Good Works Columbus: January 15, 2024
Happy MLK Day
Intro
Hi everyone, Happy MLK Day! I hope that this newsletter inspires you to follow in King’s footsteps with acts of volunteerism and activism, not just today, but every day.
If you have an upcoming event or a link you’d like to share for the newsletter, feel free to send suggestions. Please let me know if I missed something!
Things you can do online
Email your representative in support of the “Stronger Communities Through Better Transit Act”. This bill will provide transit agencies across the country with more federal funding, providing higher quality and more equitable public transit. Use this template to urge your representative to support the bill. (The template was created for organizations so use “I” instead of “we” in the text.) Here are links to contact Congresswoman Joyce Beatty and Congressman Mike Carey.
Last week, the Ohio House made an early return to the statehouse to vote on Mike DeWine’s veto of the bigoted anti-trans HB 68 bill. 65 representatives voted to override DeWine’s veto. Next the Ohio Senate will hold a veto override vote. Contact your representatives and urge them to do better.
Provide written or virtual testimony to Columbus City Council on the 2024 operating budget. There’s also opportunities for in-person testimony this week and next, depending on the committee. The bad: Mayor Ginther’s plan calls for more police funding. The good: focus on housing and homeless, more funding for the city’s tree plan, and also public parks and street maintenance. Advocate for more of the good and put an emphasis on safety for pedestrians and bike riders for the infrastructure committee (e.g. more protected bike lanes).
In Case You Missed It
Give feedback on the Eastland Community Plan.
"Creating an inclusive and equitable new chapter for Eastland requires a bold, long-term vision. This consists of a framework that centers around people, places, and opportunity. It is critical to identify the needs, challenges, and opportunities for all the stakeholders within the Eastland community, from housing to education to employment to history and culture.
To create a community-driven vision, this planning process will engage Eastland area stakeholders who live, work, worship, play, and learn in the community. This will ensure the Eastland Community Plan will be a successful roadmap to a bright future for everyone.”
Take a survey to give feedback to the city of Columbus on its zoning update. The survey will ask you about building and housing preferences along the city’s main corridors as well as thoughts on parking minimums.
Mark up the Vision Zero Columbus map. Have a close call walking, biking, or getting around town? Do you know a dangerous intersection that can be improved? Help identify these spots on the Vision Zero map.
Things to do in person
City Council budget hearing dates
Tuesday, January 16 at 5 p.m.
Housing, Homelessness, and Human Services Budget Hearing
Led by Councilmembers Shayla Favor and Melissa Green
City Departments involved: Development, Public Health, Building and Zoning Services, and CelebrateOne
To provide written, in-person or virtual testimony, email Kendra Asiedu at KNAsiedu@columbus.gov by Noon the day of the hearing.
Wednesday, January 17 at 5:30 p.m.
Public Safety and Judiciary Budget Hearing
Led by Councilmembers Emmanuel Remy and Shayla Favor
City Departments involved: Public Safety, Municipal Court, City Attorney's Office, and the Inspector General's Office
To provide written, in-person or virtual testimony, email Cailyn Pittman at CDPittman@columbus.gov by Noon the day of the hearing.
Thursday, January 18 at 2 p.m.
Infrastructure and Neighborhoods Budget Hearing
Led by Councilmembers Lourdes Barroso de Padilla, Christopher Wyche, and Nancy Day-Achauer
City Departments involved: Neighborhoods, Public Service, Public Utilities, Recreation and Parks, and Building and Zoning Services
To provide written, in-person or virtual testimony, email Amaris Lemus at ASLemus@columbus.gov by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
Other Stuff
Save the date: Transit Columbus Kickoff
We’re back in 2024 with a whole new slate of initiatives. Join us on Sunday, January 28 for our annual kickoff meeting. Lend your input and insights into our strategic plan, hear from local operators and advocates, and then join us for a social hour where you can connect with community members.
Sunday, January 28
2pm - 4pm
120 W. Goodale St. Columbus, OH 43215
(Social happy hour to follow at Bernard’s Tavern)
Have a great day everyone, until next time.