Good Works Columbus: July 20th, 2026
Hi everyone, welcome to Good Works Columbus! Today is my birthday and I’m raising money for Transit Columbus. If you are able, please consider donating! Thank you! 🥰
Things you can do in person
City Council Committee Hearing: Data Centers and Lead Service Lines
Wednesday, July 22nd, 5:30PM
Join Councilmember Wyche for the next Public Utilities and Sustainability Hearing to discuss Data Centers and Lead Service Lines. The hearing will cover proposed policies on data centers and lead service lines.
An Evening With Green Columbus
Thursday, July 30th, 6PM-9PM
Budd Dairy Food Hall Rooftop
1086 N 4th St. Columbus, OH
An Evening with Green Columbus is a celebration for tree lovers, community builders, sustainability enthusiasts, and anyone who believes a greener Columbus is possible.This first-of-its-kind event brings together people who care about trees, neighborhoods, and the future of our city. Come, Bring a friend, and get ready to geek out about trees with people who get it.
We're celebrating what's been growing and raising $25,000 for more tree plantings. Because if Columbus needs more shade, more beauty, and more green spaces, we might as well have a good time making it happen.
The evening will feature live music, a Green Carpet step-and-repeat photo moment, networking, vegetarian bites, drink tickets, and a native tree auction. We'll also hear from special speakers and local green heroes helping shape the future of Columbus' urban forest.
Review of Flock Safety Community Meeting
Monday, August 10th, 4PM
Habitat for Humanity Triplex Build with Strong Towns Columbus
Saturday, August 15th 8:30AM-3:30PM
Help Habitat build a triplex for 3 local families! There is no experience necessary. Tasks will vary and our helpful site leads will teach you everything you need to know. You must be 16 years or older (and accompanied by an adult 21 or over if you are under 18) to volunteer. Teams of youth volunteers must be accompanied by 1 adult per 5 youth.
Things you can do online
Columbus Participatory Budgeting 2026
Over the course of the next few months, residents will have the opportunity to submit project ideas, develop project ideas into proposals, and vote for final projects to improve our city. All Columbus community members over the age of 14 are invited to submit ideas, and anyone over the age of 16 is invited to participate in the final vote. The $9 million in capital funds will be distributed equally among the city's nine Council Districts.
Visit the website to learn more, find in-person meetings, and submit your ideas!Building Energy Performance Standard Draft Feedback

Columbus is looking to adopt a Building Energy Performance Standard Policy (BEPS) that will require large, existing buildings to decrease their energy usage overtime. As Columbus continues to grow it is critical that we grow sustainably so that all people and businesses are able to thrive in our city. A BEPS will help us achieve that by:
Reducing energy costs for residents and businesses.
Creating an ecosystem to support building owners in making their buildings healthier and more efficient.
Generating economic opportunities for all Columbus residents through local jobs and improved property values.
Using Storytelling to Win and Build
Wednesday, July 22nd 2PM-3PM
Stories are powerful. Sharing our stories publicly helps us connect with people and build power to transform the world we live in. In a world of mis- and disinformation, our stories are undeniable, and can be used to amplify and solve the problems we all face. Join us to learn the basics of storytelling and narrative strategy, and how to use them to shift the balance of power away from corporate landlords and lenders and towards tenants and homeowners.
Things I’m reading/watching:
Our City Our Say submits 23,000 signatures to force a vote on how Columbus elects city council from WOSU
Addressing homelessness in Columbus from WOSU
COTA has 5-10 missed or delayed trips daily due to electric bus issues from Columbus Dispatch
City Solar Rebate (Almost) Replaces Federal Tax Credit Cancelled by Trump from Columbus Underground
Have a great day everyone!
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