REGULAR MEETING NO.7 OF COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL, FEBRUARY 23, 2026 AT 5:00 P.M. IN COUNCIL CHAMBERS.
ROLL CALL
READING AND DISPOSAL OF THE JOURNAL
ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE JOURNAL
COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS RECEIVED BY CITY CLERK'S OFFICE
THE FOLLOWING COMMUNICATIONS WERE RECEIVED BY THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE AS OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026
New Type: D-5A
To: Crescent Hotels & Resorts LLC
Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel
50 N 3rd St
Columbus, OH 43215
Permit #: 10011998-1
New Type: D-1
To: CASSAVA GRILL N MORE LLC
CASSAVA GRILL N MORE LLC
2455 Sullivant Ave
Columbus, OH 43204
Permit #: 10013146-1
New Type: D-1
To: ENCHANTEA LLC
809-811 Bethel Road
Columbus, OH 43214
Permit #: 100116003-1
Advertise Date: 2/28/2026
Agenda Date: 2/23/2026
Return Date: 3/5/2026
RESOLUTIONS OF EXPRESSION
BANKSTON
To Recognize the Merry Makers Club, Inc. on its Centennial Anniversary
BARROSO DE PADILLA
To urge all federal agencies and their employees, officers, and agents to follow standards of conduct substantially similar with those recommended by the City of Columbus Commission on Immigrant & Refugee Affairs when engaging in civil immigration enforcement activities with all residents of the City of Columbus
ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA
FIRST READING OF 30-DAY LEGISLATION
FINANCE & GOVERNANCE: BANKSTON, CHR. DORANS, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Department of Technology to enter contract with Vertiv Corporation for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning, and uninterrupted power supply maintenance and repair services with the option to renew for four additional one-year terms or portion thereof; to authorize the waiver of the competitive bidding provisions of Columbus City Codes; and to authorize the expenditure of $298,442.33. ($298,442.33)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Technology to renew a contract with Accela, Inc. from a State of Ohio Master Cloud Service Agreement for software licensing, maintenance, support, and professional services with the option to renew for three additional one-year terms; to waive the competitive bidding provisions of Chapter 329 of the Columbus City Codes; to extend an existing purchase order issued for the Accela migration project, and to authorize an expenditure from the Department of Technology, Information Services Operating Fund. ($1,312,970.55)
To authorize the appropriation of $52,402.08 within the CDBG Entitlement Fund and $10,555.33 within the CDBG Revolving Loan Fund; and to authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to expend $52,402.08 from the CDBG Fund and $10,555.33 from the RLF Fund for payment of interest earnings to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. ($62,957.41)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management, on behalf of the Department of Technology, to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Purchase Agreement (CDW Government, LLC) for the procurement of Cisco Voice licensing and WebEx subscriptions; and to authorize the expenditure of $499,262.16. ($499,262.16)
To authorize the payment of $7,622.75 for PTO and benefits which have accumulated in excess of the maximum amount established by salary ordinance for MCP employees. ($7,622.75)
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & SMALL AND MINORITY BUSINESS: BANKSTON, CHR. BARROSO DE PADILLA, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Department of Development, with the approval of the Directors of the Department of Public Utilities and Recreation and Parks Department, to execute all documents as approved by the Columbus City Attorney, to engage in an exchange of 0.044 acres of property with Douglas Hinton, trustee of the Douglas P. Hinton 2/16/16 amended and restated revocable trust. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of Development to refund the Reeb Avenue Center in the amount of $5,494.92; and to authorize the appropriation and expenditure of $5,494.92 from the Property Management Fund. ($5,494.92)
To transfer, appropriate, and authorize the expenditure of service payments in lieu of taxes deposited into the Milo-Grogan TIF Fund to Coulter Properties, LLC; to authorize the Director of the Department of Development, on behalf of the City, to enter into the TIF Agreement with Coulter Properties, LLC for up to eighty-one thousand four-hundred twenty-one dollars and eighty-three cents ($81,421.83) to reimburse them for soft costs and construction costs, including demolition, for public infrastructure improvements adjacent to the Rogue Fitness expansion; and to allow for the reimbursement of expenditures incurred prior to the Purchase Order, starting January 1, 2026. ($81,421.83)
PUBLIC SERVICE & TRANSPORTATION: BARROSO DE PADILLA, CHR. DAY-ACHAUER, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To rename the roadway currently known Washington Boulevard to Granville T Woods Boulevard. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Service to execute those documents necessary for the transfer of a 0.127 acre portion of the right-of-way near 175 Cleveland Avenue to Columbus State Community College. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Service to execute those documents necessary for the transfer of a 0.240 acre portion of right-of-way near Oxford Street to 1400 Grogan Avenue, LLC, Rock Property Rentals, LLC, and Gateway 2000 Rentals, LLC - all controlled by Mickael Stickney. ($16,720.00)
NEIGHBORHOODS, RECREATION, & PARKS: DAY-ACHAUER, CHR. WYCHE, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize and direct the City Auditor to establish an auditor’s certificate in the amount of $50,000.00 for various expenditures for labor, materials, and equipment in conjunction with greenways trail system improvements within the Recreation and Parks Department; to authorize the transfer of $75,807.23 within the Recreation and Parks Voted Bond Fund; to authorize the amendment of the 2025 Capital Improvements Budget; and to authorize the expenditure of $50,000.00 from the Recreation and Parks Voted Bond Fund. ($50,000.00)
To authorize and direct the City Auditor to establish an auditor’s certificate in the amount of $100,000.00 for various expenditures for labor, materials, and equipment in conjunction with facilities, parks, and amenities improvements within the Recreation and Parks Department; and to authorize the expenditure of $100,000.00 from the Recreation and Parks Permanent Improvement Fund. ($100,000.00)
To authorize and direct the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into contract with Wright’s Concessions, LLC, for food concessions/catering at Lou Berliner Sports Park. ($0.00)
HEALTH, HUMAN SERVICES, & EQUITY: GREEN, CHR. BARROSO DE PADILLA, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of Finance and Management to establish purchase orders with Sanofi-Pasteur, Inc., Pfizer, Inc., and Moderna US., Inc., for the purchase of vaccinations for Board of Health; to waive the competitive bidding provisions of City Code; and to authorize the expenditure of $200,000.00 from the Health Special Revenue Fund. ($200,000.00)
