"City Council takes another step toward bond package" Columbus Local News

Link: City Council takes another step toward bond package
Jennifer Wray
Columbus Local News
July 15, 2008

...By going to the public and subsequently receiving lower rates, the city is set to save taxpayers nearly $20 million, he said.

Moreover, projects included in the packaged are expected to help local employers retail 8,300 jobs and create 10,000 new ones, Boyce said.

City Auditor Hugh Dorrian said it is "very easy" for him to support the package's passage, which he described as "an opportunity for the city to save money."

Voter approval means "it will cost us far less than if we do not have their approval," particularly since many of the projects outlined in the package have been mandated by consent orders the city signed with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency "at any cost," Dorrian said.

Moreover, if the city does not receive voters' approval, projects "may not happen ... or if (they happen), it will be at a much slower rate," said Councilwoman Priscilla Tyson...

"Suburbs brace for impact" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Suburbs brace for impact
Martin Rozenman, Dean Narciso, Jim Woods and Alayna DeMartini
The Columbus Dispatch
July 16, 2008

When Columbus starts talking about a financial emergency, suburban officials cast nervous glances over their shoulders.

Columbus' auditor has predicted a $75 million shortfall next year and called the outlook "ominous."

"Everybody gets concerned when Columbus has a bad year, since they've lifted us up in past years," said Hilliard Finance Director Michelle Kelly-Underwood. "So goes Columbus, so goes the suburbs."...

City Council OKs New Downtown Garage and Bond Package

Link: City Council makes bike helments for kids mandatory
The Columbus Dispatch

...In other business, council members approved plans for a new city-owned parking garage at 4th and Elm streets Downtown. Their action allows the Capital South Community Urban Redevelopment Corp. to move forward with plans to levy a special assessment on about 50 property owners within 800 feet of the project.

One of them, Due Amici restaurant owner Jeff Mathes, said a few big developers are forcing the financing scheme on everyone else. Former Capital South Director John Rosenberger said property owners accounting for 80percent of the $5.7 million expected to be raised are on board with the plan...

...Council members also gave their final approval to put a six-question bond package totaling $1.66 billion on the Nov. 4 ballot. The bond issues would allow the city to borrow money for sewer projects, street repairs, recreation centers and other public improvements.

Officials have vowed to keep a 6-decade-old promise to repay bonds through existing city income taxes, not by raising property taxes. Millage rates will be included on the ballot, however, and those tallied by Franklin County Auditor Joe Testa show that the six issues would add $260 in property taxes for every $100,000 in property values if the city couldn't keep its promise...

"Council Puts Billion Dollar Bond On Ballot" nbc4i.com

Link: Council Puts Billion Dollar Bond On Ballot
Jason Mays
nbc4i.com
July 14, 2008

It was more or less a formality, but council tonight officially put a 1.6 billion dollar bond package on the November ballot.

Here’s how some of the money will be used. 551 million dollars will be used for the sewer system. 524 million will go to the water department. Streets and highways will get 345-million dollars. Parks and recreation will get 124 million dollars. 86 million will go for safety and health. 32 million dollars will be used for trash collection...

NetJets Job Creation and Expansion Efforts Moving Forward

For immediate release                           
July 14, 2008
Contact:  Dan Williamson, Mayor’s Office, 645-5300                                     
Cynthia Rickman, Development Department, 645-8795
John Ivanic, City Council, 645-6798

(Columbus)  In his 2008 State of the City speech, Mayor Michael B. Coleman announced that NetJets and FlightSafety have chosen Columbus for a major expansion project investing more than $162 million, creating at least 810 new jobs and retaining 1,931 full-time jobs while FlightSafety will more than double its size, creating the largest flight training facility in the world.  Today, Columbus City Council will consider ordinances1200-2008 and 1147-2008 that will aid in the job creation and expansion efforts.

“NetJets is a part of a larger vision, a new path, a new industry in Columbus to make Columbus a leader in the aviation and aerospace industry, an industry that could result in thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in private investment,” said Mayor Coleman. 

Net Jet plans to add 415,000 square feet to the existing facility at Port Columbus.  FlightSafety will add more than double the number of existing simulators, creating its largest concentration of simulators in the country and attracting large numbers of pilots on a daily basis from outside of Ohio for training.

“This type of partnership between the public and private sectors represents a great opportunity for our local economy,” said Council President Michael C. Mentel. “It is our hope that the agreements with NetJets and FlightSafety—and their commitment to significant investment near Port Columbus—will lead to a whole new sector of growth for Columbus.”

Council will consider ordinance 1200-2008, a 75%/10 year Enterprise Zone tax abatement on real property improvements for NetJets and FlightSafety, a 65%/15 year Jobs Creation Tax Credit and a 35%/7 year Job Growth Incentive for NetJets, and a 65%/15 year Jobs Creation Tax Credit and a 35%/7 year Job Growth Incentive for FlightSafety.
They will also consider ordinance 1147-2008, to accept a $500,000 roadwork grant from the Ohio Department of Development for improvements to Steltzer Road.

The State of Ohio, City of Columbus, Franklin County, and the Columbus Regional Airport Authority have offered a combined growth package that includes workforce development, job credits, tax abatements and other direct assistance valued at $67.6 million, including $37.4 million from the state, $22 million from the city and county, and $8.2 million from the airport. These figures do not include approximately $30 million in incentives related to area site improvements, loans and marketing.

NetJets flies about 700 planes around the world at any given time, and more than 1,000 flights a day are being directed from their operations center in Columbus.  This is a significant operation and a major corporate headquarters.  NetJets has the largest fleet in the Private Aviation Industry, and if it were a commercial airline it would be the 2nd largest fleet in the world, second only to American Airlines. 

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS: July 14, 2008

For More Information:
John Ivanic, 645-6798

CAPITAL IMPROVMENTS PLAN MOVES FORWARD:  The Capital Improvement Plan provides a blueprint of the City’s short and long term plans to invest in major projects, including everything from purchasing new fire trucks to rebuilding sidewalks.  Tonight, City Council Finance Chair Kevin L. Boyce will move for the adoption of Resolution 0113X-2008 to accept the 2008-2013 Capital Improvements Plan.  City Council will also consider adopting the resolutions to proceed (Resolutions 0140X – 0145X-2008) on the bond issues the public will consider this November. 

