COLUMBUS, Ohio – Columbus City Council on Monday adopted a $1.258 billion general fund operating budget for 2026 and voted to place two charter amendments on the May primary ballot that would create a non-police crisis response system for mental health emergencies.

The budget, approved unanimously by voice vote, includes $7.2 million in additional funding for the Community Shelter Board, $3 million for a 27th pay period and $1 million for the Elevate grant program. Councilmember Nick Bankston said the amendments restored funding for shelters, courts and summer camps.

Councilmember Rob Dorans acknowledged ongoing fiscal pressures but said the budget “reflects our commitment to the most vulnerable.”

Councilmember Shayla F. Green expressed concerns about transparency, saying she was “frustrated” by a lack of clarity on contract reductions and the restoration of cuts to critical services.

The council also unanimously approved two competing charter amendments for the May 5 primary ballot. One, drafted by the Columbus Safety Collective, and a collaborative version both aim to establish a non-police response system for mental health crises. Under an agreement, the collective will withdraw its original proposal and campaign for the collaborative version.

“This is a historic step toward reimagining public safety,” Council President Shannon G. Hardin said.

In a separate vote, the council approved sending a letter to Ohio’s congressional delegation urging the reinstatement of Temporary Protected Status for immigrant populations whose designations were revoked by the federal administration.

The council approved the annexation of 150 acres in Norwich Township, known as Anderson Farms, despite objections from the Far West Side Area Commission, which cited inadequate fire, police and traffic infrastructure. The annexation passed as part of the consent agenda; Councilmember Emmanuel V. Remy abstained on item 0328-2026.

Council also approved the rezoning of 20 acres on Holt Road from Rural to L1 Limited Apartment Residential, allowing a 312-unit apartment complex. The Westland Area Commission and resident Beth Brooks opposed the project, citing traffic congestion, lack of sidewalks and an overconcentration of apartments.

Councilmember Green voted yes but said she shared residents’ concerns about infrastructure.

“We need to provide additional guidance on land use,” she said. “Otherwise, we’re stuck in a place that is all applicant-driven.”

The council voted unanimously to rename Washington Boulevard near COSI to Granville T. Woods Boulevard, honoring the African American inventor born in Columbus.

Council also adopted a resolution recognizing March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Speakers from the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities advocated for accessible housing and community inclusion.