Explanation
BACKGROUND: This legislation amends Chapter 4501 and enacts sections 4551.08 and 4551.081 of the Columbus City Codes to create an Access to Legal Services policy.
Title
To amend Chapter 4501 and enact sections 4551.08 and 4551.081 of the Columbus City Codes to create an Access to Legal Services policy.
Body
WHEREAS, about 55% of households in the City of Columbus rent their homes rather than own; and
WHEREAS, Franklin County, unfortunately, continues to lead the state in the number of evictions filed in a county; and
WHEREAS, evictions are one of the key factors contributing to the housing crisis in the City of Columbus; and
WHEREAS, statistics show overwhelmingly that tenants who have representation have a better chance at remaining in their home; and
WHEREAS, the Stout study contracted for by City Council concluded that for every dollar invested in access to counsel, the City and County would see a four dollar return on investment; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That Chapter 4501 of the Columbus City Codes is hereby amended by the enactment of the following additional sections:
Chapter 4501 - Definitions
4501.055 “Brief Legal Assistance” means individualized legal assistance provided in a single consultation by a designated partner to a covered individual in connection with a covered proceeding.
4501.074“Covered Individual” means any person who occupies a dwelling, with at least one (1) child in the City under a claim of legal right other than the owner, whose annual gross income is not in excess of one-hundred percent (100%) of the federal poverty guidelines as established and updated periodically by the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
4501.0741“Covered Proceeding” means any proceeding in a Franklin County Court, Ohio, for forcible entry and detainer to terminate the residential tenancy of a covered individual.
4501.077 “Designated Organization” means a ...
Click here for full text