Explanation
1. BACKGROUND
This legislation authorizes the Director of Public Service to execute agreements with IKE Smart City, LLC relative to the installation, operation, and maintenance of interactive kiosks, pylons, and other appurtenances (the “Equipment”) within the public rights-of-way of the City of Columbus.
The Equipment is described as “a breakthrough citizen engagement platform that helps cities, business improvement districts and destination marketing organizations communicate with the public, encouraging a pedestrian-oriented environment, and tells the story of their city.” IKE Smart City, LLC desires to install the Equipment at various locations throughout the City and may compensate the City for the use of the public rights-of-way by designating a portion of the net advertising fees to the Department of Public Service, which oversees the operation, use, and maintenance of the public rights-of-way. It is anticipated that the initial installation of the Equipment will take place in the Short North Area, near the Convention Center, and at a few other areas in Downtown Columbus.
Any monies designated for receipt by the Department of Public Service from IKE Smart City, LLC for this project shall be dispersed per the terms of the agreements executed with IKE Smart City, LLC. It is initially planned to provide any funds designated for the Department of Public Service under this agreement to support the Short North Alliance and the Franklin County Convention and Visitors Bureau for their involvement in this project. The designation of the use of these funds may be changed in the future.
The legislation also authorizes the waiver of those sections of Columbus City Code that prohibit the placement of vending equipment and advertising within the public rights-of-way. That waiver is only for the Equipment that is to be installed by IKE Smart City LLC under these agreements.
2. FISCAL IMPACT
There is no anticipated cost to the City relative to the a...
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