Council Amendments Create Opportunity for Safety, Housing and Workforce Development in 2023 Operating Budget
For Immediate Release
February 6, 2023
More than $23 Million in Amendments Focuses on Strengthening Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods, Affordable and Quality Housing, and Investing in Workforce Development
[COLUMBUS-OH] Today, Councilmembers outlined their priorities for the 2023 Operating Budget. Members presented more than $23 million in budget amendments focusing on strengthening safe and healthy neighborhoods, access to affordable and quality housing, and workforce development. The budget reflects the voice of Columbus residents, shared priorities and serves as an expression of our shared values.
“Council’s 2023 budget amendments highlight what we’ve heard from residents: the need for good jobs and training, safe and healthy neighborhoods, and affordable housing for all,” said Council President Shannon G. Hardin. “After passage on the 13th, Council and the administration will work to advance this budget to provide high-quality services that Columbus residents deserve.”
In addition to amendments outlined, the operating budget will include an addition of $1 million to the Rainy Day Fund, $2.5 million to the neighborhood safety grant fund, and provide an additional $1.5 million for summer youth programs.
The amendments allow Council to work with the administration to deliver high-quality neighborhood services and provide bold strategic investments to improve the quality of life for every resident. The 2023 general fund Operating Budget is more than $1 billion.
As Council begins to work on continuing priorities in 2023, here are some of the highlights discussed this morning:
- President Shannon G. Hardin: Investing in The Columbus Promise to allow new Columbus City School graduates to obtain a degree or credential from Columbus State Community College for free.
- President Pro Tem Rob Dorans: Provide funding for initiatives that expand workforce development and training opportunities that stabilize families and provide jobs.
- Councilmember Emmanuel V. Remy: Support environmental programs that directly impact neighborhoods through the Cleaner Columbus initiative. Investment in public safety programs including those that focus on violence prevention efforts like block watch assistance.
- Councilmember Shayla Favor: Expanding new Housing for All legislation that aims to add tenant protections for low-income residents struggling to secure safe sanitary housing
- Councilmember Mitchell Brown: Provide funding for Recreation and Parks to increase pay for lifeguards and provide more security at recreation centers and parks. Extend childcare grants to sustain a summer session for the Early Start Program.
- Councilmember Nicholas Bankston: Provide funding for small and minority business support services that facilitate growth, sustainability and success. Direct funding towards prenatal and postnatal support for Black mothers and family assistance.
- Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla: Develop and fund programs that invest in our neighborhoods and people including women, people of color, older residents and veterans.
At the February 6, 2023 meeting, Council will amend and table the budget, with its final vote slated to occur on February 13, 2023. Once adopted, the budget ordinances will be sent to the Mayor for signature.
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