Columbus Daily: City budget adds homelessness funding, crisis-response measure advances, and a new Metro Park soft-opens

City budget: more money for shelters and health care

Columbus City Council has approved the city’s 2026 operating budget, adding funding to cover priorities that were reduced in the mayor’s initial proposal. Among the most notable changes: an added $7.2 million for the Community Shelter Board as the local homelessness response system faces sustained pressure.

City leaders say part of that increase supports winter warming centers, and local shelter operators have emphasized that the added dollars help keep emergency services from being stretched too thin during spikes in need.

Charter amendment push: mental health responders could be headed to the ballot

A separate public-safety effort is also moving forward: advocates have submitted roughly 30,000 signatures backing a proposed Columbus charter amendment tied to alternative crisis response. The concept aims to send trained mental health professionals to certain non-violent 911 calls — including situations involving behavioral health crises, homelessness, or substance use — instead of defaulting to police response.

Supporters argue the model could reduce strain on first responders and better match people in crisis with appropriate care. If the measure qualifies, voters would decide whether the program is formally written into the city’s governing document.

Great Southern Metro Park: early access ahead of an April opening

Columbus residents can already explore parts of the city’s newest Metro Park during a soft opening on the South Side. About 27 acres are currently accessible, with an official opening planned for April 1. Longer-term plans include better trail connections, including linking into the Scioto Trail corridor.

For neighbors, it’s an early look at new green space that officials say is designed to grow over time as more features come online.

Also: Blue Jackets add a home win

On the sports front, the Columbus Blue Jackets picked up a 3–2 win over the Nashville Predators to open a homestand, giving fans another close finish at Nationwide Arena.

Sources

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