Explanation
BACKGROUND: This amendment seeks to modify Ordinance No. 0245-2024, passed by Columbus City Council on January 22, 2024.
Since the initial ordinance was passed, the vendor identified in the ordinance has changed its business organization type from a single-member LLC to an S-Corporation. In order to correctly contract with and pay the correct entity and to promptly pay for work that has already been performed starting on January 1, 2024, this amendment authorizes the Director of the Department of Development to enter into a contract with the new entity and declares and emergency.
The original legislation authorized the Director of the Department of Development to enter into a contract with Elizabeth Menduni (a single-member LLC registered with the Ohio Secretary of State as MKG Dept, LLC) in an amount up to $79,435.30 for the purpose of administering a program under Accelerate Columbus 2024. For the original legislation, the Department utilized the Request for Proposals (RFP) process in accordance with City procurements standards to solicit proposals. Proposals were submitted in response to RFQ025308 in accordance with the relevant provisions of Chapter 329 of the Columbus City Codes. The Director of Development will enter into contract with ten organizations under the authority of Columbus City Code Section 329.18. These services cannot be provided by existing city employees as they do not have the resources to perform the program services.
Through Accelerate Columbus, the City seeks to nurture a pipeline of entrepreneurs and small businesses that reflects the talent and diversity of Columbus. The ultimate objective of Accelerate Columbus 2024 is to provide structured qualitatively and quantitatively measurable programs that strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem. In alignment with the Columbus Small Business Agenda, programs should have special consideration for businesses in low- to moderate-income areas, minority, and women-owned businesse...
Click here for full text