PUBLIC SAFETY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE: REMY, CHR. ROSS, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize and direct the Finance and Management Director to sell to Officer Brian Newsome, for the sum of $1.00, a police horse with the registered name of “Owen” which has no further value to the Division of Police and to waive the provisions of City Code-Sale of City-owned personal property. ($0.00)
To authorize and direct the Administrative and Presiding Judge of the Franklin County Municipal Court to enter into the fourth year of a four-year contract with Avertest DBA Averhealth for monitoring services associated with the SCRAM; to authorize the expenditure of up to $225,000.00 for monitoring services from the electronic alcohol monitoring fund. ($225,000.00)
To authorize and direct the Finance and Management Director to sell to Firefighter Jacob Castle, for the sum of $1.00, a Bomb Squad canine with the registered name "Angus", which has no further value to the Division of Fire; and to waive the provisions of the Columbus City Codes, Sale of City-Owned Personal Property. ($1.00)
HOUSING, HOMELESSNESS, & BUILDING: ROSS, CHR. HARDIN, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the City Auditor to transfer funds within the Affordable Housing Bond Fund; to authorize the Director of Development to enter into a grant agreement with Healthy Linden Homes VII LLC for development of a 23-unit affordable housing development in an amount up to $2,500,000.00 with a total commitment to the project of $5,000,000.00; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $2,500,000.00 from the Affordable Housing Bond Fund. ($2,500,000.00)
To accept the application (AN25-020) of Anderson Farms, Ltd. for the annexation of certain territory containing 150.5± acres in Norwich Township. ($0.00)
PUBLIC UTILITIES & SUSTAINABILITY: WYCHE, CHR. REMY, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a contract modification with Stantec Consulting Services Inc., for the Construction Administration/Construction Inspection Services 2023-2025 contract; to appropriate funds within the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund and the Water - Water Fresh Market Rate Fund; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving both loans for this project; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $1,204,509.90 from the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund and the Water - Water Fresh Market Rate Fund to pay for the project. ($1,204,509.90)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate current and pending Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreements for the purchase of distribution switchgear, reclosers and transformers for the Department of Public Utilities; and to authorize the expenditure of $7,000,000.00 from the Electricity Operating Fund. ($7,000,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to modify and increase the contract for Joint Use of Poles with Ohio Power Company, dba American Electric Power, for the Division of Power; and to authorize the expenditure of $123,135.00 from the Electricity Operating Fund. ($123,135.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a not for profit services contract for water quality assessment and watershed monitoring services for Central Ohio watersheds with the Midwest Biodiversity Institute, Inc.; and to authorize the expenditure of $82,500.00 from the Sewer Operating Sanitary Fund. ($82,500.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to modify the existing Indefinite Quantity Agreement with Burgess & Niple, Inc. for assistance in performing in confined space entries to install or replace sensors, calibrate sensors, and perform maintenance services; and to authorize the expenditure of $60,000.00 from the Sanitary Sewer Operating Fund. ($60,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to modify and increase the contract with Ascension Construction Solutions, LLC., for the Waste Water Treatment Facilities Professional Construction Management Services project; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving a loan for this project; to appropriate funds within the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund; and to authorize an expenditure of up to $1,429,878.03 from the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund to pay for the project. ($1,429,878.03)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to renew the contract with New River Electrical Corporation for Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Electric Transmission, Distribution & Street Lighting Systems; and to authorize the expenditure of $2,100,000.00 from the Electricity Operating Fund. ($2,100,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a construction contract with Claypool Electric, Inc., for the Southerly Waste Water Treatment Plant (SWWTP) Power System Upgrades and Safety Improvements project; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving a loan for this project; to amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to appropriate funds within the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund; to transfer cash and appropriation between projects within the Sanitary Bond Fund; and to authorize an expenditure of up to $16,420,654.00 from the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund and the Sanitary Bond Fund to pay for the project. ($16,420,654.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreements for the purchase of lawn mowing services for the Department of Public Utilities; and to authorize the expenditure of $152,000.00 from the Water Operating Fund. ($152,000.00)
To authorize the director of the Department of Public Utilities to execute those document(s) necessary to release a portion of the City’s sanitary easement rights described and recorded in Official Record 10635E03, Recorder’s Office, Franklin County, Ohio. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to apply for, accept, and enter into loan agreements with the Ohio Water Development Authority for capital improvement projects; and to designate a dedicated source of repayment for the loans. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to modify the contract with Invizions, Inc. for Electrical Substation and Electrical Maintenance Services; and to authorize the expenditure of $700,000.00 from within the Electricity Operating Fund. ($700,000.00)
To authorize the Finance and Management Director to enter into Universal Term Contracts for the option to purchase Conductor Wire and Cable with American Wire Group LLC and Consolidated Electrical Distributors Inc.; and to authorize the expenditure of $2.00. ($2.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a grant agreement for mural painting and project coordination services on pump stations along the Olentangy River as set forth in the Scope of Services with Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed for the Divisions of Water Reclamation; and to authorize the expenditure of $50,300.00 from the Sewerage and Drainage Operating Fund. ($50,300.00)
ZONING: DORANS, CHR. HARDIN, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
REZONINGS/AMENDMENTS
To rezone 2219 HOLT RD. (43123), being 20.02± acres located on the west side of Holt Road, at the terminus of Knoll Crest Drive, From: R, Rural District, To: L-AR-1, Limited Apartment Residential District (Rezoning #Z25-031).
