Mark J. Sanders

The committee reviewed and recommended emergency passage of two ordinances as part of the FY 2027 budget update. The first involved transferring funds to support the Roselawn New Prospect Baptist Church Summer Activity Trigger Free Fridays event. The second ordinance established multiple permanent and capital improvement project accounts, including projects for a Gun Violence Memorial, sports facility improvements, renovations for the Artsville and Covedale Performing Arts Center buildings, stabilization of the Union Baptist Cemetery mausoleum, and developments for a multi-purpose track and the Wasson Way Trail. Additionally, the committee authorized various fund transfers, realignments, and reallocations for Human Services Impact Awards, stormwater mitigation, and an engineering study for the Purple People Bridge, while also striking planning and zoning fee updates from the operating budget update.

The council addressed several appointments, including reappointments to the Port of Greater Cincinnati Development Authority and the Citizen Complaint Authority. Financial discussions centered on the FY 2027 Capital Improvement Program and Operating Budget, including fund transfers for recreational improvements, lead service line replacements, and streetcar operations. Additionally, the council reviewed ordinances related to community reinvestment area tax exemptions, the Graffiti Victim Amnesty Program, and the formal filing of various financial disclosure statements for city officials.

The meeting included several presentations, such as an overview of Hamilton County Juvenile Court programs focused on youth and community safety, traffic calming strategies near local schools, and an update on the Safe Routes to School initiative. The committee also reviewed and approved reports regarding the assessment of needs for additional lighting and camera infrastructure within parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas for referral to the City Council.

The committee reviewed a motion to establish a Graffiti Victim Amnesty Program within the Department of Buildings & Inspections, which was adopted for submission to the full City Council. Additionally, a report from the City Manager concerning school zone crashes and speeding was reviewed and filed.

Plan Cincinnati outlines five primary initiatives: Compete, Connect, Live, Sustain, and Collaborate, which serve as strategic priorities. These initiatives are designed to guide the city's long-term economic development, transportation and connectivity, livability and housing, resource stewardship, and regional partnerships. The overarching aim is to become a pivotal economic force, enhance the quality of life, maintain vital infrastructure, ensure long-term viability through resource stewardship, and achieve goals through strong community collaboration.