NE Franklin News

The City of Columbus and Franklin County are set to launch the Funding Review Advisory Committee to assess public funding practices and explore tax revenue streams. The aim is to sustain essential services like human services, cultural arts, and tourism. Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, Columbus City Council President Shannon G. Hardin, and Franklin County Board of Commissioners President Erica C. Crawley announced the initiative.

This new committee follows a similar one held in 2011, which provided influential recommendations to local policymakers. "As Columbus continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that our funding strategies keep pace with the changing needs of our community, especially in a post-COVID economy," said Committee Chair Sandy Doyle-Ahern. "This Committee is dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration, and thoughtful solutions to ensure that essential community services are supported sustainably and equitably. We look forward to working together to develop recommendations that will serve our community's diverse and dynamic needs."

The committee will include local leaders familiar with community sectors and will conduct its first meeting on April 10 at 141 N. Front St. It is expected to conclude by year's end. The initiative will involve various stakeholders and issue experts for a comprehensive analysis.

Regular updates and meeting details will be available online, and public involvement is encouraged. At the project's end, the committee will publish a report addressing public funding trends and revenue use, offering strategies for long-term community service funding. Inquiries can be sent to FRAC@columbus.gov.