Explanation
BACKGROUND: Portions of Plain Township were annexed to Columbus from 2002 to the present using the Expedited Type Two annexation petition process. This process, outlined in the Ohio Revised Code (ORC 709.023), does not generally allow municipalities to conform the boundaries of the newly annexed territory. As a consequence, annexed lands remain in the township even though they have been annexed by the City - thereby having a "dual" status with respect to such things as tax obligations and elections. An exception to the boundary conformance prohibition is permitted (ORC 709.023(H)) if an annexation agreement between the municipality and township addresses the matter. The City of Columbus, Village of New Albany, and Plain Township entered into an annexation agreement in early 2008 (authorized by ordinance 2262-2006) which stipulates that Columbus will conform the boundaries of any township areas annexed after October 26, 2001 in the area designated as "City Growth Zone West." This area is depicted on an attached map and includes all territory south of Walnut Street in Plain Township that is currently in Columbus or becomes part of Columbus through annexation. Twenty-five annexations, totaling about 615 acres have taken place under the Type Two process. Under the terms of the agreement the boundaries of these sites must be conformed. Boundaries for any future annexations in this area must also be conformed.
Boundary conformance to Columbus involves the extension of Montgomery Township's boundaries to incorporate the subject areas. This ordinance seeks authorization to submit a petition to the Board of Franklin County Commissioners to undertake this process for those areas annexed from 2002 to present under the Expedited Type Two process. The petition will be filed in accordance with Section 503.07 of the Ohio Revised Code.
The annexation agreement requires that the City take expeditious steps to conform these areas creating the necessity ...
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