Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
We wake up today with an eye on the ballot box as Columbus joins the rest of Ohio for primary Election Day. Polls are open now across the city and the turnout is expected to be steady, with notable decisions on local city council races, school levies, and the big statewide Issue 2. That’s the question asking if Ohio should reauthorize $2.5 billion for roads, bridges, and local infrastructure for the next ten years. Many residents are hoping for a yes, after another spring of dodging potholes and waiting on overdue road repairs. Don’t forget, you can reach out to the nonpartisan voter helpline if you have any questions about the process today.
Switching gears to the weather, our Tuesday starts off cloudy and on the cooler side, with more rain in the forecast after lunchtime. Highs will hover in the low 60s, so pack a jacket if you’re heading out. The rain could impact after-school activities, so stay tuned for potential last-minute changes or cancellations.
In breaking news from overnight, a stabbing in Franklinton left one person critically hurt. Columbus police have a suspect in custody, but neighbors along Broad Street and Dakota Avenue are understandably shaken. On the north side, tragedy struck over the weekend as a 17-year-old lost his life after a shooting. Police encourage anyone with information to come forward. Meanwhile, Franklin Township police report the arrest of a Venezuelan gang member, highlighting the ongoing efforts to keep our neighborhoods safe.
On the jobs front, our city continues to feel the pinch from statewide layoffs, with nearly 1,700 jobs lost across Ohio just last month. Locally, some manufacturing and logistics positions are still available, but competition remains high. Over in real estate, we’re seeing a slight uptick in new listings, but prices are holding steady as buyers and sellers watch interest rates closely.
City Hall is staying busy. Voters are weighing in on key school levy proposals, and the city attorney has just filed a lawsuit against a troubled Franklinton nonprofit, labeled a public nuisance by its neighbors. These actions could shape city spending and neighborhood resources over the next year.
In business news, Upper Arlington is buzzing about a new coffee shop that opened its doors this week, making waves for its focus on inclusivity and accessible hiring practices. There’s also a little drama behind the scenes as a local card game company sues over the impact of tariffs and a Franklinton drop-in center faces scrutiny over its use of taxpayer funds.
For families, five Columbus City Schools are facing possible closure, with district leaders promising robust community conversations before any final decisions are made. On a brighter note, Wellington School has just welcomed a new head in a historic appointment, and our CCS security team is doubling down on efforts to keep campuses safe after finding the eighth firearm on school grounds since September.
Before we wrap, let’s spotlight a feel-good story: Cowboy Dave, an inspirational figure for many, brought his healing message to students in the Tusky Valley, reminding us how one person’s kindness can ripple across a community.
And for music lovers, mark your calendars—Benson Boone has just added a Columbus stop to his North American arena tour, promising a packed night at Nationwide Arena later this month.
That’s all for now. This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
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