By Irina Perry

Monday, November 10, 2025, the Columbus City Council’s Economic Development and Small and Minority Business Committee convened a public hearing to review the proposed updates to Title 39 of the City Code, which governs the city’s Diversity and Inclusion programs. The hearing, held inside the Council Chambers, continued a month-long effort to modernize and clarify how Columbus supports small, minority, and emerging businesses in city contracting.

The hearing was chaired by Councilmember Bankston, who opened the meeting by emphasizing the city’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and economic opportunity for all residents.

 “Our goal,” he said, “is to ensure that every business—regardless of size, ownership, or background—has a fair chance to participate in the city’s economic growth.”

Representatives from the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) and the City Attorney’s Office presented the latest version of the proposed ordinance, No. 2116-2025, highlighting adjustments made since the first public hearing in August. Among the most notable changes was the creation of a new Emerging Business Enterprise (EBE) designation—designed to recognize independent local businesses that demonstrate growth potential and meet specific qualifications.

The updated draft also removed the earlier proposal to add a Regional Business Enterprise (RBE) category, a move intended to reduce confusion and keep the focus on Columbus-based inclusion efforts. In addition, the language throughout the code was modernized, replacing outdated terms such as “minority and women-owned business certifications” with clearer references to “supplier and workforce development.”

Public testimony during the hearing reflected a mix of optimism and cautious feedback. Several small business owners expressed appreciation for the city’s ongoing effort to update Title 39, calling it a step toward greater inclusivity and fairness in city contracting. Others urged councilmembers to ensure that the new definitions do not unintentionally limit access to opportunities or create more administrative hurdles.

Representatives from ODI explained that the proposed updates would also give the office clearer authority to issue and enforce regulations through a program manual —allowing for greater consistency in certification and compliance across city departments.

As the hearing concluded, Councilmember Bankston thanked attendees for their participation and reaffirmed the city’s commitment to continuous improvement. “This process is about building bridges,” he said, “between the city and the businesses that help Columbus thrive.”

The proposed changes to Title 39 are expected to move forward for further review and consideration before a full council vote in the coming weeks.

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