BUILDING A HEALTHIER COLUMBUS: Columbus residents hoping to build an active and healthier community will be getting help from a new initiative supported by Columbus City Council. Ordinance 1210-2008, sponsored by Health, Housing & Human Services Chair Charleta B. Tavares, creates the Foundation for Active Living, a fund to be established at the Columbus Foundation by the City of Columbus to accept corporate and private donations to benefit Columbus Public Health and their Institute for Active Living project. The Institute for Active Living aims to lower the incidence of disease as a result of obesity and a sedentary lifestyle by implementing strategies to make Columbus a more active, vibrant place to live.

KRUMM PARK IMPROVEMENTS:  Krumm Park on Alton Avenue on Columbus’ East Side offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for area residents to enjoy.  Ordinance 1169-2008, sponsored by Recreation and Parks Committee Chair Priscilla R. Tyson, will authorize the expenditure of $143,202 from the 1999/2004 Recreation and Parks Voted Bond Fund to hire Builderscape, Inc. to make significant improvements to the park.   In addition to constructing an entrance canopy and improved drainage system, the project calls for a new inline skating hockey rink and the installation of pervious concrete (an environmentally friendly product that will reduce run-off) pavement.

NEW SECURITY CAMERAS FOR POLICE:  In an effort to increase public safety and outfit the Columbus Division of Police with additional tools to protect the public, Public Safety Committee Chair Andrew J. Ginther is sponsoring Ordinance 0963-2008 which authorizes the Director of the Department of Public Safety to enter into contract with ICX Tactical Platforms Corporation for the purchase of two Skywatch Surveillance Camera Platforms. The mobile, elevated cameras are designed for use during large gatherings such as Ohio State University football games or large downtown festivals. The cameras would act as force multipliers, increasing the capability of the Columbus Division of Police to maintain safety. The units can function in a manned or unmanned capacity and will communicate with existing video sources currently in use by the Division of Police, such as the helicopter units.  $243,827 will be spent from the Safety Voted Bond Fund to pay for the new cameras

Protecting Consumers:  Helping Columbus families avoid the cycle of debt and financial despair, Minority and Small Business Development Committee Chair Hearcel F. Craig is sponsoring Resolution 0139X-2008, to support Ohio Treasurer of State Richard Cordray’s effort to protect consumers from unfair abusive practices by the credit card industry. The resolution urges the National Credit Union Administration, the Federal Reserve Board and the Office of Thrift Supervision to adopt the reforms proposed for the Federal Trade Commission Act, Truth in Savings Act, and Truth in Lending Act.   Treasurer Cordray will speak during the Council meeting to emphasize the importance of passing these types of consumer protection measures.

PROMOTING JOB GROWTH:  A nationally recognized leader in the farm implement and home lawn care industry is moving their administrative support operations to Columbus.  JD Equipment, Inc.,  founded in Plain City in 1982 and currently headquartered in London, is expanding their administrative offices by purchasing and renovating a building and adjacent land at Wilson Road and I-70.  Development Chair Maryellen O’Shaughnessy is sponsoring Ordinance 1209-2008 to authorize the Director of Development to enter into a Jobs Growth Incentive agreement with JD Equipment, Inc., equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount of new income tax withheld on employees for a term of five (5) years.  JD Equipment Inc. will relocate/retain 17 full-time employees with an annual payroll of $800,000 and create 23 new permanent full-time positions with an annual payroll of $902,000. Total new payroll to Columbus will be $1,702,000.

Mentel Welcomes INTERNATIONAL Delegation: Columbus City Council President Michael C. Mentel welcomes a delegation of governmental and business leaders from Vietnam to tonight’s City Council meeting.  The group is touring the U.S. on a trade mission that includes visits to Columbus, Chicago and New York.  The group is interested in developing business relations between U.S. and Vietnamese companies and learning more about how democratic municipal governments function.

"In Depth: Best Cities For Young Professionals" Forbes.com

Link: In Depth: Best Cities For Young Professionals
Matt Woosley
Forbes.com
July 9, 2008

25. Columbus, OH

It certainly doesn't hurt Columbus that one of our metrics tracks the percentage of young, never-married persons in each city; it's home to the nation's largest university. Still, it finished 24th in its number of graduates and 26th in its concentration of companies.

Read the full story

"Columbus council directs tax revenue downtown" Business First of Columbus

Link: Columbus council directs tax revenue downtown
Business First of Columbus
July 8, 2008

Columbus City Council has approved a 30-year tax shift that will redirect city property taxes to projects in downtown.

The council established a city Tax Increment Finance district, bound to the north by the Arena District, south by the Brewery District, east by Interstate 71 and west by the Scioto River.

Funding for the TIF district is targeted at public infrastructure improvement projects, including parking garages, streets, improvements and parks, according to the city. Specific projects have not been identified...

"General Products leaving for Indiana" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: General Products leaving for Indiana
Dan Gearino
The Columbus Dispatch
July 9, 2008

An auto-parts company that three years ago accepted incentives to bring its headquarters to Columbus is moving to Indiana, lured by similar tax breaks there.

General Products Corp.'s move will lead to the loss of more than 70 local jobs.

The maker of engine and transmission components, located at 3985 Groves Rd. in Columbus, has agreed to take at least 61 jobs to Angola, Ind., by 2011, roughly doubling the company's work force there, according to the Indiana Economic Development Corp.

"We continue to outrun all of our Midwestern competitors for new job-creating investment from companies like General Products, but we can't let up for a minute," said Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels in a statement...

"What do other cities have that we don't? A big space crunch, for one" Business First of Columbus

Link: What do other cities have that we don't? A big space crunch, for one
[Account required]
Carrie Ghose
Business First of Columbus
July 4, 2008

While Columbus bides its time waiting for the right market conditions and anchor tenant for its next high-rise, Cincinnati is about to build its tallest tower at 41 stories and Cleveland is preparing to add two 20-story buildings. All three are planned to open in 2011.

