Saturday, March 14, 2026
Subscribe
Advertise
LIVE TV
Home Blog Page 12

Central Ohio School Close due to Winter Storm

Stella Muigai
-
0
Central Ohio School Close due to Winter Storm

Severe winter weather causes schools across central Ohio to close or delay.

Central Ohio School Close due to Winter Storm
Winter storm triggers school closures and delays across central Ohio – check the full list for your district.

Central Ohio School Close due to Winter Storm

A powerful winter storm swept through central Ohio from Wednesday night into Thursday morning, forcing many local school districts to announce delays or cancellations. While Franklin County and surrounding areas received only one to two inches of snow, dangerously low temperatures and strong winds created hazardous driving conditions.

Meteorologists from Storm Team 4 report that temperatures will continue to drop through the week, reaching the teens by the weekend. Residents are advised to exercise caution while traveling and stay updated on the latest weather conditions.

Check below for a full list of school closings and delays in central Ohio. Bookmark this page and refresh for real-time updates.

A

Ada Ex. Village School District

HARDIN  HARDIN

2 Hr Delay

Amanda Clearcreek Loc Schools

FAIRFIELD  FAIRFIELD

2 Hr Delay

Athens County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

B

Berne Union Schools

FAIRFIELD  FAIRFIELD

2 Hr Delay

Bloom-Carroll Local School Dist.

FAIRFIELD  FAIRFIELD

2 Hr Delay

Buckeye Central Local Schools

CRAWFORD  CRAWFORD

Closed Today

Bucyrus City Schools

CRAWFORD  CRAWFORD

Closed Today

C

Cardington-Lincoln Local Schools

MORROW  MORROW

Closed Today

Centerburg Senior Services & MOW Program

KNOX

Closed Today

Champaign County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Circleville City Schools

PICKAWAY  PICKAWAY

2 Hr Delay

Clear Fork Local

RICHLAND  RICHLAND

Closed Today

Coshocton Career Center

COSHOCTON  COSCHOCTON

Closed Today

Coshocton City Schools

COSHOCTON  COSCHOCTON

2 Hr Delay

Coshocton Co Head Start

COSHOCTON  COSCHOCTON

Closed Today

Coshocton County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Coshocton County Early Head Start

COSHOCTON  COSCHOCTON

Closed Today

Crawford County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Crestline Exempted Village School District

CRAWFORD  CRAWFORD

Closed Today

Crooksville Exempted Village Schl

PERRY  PERRY

Closed Today

E

East Knox School District

KNOX  KNOX

Closed Today

East Muskingum Schools

MUSKINGUM  MUSKINGUM

2 Hr Delay

Elgin Local Schools

MARION  MARION

2 Hr Delay

F

Fairfield County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Fairfield Union Local Schools

FAIRFIELD  FAIRFIELD

2 Hr Delay

Fairway School

CRAWFORD  CRAWFORD

Closed Today

Forest Rose School

FAIRFIELD  FAIRFIELD

2 Hr Delay

Foxfire Community Schools

MUSKINGUM  MUSKINGUM

2 Hr Delay

Franklin Local School

MUSKINGUM  MUSKINGUM

Closed Today

Fredericktown School District

KNOX  KNOX

Closed Today

G

Guernsey County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

H

Hardin County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Highland Local Schools

MORROW  MORROW

Closed Today

Hocking County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

J

Jackson County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 2 – Snow EMRG

Johnstown Monroe Local District

LICKING  LICKING

2 Hr Delay

K

Knox County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Knox County Career Center

KNOX  KNOX

Closed Today

L

Liberty Union-Thurston Local Schools

FAIRFIELD  FAIRFIELD

2 Hr Delay

Logan Elm School District

PICKAWAY  PICKAWAY

2 Hr Delay

Logan Hocking Local Schools

HOCKING  HOCKING

2 Hr Delay

London City Schools

MADISON  MADISON

2 Hr Delay

M

Madison Plains Local

MADISON  MADISON

2 Hr Delay

Marion City Schools

MARION  MARION

2 Hr Delay

Marion County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Marion Preparatory Academy

MARION  MARION

2 Hr Delay

Maysville Schools

MUSKINGUM  MUSKINGUM

2 Hr Delay

Miami Trace Local Schools

FAYETTE  FAYETTE

2 Hr Delay

Mid-East CTC-Buffalo Campus

MUSKINGUM  MUSKINGUM

Closed Today

Mid-East CTC-Zanesville Campus

MUSKINGUM  MUSKINGUM

Closed Today

Morgan Local Schools

MORGAN  MORGAN

2 Hr Delay

Morrow County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Mt. Gilead Ex Village Schools

