West Scioto Area Commission

The West Scioto Area Association, a task force with ties to the Scioto Woods Civic Association, has filed a petition with the City of Columbus to form a new council-approved area commission, with the goal of making recommendations to city council regarding area development and the delivery of city services.

Proposed boundaries of the West Scioto Area Commission. Columbus City Bulletin, 01.14.17

The Glen and other northwest-area neighborhoods would fall within the boundaries of this proposed commission, which would be named the West Scioto Area Commission.

According to its proposed by-laws, the West Scioto Area Commission would have nine members, each serving a term of three years. Commission members would be appointed by the mayor with the consent of city council.

Area Commissions

Since the 1970s, area commissions have connected property owners, residents, and other community stakeholders with Columbus city officials. As stated in the Columbus Code of Ordinances, they “afford additional voluntary citizen participation in decision-making in an advisory capacity and . . . facilitate communication, understanding and cooperation between neighborhood groups, city officials and developers.”

Columbus currently has 18 area commissions, including ones serving the Clintonville, University, and Westside (Franklinton) neighborhoods.

Next Steps

After filing a petition bearing at least 500 signatures with the city clerk, individuals advocating for a new area commission have 30 days to notify individuals residing in the proposed area commission boundaries of their proposal, and to submit their petition, proposed boundaries, and governing documents to The City Bulletin for publication. Opponents of the proposed commission then have 60 days to file objections with the city clerk.

The West Side Area Association's petition and supporting documents were published in The City Bulletin on January 14, 2017. The deadline for filing objections to the formation of the West Scioto Area Commission is March 15. If no objections are filed by that date, council will consider and vote on legislation to establish the area commission.