Cincinnati City Council approves funding, street vacations and development agreements in packed business session

Cincinnati City Council approved a series of emergency ordinances, funding agreements, appointments and honorary namings during its business session, including financing steps for the Findlay Center redevelopment, transfers to replenish fleet equipment and funding to complete a Camp Washington skate park.

The actions move forward several development projects and grant-funded programs citywide. Council approved funding and bonding measures tied to the Findlay Street/Over-the-Rhine redevelopment, authorized transfers for vehicle and equipment purchases, accepted federal and state grants for transportation and victim services, and confirmed multiple board appointments.

Council used roll-call votes for each item. Several measures were introduced and passed on first reading under emergency suspension; no recorded no votes or abstentions were stated during the roll calls.

Key items passed included an emergency ordinance authorizing the issuance of economic development revenue bonds and related notes for the Findlay Center project and companion funding agreements with Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation, OTR Holdings and Crossroads Community Health (items 35–37, 43–45). Council members described the bundle as “transformative” for the Over-the-Rhine/Findlay corridor.

Council also approved a $1.294,008 transfer from a balance-sheet reserve to the general fund unappropriated surplus to buy automotive and motorized equipment for Public…