COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus City Council on Monday approved a contentious rezoning for a 152-unit apartment complex on the city’s North Side, voting 6-1 after a debate that pitted housing needs against neighborhood concerns about density and traffic.
The council also passed resolutions honoring a high school basketball team, a nutrition nonprofit and a city employee who helped a girl in crisis, and approved funding for two affordable housing developments.
The rezoning at 4691 Central College Road changes the property from a residential-office designation to limited local development, clearing the way for the apartment complex. Council Member Remy cast the lone dissenting vote.
The Northland Community Council and nearby residents opposed the project, citing traffic congestion and the scale of development in a largely single-family area. Council members who supported the measure said the city needs more housing options, particularly rentals.
“We have to balance neighborhood character with the reality that people need places to live,” Council President Harden said during the meeting.
The council approved an amendment allowing a buyout option for affordability requirements, a change supporters said would give the developer flexibility while still encouraging below-market-rate units.
In other business, the council unanimously approved a $1 million grant to Habitat for Humanity Mid Ohio for a 14-unit townhome project in the Devon Triangle neighborhood. The development will serve families earning 30% to 60% of the area median income.
One public speaker criticized the project, saying it would demolish historic homes in the Linden area. Habitat CEO responded that the homes are not in Linden and that the new units are needed affordable housing.
The council also approved a $2.5 million grant to CHP Homeport for 24 single-family zero-energy-ready homes in the American Edition neighborhood, targeting families at or below 120% of area median income.
Council members adopted several ceremonial resolutions, including recognition of the Centennial High School girls basketball team for winning back-to-back City League Championships. Players and coaches addressed the council.
“These young women serve as exceptional role models for aspiring athletes throughout our city,” said Council Member Deakau, who introduced the resolution.
The council declared April as Jazz Appreciation Month and recognized Charles Coleman, a Department of Water and Power employee, for preventing a young girl from jumping off a bridge.
A resolution urging the Ohio Senate to pass House Bill 303, which would create a community energy pilot program, was adopted unanimously.
The council also renewed a contract with Rumpke for yard waste recycling collection for the 10th year. The city plans to issue a new request for proposals that would split the city into three zones, allowing for multiple vendors.
Council members questioned the use of income tax set-aside funds for the recycling contract, noting concerns about depleting capital dollars. Deputy Director Robbins said the city spent $43 million from the fund last year on non-capital expenses and is working to reduce that figure.