VARIANCES
To grant a Variance from the provisions of Sections 3349.03, Permitted uses; and 3312.49(C), Required parking, of the Columbus City Codes; for the property located at 100 NOE-BIXBY RD. (43213), to allow a shared living facility with reduced parking in the I, Institutional District, and to repeal Ordinance #1282-01 (CV01-042), passed September 24, 2001 (Council Variance #CV25-129).
To grant a Variance from the provisions of Sections 3332.02, R, rural district; 3332.06, R-rural area district requirements; and 3332.28, Obstructions in a required side yard, of the Columbus City Codes; for the property located at 4901 & 4925 POSTLEWAITE RD. (43235), to allow a natural gas regulation station with reduced development standards in the R, Rural District (Council Variance #CV25-107).
CONSENT ACTIONS
RESOLUTIONS OF EXPRESSION:
BARROSO DE PADILLA
To Recognize and Honor the Life of Mary M. Bracy
To recognize Brandan Hayes as the recipient of the Patrick L. Eiden, P.E., Outstanding Young Engineer Award.
REMY
To Recognize Fire Chief Jeffrey Happ in Honor of his 32 years of Distinguished Service with the Columbus Division of Fire
WYCHE
To celebrate Per Scholas Columbus’ 100th cohort graduation and recognize their positive impact in the Columbus community.
To recognize Nicolas Domenick as the recipient of the William A. Lewis, P.E., Engineer of the Year Award.
HARDIN
To honor, recognize, and celebrate the life of Hugh J. Dorrian, 1935 - 2026
To Recognize and Congratulate Pastor Fredrick LaMarr on his 29th Pastoral Anniversary
To Recognize and Congratulate Dr. Hezekiah J. Martin for his 20th Pastoral Anniversary
To Recognize and Congratulate Dr. Howard T. Washington and Reverend Floria Washington for their 20th Pastoral Anniversary
FINANCE & GOVERNANCE: BANKSTON, CHR. DORANS, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Department of Technology to renew the contract with Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. for an enterprise license agreement for software licensing, maintenance and support for the City’s geographic information systems; to authorize the expenditure of $575,000.00 from the Department of Technology, Information Services Division, Information Services Operating Fund. ($575,000.00)
To authorize the appropriation of $312,509.72 from the unappropriated balance of the Columbus City Schools, Telephone Services subfund, to the Department of Technology, Information Services Division, Information Services Operating fund, Telephone Services subfund to provide funds for the City of Columbus, Columbus City Schools Voice-over-Internet Protocol telephone project. ($312,509.72)
To authorize the City Auditor to renew a service contract with Mid-West Presort Mailing Services to provide printing and mailing services for the Division of Income Tax; to authorize the expenditure of $350,000.00 from the General Fund. ($350,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management, on behalf of the Office of Construction Management, to enter into a construction contract with Good Home Maintenance, Inc. for the East Central Health Restroom Renovations project; in an amount up to $474,480.00; to authorize an appropriation of $457,919.43, a transfer of $457,919.43, and an expenditure up to $476,480.00 within the Neighborhood Health Center Capital Reserve Fund; to provide for payment of prevailing wage services to the Department of Public Service; and to amend the 2025 Capital Improvements Budget. ($476,480.00)
To authorize the Finance and Management Director to enter into a Universal Term Contract for the option to purchase Pro-Patch OEM Parts with H.D. Industries, Inc. in accordance with the sole source provisions of the Columbus City Code; and to authorize the expenditure of $1.00. ($1.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management, on behalf of the Department of Technology, to associate all general budget reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate purchase agreements for AT&T data, long distance, and related services; and to authorize the expenditure of $593,350.00 from the Department of Technology, Information Services Operating Fund. ($593,350.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to establish contracts and purchase orders for the payment of annual membership dues and subscriptions for various organizations; and to authorize the expenditure of $150,000.00 from the General Fund. ($150,000.00)
To authorize the Finance and Management Director, on behalf of the Facilities Management Division, to enter into a contract with The Waterworks, LLC. for Police Substation 13 plumbing replacement; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize a transfer and expenditure up to $93,415.00 within the Construction Management Capital Improvement Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($93,415.00)
To authorize the Finance and Management Director to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreement for the purchase of general contracting for service, repairs, and renovations, with Marker, Inc. dba Marker Construction, Old Fashioned LLC, The Righter Co., Inc. and 2K General Co.; to authorize the appropriation and transfer of $1,000,000.00 within the General Permanent Improvement Fund; to authorize the expenditure of $224,000.00 from the General Permanent Improvement Fund; to authorize the transfer of $500,000.00 within the Construction Management Capital Fund; to authorize the expenditure of $500,000.00 from the Construction Management Capital Fund; to amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; and to declare an emergency. ($724,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Technology to enter into a contract with Topcon Solutions Inc for the purchase of Autodesk Software Suite Licensing and Support services, and to authorize the expenditure of $168,892.00 from the Department of Technology, Information Services Operating fund; and to declare an emergency. ($168,892.00)
