Public Notice: City Council Hearing on Data Centers and Community Health Updates
Official Notice: Public Utilities and Sustainability Committee Hearing
The Columbus City Council’s Public Utilities and Sustainability Committee will convene a critical public hearing today, Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Columbus City Hall. The session, chaired by Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche and Council President Shannon G. Hardin, is the first committee hearing of the 2026 calendar year and will focus exclusively on the community impact of data centers within the city limits.
Residents who have registered to testify are reminded that remarks are limited to three minutes per person. For those attending in person, entry is restricted to the Front Street entrance, and a valid form of identification is required to enter the City Hall campus. The council is seeking broad community feedback regarding infrastructure demands and the long-term sustainability of the growing data center sector in Central Ohio.
Health Advisory: Final Monitoring Day for Measles Exposure
Columbus Public Health and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) have issued a final reminder for individuals who were present at John Glenn Columbus International Airport on February 18, 2026. Today, Wednesday, March 11, marks the conclusion of the 21-day observation period for potential measles symptoms following an exposure incident between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. on that date.
While no new local cases have been confirmed this morning, health officials urge anyone who develops a high fever, cough, runny nose, or a characteristic red rash to contact their healthcare provider immediately. This advisory follows a sharp increase in measles cases across the state during the first two months of 2026. Residents are encouraged to verify their MMR vaccination status to prevent further community transmission.
Summary of 2026 Operating Budget and State of the City
Following Mayor Andrew Ginther’s 2026 State of the City address delivered last night, official notices have been posted regarding the recently passed $1.26 billion operating budget. Key allocations in the approved budget include $1.8 million for PrimaryOne Health and $7.2 million for the Community Shelter Board. The budget also accounts for a unique 27th payroll period occurring this year, with $3 million set aside for municipal employee compensation.
Notice of Special Election: May 2026 Charter Amendments
The City Clerk has officially notified the public of a special election to be held concurrently with the regular primary on May 5, 2026. Voters will be asked to decide on Proposed Charter Amendment No. 1 and No. 2, titled 'Community Crisis Response.' These amendments aim to formalize and expand non-police response services for individuals experiencing mental health or addiction-related crises. Official ballot language is currently available for public review at the City Auditor’s office.