Legislation Details

File #: 1069-2026    Version: 1
Type: Ordinance Status: First Reading
File created: 4/7/2026 In control: Neighborhoods, Recreation, & Parks Committee
On agenda: 5/11/2026 Final action:
Title: To authorize and direct the Director of Recreation and Parks to enter into an advance-pay grant agreement with the Franklin Park Conservatory Joint Recreation District for the city's share of the operation of the District in 2026; to authorize reimbursement of expenses incurred prior to the creation of the purchase order from and after April 1, 2026; and to authorize the expenditure of $250,000.00 from the Recreation and Parks Operating Fund. ($250,000.00)
Attachments: 1. Legislation Template Franklin Park Conservatory 2026.pdf
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Explanation

Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to award and enter into an advance-pay grant agreement with the Franklin Park Conservatory Joint Recreation District for the City's share of the operation of the District and the surrounding Department-owned land for the period of April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2027. This allocation will support the continued management, operation, development, marketing, security and volunteer programming of the Conservatory and the maintenance of the entire Franklin Park site, including the portion owned by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. This support is in accordance with the relevant provisions of City Code Chapter 111.14 that relate to grant awards.

Principal Parties:
Franklin Park Conservatory Joint Recreation District
1777 East Broad Street
Columbus, Ohio 43203
Bruce Harkey - bharkey@fpconservatory.org
Contract Compliance Number 005183

Benefits to the Public: Supporting the Franklin Park Conservatory Joint Recreation District will benefit the community by enhancing the visitor experience and creating a more attractive destination for Central Ohio residents. Franklin Park, The Conservatory, and Botanical Gardens are an asset to the entire Central Ohio community and beyond.

Community Input Issues: The community has expressed a desire for cultural enrichment and well-kept parks through workshops, surveys, and direct contact with staff.

Area(s) Affected: Citywide (99) - The entire City of Columbus, Central Ohio, and beyond will benefit from the amenities and programming offered, adding to the quality of life for citizens.

Master Plan Relation: This agreement supports the department’s Master Plan by enhancing the quality of life of our citizens through cultural and arts experiences. It will also help to ensure that facilities remain safe and user friendly.

Fiscal Impact: $250,000.00 is budgeted and available from within the Recreation and Parks Operating ...

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