Take in the view from the top of the Rhodes State Office Tower on Capitol Square, and it's easy to see one big difference between Ohio's biggest city and its sisters going through growth spurts.

"It's flat," said Doug Ryan, Columbus-based sales leader for the eastern United States with architecture firm NBBJ...

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS: July 7, 2008

For More Information:
John Ivanic, 645-6798

COUNCIL TAKING FORMAL STEPS FOR VOTED BOND PACKAGE: City Council will take the first formal step in presenting the 2008 Voted Bond Package to voters as Finance Committee Chair Kevin L. Boyce sponsors a number of resolutions of necessity this evening.  Each resolution declares the need to issue bonds in a specific amount for the separate ballot initiatives that comprise the $1.66 billion package:

    * Resolution 0126X-2008 for safety and health issues.
    * Resolution 0127X-2008 for streets and highway improvements.
    * Resolution 0128X-2008 for water improvements.
    * Resolution 0129X-2008 for refuse collection.
    * Resolution 0130X-2008 for sanitary sewer improvements.
    * Resolution 0131X-2008 for recreation and parks projects.

HELPING VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE:  Judiciary and Court Administration Committee Chair Hearcel F. Craig is sponsoring legislation to help victims of domestic violence break the cycle of abuse.  Ordinance 0995-2008 authorizes the City to enter into a contract with the Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence, a non-profit organization focused on building community efforts to prevent family violence.

Councilmember Craig is also sponsoring Resolution 0136X-2008 to recognize Brian Robiskie as Ohio State's first-ever finalist for the national Arthur Ashe Sports Scholar of the Year award.  Councilmember Craig will present the resolution to Mr. Robiskie at tonight’s Council meeting.

PROVIDING Emergency Human Services Funding:  Health, Housing and Human Services Committee Chair Charleta B. Tavares is sponsoring two ordinances that will provide Emergency Human Services funding for area social service agencies that continue to provide essential programs to Columbus residents.

• Ordinance 1055-2008 will assist two local groups with operating expenses:
  • Eldon Ward Family YMCA, for $25,000 to provide health, wellness and fitness programming at the facility.
  • Girls Incorporated of Central Ohio, for $30,964 to provide health and wellness programs, substance abuse prevention services, youth leadership and development and educational enrichment programs.
• Ordinance 1056-2008 will assist four local groups with capital expenses:
  • Columbus Urban League, for $50,000 for safety and security measures and facility upgrades at the Mt. Vernon and three Headstart Centers.
  • Neighborhood House, Inc., for $7,196.48 for the installation of a fire alarm system and plumbing repairs at the childcare facility at 940 Caldwell Place.
  • Stonewall Columbus, Inc., for $33,500 for rehabilitation and repair of the facility at 1160 N. High Street.
  • Huckleberry House, for $50,000 for the renovation and construction costs of the facility at 1435 Hamlet.

**The Transportation and Pedestrian Commission will hold a public hearing Thursday, July 10, 2008 at 3:30 PM at 109 Front Street. The topics will include discussion on a proposed youth safety helmet requirement and other associated changes to Columbus Traffic Code.**

TYSON CONTINUES HER SUPPORT OF PARK IMPROVEMENTS:  Since becoming Chair of the Recreation and Parks Committee, Priscilla R. Tyson has made it her priority to help ensure the safety and stability of area parks for those who use Columbus' green spaces.  Tyson is sponsoring Ordinance 1011-2008 to accept a grant and enter into agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service to remove invasive plant species within Wolfe and Nelson Parks and plant native vegetation along the banks of Alum Creek.  The Friends of Alum Creek Tributaries (FACT) will be partnering with the Recreation and Parks Department to implement the plantings to secure the bank and to remove the invasive plants within the forested buffer along Alum Creek.

Neighborhood Friendly Transportation Improvements:  Ordinance 0861-2008, sponsored by Public Service and Transportation Committee Chair Maryellen O’Shaughnessy, will fund the first steps of the 2008 traffic calming program.  The Weinland Park Community Mobility Plan will enhance pedestrian safety and neighborhood livability.

** Councilmember O'Shaughnessy will host officials from the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), Tuesday, July 8, 2008 at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers.  This is the second meeting in a series of four held by O’Shaughnessy to discuss regional transportation goals and plans.**

LIQUOR OBJECTION PROCESS UNDERWAY:  City Council and City Attorney Richard C. Pfeiffer’s office have initiated the annual process by which Columbus formally objects to the renewal of liquor permits held by problem establishments.  The process requires Columbus City Council to submit a resolution specifying the reasons for the objections to the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Liquor Control.  Public Safety Committee Chair Andrew J. Ginther will discuss the process during this evening’s meeting and explain the process for Area Commissions, Civic Associations, Block Watches and other neighborhood groups to assist in identifying problematic liquor establishments.

"Columbus' 5-Year Vision Takes Shape" nbc4i.com

Link: Columbus' 5-Year Vision Takes Shape
Donna Willis
nbc4i.com
July 1, 2008

The city council finance committee will meet with the seven city department directors Tuesday night to ask what projects need done in the city during the next five years, NBC 4's Mikaela Hunt reported.

According to a council spokesperson, the Capital Improvement Program is a five-year vision for city projects.

After the directors make recommendations, council will vote on the program Monday, July 14...

"City Cuts Overtime To Save Budget" nbc4i.com

Link: City Cuts Overtime To Save Budget
Jason Mays
nbc4i.com
June 30, 2008

Millions over budget. The city's divisions of police and fire are headed toward red ink, and it's partly because of excessive overtime hours.

The Department of Public Safety said factors such as court appearances, help with multi-jurisdictional arrests, special security and residential-alarm responses are driving the overtime budget into the red.

