Columbus approves $2.9 billion spending bill
Columbus, Ohio – In a historic decision, Columbus City Council approved a $2.9 billion spending bill, the largest operating budget in the city’s history. This substantial investment for 2025 focuses on key priorities such as public safety, affordable housing, and critical infrastructure development.
Among the major allocations:
- $14 million for the construction of a new Easton Police Substation
- $1 billion toward building the city’s fourth water treatment plant
- $50 million to fund affordable housing projects
- $9 million for the city’s first-ever participatory budgeting initiative, allowing residents to vote on local neighborhood projects
Councilmember Nick Bankston highlighted the importance of investing in roads, bridges, and neighborhood parks, calling them essential to improving quality of life for Columbus residents. Mayor Andrew Ginther emphasized the focus on ensuring every resident is safe, healthy, and housed whether they live on the east side, west side, or anywhere in between.
The spending bill also includes:
- $1 million to upgrade the Milo-Grogan Youth Center at Star House
- $450,000 for renovations at Freedom and Joan Parks
With council approval now in place, the city auditor is authorized to issue bonds to fund these long-term capital projects.
This bold budget reflects the growing needs of Columbus as it continues to expand and modernize. It represents not just a financial plan, but a commitment to the city’s people and future.
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