COLUMBUS, Ohio (April 21, 2026) — The Franklin County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday approved a $25 million investment in a National Women’s Soccer League training facility and stadium upgrades, a deal that drew both public opposition and praise before passing 2-0-1.
Commissioner Kevin Boyce abstained from the vote on Resolution 258-26, which authorizes a memorandum of understanding with Columbus Women’s Soccer Holdings LLC. The county’s investment, drawn from non-tax revenue, will fund a training facility and improvements to Scotts Miracle-Gro Field. The agreement also includes a $12 million private donation for early childhood and food insecurity programs.
Boyce said he initially opposed the deal, citing concerns about subsidizing billionaires and a lack of direct economic development benefit. He changed his position after the community benefits agreement was added.
“I think the community benefits piece is what got me to a place where I could abstain rather than vote no,” Boyce said.
Public commenter DJ Burns called the deal a “scam” and argued the $25 million could be better spent on community needs.
Commissioners John O’Grady and Erica Crawley voted in favor.
The board began the meeting by honoring First Assistant Prosecutor Janine Hummer, who received the Public Service 250 Award from the National Academy of Public Administration. Prosecutor Shannon Favor called Hummer “truly one of one” and noted that “our county does not run without your leadership.”
Commissioners also accepted an Earth Day proclamation from the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District, which highlighted $355,000 in local community grants and a joint invasive species removal project at Children’s Services property.
In other business, the board approved a $1.14 million contract with Decker Construction Company for sidewalk improvements on Chambers Road and in the Westbrook subdivision, funded by Community Development Block Grants.
Commissioners awarded a $5.58 million contract to The Shelley Company for the 2026 county resurfacing program and approved plans for the 2026 general bridge maintenance program.
The board allocated $750,000 in motor vehicle license fee funds to reconstruct a two-way stop-controlled intersection into a roundabout at Walnut Street and Bevelheimer Road in New Albany.
Commissioners authorized participation in the Ohio Department of Transportation’s road salt contract, anticipating the purchase of approximately 6,000 tons for the upcoming winter.
The board approved a $1.4 million grant to the Columbus Fashion Alliance for its Ready to Work 2026 Workforce Development Program, which includes a new rework and upcycling training track.
A $265,000 grant to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority for the 95th Great Lakes Regional Conference was also approved. The event is expected to bring 3,000 attendees and support workforce development and community engagement.
Commissioners accepted two Violence Against Women Act grants totaling more than $775,000, including a $749,995.99 block grant to enhance prosecution, law enforcement and victim services.
The board approved a $473,633 supplemental appropriation for six additional service coordinators at the county’s Developmental Disabilities office, offset by $471,744 in revenue.
Commissioners also authorized an agreement with Tickflow PTE LTD for a process automation tool to improve staff efficiency and approved a $15,000 contract with Stantec Consulting Services for floodplain review services.
The meeting concluded with the journalization of four annexation petitions, including a withdrawal request for a Prairie Township annexation.