Jordan Laird

1 week ago | dispatch.com | Jordan Laird

The two Democrats knocked out the independent candidate in the nonpartisan Columbus City Council District 7 primary, according to unofficial early results on May 6. Jesse Vogel had 40% of the vote, Tiara Ross had 39% of the vote and Kate Curry-Da-Souza had 20%, as of around 10 p.m. with 76% of precincts reporting. Ross, an assistant city attorney, and Vogel, a public interest attorney, will proceed to the Nov. 4 general election.

2 weeks ago | dispatch.com | Jordan Laird

A three-way race for Columbus City Council District 7 is underway, with candidates Tiara Ross, Jesse Vogel, and Kate Curry-Da-Souza vying for the open seat. All Columbus residents will vote in the race, even those outside District 7, due to the city's unique election system. Housing affordability is a central issue for all candidates, along with shared progressive ideals such as improved public transportation and community policing.

2 weeks ago | dispatch.com | Jordan Laird

Alexis Nikole Nelson — or as her millions of social media followers know her, the "Black Forager" — testified at a Columbus City Council hearing in support of the city allowing pollinator gardens. Nelson, a Franklinton resident, was one of several people who testified that they've been hit with code violations for growing native plant gardens instead of grass on their lawns. They spoke at a Public Utilities and Sustainability Committee hearing on April 30.

2 weeks ago | dispatch.com | Jordan Laird

Columbus City Council is again considering legislation to regulate utility reselling in multi-family buildings, potentially banning the practice. Councilmember Christopher Wyche cited concerns about inflated bills, lack of consumer protections and resident ineligibility for city utility discounts. Landlords oppose the proposed ordinance, arguing that reselling provides a service and that state regulations already prevent overcharging.

2 weeks ago | dispatch.com | Jordan Laird

Columbus City Council is considering legislation to allow property owners to grow native plant pollinator gardens. Current city code leads to violations and fines for residents with such gardens. Residents are asking for changes to the proposed legislation, citing arbitrary restrictions. Where some neighbors see ugly weeds, others see beautiful native plants carefully maintained and crucial for important pollinators like bees and butterflies to flourish.