MORROW  MORROW

Closed Today

Mt. Vernon City Schools

KNOX  KNOX

Closed Today

N

North Fork Local

LICKING  LICKING

2 Hr Delay

Northern Local Schools

PERRY  PERRY

Closed Today

Northmor Local Schools

MORROW  MORROW

Closed Today

Northridge Local Schools

LICKING  LICKING

2 Hr Delay

P

Pickaway County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Pleasant Local School District

MARION  MARION

2 Hr Delay

R

Richland County

GOVT  GOVT

Level 1 – Snow EMRG

Ridgedale Local Schools

MARION  MARION

2 Hr Delay

Ridgemont Local Schools

HARDIN  HARDIN

2 Hr Delay

Ridgewood Local Schools

COSHOCTON  COSCHOCTON

Closed Today

River Valley Local Schools

MARION  MARION

2 Hr Delay

River View Local Schools

COSHOCTON  COSCHOCTON

Closed Today

Ross Co Christian Academy

ROSS  ROSS

2 Hr Delay

S

Southeastern Local School District

ROSS  ROSS

2 Hr Delay

Southern Local Schools

PERRY  PERRY

Closed Today

Springfield City Schools

Springfield

2 Hr Delay

Station Break Senior Cntr

KNOX  KNOX

Closed Today

T

Teays Valley Local Schools

PICKAWAY  PICKAWAY

2 Hr Delay

Tri-County Career Center

ATHENS  ATHENS

Closed Today

Tri-Rivers Career Center

MARION  MARION

2 Hr Delay

U

Union Scioto Local

ROSS  ROSS

2 Hr Delay

V

Vinton Co. Local Schools

VINTON  VINTON

2 Hr Delay

W

Walnut Township Local Schools

FAIRFIELD  FAIRFIELD

2 Hr Delay

Wellston City Schools

JACKSON  JACKSON

Closed Today

Westfall Schools

PICKAWAY  PICKAWAY

2 Hr Delay

Wynford School District

CRAWFORD  CRAWFORD

Closed Today

Z

Zanesville City Schools

MUSKINGUM  MUSKINGUM

2 Hr Delay

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

Minnesota Attorney General Files Lawsuit to Stop ICE Enforcement in Minnesota

Stella Muigai
-
0
Minnesota Attorney General Files Lawsuit to Stop ICE Enforcement in Minnesota
Minnesota Attorney General Files Lawsuit to Stop ICE’s Enforcement in Minnesota
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison joins Minneapolis and St. Paul leaders to challenge ICE’s Operation Metro Surge.

Minnesota Attorney General Files Lawsuit to Stop ICE Enforcement in Minnesota

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has announced a major legal challenge against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), accusing the federal agency of conducting unlawful and aggressive enforcement actions across the state.

In a joint announcement with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, Ellison confirmed that Minnesota, alongside the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, is suing the federal government to halt Operation Metro Surge—a recent expansion of ICE activity in the region.

According to state and city leaders, the surge has led to widespread racial profiling and intimidation, with residents reporting harassment, fear-driven encounters, and physical confrontations involving ICE agents. Officials argue the operation violates constitutional protections and undermines public safety by eroding trust between immigrant communities and local authorities.

“This unprecedented escalation must stop,” Ellison stated, emphasizing that the lawsuit seeks to restore lawful enforcement standards and protect residents’ civil rights.

The case marks one of the most direct legal confrontations between a state government and ICE in recent years, adding to the growing national debate over federal immigration enforcement practices.

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

Who is Michael McKee, Monique & Spencer Tepe Murder Suspect

Stella Muigai
-
0
Who is Michael McKee, Monique & Spencer Tepe Murder Suspect

A Chicago surgeon has been arrested and charged with murder in the deaths of Monique and Spencer Tepe, who were found shot inside their Columbus home.

Who is Michael McKee, Monique & Spencer Tepe Murder Suspect
Monique & Spencer Tepe

Who is Michael McKee, Monique & Spencer Tepe Murder Suspect

New details have emerged in the investigation into the fatal shooting of Monique Tepe and her husband, Spencer Tepe, in Columbus’ Weinland Park neighborhood.

Authorities have identified Michael McKee, 39, of Chicago, as the suspect in the case. McKee was arrested on Saturday in Rockford, Illinois, and now faces two counts of murder in connection with the deaths. Court records show that McKee was previously married to Monique Tepe; the two wed in August 2015 and divorced in 2017.

