Explanation
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this ordinance is to amend Chapter 525 of the Columbus City Codes, pertaining to those individuals and organizations that solicit funds for charity, to fully update provisions of the charitable solicitations code.
The charitable solicitations code underwent its last extensive update several years ago. Since then, the City has identified several parts of the code that could be modernized, as well as certain inefficiencies to be removed.
One of the central changes is the removal of the charitable solicitations board. The City has had great difficulty filling the current five board seats and having a quorum for board meetings. Since currently, the board is responsible for approving all permits for charitable solicitations; this has resulted in a delay in granting permits and renewals. The proposed code changes place this responsibility on the director of public safety, which would make for a more expeditious review of outstanding applications.
Other updates include accounting for new and emerging technologies, as well as changes in the application process to increase efficiency and make it more practical for residents. The code will now consider solicitations via social media and email. Also, the code will make uniform the application deadlines for renewal, as well as eliminate redundancies in the application forms that are already required by the state of Ohio.
Building on Council’s past efforts to update the City’s licensing code, these revisions further Council’s efforts to modernize and streamline the process through which various vendors are regulated, and ensure the health, safety and welfare of Columbus residents.
Title
To amend various sections of Chapter 525 of the Columbus City Codes, updating the provisions for charitable solicitations licensing in the City of Columbus.
Body
WHEREAS, the purpose of the charitable solicitations code is to provide a framework by which individuals and organizat...
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