Nonprofits and neighborhood groups press council for human services, arts, health and downtown planning funds

Dozens of nonprofit leaders, neighborhood advocates and program directors used the budget hearing’s public comment period to request continued or expanded city funding for human services, arts restoration, health programs and neighborhood planning.

Benita Campbell, chief operating officer of Lighthouse Youth & Family Services, said city human services funds help operate the Lighthouse Shakerley Center, an emergency shelter for young adults ages 18–24, and asked the council to continue support that serves roughly 300 young adults per year. “Human services funds are vital for operating the Shakley Center for Youth,” Campbell said, and she highlighted outcomes Lighthouse reported for FY24, including exits to permanent housing and increases in employment among participants.

Several speakers urged investment in arts institutions and cultural venues. Joe Gerondola, president of the Art Academy of Cincinnati, and multiple Art Academy staff described both campus safety improvements (Jackson Street pedestrian closures and lighting) and the academy’s economic contributions—Gerondola said the academy contributes about $12.5 million annually to the local economy and provides more…