The city aims to save money by reducing court time, curtailing mandatory residential-alarm responses -- 95 percent of which are false -- and sharing the cost of protecting presidential candidates with the campaigns, NBC 4's Ana Jackson reported...

"State OKs $24 million in NetJets tax credits" Business First of Columbus

Link: State OKs $24 million in NetJets tax credits
Business First of Columbus
July 1. 2008

State officials have approved tax credits for NetJets Inc. and its sister company as the aviation business readies for a $200 million expansion in Columbus.

The Ohio Tax Credit Authority approved the tax credits for the New Jersey-based private aviation company, which are tied to creating and retaining nearly 2,800 jobs in the region. NetJets and FlightSafety International were awarded 75 percent credits for 15 years to help them expand their Columbus operations.

The value of NetJets' tax credit over its term is $24 million. The private aviation company would be required to maintain operations in Columbus for 30 years. The company proposes to expand its 192,554-square-foot complex by 415,000 square feet. The $73 million project is expected to create 735 jobs and retain 1,865 positions within the first three years of the project's start...

"Rich meter, poor meter" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Rich meter, poor meter
Jeffrey Sheban
The Columbus Dispatch
July 1, 2008

...Go figure

The Transportation Division of the Columbus Public Service Department decides the locations of parking meters, the length of permissible parking time, hours of enforcement and fees. The department's Parking Violations Bureau empties the coins from meters and issues parking tickets for expired meters. Some related facts:

4,335
parking meters maintained by the city

$675
cost (in 1998) to buy and install one meter

1 to 12
range in hours of meter duration

$3.1 million
meter revenue generated last year for the city's general fund

$722.86
average take per meter last year

$2.3 million
ticket revenue generated last year, for the general fund, from expired meters

"NetJets gets state tax credits to create jobs" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: NetJets gets state tax credits to create jobs
Marla Matzer Rose
The Columbus Dispatch
June 20, 2008

NetJets Aviation and sister company FlightSafety International were formally awarded state job-creation tax credits valued at $26.4 million today.

The credits were part of $67 million worth of incentives offered in March to persuade NetJets to keep its base in Columbus.

The Ohio Tax Credit Authority took the action today while also approving tax credits for nine other companies.

Retaining the two companies, both controlled by billionaire Warren Buffett, is expected to save 2,000 jobs in Ohio and generate more than 800 jobs in the next several years...

"Not enough rooms" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Not enough rooms
Editorial
The Columbus Dispatch
June 29, 2008

No matter how hard city leaders work to compete for convention business, without enough full-service hotel rooms near its convention center, Columbus will be disadvantaged, regardless of what else it has to offer.

Every year the city loses a bid for a major convention because planners can't offer enough top-flight rooms to participants, the leaders of Experience Columbus, the city's convention bureau, say. This costs the community millions in sales-tax revenues, bed taxes, restaurant spending and shopping dollars that end up going elsewhere.

Columbus City Council and the Franklin County commissioners hold the key to easing the problem: allowing the borrowing authority of the city and county to back the bonds that would pay for the hotel. Both have been asked by the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority to support a hotel project. They should work with the authority to craft a plan...

"Tight city budget doesn't stop capital spending" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Tight city budget doesn't stop capital spending
Robert Vitale
The Columbus Dispatch
June 25, 2008

...Columbus is the biggest U.S. city with top-of-the-line bond ratings from the three Wall Street firms that pass judgment on municipal finances. It has a 23-year winning streak at the polls for bond issues.

But Bruce Weinberg, an associate professor of economics at Ohio State University, said distinctions between capital and operating budgets are arbitrary. Government needs to weigh spending priorities just as people do when money is tight, he said.

"You want to really keep your debt service going," Weinberg said. "But, clearly, you don't want to take on a lot of new projects."...

...City officials say they're reining in capital spending, even though the November bond issue is 2 1/2 times larger than any other put before Columbus voters. Dorrian said recently that he will halt bond sales for the rest of 2008, and he was among a group that worked to pare the list of projects in this year's package...

"NetJets signs $1.9B deal with Gulfstream for more aircraft" Business First of Columbus

Link: NetJets signs $1.9B deal with Gulfstream for more aircraft
Business First of Columbus
June 24, 2008

A $1.9 billion deal with General Dynamics Corp.'s Gulfstream division will bring NetJets Inc. 40 new aircraft over the next several years, the company said.

Woodbridge, N.J.-based NetJets, which houses its operational headquarters in Columbus, said the fleet expansion deal with Gulfstream provides for the delivery of four large-cabin Gulfstream G450s and four Gulfstream G550s each year from 2012 through 2016.

A long-term maintenance agreement accounts for more than $250 million of the $1.9 billion contract, the company said...

"Genco ending operations at Columbus warehouse, cutting 122 workers" Business First of Columbus

Link: Genco ending operations at Columbus warehouse, cutting 122 workers
Business First of Columbus
June 24, 2008

The loss of a contract with a Central Ohio customer is forcing Pittsburgh-based Genco Distribution Systems Inc. to shut a Columbus facility this fall. The company told the state the shutdown will eliminate 122 jobs.

Genco in a filing with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services said an unidentified customer notified the company that won't renew its contract with the logistics firm to run a facility at 5330 Crosswind Drive on Columbus' west side. Genco provides third-party logistics facilities for businesses...

Councilmember O’Shaughnessy to convene public service and transportation committee meeting on bicycle law and COTA SERVICE PLANS

(COLUMBUS)—Columbus City Council member Maryellen O'Shaughnessy, chair of council's public service and transportation committee, will be joined by committee members Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 5:00 PM in City Council Chambers. 

At 5:00 PM the committee will hear from Public Service Director Mark Kelsey and City Engineer Randy Bowman regarding changes to Columbus bicycle laws proposed in the Bicentennial Bikeways Plan.   

At 5:30 PM O’Shaughnessy will moderate a public forum led by Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) president and CEO Bill Lhota.  Lhota will discuss proposed service improvements, long range transit plans, and how streetcars and light rail fit into COTA's future transit improvements.

