Council Sets 2020 Operating Budget Principles and Priorities
Council
priorities include strong neighborhoods, good-paying jobs, pathways out of
poverty and effective governing
[COLUMBUS] Columbus City Council will begin reviewing Mayor
Andrew Ginther’s proposed 2020 operating budget through a series of public
hearings starting this week. The first hearing will be held in Council Chambers
at 2pm on Wednesday, November 20, 2019, and will provide a broad overview of
the budget by City departments.
Committee chairs will then review each City department budget in
greater detail in a series of additional hearings taking place through
mid-December. The full schedule of hearings has been published in the City
Journal and distributed by Council.
"Our budget must support the success of every resident and
family in Columbus," said Council President Pro Tem Elizabeth Brown.
“That means aligning our spending priorities with the everyday priorities of
our residents to access good jobs, live in safe and strong neighborhoods, and
be served by a responsive city government.”
In preparation for its review of the 2020 operating budget, Pro
Tem and Finance Chair Brown and Council President Shannon G. Hardin
met with all members of Council to establish its collective priorities as a
body.
“We are proud of the successes we saw in 2019 and will build on
those successes as a team in 2020,” said President Hardin. “We have
organized our work around themes to uplift residents.”
Council priorities are:
Strong Neighborhoods
We will build safe, thriving, healthy, connected neighborhoods
for all residents. We will support initiatives that promote the values of a
welcoming city. We will be responsive to the input of our neighborhood and
community partners.
Good-Paying Jobs
We will ensure that the city maintains a prepared workforce, one
that is well-positioned to build on the investments made today. We will advance
measured economic development policies and provide opportunities for residents
to enhance their skills for the future of employment in Columbus.
Pathways Out of Poverty
We will support a justice system that provides equitable and
fair access for all, and one that provides opportunities for restoration. We
will enact policies that support and promote economic stability. We will work
collaboratively with community partners in the human services sector to meet
the growing needs of residents.
Governing Efficiently and
Effectively
We will strive to lead a capable and agile government that is
responsive to constituent demands. We will ensure that the government can
respond with the resources needed today and for the evolving needs of our
growing city.
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