Hilliard officials outline city’s role in Ohio’s America 250 celebration

Andrea Litchfield, Hilliard’s director of community relations, and Samantha Burl, director of Destination Hilliard, told council the city has been planning for two years to participate in Ohio’s America 250 bicentennial program and is now registered as an official community. They said state initiatives — themed months, tourism trails, a grants program and a statewide events calendar — provide opportunities for local groups to gain visibility and support.

The presenters highlighted several local integrations: the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society received a state grant and will elevate events such as its “Planes, Trains & Automobiles” open house; the Early Television Museum appears on the Innovation Trail; the Public Arts Commission’s murals are on the Murals Across Ohio map; and the Franklin County Fair plans Ohio‑250 themed attractions this summer. Destination Hilliard has added a landing page to aggregate Hilliard events connected to America 250 and staff showed local logos and banner designs intended for Weaver Park and other displays.

Council members welcomed the approach as a way to spotlight annual community events. President Cole thanked the presenters and invited them to join council for a photo with the community flag; staff noted giveaways and an information tent planned for FreedomFest. The presenters also noted a commemorative Division of Police badge to be worn in 2026; staff confirmed the badges were purchased with forfeiture funds.

Why this matters: Council’s approval and promotion of America 250 activities can increase regional visitation to Hilliard sites, support local businesses through themed programming and centralize marketing via the city and Destination Hilliard web pages. The presentation did not request formal council action beyond informational support.