Who:
Public Service and Transportation Committee Chair Maryellen O’Shaughnessy
Members of the Public Service and Transportation Committee

What:
Public Service and Transportation Committee Meeting

When:
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
5:00 PM

Where:
City Council Chambers
City Hall, 2nd Floor
90 West Broad Street
Parking is free on City Hall surface lots after 5:00 PM

"City To Poll Residents On $1.66B Bond" nbc4i.com

Link: City To Poll Residents On $1.66B Bond
Denise Yost
nbc4i.com
June 20, 2008

...Much of those needs are wrapped up in sewer and wastewater pipes -- totaling more than $1 billion.

City officials said they plan to poll the public to find out what messages resonated with voters after Thursday's bond package announcement.

The city does not know what separate entity will be doing that work, but it will be a part of voter outreach...

Mayor, City Auditor, City Council Join Residents and Neighborhood Leaders to Unveil $1.66 Billion 2008 Voted Bond Package

For immediate release                           
June 19, 2008
Contact:  Dan Williamson, Mayor’s Office, 645-5300                                     
John Ivanic, City Council, 614-645-9798
Auditor Hugh Dorrian, 614-645-7616

(Columbus) This November, voters can support a plan to drive new investment into neighborhoods and to create thousands of new jobs in construction and in growing private industries.  Today, Mayor Michael B. Coleman, City Auditor Hugh J. Dorrian, City Council President Michael C. Mentel and President Pro-Tem Kevin L. Boyce joined residents and neighborhood leaders to unveil the $1.66 billion, 6-issue, 2008 Voted Bond Package that will be on the November 4 ballot. 

“This is a sound investment that strengthens neighborhoods and creates jobs,” said Mayor Coleman. “Voter approval of these six issues will allow us to stimulate our economy and bring our city’s infrastructure to a whole new level—while saving more than $28 million.”

Voter approval allows the city to borrow money through the sale of City bonds to finance large capital projects over an extended period of time, similar to a citizen’s purchase of a home. The City of Columbus is the only large city in the United States that has a AAA Bond Rating from all three major bond rating agencies, which combined with voter approval, allows the City to finance more projects with less dollars and no new taxes. With voter approval, more than $28 million will be saved allowing the City to do more neighborhood projects but will only complete projects that the city can afford.

“This is another opportunity for Columbus to achieve major savings in our capital improvement efforts,” said Auditor Dorrian. “Columbus voters have been very supportive of these efforts for the past fifty years and I encourage all of our citizens to take advantage of these savings again by voting in favor of these bond issues.”

$1.1 billion of the bond package will be invested in public utilities projects to protect Central Ohio’s drinking water supply, while cleaning up local rivers and streams and to put the City into compliance with consent orders signed with the State of Ohio that mandate improvements to reduce sanitary sewer overflows and combined sewer overflows. In addition, the City will invest approximately $432 million in key neighborhood projects such as: new sidewalks, road resurfacing, new and existing fire stations, new health centers, and new and existing recreation centers. An additional $124 million of the bond package will leverage private sector investment of $702 million and create new jobs in key job centers including: Children’s Hospital, Techneglas, the Airport Economic Development District and the Kinnear Road Technology Campus. 

"This bond package will allow Columbus to responsibly plan for growth, create jobs and improve neighborhoods,” said Council President Mentel.  “Our residents will see real results when they support these initiatives.”

The City’s last Voted Bond Package was in 2004, and allowed for many neighborhood investments including, new fire stations, miles of new sidewalks near schools, new construction of sewers to prevent neighborhood flooding prevention and many other neighborhood projects.

“In tough economic times it becomes even more critical to strengthen and maintain our basic infrastructure,” said President Pro-Tem Boyce. “With voter approved bond capacity, we can protect and improve our infrastructure at the lowest possible cost to the tax payers.”

An analysis performed by the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce estimates this bond package will support an average of 5,500 jobs within the region each year over the next five years and generate $3 billion for the local economy. For every $100 million invested by the City, $181 million is generated for the local economy.

The six issues that will appear on the ballot are: Safety and Health ($86.1 million), Streets and Highways ($345.6 million), Water ($524.7 million), Refuse Collection ($32.2 million), Sanitary Sewers ($551.9 million), Recreation and Parks ($124.2 million).

"City's new bond plan: $1.6 billion for basics" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: City's new bond plan: $1.6 billion for basics
Robert Vitale
The Columbus Dispatch
June 19, 2008

...Coleman and city officials will ask voters in the Nov. 4 election to approve a $1.66 billion package -- by far the biggest in Columbus history -- that would authorize borrowing for major projects and purchases over the next four years.

Earlier estimates inside City Hall had pegged the package at more than $2 billion, but the administration, City Council leaders and Auditor Hugh J. Dorrian worked over the past week to trim it. Officials have grown increasingly concerned about city finances and the mood of voters facing their own economic struggles.

"We're going to do what we can afford," Dorrian said. "You're going to see that phrase used often."

Another phrase you'll hear often as the campaign picks up before November: City officials promise the bond issue won't raise residents' taxes. Since 1957, Columbus has set aside a percentage of its income-tax collections rather than assess a property tax to pay off debts.

Voter approval of bond issues allows the city to borrow money at lower interest rates. It would cost $28 million more if the city had to sell bonds without the public's backing, Dorrian said...

"City details project list for $1.66B bond issue" Business First of Columbus

Link: City details project list for $1.66B bond issue
Jeff Bell
Business First of Columbus
June 19, 2008

Some $1.66 billion would flow into a cornucopia of public projects if Columbus voters sign off a bond issue that will appear on the Nov. 4 ballot.

City officials on Thursday outlined where the money would go, with about two-thirds of it to be invested in water and sewer projects. That includes efforts to reduce sanitary sewer overflows into rivers and streams to put the city in compliance with state and federal environmental mandates.

The rest will be spread across projects aimed at improving neighborhoods and supporting job creation. The list includes $68.2 million for sidewalks, $63.1 million for road resurfacing, $40 million for new recreation centers, parks, playgrounds and aquatic centers, $34.8 million for fire equipment and $32.2 million for trash collection trucks and equipment...

