delivered in January. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Implements Curfew for City to Prevent Violence After three days of escalating protests, Mayor Andrew J. Ginther signed an executive order implementing a curfew on the City of Columbus from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. - learn more

City Announces New Program to Assist Small Businesses Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, City Council President Shannon Hardin and JPMorgan Chase today announced the Columbus COVID-19 Small Business Response and Recovery Fund, a loan and grant program created to help small businesses in Columbus get through the challenges of COVID-19. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Appoints Jeffrey Happ Interim Fire Chief Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has appointed Assistant Chief Jeffrey Happ to serve as interim Chief of the Columbus Division of Fire, succeeding Chief Kevin O’Connor who will retire Thurs., May 28. - learn more

Play Safe, Live Smart: Columbus Recreation and Parks Summer Plans Columbus Recreation and Parks Department continues to place priority in keeping Columbus residents safe and healthy during the public health emergency - learn more

City Announces CARES Act Funding Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that the city of Columbus has received $157 million in federal funds from the CARES Act to provide assistance in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. - learn more

Mayor Ginther signs Executive Order allowing boards, panels and commissions to conduct virtual meetings Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today signed an Executive Order, aligned with the recently amended Ohio Revised Code, which temporarily allows the groups to convene web-based meetings. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Responds to Reopening Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther released a following statement regarding the gradual reopening of Columbus. - learn more

City of Columbus Begins Infrastructure Work on Sullivant Avenue The City of Columbus began work this week on $10 million in infrastructure improvements along the Sullivant Avenue corridor that includes roadway repairs, pedestrian safety enhancements, new traffic signals and street lighting. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Names Michael Stevens Permanent Development Director Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced Michael Stevens will serve as the permanent Director of the Columbus Department of Development. - learn more

Columbus and Partners Announced New Shelter For Homeless Population COVID-19 The City of Columbus, Community Shelter Board and YMCA of Central Ohio announced the opening of a new shelter for homeless residents who have either tested positive for COVID-19 or have been determined by a medical professional to be showing symptoms of COVID-19. - learn more

Columbus Public Health Steps-up Enforcement of Social Distancing and Hygiene for Businesses Beginning today, Columbus Public Health will step up inspections on businesses to assure they are complying with the Ohio Department of Health’s orders for social distancing and basic hygiene to slow the spread of COVID- 19. - learn more

City of Columbus to Delay April Start of Annual Street Sweeping Program The City of Columbus is delaying the April start of its annual street sweeping program at posted routes to ensure convenience and on-street parking availability for residents during the COVID-19 public health crisis. - learn more

Statement from Mayor Ginther Regarding Stay at Home Order Mayor Ginther issued a statement regarding the Stay At Home order from Governor DeWine. - learn more

Fire Chief Kevin O’Connor Announces Resignation Fire Chief Kevin O’Connor announced that he will be resigning from his position as Fire Chief from the Columbus Division of Fire effective May 28, 2020. - learn more

Second Confirmed COVID-19 Case in Columbus Suggests Community Spread Columbus Public Health announced the second confirmed COVID-19 case in Columbus this morning. - learn more

Franklin County Municipal Court Ceases Court Hearings During COVID-19 Pandemic The Franklin County Municipal Court will remain open and functioning but all scheduled court hearings with the exception of prisoner cases will be continued to a date to be determined in the near future beginning on Monday, March 16, 2020. - learn more

Columbus Firefighter Tests Positive for COVID-19 A Columbus Division of Fire firefighter/EMT tested positive for COVID-19. - learn more

Columbus Public Health Reports First Confirmed Case of COVID-19 Columbus Public Health is reporting the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Columbus. - learn more

City of Columbus Among 105 Globally To Score “A” For Leading Climate Action The City of Columbus earned an “A” for its actions to stem climate change, according an organization that works worldwide to encourage companies and governments to reduce their carbon emissions. - learn more

2020 State of the City 2020 State of the City Address - learn more

Columbus Community Safety Advisory Commission Releases Report The Columbus Community Safety Advisory Commission released its report to Mayor Andrew J. Ginther at Beatty Community Center in the Near East Side. - learn more

Dr. Beverly Stallings-Johnson hired as Chief Diversity Officer Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that Dr. Beverly Stallings-Johnson will serve as Chief Diversity Officer for the City of Columbus. - learn more

City, County Exploring Location for New Municipal Court Building The City of Columbus and the Franklin County Board of Commissioners announced they are exploring the feasibility of constructing a new municipal courthouse at the southeast corner of South High Street and East Mound Street, between Mound and East Fulton Street - learn more

Former Ohio State Chief of Police Hired as Deputy Director in Columbus Department of Public Safety The Columbus Department of Public Safety announced that Craig Stone, former Chief of Police at The Ohio State University, and retired Columbus Division of Police lieutenant, has been hired as Deputy Public Safety Director. - learn more

EDGE Program to Help Overcome Barriers to Job Readiness The City of Columbus, in coordination with Alvis and Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio, launched the EDGE Program. - learn more

Mayor Ginther and First Lady Shannon Ginther Announce New Columbus Women’s Commission Members Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and First Lady Shannon Ginther announced nine new Commissioners on the Columbus Women’s Commission. - learn more

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther Sworn In for Second Term Mayor Andrew J. Ginther was sworn in for his second term as mayor of the City of Columbus in a private ceremony at City Hall on December 17, 2019. - learn more