Renee Nicole Good: Minneapolis Protests After Fatal ICE Shooting

According to multiple reports, McKee is a licensed surgeon with medical credentials in Illinois and California and previously held a license in Nevada. He has no documented prior criminal record. An online staff directory lists him as a surgeon at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, which confirmed it is cooperating fully with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation.

McKee was taken into custody Saturday morning and booked into the Winnebago County Jail. He is scheduled to appear in an Illinois court on Monday, where formal extradition proceedings to return him to Ohio are expected to begin.

Columbus police say surveillance footage from the Weinland Park area played a key role in identifying the suspect. Investigators were able to track a vehicle seen in the footage, which ultimately led them to McKee in Rockford.

Monique Tepe, 39, and Spencer Tepe, 37, were found deceased from gunshot wounds on December 30 inside their North Fourth Street home. Their two young children, ages one and four, were found inside the residence and were not physically harmed.

Spencer Tepe worked as a dentist in Athens, Ohio, while Monique Tepe had a professional background in childhood education. A visitation service was held in Upper Arlington, followed by a celebration of life in downtown Columbus.

Residents of the Weinland Park community expressed relief following the arrest. Community leaders and neighbors described the family as well-loved and emphasized their desire for justice.

In a statement, the Tepe family said they trust the legal process to hold the responsible individual fully accountable, adding that they remain focused on honoring Monique and Spencer’s memory while protecting and supporting their children.

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

Renee Nicole Good: Minneapolis Protests After Fatal ICE Shooting

Stella Muigai
-
0
Renee Nicole Good: Minneapolis Protests After Fatal ICE Shooting

Read the latest on growing Minneapolis protests after the ICE shooting of U.S. citizen and poet Renee Nicole Good.

Renee Nicole Good: Minneapolis Protests After Fatal ICE Shooting
Protesters gather following the fatal ICE shooting of Renee Nicole Good.

Renee Nicole Good: Minneapolis Protests After Fatal ICE Shooting

Widespread protests erupted in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and poet, during a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in south Minneapolis. Federal authorities say an ICE officer fired after Good’s vehicle allegedly moved toward agents during a federal enforcement action, but eyewitnesses and family members insist, she posed no threat, and video footage fueled angry calls for accountability.

Good’s death sparked huge demonstrations at federal buildings and around the city, drawing thousands of protesters demanding justice and an end to aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. Lawmakers and civil rights advocates criticized federal actions, while official investigations into the shooting continue.

Despite subzero temperatures, demonstrators rallied peacefully, though some arrests were reported as tensions mounted over federal immigration policies. The FBI has joined local efforts to investigate the circumstances that led to Good’s death amid broader public outrage and national protests.

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

Gov. DeWine Warns Public Against Daycare Fraud Investigations

Stella Muigai
-
0
Gov. DeWine Warns Public Against Daycare Fraud Investigations

Gov. Mike DeWine warns Ohio residents against entering daycare facilities to investigate alleged fraud, urging the public to report concerns through official state channels.

Gov. DeWine Warns Public Against Daycare Fraud Investigations
Gov. Mike DeWine addresses concerns over daycare fraud investigations in Ohio.

Gov. DeWine Warns Public Against Daycare Fraud Investigations

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has warned members of the public to stop attempting to investigate alleged daycare fraud by entering child care facilities, emphasizing that such actions violate state law and pose safety risks to children.

The warning follows a surge of social media videos over the past two weeks showing individuals who describe themselves as “investigative journalists” approaching daycare centers in Columbus, questioning staff about alleged fraud, and being denied entry.

During a Monday news conference, DeWine urged Ohio residents to report suspected daycare fraud directly to the state rather than attempting to gain access to child care facilities. He noted that Ohio law strictly prohibits anyone from entering a daycare unless they are an employee or responsible for a child enrolled there.

DeWine said the law exists to protect children and that the public should be reassured not alarmed when daycares refuse entry to strangers. He stressed that preventing unauthorized access is a critical part of child safety.

Several of the targeted daycare centers are operated by individuals of Somali descent. Allegations circulating online appear to link Ohio daycare providers to fraud cases uncovered in Minnesota, where authorities have investigated multiple fraud schemes related to child nutrition, housing, and autism services since 2022.

Minnesota, which has the largest Somali population in the United States, has charged 92 individuals in fraud-related cases, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Columbus has the second-largest Somali population nationwide, a fact that DeWine said has been unfairly used to draw conclusions about fraud in Ohio.