"City to propose $1.66B bond package" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: City to propose $1.66B bond package
Robert Vitale
The Columbus Dispatch
June 18, 2008

Columbus officials have settled on the final price tag for what they are calling a "meat-and-potatoes” bond package headed for the Nov. 4 ballot.

They’ll unveil a $1.66 billion proposal Thursday that would allow the city to borrow money for work in six areas: safety and health, streets and highways, water, refuse collection, sanitary sewers, and recreation and parks.

Earlier estimates at City Hall had pegged the package at more than $2 billion, but Mayor Michael B. Coleman’s administration, City Council members and Auditor Hugh J. Dorrian have worked the past week to trim it back because of growing money worries...

"Fuel burns city budget" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Fuel burns city budget
The Columbus Dispatch

Even with its discount for bulk purchases, the city is feeling the same pain at the pump as everyone else.

Columbus is paying nearly $1.47 more per gallon than it budgeted for gasoline and diesel fuel, Finance Director Joel S. Taylor told City Council members last night.

That could cost the city $3 million more by the end of the year to keep police cars, fire engines, garbage trucks and other vehicles on the road, Taylor said.

It's the latest bad news for city officials already facing a possible $75 million budget gap for 2009...

"City seeks to rein in pushy panhandlers" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: City seeks to rein in pushy panhandlers
Bobby Pierce
The Columbus Dispatch
June 18, 2008

Columbus' panhandlers might have to watch their step to continue soliciting in the city.

Aggressive panhandling was the topic at a City Council public hearing last night. Councilman Andrew Ginther moderated the testimony of 12 Columbus residents, as well as the deputy safety director, assistant city attorney and a police officer...

...Under current law, begging is prohibited within 20 feet of a bank or ATM and at bus stops. A new proposal would increase the bank and ATM distance to 25 feet, and also prohibit panhandling near parking meters, parking lots, pay phones and within 20 feet of a sidewalk cafe...

"Downgrading of bond insurers affects market" The San Francisco Chronicle

Since the city is planning the largest bond package to ever go on the ballot in November, I wanted to start understanding how the bond process works and what the bond market situation is across the country.

With so many cities moving on similar urban revitalization issues and using bonds to raise, or more appropariately borrow, funds for capital improvement projects, there has to be a limit on how many cities will be able to raise the money they hope, especially if there are a lot of cities doing the same thing.

There is not an unlimited sea of untapped investment dollars, so cities that maintain a great bond rating, like Columbus, just might have an advantage. If I was investing in muni bonds I'd want to know what the big picture was for the city I was buying from, what their track record has been, and what their future looked like. Of course Columbus' budget concerns leave me wondering how that effects the attractiveness of our bonds.

Just starting the learning process...:

Link: Downgrading of bond insurers affects market
Kethleen Pender
San Francisco Chronicle
June 12, 2008

...Many cities, states and other entities that issue municipal bonds - to finance schools, roads and other public projects - are facing lower revenue as a result of the slowing economy, which could affect their ability to repay their bonds.

Investors who bought munis that offered insurance if the issuer defaulted thought they were getting an extra layer of protection. But now the companies that issued these insurance policies are having their credit ratings cut.

These ratings downgrades have caused the value of insured bonds to decline relative to uninsured bonds and have increased risk and uncertainty in the muni market...

"City Facing Projected $75 Million Budget Gap" nbc4i.com

Link: City Facing Projected $75 Million Budget Gap
Denise Yost
nbc4i.com
June 12, 2008

There is a $75 million gap in the projected 2009 budget for the City of Columbus.

That leaves just six months to find a solution to the bleak outlook, and the answers could be higher fees or fewer services.

According to Auditor Hugh Dorrian's office, revenue growth from 2007 to 2008 is relatively flat, but costs continue to rise, NBC 4 reported...

...Both the mayor's office and city council said all options are on the table and any tax increase would need to go before voters....

"Columbus gets blueprint for bicentennial improvements" Business First of Columbus

Link: Columbus gets blueprint for bicentennial improvements
Jeff Bell
Business First of Columbus
June 12, 2008

Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman received a long list of recommendations Thursday from a commission he appointed to create a blueprint for the city's bicentennial in 2012.

The recommendations said the effort should focus on improving and supporting neighborhoods, downtown Columbus, economic prosperity, transportation and "green" environmental initiatives while creating a culturally rich city. They also call for embracing Columbus' history and defining a new legacy for the city.

No price tag was attached to the recommendations, but Coleman said it will take a joint effort by city government and the business, nonprofit and philanthropic communities to accomplish them. The commission hopes the blueprint guides parts of a bicentennial bond package that Coleman wants to put before Columbus voters Nov. 4. City Council is scheduled to consider the bicentennial capital improvements program, which would guide projects through 2013, at its July 7 meeting...

"Possible trash collection fee not popular among residents" WOSU NewsRoom

Link: Possible trash collection fee not popular among residents
Mandie Trimble
WOSU NewsRoom
June 12, 2008

...Dorian has been working for the city for 43 years and has been auditor for 39 of them. He said tax collections are stagnant, property tax revenue is down and the city's not getting as much money from the state as it has in recent years.

"It is not good," he said.

The city has an operating budget shortfall of $75 million.

"Right now I do not see any improvements in these revenue streams. And if that is the case our financial situation in 2009 would be as bad as any year as I can remember," Dorian said.

Dorian said a trash collection fee could help boost revenue. While he would not speculate a fee amount, he did say it costs Columbus between $45 and $50 million a year to take care of the city's trash...

"City's streets quite a site on Google" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: City's streets quite a site on Google
Kevin Joy and Jeffrey Sheban
The Columbus Dispatch
June 14, 2008

...With the click of a mouse, Google users can take a virtual stroll up High Street or across the Golden Gate Bridge. There's no more guessing whether that new restaurant has convenient parking or the liquor store has a discreet entrance; Street View removes all doubt.

"It's all the images you would see walking down a road," Google spokeswoman Elaine Filadelfo said. "We think it's very useful and valuable."