To authorize the Director of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreement and to establish related purchase orders for oil and greases for the Fleet Management Division; to authorize the expenditure of $360,000.00 from the Fleet Management Operating Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($360,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreement and to establish related purchase orders for tires and retreading services for the Fleet Management Division, to authorize the expenditure of $700,000.00 from the Fleet Management Operating Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($700,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreement and to establish related purchase orders for automotive preventative maintenance services on behalf of the Fleet Management Division; to authorize the expenditure of $300,000.00 from the Fleet Management Operating Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($300,000.00)
To authorize the Finance and Management Director, on behalf of the Fleet Management Division, to modify a contract with Ricart Properties, Inc. for vehicle alignments and Ford OEM repairs; to authorize the expenditure of an additional $95,000.00 from the Fleet Management Operating Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($95,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management, on behalf of the Fleet Management Division, to enter into contract with Net Auto Glass LLC for auto glass repair & replacement services for $140,000.00; to authorize the expenditure of $140,000.00 from the Fleet Management Operating Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($140,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Technology to enter into contract with Kambrian Corporation for the purchase of Cloudflare Domain Services, and to authorize the expenditure of $60,113.61 from the Department of Technology, Information Services Operating fund; and to declare an emergency. ($60,113.61)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management, on behalf of Facilities Management Division, to enter into a contract with Carmen’s Distribution System, Inc. for the purchase of three (3) riding floor scrubbers at the Facilities Management facilities; to authorize the transfer, and expenditure of $24,075.00 from the General Permanent Improvement Fund; to amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; and to declare an emergency. ($24,075.00)
To authorize the Finance and Management Director to enter into a contract for the option to purchase Trees and Nursery Stock with Schichtels Nursery, Inc.; to authorize the expenditure of $1.00; and to declare an emergency. ($1.00)
To authorize the City Clerk to enter into a service agreement with the Participatory Budgeting Project in support of the capital budget participatory budgeting initiative; to authorize an appropriation and expenditure within the Neighborhood Initiatives subfund; and to declare an emergency. ($215,700.00)
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & SMALL AND MINORITY BUSINESS: BANKSTON, CHR. BARROSO DE PADILLA, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of Development to enter into a grant agreement with The Columbus Historical Society to build out a new location for service provision and organizational operations; to authorize the expenditure of $750,000.00 from the Development Taxable Bond Fund; to authorize expenses incurred prior to purchase order execution, beginning August 1, 2025; to authorize the advancement of funds on a predetermined schedule provided in the terms of the agreement; and to declare an emergency. ($750,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Development to enter into a not-for-profit service contract with the Community Capital Development Corporation for loan servicing, to authorize payments for services starting January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026; to authorize the expenditure of up to $7,200.00 from the 2026 General Fund Budget, contingent on the passage of the 2026 Operating Budget, Ordinance No. 2938-2025; and to declare an emergency. ($7,200.00)
To authorize an expenditure of an amount not to exceed $150,000.00; to authorize the Auditor’s Office to make quarterly payments in an amount equal to the percentages set forth in the Annexation Agreement with the Board of Trustees of Franklin Township authorized by Ordinance Number 2529-2013 and approved by City Council on November 4, 2013, contingent on the passage of the 2026 Operating Budget, Ordinance No. 2938-2025; and to declare an emergency. ($150,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Development, or an authorized signatory, to execute documents approved by the Columbus City Attorney, Real Estate Division, to grant perpetual Highway Easements to the State of Ohio, Department of Transportation on a portion of the City owned property; and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of Development, or authorized signatory, to execute a Fourth Amendment to Agreement for Lease of Real Property for Agricultural Purposes with JRS Writsel Farms, GP to increase the acreage of land leased for farming purposes at the Southerly Wastewater Treatment Plant, and to declare an emergency. ($0.00) (Amended by ord. 0879-2026 passed on 3/30/2026 -LG)
PUBLIC SERVICE & TRANSPORTATION: BARROSO DE PADILLA, CHR. DAY-ACHAUER, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Service to execute those documents necessary for the City to grant encroachment to legally allow a 6-foot chain-link fence, bleachers, and shed for the athletic complex along the south side of Fairview Avenue to remain and be installed within the public rights-of-way. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Service to execute those documents necessary to release two easements in the Helen Development Subdivision No. 1. ($0.00)
To amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the City Auditor to transfer funds between projects within the Streets and Highways Bond Fund; to authorize the City Attorney's Office, Real Estate Division, to contract for professional services relative to the acquisition of fee simple title and lesser interests in and to property needed for the UIRF - Eakin Road SUP project; to authorize the City Attorney's Office, Real Estate Division, to negotiate with property owners to acquire the additional rights of way necessary to complete this project; to authorize the expenditure of $800,000.00 from the Streets and Highways Bond Fund to pay for the project; to authorize the Director of Public Service to an agreement and any amendments or modifications thereto as may be necessary, with IORY, LLC owned by Watco Companies LLC to facilitate the construction of the project; and to declare an emergency. ($800,000.00)
To amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the Director of Public Service to enter into agreements with and to provide funding to the Ohio Department of Transportation in support of improvements to Easton Way; to authorize the expenditure of up to $107,680.00 from the Streets and Highways Bond Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($107,680.00)
To amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the transfer of cash and appropriation within the Streets and Highways Bond Fund; to authorize the Director of Public Service to pay the Ohio Department of Transportation to facilitate improvements to Hall Road; to authorize the expenditure of up to $38,888.80 from the Streets and Highways Bond Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($38,888.80)
To authorize the Director of Public Service to grant consent and propose cooperation with the Director of the Ohio Department of Transportation to facilitate proposed improvements to various bridges within the City of Columbus; and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
NEIGHBORHOODS, RECREATION, & PARKS: DAY-ACHAUER, CHR. WYCHE, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into contract with Designing Local LTD for the Sullivant Gardens Park Improvements Project; to appropriation of $86.36 within the Recreation and Parks Permanent Improvement Fund; to authorize the transfer of $11,952.00 within the Recreation and Parks Voted Bond Fund and Permanent Improvement Fund; to authorize the amendment of the 2025 Capital Improvements Budget; to authorize the expenditure of $99,000.00 from the Recreation and Parks Voted Bond Fund and Parks Permanent Improvement Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($99,000.00)
To authorize and direct the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into contract with G&J Pepsi, for nonalcoholic beverage rights. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into contract with HNTB Ohio, Inc. for the Big Walnut Trail - Cherrybottom Park to Morse Road - Preliminary Engineering Project; to authorize the transfer of $725,669.00 within the Recreation and Parks Voted Bond Fund; to authorize the amendment of the 2025 Capital Improvements Budget; to authorize the expenditure of $725,669.00 from the Recreation and Parks Voted Bond Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($725,669.00)
To authorize the Director of Recreation and Parks to enter into a grant agreement with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for the Joan Park Improvements Project and accept a grant in the amount of $150,000.00; to authorize the appropriation of $150,000.00 in the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($150,000.00)
WORKFORCE, EDUCATION, & LABOR: DORANS, CHR. GREEN, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To amend Ordinances 2571-2025 and 3350-2025 to authorize the Executive Director of the Civil Service Commission to enter into an advance payment grant agreement with Aspyr, a not-for-profit organization which authorization was inadvertently omitted when the legislation was passed, and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
HEALTH, HUMAN SERVICES, & EQUITY: GREEN, CHR. BARROSO DE PADILLA, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Board of Health to enter into a contract with OSS Ohio Holdings, LLC. for security officer services; to authorize a total expenditure of $612,699.09 from the Health Special Revenue Fund and the Health Department Grants Fund for said contract; and to declare an emergency. ($612,699.09)
To authorize and direct the Board of Health to modify an existing service contract with Phreesia, Inc., for custom API services; and to authorize the expenditure of $24,683.33 from the Health Department Special Purpose Fund for said contract. ($24,683.33)
To authorize the Board of Health to renew contracts with Access 2 Interpreters LLC, Effectiff LLC, and Sign Language USA Inc to provide language services; to authorize the Board of Health to modify those contracts and to freely allocate the requested funds amongst the contracts without the need for additional legislation; to authorize an expenditure from the Health Special Revenue Fund to pay the costs thereof, and to declare an emergency. ($470,400.00)
To authorize the expenditure of $20,000.00 from the Health Special Revenue Fund to pay The Columbus Foundation, Foundation for Columbus Public Health, for the management of the 2026 Community Gardening Projects, and to declare an emergency. ($20,000.00)
To authorize the Board of Health to modify an existing not-for-profit contract with Mental Health America of Ohio to provide fiscal agent services to Columbus Public Health’s One Block at a Time (OBAT) program by extending the contract period by one-year, for a new contract end date of March 31, 2027; and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
PUBLIC SAFETY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE: REMY, CHR. ROSS, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Safety, on behalf of the Division of Support Services, to enter into contract with Sound Communications, Inc. for annual preventative maintenance and support for the audio digital communications recording system for the Police and Fire Communications System, in accordance with the sole source provisions of the Columbus City Codes; to authorize the expenditure of $117,149.50 from the General Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($117,149.50)
To authorize the Director of Public Safety to modify the contract and fund Year 2 of a 5 Year maintenance agreement with Association of Public-Safety-Communications of Officials-International, INC. for the emergency maintenance and support of IntelliComm dispatch call processing software; to authorize the expenditure of $72,243.90 from the General Fund for year two of a five year maintenance agreement; to authorize the contract as renewable; and to declare an emergency. ($72,243.90)
To authorize the Administrative and Presiding Judge of the Franklin County Municipal Court to modify a contract with Microgenics Corporation, DBA Thermo Fisher Scientific, for the rental of a chemistry analyzer; to authorize the extended time frame from March 31, 2026 to March 31, 2027; and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
