New Columbus City Councilmember Tiara Ross says affordable housing will be her top priority as she begins her term representing District 7.
Columbus Affordable Housing: Tiara Ross Prioritizes Affordable Housing on Columbus City Council
Newly elected Columbus City Councilmember Tiara Ross says addressing the city’s affordable housing challenges will be her top priority as she begins her term.
Speaking ahead of her first City Council meeting on January 5, Ross emphasized that housing remains a central issue for Columbus residents and a core focus of her campaign.
“Housing is the foundation of safety and stability in any community,” Ross said. “If we address it effectively, we can create real, lasting impact for the people of Columbus.”
Ross represents District 7 and is the only new member joining City Council this year, following an election cycle in which several incumbents ran unopposed. During the January 5 meeting, Council President Shannon Hardin was unanimously reelected and announced Ross’s new leadership roles.
Hardin appointed Ross as Chair of the Housing, Homelessness, and Building Committee, while also naming her Vice Chair of the Public Safety and Criminal Justice Committee. Ross brings prior experience as an assistant city attorney, where she worked closely on housing policy and public safety matters, including collaboration with the Columbus Division of Police.
“Housing is our top priority — first, second, and third,” Hardin said. “Councilmember Ross ran on housing, has a strong background in housing initiatives, and brings forward innovative ideas that align with our goals.”
Hardin previously chaired the housing committee following the departure of Shayla Favor, who was elected Franklin County Prosecutor. He will now serve as vice chair and plans to collaborate with Ross on his initiative, “Yes in God’s Backyard,” which aims to expand affordable housing opportunities by allowing churches and faith-based organizations to develop underutilized land they own.
Ross follows a line of District 7 leaders who prioritized housing policy. Favor was known for championing tenant protections, including funding for legal representation in eviction court. Otto Beatty III, who temporarily filled the seat in 2025, focused on legislation supporting the development of accessory dwelling units.
When asked about specific housing legislation, Ross said her immediate goal is to engage directly with residents before introducing proposals.
“This is just the beginning,” Ross said. “I want to listen to the community and bring forward legislation that addresses the real challenges people are facing.”
Ross added that she plans to increase her presence across Columbus neighborhoods through expanded listening sessions aimed at engaging diverse and traditionally underrepresented community groups.
“We are creating intentional spaces to hear directly from residents,” she said. “Community voices will guide the work we do.”
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