And, to some, maybe a little creepy.

Paul Bonneville, a local Web developer and founder of the urban-development blog Columbus Retro Metro, likes the new service but also finds it a "bit weird."

"Now that I'm seeing it within my own street, I'm just kind of scratching my head," said Bonneville, 35, of Italian Village, who has followed Street View since its launch. "It feels like it's more invasive because you can spin around and look at this moment in time."...

Actually, I said it JUST feels more invasive because you can spin around, otherwise I wouldn't do the panoramas myself.

There is a cool weirdness to being able to walk down a street using the new Google Streetview service and see everything from different angles. The service does do what I had intended from the start of RetroMetro which was to let folks see into neighborhoods in the urban areas and, in most places, realize that they were not blighted and scary places.

"NBC 4 Obtains Final Report From Bicentennial Commission" nbc4i.com

Link: NBC 4 Obtains Final Report From Bicentennial Commission
Denise Yost
nbc4i.com
June 11, 2008

NBC 4 has obtained the final report from the city's 2012 Bicentennial Commission on Wednesday evening.

The report was the result of Mayor Michael Coleman's Dream It. Do It. Campaign that was intended to enhance the quality of life throughout Columbus...

...The 40-page report was scheduled to be publicly presented to Mayor Michael Coleman on Thursday morning by Dr. E. Gordon Gee, president of The Ohio State University, Abigail Wexner, founder and board chair of the Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence and Bishop Timothy Clarke, senior Pastor of the First Church of God.

Download the Bicentennial Commission Report

"Subprime Finds New Victim as Muni Defaults Triple" Bloomberg.com

Link: Subprime Finds New Victim as Muni Defaults Triple
Joe Mysak
Bloomberg.com
May 30, 2008

The amount of municipal bonds that have defaulted this year is already more than triple what it was for all of 2007.

And who could doubt there's more bad news on the way?

So far this year, $736 million in municipal bonds have defaulted. That doesn't necessarily mean they didn't pay investors; they may have just drawn down reserves. That's what happens just before they stop making payments to bondholders...

"State construction budget, water pact near" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: State construction budget, water pact near
Jim Siegel
The Columbus Dispatch
June 10, 2008

State legislators are poised today to approve a $1.3 billion construction budget and a multistate compact designed to protect Great Lakes water from being siphoned to dry states in the South and West.

A joint conference committee worked out differences between the House and Senate and unanimously approved the two-year construction budget, which provides more than $18 million for projects in Franklin County and includes provisions to help fill a projected $733 million operating-budget shortfall next year.

The full House and Senate have scheduled a final vote today...

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS: June 9, 2008

For More Information:
John Ivanic, 645-6798
         
Charitable Solicitations Code CHANGES:  Columbus City Council will consider ordinance 1795-2007, sponsored by Councilmember Andrew J. Ginther and co-sponsored by Councilmember Hearcel F. Craig, which would require all organizations wishing to solicit charitable contributions in the roadway to apply for a permit.  Through extensive outreach with law enforcement and the public, Councilmember Ginther determined that legislation is necessary to create a more comprehensive permitting process and improve public safety by making sure law enforcement officials are notified in advance when and where roadside donations will occur.  Additionally, the permit requirement will ensure that Columbus citizens who generously give to organizations soliciting in the roadway will have some assurance that their donation is being used for truly charitable purposes and is collected and distributed in a manner consistent with public expectations. 

Bicentennial Bikeways Plan SETS COURSE FOR THE FUTURE:  The Columbus Bicentennial Bikeways Plan provides a road map for adding 538 miles of bike paths and other features throughout Columbus.  Tonight, Council will consider approving the plan, sponsored by Public Service and Transportation Committee Chair Maryellen O’Shaughnessy.  If passed, ordinance 0849-2008 will serve as a guide for policy decisions affecting zoning, planning of future public bikeway facilities, and capital improvements.  The plan calls for three phases of development over a 20-year period.  Councilmember O’Shaughnessy and Mayor Coleman’s administration have worked diligently to ensure the plan incorporates “complete street” concepts to accommodate all forms of transportation from motorized vehicles to pedestrians.

CONTINUING EFFORTS TO END HOMELESSNESS:  The Rebuilding Lives Program provides critical help to those in Columbus who are homeless and seeking to turn around their lives through permanent supportive housing.  Health, Housing and Human Services Committee Chair Charleta B. Tavares is sponsoring ordinance 0814-2008 to provide the Community Shelter Board $902,734 for these efforts.  Rebuilding Lives meets the short and long term needs of homeless individuals by offering immediate emergency shelter as well as providing coordinated support services to those making the transition to permanent housing.  Councilmember Tavares also is sponsoring ordinance 0813-2008 to enter into a $255,025 contract with the Community Shelter Board to support the Homeless Prevention and Transition programs.  These programs work in tandem to reduce the number of individuals requiring shelter by helping to prevent homelessness and by reintegrating homeless families and individuals back into stable living conditions.

SPONSORSING CULTURAL ENRICHMENT:  The Partnership through Sponsorship program offers funding opportunities to non-profit organizations that host community events emphasizing cultural, ethnic and artistic diversity.   Recreation and Parks Committee Chair Priscilla R. Tyson is sponsoring ordinance 0895-2008 to award $29,000 in competitive grants to numerous organizations that  provide creative entertainment and program activities for the Columbus community.  Sponsoring organizations receiving grants this year are for the following events:  the Asian Festival; Cruise the 'Ville; Columbus Gospelfest; First Night, Focal Point Concert Series; Juneteenth Ohio Festival; Music on the Hill; Southfield Reunion; and the Jam-N-Jefferson Park Festival.

CRAIG HOLDS HEARING ON DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION:  According to local experts, nearly one-third of the Franklin County Municipal Court arraignment docket is filled with domestic violence cases.  CHOICES, a Columbus-based organization that helps victims of domestic violence, receives nearly 30 calls each day on their 24-hour hotline.  Councilmember Hearcel F. Craig, chair of the Judiciary and Court Administration Committee, is hosting a public hearing Wednesday, June 25 at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers to discuss a comprehensive strategy aimed at breaking the cycle of family violence with advocates and partner agencies such as the Coalition Against Family Violence.