DeWine rejected the notion that the issue should be framed around ethnicity, emphasizing that fraud investigations in Ohio involve individuals of various backgrounds. He said the state has strong safeguards in place, including attendance-based payments and robust reporting systems, and that all allegations are investigated thoroughly.

“We need to look at this as a fraud issue, not a community issue,” DeWine said.

Some of the individuals conducting these confrontations, including former Major League Baseball player John Rocker and Republican strategist Mehek Cooke, have posted videos online showing interactions with Columbus residents, particularly within the Somali community. Critics argue these actions amount to harassment, while the individuals claim they are exposing wrongdoing.

Without naming anyone directly, DeWine reiterated that no one unaffiliated with a daycare should attempt to enter child care facilities. He encouraged anyone with concerns to submit reports through the Ohio Department of Children and Youth’s official online channels and allow authorities to handle investigations.

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

DHS Confirms 280+ Arrests in Ohio ICE Immigration Operation

Stella Muigai
-
0
DHS Confirms 280+ Arrests in Ohio ICE Immigration Operation

Federal officials confirm more than 280 arrests during a weeklong ICE operation in Ohio as Columbus leaders respond to public safety concerns.

Over 280 Arrests in Ohio ICE Immigration Operation
Over 280 Arrests in Ohio ICE Immigration Operation

Over 280 Arrests in Ohio ICE Immigration Operation

Federal immigration authorities confirmed that more than 280 individuals were arrested across Ohio during a coordinated, weeklong enforcement operation conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

According to DHS, the operation took place from Dec. 16 through Dec. 21 and involved multiple jurisdictions statewide. Officials stated that some of those arrested had prior convictions, including assault on a law enforcement officer, robbery, illegal firearm possession, and drug-related offenses.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency said the operation was part of its ongoing efforts to enforce federal immigration law while prioritizing public safety.

During the same week, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther and Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant held a media briefing to address community concerns regarding ICE activity in the city.

Mayor Ginther emphasized that Columbus remains a safe city, pointing to declining homicide rates, and stated that the city would not assist ICE with immigration enforcement unless a crime had occurred locally.

Chief Bryant reiterated that the Columbus Police Department does not investigate residents solely based on immigration status, noting that officers only intervene when there is evidence of criminal or dangerous activity.

Later in the week, Mayor Ginther said he was not aware of any ongoing federal immigration operations in Columbus. While affirming cooperation with law enforcement agencies on criminal matters, he made clear that city resources would not be used to carry out federal immigration enforcement.

Ginther also raised concerns about communication and training standards, saying city officials remain cautious when federal operations occur without local coordination.

Similar immigration enforcement actions were reported in cities across the United States, prompting demonstrations in several locations, including Columbus. Federal authorities confirmed that enforcement operations in other states resulted in injuries and fatalities, which have since drawn national attention and public scrutiny.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has responded to the Minneapolis shooting ” Defective Act “

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has responded to the Minneapolis shooting ” Defective Act “

Stella Muigai
-
0
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has responded to the Minneapolis shooting ” Defective Act “

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security calls the Minneapolis shooting a “defective act” and an act of domestic terrorism, warning of threats to law enforcement amid ongoing protests.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has responded to the Minneapolis shooting " Defective Act "
DHS calls the Minneapolis shooting a “defective act” and warns of threats to law enforcement, as protests continue in Columbus and other cities.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has responded to the Minneapolis shooting ” Defective Act “

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has responded to the recent Minneapolis shooting, describing the incident as a “defective act” .

According to DHS, the situation involved what the agency called an “anti-ICE rioter” who allegedly weaponized her vehicle against law enforcement officers. “Our officer relied on his training and saved his own life, as well as the lives of his fellow officers,” the tweet stated.

DHS further criticized political policies, suggesting that “sanctuary politicians have created an environment that encourages rampant assaults on law enforcement.” The agency labeled the event as an act of domestic terrorism, highlighting concerns over growing threats to law enforcement personnel in areas with controversial immigration policies.

The statement comes amid heightened national attention on the Minneapolis shooting and subsequent protests in cities including Columbus, Ohio, where communities have mobilized to show solidarity with immigrants and raise questions about ICE practices.

This official response contrasts sharply with the public demonstrations, which emphasize accountability for federal immigration operations and the safety of immigrant communities. DHS’s characterization of the incident underscores the ongoing tension between federal law enforcement agencies and local advocacy groups, particularly in cities with active sanctuary policies.

Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, and both law enforcement and community leaders have called for calm as investigations proceed.

