Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance creates the new Department of Neighborhoods and makes the needed code changes to ensure that the new department has all the necessary tools and resources it will need to better deliver more comprehensive services to Columbus’ diverse neighborhoods. This new department will streamline the reporting structure and increase accountability by reporting directly to the Administration.
The Department of Neighborhoods will consolidate constituent services - Neighborhood Pride, the Community Relations Commission, Neighborhood Liaisons and 311 Call Center, and will be more accessible to the public.
Through these changes, an efficient and effective department will emerge, allowing for an improved neighborhood focus. The administration of the neighborhood liaison communication program, Neighborhood Pride program and the Neighborhood Pride Centers will be transferred from the Department of Development to the new department. Administration of the 311 Call Center will be transferred from the Department of Public Service to the new Department of Neighborhoods. The Community Relations Commission will also be incorporated into this new department.
FISCAL IMPACT: There is no immediate direct fiscal impact associated with this reorganization and associated code changes, however, in the long term, the new department should create operational efficiencies and streamline existing functions. Separate legislation will be forthcoming to propose the transfer of budget authority and authorized strength to this new department.
Emergency Justification: Emergency action is requested for the new Department of Neighborhoods to become effective on July 1, 2016 to allow for the correct and proper accounting of these organizational changes under the City of Columbus 2016 Operating Budget.
Title
To enact, amend and repeal various sections of the Columbus City Codes to create a new Department of Neighborhoods, to move neighborhood service activities f...
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