Official Notice: Presidents’ Day Closures and Winter Weather Advisory

City Government Holiday Closures

In observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday, the City of Columbus has announced that all municipal offices, including City Hall at 90 West Broad Street, will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026. This closure affects several key departments and services, including the following:

• Columbus City Council (No legislative sessions or hearings are scheduled for today).
• Franklin County Municipal Court and the Clerk’s Office.
• Columbus Public Health administrative offices and specialized clinics.

Regular business hours for city services are expected to resume on Tuesday, February 17. While administrative offices remain closed, essential emergency services—including police, fire, and emergency medical response—are fully operational. Residents are reminded that while city offices are closed, refuse, recycling, and yard waste collection will follow the regular Monday schedule with no holiday delay for this specific observance.

Health Advisory: Winter Storm Fern and Heart Month

The Ohio Department of Health and Columbus Public Health have issued a high-priority advisory regarding Winter Storm Fern. As a significant weather system continues to impact Central Ohio, officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain indoors. A Level 2 Snow Emergency is currently in effect for Franklin County, meaning that roads are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow, and only those who deem it absolutely necessary to drive should be on the roadways.

In conjunction with the storm advisory, health officials are highlighting February as American Heart Month. Residents are cautioned to monitor their physical exertion and take frequent breaks when shoveling snow. The combination of intense physical labor and freezing temperatures can significantly increase the risk of cardiac events. For those in need of shelter or warmth during the storm, the city has identified various warming centers; however, residents should confirm holiday hours for libraries and recreation centers before traveling.

Upcoming Public Meetings and Board Updates

While the City Council is not in session today, the Columbus Board of Health is scheduled to convene tomorrow, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Board Room at 240 Parsons Avenue. Key agenda items for the session include:

• Updates on seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccination distribution programs.
• Authorization of infrastructure grants through the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health (ADAMH) Board of Franklin County.
• Approval of contract renewals for clinical security and language interpretation services at city clinics.

The next regular meeting of the Columbus City Council is slated for Monday, February 23, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.

Public Service Announcement: Event Updates

The Winter Jam concert series is scheduled to proceed at the Schottenstein Center today, February 16, following earlier weather-related schedule changes. Attendees are encouraged to allow for significant extra travel time due to road conditions and to monitor local traffic reports for any updates regarding venue access or parking restrictions.