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

Ohio Flu Cases Increase in 2026 as “Super Flu” Strain Spreads

Stella Muigai
-
0
Ohio Flu Cases Increase in 2026 as “Super Flu” Strain Spreads

Ohio is experiencing a rise in flu cases and hospitalizations due to a new influenza A “super flu” strain. Experts recommend vaccination to reduce severity, especially for children and seniors.

Ohio Flu Cases Increase in 2026 as “Super Flu” Strain Spreads
Ohio faces a surge in flu cases this season due to the new “super flu” strain. Health officials urge residents, especially children and seniors, to get vaccinated.

Ohio Flu Cases Increase in 2026 as “Super Flu” Strain Spreads

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is reporting a significant rise in flu cases and hospitalizations this season, driven by a new influenza A strain being referred to as the “super flu.”

Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, ODH Director, said the flu season has started off much stronger than usual. “We have very little background immunity in the population, which allows this strain to spread rapidly,” Vanderhoff explained.

The highest-risk groups remain young children under 11 and adults over 65, who are most vulnerable to severe illness. Tragically, the state recently recorded its first pediatric flu death of the season—a teenager from Greene County. Ohio typically experiences between one and eight pediatric flu deaths each year.

Hospitalizations across Ohio are rising sharply. Last week, ODH reported 1,911 flu-related hospitalizations, compared to 1,305 during the same period last year. Vanderhoff noted that Ohio usually sees a pattern of rising flu cases in early January, peaking around February.

Despite concerns about the effectiveness of this year’s flu vaccine against the new strain, Vanderhoff stressed the importance of vaccination. “Even when the vaccine isn’t a perfect match, it still helps reduce the severity of illness,” he said. He strongly encourages Ohio residents to get vaccinated, noting there is still ample time to protect themselves this season.


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

Columbus Rallies After ICE Agent Killed a Woman in Minneapolis

Stella Muigai
-
0
Columbus Rallies After ICE Agent Killed a Woman in Minneapolis

Columbus, Ohio communities rally in response to the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. Candlelight vigils and protests demand justice and immigrant rights.

Columbus Rallies After ICE Agent Killed a Woman in Minneapolis
Columbus residents march from the statehouse to city hall in a candlelight vigil for Renee Good, protesting ICE’s actions and advocating for immigrant rights.

ICE Agent Killed a Woman in Minneapolis: Columbus Rallies After ICE Agent Killed a Woman in Minneapolis

A tragic incident in Minneapolis Wednesday morning has prompted a swift response from communities in Columbus, Ohio. Renee Good, a 37-year-old woman, was fatally shot by an ICE agent, according to the Department of Homeland Security. The news sparked immediate outrage among local advocacy groups and community members.

Within hours, protesters gathered in downtown Columbus for a candlelight vigil and demonstration demanding accountability. Madison Tracy, Lead Organizer for Columbus 50501, emphasized, “We are not putting up with ICE. ICE needs to get out of our cities.”

Marchers held signs, lit candles, and chanted Good’s name while walking from the statehouse to city hall. Participants expressed solidarity with Minneapolis residents and immigrant communities, highlighting the broader issues of systemic injustice and violence.

Attendees described the event as a personal call to action. “Even if we are not the direct victims, the violence feels personal,” said Andrew Schamess. Other participants echoed the sentiment of standing together against fear and cruelty.

Activists clarified that Good was a legal observer and not the intended target of the ICE action. This detail resonated deeply with the Columbus community. Rick, an attendee, remarked, “If they can kill her, they can harm any of us. Fear is the backbone of their power.”

Speakers at the vigil shared stories of grief, anger, and frustration, noting that the deadly shooting aligns with a pattern of similar incidents nationwide. Shenby G, organizer at the Columbus Liberation Center, stated, “It is ICE that’s inflicting terror, not our immigrant neighbors or coworkers.”

Protesters in Columbus are calling for ICE to leave not only the city but every community where recent operations have sparked fear. A follow-up protest is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday at the statehouse, as local residents continue advocating for justice and safety for all.

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

Columbus Affordable Housing: Tiara Ross Prioritizes Affordable Housing on Columbus City Council

Stella Muigai
-
0
Columbus Affordable Housing: Tiara Ross Prioritizes Affordable Housing on Columbus City Council

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 discusses her affordable housing priorities

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.”

Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Stella Muigai

1...111213...83Page 12 of 83

Dalmar Television Station, Columbus, Ohio. Dalmar TV is a 24/7 Somali TV station in the United States that broadcast content in Somali language.

Company

Trending

Categories

©Copyright Dalmar TV 2023