HOUSING, HOMELESSNESS, & BUILDING: ROSS, CHR. HARDIN, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To amend Ordinance No. 0720-2023, passed by Columbus City Council on March 13, 2023 and Ordinance No. 0024-2024, passed by Columbus City Council on January 22, 2024 to increase the maximum amount of assistance to individual homebuyers participating in the Department of Development’s American Dream Downpayment Assistance (ADDI) program; and to approve agreements previously executed, starting March 1, 2024, at the increased assistance amount. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Development to enter into and accept an amended grant agreement from the Ohio Department of Development to utilize the reduced funding from the original grant agreement; to extend the term date of the grant from April 30, 2026 to August 31, 2026; and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Development to modify and reduce four contract amounts with Black Bronco Constructions LLC, Coliseum Home Improvements LLC, MacRester Zacarias, DBA Kairos Construction Group LLC, and Reliable Home Improvements of Ohio, Inc., extend the contract term dates through the period of performance from February 28, 2026 to June 30, 2026; and declare an emergency. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Development to enter into a contract in an amount up to $200,000.00 with Evolved Plumbing and Mechanical, LLC, to provide residential emergency heating, plumbing, water and sewer, and electrical services as part of the Division of Housing’s Emergency Repair program; to amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the City Auditor to transfer funds within the Affordable Housing Bond Fund; to authorize the expenditure of up to $200,000.00 from the Affordable Housing Bond Fund; to authorize expenditures prior to execution of the Purchase Order starting March 1, 2026; and to declare an emergency. ($200,000.00)
PUBLIC UTILITIES & SUSTAINABILITY: WYCHE, CHR. REMY, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreements for the purchase of wood chips for the Department of Public Utilities; and to authorize the expenditure of $175,000.00 from within the Sanitary Sewer Operating Fund. ($175,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a construction contract with Harold J. Becker Company for the 910 Dublin Road Garage Roof project; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the transfer of funds and appropriation between projects in the Water Bond Fund; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $568,605.00 for the project. ($568,605.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to renew an existing contract with i3 Milestone, LLC. by increasing funding for the Customer Self-Service Portal Solution and Implementation services; and to authorize the expenditure of $295,537.00 split between the Electricity, Water, Sanitary Sewer, and Stormwater Operating Funds. ($295,537.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a professional services contract modification with HDR Engineering, Inc. for the Kreiger Court Stormwater Improvements project; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the transfer of cash and appropriation within the Strom Sewer Bond Fund; and to authorize an expenditure of up to $61,432.44 from the Strom Sewer Bond Fund for the contract. ($61,432.44)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a contract modification with Prime Construction Management & Survey, Inc. for the Construction Administration/Construction Inspection Services 2023-2025 contract; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to appropriate funds within the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Fund; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving a loan for this project; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $907,661.04 from the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Fund to pay for the project. ($907,661.04)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a contract with Berens Tree & Excavating LLC. for Yard Waste and Log Grinding Services; and to authorize the expenditure of $350,000.00 from the Sewer Operating Fund. ($350,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into agreements with and accept contributions and/or reimbursements from Franklin County relative to the Maize/Cooke Road HSTS Elimination project; and to, as necessary, provide a refund to Franklin County. ($0.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a grant agreement with Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission for the 2026-2027 Water Resources Program project; and to authorize the expenditure of $60,000.00 split between the Electricity, Water, Sanitary Sewer, and Stormwater Operating Funds. ($60,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreements to provide services to identify, clean-up, and dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste for the Division of Power; and to authorize the expenditure of $115,000.00 from the Electricity Operating Fund. ($115,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a contract with Northeast-Western Energy Systems USA LLC for a service, maintenance and support contract for the Division of Sewerage and Drainage under the City’s sole source procurement provision; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $522,400.00 from the Sewerage and Drainage Operating Fund. ($522,400.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a contract for Construction Administration and Inspection Services with DLZ Ohio, Inc.; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize a transfer of cash and appropriation between projects within the Water Bond Fund; to authorize an expenditure of up to $100,000.00 from the Water Bond Fund for the contract; and to declare an emergency. ($100,000.00)
RULES & POLICY: HARDIN, CHR. DORANS, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
APPOINTMENTS
Reappointment of Larry Price, 1620 E. Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203, to serve on the Civil Service Commission with a term expiration date of January 31, 2032. (resume attached)
Appointment of Jason Hall, President and CEO, The Columbus Partnership, 150 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43215, to serve on the Columbus Regional Airport Authority Board of Directors, replacing Kenny McDonald, with a term expiration date of December 31, 2027 (profile attached).
