Public Notice: City Council Sessions and Park Restoration Schedule

Official City Council Meeting Notice

The Columbus City Council is scheduled to convene for its regular session on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. These meetings serve as a primary forum for the introduction of new ordinances, public hearings, and the approval of municipal resolutions. Residents are encouraged to participate in the local democratic process. Those requiring language translation services or an interpreter for the meeting are requested to contact the City Clerk at least five days prior to the event to ensure accommodations are finalized.

Parks and Recreation: Active Construction and Facility Alerts

The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department has announced several ongoing maintenance and improvement projects that may affect public access to certain amenities on February 18, 2026. Residents are urged to use caution near marked construction zones at the following locations:

• Westgate Park: Construction continues on a new playground structure located near the water towers. Access between the west shelterhouse and the sports park area remains limited.
• Williams Creek Park: The playground is currently closed for equipment replacement. Work is expected to continue throughout the month as weather permits.
• Saunders Park: Installation of a new adult fitness circuit is underway. Visitors should expect small portions of the park to be cordoned off for safety.
• Easthaven and Karns Parks: Playground areas at both locations remain closed for full restoration projects. These areas are expected to reopen by late March 2026.
• Griggs Reservoir Park: Removal of the old boat hoist is in progress to make way for a new adaptive kayak launch. While the immediate construction site is closed, the rest of the park and its amenities remain open to the public.

Public Service and Community Advisories

The Department of Public Service reminds residents that its "Snow Warriors" remain on active standby throughout February. As part of the 2026 operating budget enhancements, the department has optimized its neighborhood plowing plans to ensure more efficient response times during winter weather events. Crews are currently maintaining approximately 4,600 lane miles of city streets, including arterial roads and residential pathways.

Additionally, the Prevention Action Alliance is hosting the "Youth Advocacy Day: Bringing Youth to the Table" on February 18, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This event is designed to engage young residents in the legislative process and provide them with a platform to discuss community health and prevention initiatives with local leaders.

Public Health and Safety Reminders

Following the most recent Board of Health session, Columbus Public Health continues to prioritize the 2026 vaccination schedule. Official advisories remain in effect for residents to stay updated on seasonal flu and COVID-19 immunizations, which are available at various city health clinics. The department also continues to promote its “Cribs for Kids” program, providing safe sleep education and resources to families throughout the metropolitan area.