Title
Notice/Advertisement Title: Operating budget hearing: Neighborhood, Recreation & Parks Minutes
Contact Name: Jacob Dilley
Contact Telephone Number: 614-645-5292
Contact Email Address: JADilley@columbus.gov
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Columbus City Council
NEIGHBORHOODS, RECREATION, AND PARKS 2026 PROPOSED
OPERATING BUDGET HEARING AGENDA
Thursday- January 29.2025 1:00 PM City Hall, Council Chambers
Call to Order: 1:06 PM
Chair: Nancy Day-Achauer
Explanation: Overview of Departments’ role in neighborhoods, recreation, and parks
Present: Councilmember Nancy Day-Achauer, Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche, Councilmember Emmanuel V. Remy, Marwah Warsame, Jacob Dilley, Director Bernita Reese, Director Yakima Douglas, Sam Dueling, Carmen Duckens, Brad Barrett (Fiscal Manager)
Introduction
Chair Nancy Day-Achauer:
? Highlighted importance of recreation and enrichment for community well-being, mental health, and crime prevention.
? Discussed fiscal constraints and need for departments to be fiscally responsible while improving quality of life.
Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche:
? Expressed appreciation to departments for their work and preparation, especially in responding to community needs.
Councilmember Emmanuel V. Remy:
? Thanked directors for their preparation and looked forward to presentations and budget discussions.
Presentation: Department of Neighborhoods
Director Yakima Douglas:
? Neighborhoods as "the front door and bridge of the city," connecting all residents to government services regardless of language or background.
? Celebrated 10 years of the Department of Neighborhoods and 20 years of the 311 Customer Service Center.
? 311 requests increased nearly 50% over three years; 39% handled through digital channels.
? Emphasis on efficiency, accountabilit...
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