EMERGENCY, POSTPONED AND 2ND READING OF 30-DAY LEGISLATION
FINANCE & GOVERNANCE: BANKSTON, CHR. DORANS, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all general budget reservations resulting from this ordinance with previously established Universal Term Contracts with Benchmark Biodiesel, Inc., and Colonial Oil Industries, Inc. and to establish various purchase orders for fuel on behalf of the Fleet Management Division, per the terms and conditions of previously established Universal Term Contracts; to authorize the expenditure of $2,500,000.00 from the Fleet Management Operating Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($2,500,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to enter into contract with the Greater Columbus Arts Council, Inc. for the purpose of fostering and sustaining arts and cultural services that enrich the Columbus community; to authorize the expenditure of $10,048,000.00 from the Hotel/Motel Excise Tax Fund in accordance with Columbus City Codes; and to declare an emergency. ($10,048,000.00)
To waive certain competitive bidding provisions of the Columbus City Codes Sections 329.18(a)(5) and 329.18(b)(5), which require, in part, bids to be opened at the time designated in the invitation for bids, to allow for a delay or cancellation in the opening of bids which are the subject of a time zone display issue affecting the Microsoft platform and the City’s D365 system for certain vendors; and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & SMALL AND MINORITY BUSINESS: BANKSTON, CHR. BARROSO DE PADILLA, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of Development to execute those documents necessary to acquire fee simple title and lesser interests to real property identified as Franklin County Tax Parcel No. 010-052390 located at 84-92 North Front Street from Southeast, Inc.; to authorize the transfer of cash and appropriation within the Harrison West Recreation Park Fund; to authorize the expenditure of up to $1,430,000.00 from the Harrison West Recreation Park Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($1,430,000.00)
PUBLIC SERVICE & TRANSPORTATION: BARROSO DE PADILLA, CHR. DAY-ACHAUER, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of Finance and Management to enter into contract with BEC Enterprises LLC to purchase equipment to clear and maintain restricted bike paths; to authorize the waiver of the competitive bidding provisions of Columbus City Code; to authorize the expenditure of up to $237,516.58 from the Streets & Highways Bond Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($237,516.58)
PUBLIC SAFETY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE: REMY, CHR. ROSS, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize and direct the Public Safety Director to enter into contract with LeadsOnline Parent LLC dba LeadsOnline, LLC for access to the company's Power Plus Investigation System; to waive the competitive bidding requirements of City Code; to authorize the expenditure of $161,296.00 from the General Fund contingent on the passage of the 2026 General Fund Budget. ($161,296.00)
HOUSING, HOMELESSNESS, & BUILDING: ROSS, CHR. HARDIN, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To amend Ordinance No. 3087-2025, passed by Columbus City Council on November 24, 2025, to revise the amount of the authorized grant to $3,500,000.00; to amend the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the City Auditor to transfer funds within the Affordable Housing Bond Fund; to authorize the additional expenditure of up to $1,000,000.00 from the Affordable Housing Bond Fund; to allow expenses incurred prior to the creation of the purchase order; and declare an emergency. ($1,000,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Development Department to enter into a Not for Profit Service Contract with the Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County to facilitate the production of affordable housing and enhance home ownership opportunities in Columbus; to allow the reimbursement for expenditures prior to the issue of the purchase order beginning January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026; to authorize the expenditure of 0.43% of the combined rates of 5.1% of the Hotel/Motel/Short-Term Rental Excise Tax (presently estimated at $2,652,000.00); and to declare an emergency. ($2,652,000.00)
PUBLIC UTILITIES & SUSTAINABILITY: WYCHE, CHR. REMY, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to modify and extend an existing contract with Oracle America, Inc. for licensing and cloud service fees for the Department’s Customer Information Systems (CIS) and Integrated Systems Replacement Project; to waive the competitive bidding provisions of City Code; and to authorize the expenditure of $1,742,060.37 split among the Public Utilities Operating Funds. ($1,742,060.37)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a contract modification for professional engineering services with Arcadis U.S., Inc., for the Parson Avenue Water Plant (PAWP) Wellfield Development Project; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to appropriate funds in the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Fund; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving a loan for this project; and to authorize an expenditure of up to $3,746,300.00 from the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Fund to pay for the contract modification. ($3,746,300.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a construction contract with Kenmore Construction Company, Inc., for the Dublin Road Water Plant Filter Media Replacement, Tunnel Repair, and Lubricant Storage Building project; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to appropriate funds within the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Fund; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving a loan for this project; to authorize the expenditure of up to $7,859,104.00 from the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Fund to pay for the project; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $2,000.00 from the Water Bond Fund to pay for prevailing wage services. ($7,861,104.