COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus City Council voted unanimously Monday to oppose a proposed statewide ballot initiative that would eliminate property taxes in Ohio, warning the move would strip $24 billion in local revenue from schools and municipal services.

The resolution, adopted 9-0, signals the council’s formal opposition to a measure that backers say would reduce homeowners’ tax burdens but that critics argue would cripple funding for public education, police, fire departments and infrastructure.

Council members did not debate the resolution before voting, but the unanimous tally reflected broad agreement that the loss of property tax revenue would be catastrophic for the city and its schools.

In other business, the council adopted a resolution celebrating June 2026 as Pride Month and the annual Pride Festival, with the theme “Until We Are All Free.” The vote came after a public commenter opposed the measure, calling it “disgusting and disgraceful” and arguing that only the American flag should be celebrated. Council members did not respond to the comment and approved the resolution unanimously.

The council also approved the renewal of the Shot Spotter gunshot detection contract, 9-0, following an extended debate over police surveillance technology. Council members expressed concerns about Flock automated license plate reader cameras and Shot Spotter, including privacy implications, potential use for immigration enforcement and data retention policies.

Deputy Chief Meyers outlined new policies and filters designed to address those concerns. Council member Green questioned whether Flock cameras could be misused by federal agencies, citing incidents in Dayton and Cleveland. The council agreed to develop a formal policy for Flock cameras by Sept. 30, 2026.

In a separate action, the council accepted the steering committee’s recommendations for the city’s first participatory budgeting process, dubbed “Our Voice, Our Choice.” The resolution, adopted unanimously, allows residents to directly decide how to spend a portion of the city budget.

The council also authorized $50,000 for a full-time coordinator at Northland High School under a community schools model. The ordinance passed 9-0 after public testimony in support of the funding.

Other items approved included contracts for water system improvements, storm sewer maintenance and a $4.25 million contract modification for capital improvement project management.

The meeting opened with an invocation from Bishop G of New Fellowship Baptist Church, who prayed for wisdom, discernment and unity among council members.