Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into contract with GU Event Staffing LLC for Special Events Festival event staffing. Jazz and Rib Fest, CBUS Soul Fest, and WinterFest are annual events that are hosted by the Special Events Office of Recreation and Parks. Jazz and Rib Fest is Columbus’ largest free outdoor music festival and one of the nation’s largest rib cook-offs. Event Staffing is needed to support a variety of event services necessary to accommodate the needs of Festival attendees. The total contract amount will be $68,000.00.
Vendor Bid/Proposal Submissions:
Bids were advertised through Vendor Services, in accordance with City Code Section 329, on January 16, 2026 and received by the Recreation and Parks Department on February 23, 2026. Bids were received from the following companies:
GU Event Staffing LLC
Shinae White dba Natural Green Cleaning Services
ND Global Consulting Services
Talented Medical Solutions
Collaborating Techs LLC
Legacy Hospitality & Entertainment Group
Fusion Global Technologies
After reviewing the proposals that were submitted, it was determined that GU Event Staffing LLC was the most qualified bidder. This contractor has previous experience with these events, necessary qualifications and availability to perform the required services.
Principal Parties:
GU Event Staffing LLC
202 Highland Drive
New Lexington, Ohio 43764
Gavin Underwood, (740) 777-3312
Contract Compliance Number 040107
Benefits to the Public: This project will benefit the public by continuing the presence of free, public events for residents to enjoy.
Area(s) Affected: Citywide (99)
Master Plan Relation: This project will support the Recreation and Parks Master Plan by connecting the people of our community through the power of nature, wellness, and creativity, by hosting large community events that are free for the public.
Fiscal Impact: $68,000.00 is budgeted and available from within the Recreation and Parks Operating Fund 2285 to meet the financial obligations of this contract.
Title
To authorize the Director of Recreation and Parks to enter into contract with GU Event Staffing LLC for Festival Event Staffing Services for the 2026 Jazz and Rib Fest, 2026 CBUS Soul Fest and the 2026 WinterFest; to authorize the expenditure of $68,000.00 from the Recreation and Parks Operating Fund. ($68,000.00)
Body
WHEREAS, it is necessary to authorize the Director of the Recreation and Parks to enter into contract with GU Event Staffing LLC for Festival Event Staffing Services for the 2026 Jazz and Rib Fest, 2026 CBUS Soul, and WinterFest; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to authorize the expenditure of $68,000.00 from within the Recreation and Parks Operating Fund 2285; NOW, THEREFORE
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That the Director of Recreation and Parks be and is hereby authorized to enter into contract with GU Event Staffing LLC for Festival Event Staffing Services for the 2026 Jazz and Rib Fest, 2026 CBUS Soul Fest, and 2026 WinterFest.
SECTION 2. That for the purpose stated in Section 1, the expenditure of $68,000.00 or so much thereof as may be necessary for the contract to pay the cost thereof, be and is hereby authorized from the Recreation and Parks Operating Fund 2285 per the accounting codes in the attachments to this ordinance.
SECTION 3. That the City Auditor is authorized to make any accounting changes to revise the funding source for all contracts or contract modifications associated with this ordinance.
SECTION 4. That the funds necessary to carry out the purpose of this ordinance are hereby deemed appropriated, and the City Auditor shall establish such accounting codes as necessary.
SECTION 5. That this ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest period allowed by law.