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreements for the purchase of parts, materials, supplies and services for the Division of Water Reclamation, Jackson Pike Water Reclamation Plant; and to authorize the expenditure of $3,651,000.00 from the Sanitary Sewer Operating Fund. ($3,651,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreements for the purchase of materials, supplies and services for the Department of Public Utilities; and to authorize the expenditure of $5,040,000.00 from within the Sanitary Sewer Operating Funds. ($5,040,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a construction contract with Driven Excavating, LLC, for the Sawmill Place Boulevard Area Water Line Improvements project; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to appropriate funds within the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Fund; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving a loan for this project; to authorize the expenditure of up to $5,216,087.52 from the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Fund to pay for the project; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $2,000.00 from the Water Bond Fund to pay for prevailing wage services. ($5,218,087.52)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to establish a purchase order to make payments to Delaware County for sewer services provided during Fiscal Year 2026, and to authorize the expenditure of $4,000,000.00 from the Sanitary Sewer Operating Fund. ($4,000,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a construction contract with Danbert, Inc. for the Blueprint Hilltop 4 - Highland/Harris Integrated Solutions and South Eureka Ave. Water Line Improvements projects; to authorize amendments to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the appropriation and expenditure of up to $12,625,093.40 from the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund and the Water - Fresh Water Market Rate Loan Fund for the contract; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving loans for the project; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $2,000.00 from the Sanitary Bond Fund to pay for prevailing wage services. ($12,627,093.40)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Utilities to enter into a professional engineering services contract with Wade Trim, Inc. for the Hap Cremean Water Plant Screening and Sludge Removal Improvements project; to authorize an amendment to the 2025 Capital Improvement Budget; to authorize the appropriation of funds within the Water Supply Revolving Loan Fund; to make this ordinance contingent upon the Ohio Water Development Authority approving a loan for this project; and to authorize the expenditure of up to $1,572,351.00 from the Water Supply Revolving Loan Fund for the contract. ($1,572,351.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate current and pending Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreements for the purchase of pole line hardware; wire and cable and underground wire, cable and accessories for the Department of Public Utilities; and to authorize the expenditure of $2,300,000.00 from the Electricity Operating Fund. ($2,300,000.00)
To authorize the Director of the Department of Finance and Management to associate all General Budget Reservations resulting from this ordinance with the appropriate Universal Term Contract Purchase Agreements for the purchase of lamps, streetlights, and luminaries for the Division of Power; and to authorize the expenditure of $2,300,000.00 from the Electricity Operating Fund. ($2,300,000.00)
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a contract with Quasar Energy Group LLC for the transport and application of biosolids for the Division of Water Reclamation, and to authorize the expenditure of $1,000,000.00 from the Sewer Operating Sanitary Fund. ($1,000,000.00)
To authorize the Finance and Management Director to enter into a contract for the option to purchase Bill Presentment Services with Level One LLC; to authorize reimbursement for expenses prior to the issuance of a purchase order; to authorize the expenditure of $1.00; to waive the competitive bidding provisions of Chapter 329 of Columbus City Codes; and to declare an emergency. ($1.00)
RULES & POLICY: HARDIN, CHR. DORANS, VICE CHR. ALL MEMBERS
BARROSO DE PADILLA
To enact section 161.11 - Immigration Enforcement Agreements, and to declare an emergency.
To amend section 161.10 of the Columbus City Codes to prohibit City employees from holding secondary employment with certain federal agencies; to repeal existing section 161.10; and to declare any emergency.
To enact Sections 2317.53 and 2317.54 of the Columbus City Codes to protect schools, child day care centers, and their employees from harassment; and to declare an emergency.
To amend the Columbus City Zoning Code, Chapter 3389 “Special Permit Uses” by the enactment of section 3389.16 “Detention Facility”; and to declare an emergency.
To create new chapter 155 - City Property and Immigration Enforcement Matters; and to declare an emergency.
ADJOURNMENT
RESOLUTIONS OF EXPRESSION
ADJOURNED AT 7:49 P.M.
Clerk Johnson read:
Letter addressed to the City Clerk from the Board of Elections dated February 13, 2026, stating the following:
I hereby certify that the board has examined the part petitions for initiated charter amendment (Community Crisis Response) received by our office from you on February 3, 2026. The board’s findings are as follows:
Total Signatures: 27,458
Valid Signatures: 15,428
Percentage of valid signatures submitted relative to the number of total raw signatures: 56.2%
The total number of voters/electors that participated in the 2025 general municipal election for the City of Columbus was 125,329. The number of electors who represent ten percent of the total electors is 12,533.
Please let us know if we may be of further assistance.
Sincerely,
Jeff Mackey, Manager
Petitions and Campaign Finance
In addition to the communication from the Board of Elections, the City Clerk forwarded to the City Council the City Attorney’s memorandum dated February 4, 2026 regarding legal sufficiency as required by Section 42-9 of the City Charter which stated, “The City Clerk shall, upon receipt, forthwith forward to the council the elections authority’s report regarding signature validation and the city attorney’s findings regarding legal sufficiency.”
CONSIDER PETITION SUFFICIENCY
Council President Hardin moved that this Council finds that the petition for a proposed charter amendment titled “Community Crisis Response,” filed with the City Clerk on April 4, 2025 by petitioners, Chana Wiley, Helen Sweeney, Molly Shea, Stephen David and Stuart McIntryre meets the mandatory minimum legal requirements established by the people in the Ohio Constitution, the Ohio Revised Code and the Charter of the City of Columbus. Councilmember Green seconded the motion.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AFFIRMATIVE: 9
NEGATIVE: 0
Approval of the Consent Agenda
RECESS
RECESSED AT 6:47 P.M.
RECONVENE
RECONVENED AT 7:11 P.M.