Explanation
Background
This ordinance modifies the service agreements with Columbus Next Generation Corporation originally authorized by Ordinance 1268-2021 and subsequently modified by Ordinances 3315-2021, 2279-2022, 2156-2023, 3382-2023, and 2565-2024, and with Habitat for Humanity - MidOhio authorized by Ordinance 2565-2024, for administration of the Owner-Occupied Initiative (OOI) program, which provides home repairs to address code violations.
The City of Columbus Office of the City Attorney and the Franklin County Environmental Courts have collaborated to assist homeowners throughout the city, particularly those who are elderly and/or disabled, in repairing code violations on their homes. Repair work has included roof repair and replacement, gutters, painting, sewer line work, porch and foundation repair, removal of dead trees, and remediation of overgrown vegetation.
These homeowners often lack the financial means or physical ability to make the necessary repairs. In July 2021, the City Attorney’s Office obtained a $100,000 grant to launch the Home Repair Program. The program primarily has been administered by Columbus Next Generation Corporation, which works with local contractors as much as possible. Beginning in 2025, Habitat for Humanity joined Columbus Next Generation Corporation as a primary partner in this program. All contractors are licensed, bonded, insured through the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, and registered with the City of Columbus to pull any required permits. Upon completion of repairs, the City Code Officer who referred the property to the court system verifies that the work meets requirements to close out the associated code violations.
This ordinance does not add any additional funds; it authorizes extensions of the original agreements with Columbus NextGen and Habitat for Humanity - MidOhio through December 31, 2026. The need for additional time to complete the scope of work as stipulated in the contract agreements could no...
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