Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to apply for grant funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) NatureWorks grant program. If awarded, the funding will be used towards the Joan Park Improvements project.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is accepting grant applications for the NatureWorks program. The NatureWorks grant program provides local government subdivisions funding for the acquisition, development, and rehabilitation of recreational areas. Grant applications are due June 2, 2025. NatureWorks recommendation announcements are planned for November 2025. The anticipated grant amount is approximately $93,500.00. If awarded, a 25 percent match in local funding will be required.
This grant will be used towards the Joan Park Improvements project. Joan Park is a 4 acre greenspace located in the Northeast Community at 1927 Myrtle Avenue. The park is an important neighborhood gathering space and is in significant need of improvements to its recreational amenities. A walking loop path, new site furniture, better connectivity to the surrounding residents, and improved site drainage are proposed to be part of this project. Over 2,700 residents live within a few minutes of the park.
Principal Parties:
NatureWorks
Office of Real Estate
Ohio Department of Natural Resources
2045 Morse Road, E-2
Columbus, Ohio 43229
Tim Robinson, (614) 265-6417
Contract Compliance Number: 005089
Contract Compliance Expiration Date: N/A (State of Ohio Agency)
Benefits to the Public: This project will provide a quality neighborhood park in one of the City's most underserved communities.
Community Input/Issues: The surrounding neighborhood has expressed a strong priority to improve the park's appearance, usability, shade trees, play space, picnic shelter, and walking loop path.
Area(s) Affected: Northeast (41)
Master Plan Relation: This project will support the Recreation and Parks Master Plan by providing quality recreational parks, trails, and connectivity for Columbus residents.
Fiscal Impact: No fiscal action is required at this time. Future legislation will accept, appropriate, and encumber funding for this project as needed if the grant is awarded.
Title
To authorize the Director of Recreation and Parks to apply for grant funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) NatureWorks grant program for the Joan Park Improvements Project. ($0.00)
Body
WHEREAS, it is necessary to authorize the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to apply for grant funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) NatureWorks grant program, which will be used for the Joan Park Improvements Project; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance shows the City of Columbus' support for all application requirements; and
WHEREAS, it has become necessary in the usual daily operations of the Recreation and Parks Department in that it is necessary to authorize the Director to apply for grant funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) NatureWorks grant program for the Joan Park Improvements Project, all for the preservation of the public health, peace, property, safety, and welfare and, 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 and directed to apply for grant funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) NatureWorks grant program for the Joan Park Improvements Project.
SECTION 2. That this ordinance authorizes an application for the grant funds only and is not a commitment to expend City funds.
SECTION 3. That future legislation will accept, appropriate, and encumber funding for this project as needed if the grant is awarded.
SECTION 4. That the City of Columbus does agree to obligate the funds required to satisfactorily complete the proposed project and become eligible for reimbursement under the terms and conditions of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) NatureWorks grant program.
SECTION 5. That this ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest period allowed by law.