PREPARING FOR NEW POLICE FACILITY:  The Columbus Division of Police’s Strategic Response Bureau (SRB) will continue to be temporarily housed at 3042 McKinley Avenue until their new permanent facility at 120 Morse Road is completed.  Ordinance 0736-2008, sponsored by Finance Committee Chair Kevin L. Boyce, will extend the lease to allow the SRB to continue using the facilities.  The lease will allow the SRB to continue providing critical safety services to the community for the duration of the construction project, which is projected to be finished by November.

HONORING OF AN OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVANT:  Council President Michael C. Mentel is sponsoring resolution 0110X-2008, to honor the life of Alphonso Coleman Montgomery, former director of the Columbus Department of Public Safety.  Mr. Montgomery served in this capacity from 1983-1990.  In addition to serving the citizens of Columbus, Mr. Montgomery held a wide variety of leadership roles in his lifetime, including second lieutenant in the United States Army, assistant professor of Military Science and Tactics at Prairie View A & M University, and assistant director/director of the Administration of Justice Division, Department of Economic and Community Development for the state of Ohio.

"City officials keen on master plans; residents not sold" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: City officials keen on master plans; residents not sold.
Martin Rozenman
The Columbus Dispatch
June 9, 2008

Most of Ohio's 251 cities have master plans -- documents to guide their futures.

City planners see master plans as essential tools that require updating as times change.

But some residents see them as chisels city officials use to shape the future to their visions.

"Central Ohio is well-stocked for master plans," said Nancy Reger, a spokeswoman for the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission. "I can't think of one single city that doesn't have one."...

"Conventional decisions" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Conventional decisions
Marla Matzer Rose
The Columbus Dispatch
June 8, 2008

...Columbus competes hard for conventions with cities such as Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, Louisville and Kansas City. And because so much money is at stake, an "arms race" for conventions has emerged in the past couple of decades.

Some say that Columbus is in danger of not only losing new business, but also seeing some of its current business drift away.

In Columbus alone, convention and meeting groups brought in $2 billion in direct spending in 2007, along with $180 million in city and county tax revenue. In 2005, the most recent year for which an estimate was available, more than 142,000 full-time jobs were created in Columbus related to business travel and tourism, mostly at restaurants, tourist attractions and hotels...

"2008 Bicentennial Bond Package" Boyce Report

Columbus City Council: Boyce Report V2 I1 May 2008
2008 Bicentennial Bond Package

On March 13th Mayor Coleman presented his annual State of the City Address. A key component of the speech involved the upcoming Bicentennial Bond Package scheduled for this November. Just as you and your family need to invest to purchase and maintain your own home, the City must invest to maintain the public infrastructure and develop new facilities as the City grows in population and area. The City routinely seeks voter-approval for the issuance of debt to finance capital improvements. Voted debt reduces the interest cost the City must pay, and therefore saves taxpayer dollars—really allowing the City to do more with the tax dollars it already receives.

The Bicentennial Bond Package will address City capital needs for the next five years or so. And over the next few months, City and Neighborhood leaders will be working with the community to identify the most important neighborhood projects that require attention. City Council will conduct hearings, and the administration will schedule several neighborhood-based information sessions. Projects will include public safety needs, new fire apparatus and new fire stations for example; new recreation centers and park improvements; street and road maintenance; and projects to spur economic development, to name just a few. Council will listen to the area commissions and civic associations and invites you to attend information sessions and fight for projects and issues that concern you. Let your voice be heard. The City is considering an investment for your city and wants to hear what you have to say...

Download The Boyce Report

"COLUMBUS METROPOLITAN HOUSING AUTHORITY: Exploring future options" Tavares Times

Columbus City Council: Tavares Times V2 I6 June 2008
COLUMBUS METROPOLITAN HOUSING AUTHORITY: Exploring future options

Big changes could be coming for low-income housing in Columbus in the next five years. At the May 21st hearing of Columbus City Council’s Health, Housing and Human Services Committee, the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) made public a plan to demolish about half of the city’s public housing and give new Section 8 vouchers to the 1,800 households affected by the change. According to Dennis Guest, the director of CMHA, the plan will not go forward unless the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development agrees to create new vouchers, and not subtract the vouchers from the existing Section 8 program. However, if they do, the Near East Side and Franklinton may see some of the largest redevelopment projects to occur in those neighborhoods in years.

Since 2005, rule changes in how HUD directs housing agencies to financially manage subsidized housing communities, as well as consistent under funding, have caused CMHA to struggle to maintain the cash flow needed to maintain several of their largest properties. Therefore, they have put forward a plan to demolish six properties: Lincoln Park, Marion Square, Poindexter Village, Riverside-Bradley, Sawyer Towers, and Sunshine Terrace. In addition, CMHA would sell Canonby Court and ReebHosack’s scattered sites (57 units). Finally, they would convert Maplewood Heights and Bollinger Towers from subsidized housing to the Section 8 program...

Download the Tavares Times

"Editorial: Seed money" The Columbus Dispatch

Link: Editorial: Seed money
Editorial
The Columbus Dispatch
June 3, 2008

Experience Columbus, the group charged with bringing the world to town, is asking city and county leaders for a funding boost. The convention and visitors bureau has a good case to make.

Economic analyses repeatedly have shown that an investment in promoting Columbus' convention and visitors business pays off. One major event, such as the annual trade show of the Association of Floriculture Professionals, brings in more than $10 million in hotel bookings, restaurant tabs, shopping and other business.

But Experience Columbus expects its revenues to fall hundreds of thousands of dollars short of what it planned to spend this year, and this threatens not only to crimp the group's ability to attract new convention and tourism business but to jeopardize events the city long has been able to count on...

"City backs Web site listing inner-city homes" Business First of Columbus

Link: City backs Web site listing in