Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Department of Development to enter into a service contract with Quinn Evans Architects, Inc., to provide an assessment of the City of Columbus’ historic preservation code, policies, guidelines, and processes. This ordinance also authorizes the payment for services starting August 1, 2026, until March 31, 2027.
The City of Columbus seeks to “modernize” historic preservation in Columbus and answer some big picture questions, including:
· What is the future of historic preservation in Columbus?
· How can historic preservation be used to help achieve equitable development in Columbus?
· How do the needs for housing production and historic preservation co-exist and support each other?
To answer these questions, the chosen consultant will need to analyze the city’s existing preservation code, policies, guidelines, and processes. The chosen vendor will subsequently provide recommendations on necessary revisions to said code, policies, guidelines, and processes to set the stage for the creation of a modern historic preservation program.
The Department of Development advertised RFQ032013 through the Vendor Services portal on January 30, 2026, and accepted proposals for Historic Preservation Assessment through the Bonfire portal on March 4, 2026. Eight (8) proposals were submitted in response to RFQ032013 in accordance with the relevant provisions of Chapter 329 of the Columbus City Codes. An evaluation committee of members from the City Council and the Department of Development selected Quinn Evans Architects, Inc. The evaluation was based on project management experience, project approach, and other factors.
EMERGENCY DESIGNATION: Emergency action is requested to establish the purchase order and quickly begin updating preservation codes, policies, guidelines, and processes to modernize the city’s historic preservation program.
Fiscal Impact: Funding is available within the Neighborhood Initiatives Sub...
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