Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance amends the current authorized strength, as set forth in ordinance 2115-2025, by establishing authorized strength levels for city departments in alignment with the 2026 operating budget.
The strength levels for most general fund agencies are set to be equal to the 2026 budget as amended by City Council (including the Departments of Health and Recreation and Parks). Authorized strength levels of smaller non-general fund agencies are set to be equal to the adopted 2026 budget as amended, while the strength levels of certain larger non-general fund agencies may have their strength set slightly higher to allow for flexibility in hiring.
This ordinance is contingent on passage of ordinances 2938-2025 the proposed 2026 general fund operating budget.
Fiscal Impact: Funds for these strength levels are budgeted and/or the positions will not be filled until revenues have been clearly identified and appropriated. In all cases, the ability to hire will be monitored by the Division of Finance and Management. As such, there is no fiscal impact associated with passage of this ordinance.
Emergency Justification: Emergency action is requested to allow for the filling of budgeted vacant positions in certain departments in order to assure the immediate preservation of the public health, safety, and welfare.
Title
To establish a new authorized strength ordinance for various divisions in the City of Columbus to be consistent with the adopted 2026 budget; to repeal ordinance 1283-2025; and to declare an emergency. ($0.00)
Body
WHEREAS, the Mayor's Executive 2026 budget was submitted to City Council on November 13, 2025 for consideration; and
WHEREAS, City Council adopted said budget on March 2, 2026; and,
WHEREAS, this ordinance repeals authorized strength ordinance 2115-2025; and
WHEREAS, an emergency exists in the usual daily operation of the City of Columbus in that it is immediately necessary to establish a new authorized st...
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