Two newcomers seek District 1 council seat

There’ll be a new face representing Columbus City Council’s District 1 next year.

Republican Christopher Bartels and Democrat Nick Slabaugh are each seeking the seat. At present, the district is represented by City Councilman Jerone Wood, a Democrat. However, due to new district maps, Wood is now running for District 3.

District 1 includes land in southeast Columbus, downtown Columbus and a stretch of Jonathan Moore Pike from the East Fork White River to County Road 350W.

Early in-person voting for the municipal election starts Oct. 16. Election Day is Nov. 7.

Q. What are your thoughts on the city’s riverfront project? What kind of changes do you believe would best serve the area?

Bartels: The current safety of the low head dam is a priority of the proposed changes. Reconstructing the dam where it addresses the current failing structure while maintaining the integrity of the river and nearby parks is important. Additional changes should include revitalization and reactivation of Mill Race Park.

Slabaugh: I’m excited about the riverfront project, and disappointed by lack of progress. It’s time to address major obstacles and potentially rework the plan. A mixed-use zone with residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces, building on downtown success and events like the farmer’s market would greatly benefit the area.

Q. Over the last few years, the city has taken an active role in economic development through avenues such as Tax Increment Financing, tax abatements and, in the case of NexusPark, serving as the developer. What are your thoughts on these tools and the city’s role in fostering economic growth?

Bartels: There is a time and place to use each tool of economic growth. When used, it should be vetted properly and have thorough follow-up to make sure promises are kept. But most importantly, it should only be used when the private sector can’t meet the needs of the development first.

Slabaugh: I advocate for continuous city development but am alarmed by inadequate oversight on fund usage. Funds for NexusPark have been inexplicably redirected from my district, with no public budget or explanation. The City Council’s approval of extra expenditures without demanding transparency and rigor is concerning. Oversight must be improved.

Q. What do you think the city should do to improve Columbus’s housing supply?

Bartels: The private sector has current projects building new, remodeling old, and repurposing existing buildings to provide more housing in Columbus. I will work on the root of the problem, making sure projects can be completed in a fashion that meets the needs of affordability. I have proven experience and will bring new ideas to the table to address the housing crisis.

Slabaugh: Housing cost is paramount. Many can’t afford rising rents, available affordable units are scarce. Let’s allow ADUs (accessory dwelling units), starter homes, and new multi-units without burdensome processes. Few units are available at the $800 rate affordable for our living wage of $17/hr. I support rental subsidies, eviction prevention, and affordability requirements for developer incentives.

Q. Do you think the city’s resources and response to homelessness could be improved?

Bartels: Homelessness involves mental health, drug addiction, eviction, or job loss. It requires involvement by the homeless individual and the community. Thankfully, our loving community formed multiple avenues of outreach. I have personally been involved, and can report that churches, non-profits, doctors, and local businesses are working together and implementing plans.

Slabaugh: We have robust programs addressing homelessness and addiction, but our job isn’t done. We should expand our existing programs, but must also change our overall approach to homelessness. I believe in “housing first” or “permanent supportive housing” programs, proven to be cost-effective and successful.

Q. What is the number one priority you hope to address, if elected?

Bartels: Property taxes are skyrocketing, hurting homeowners and renters. With my experience in small business, real estate, and local housing programs I will work to lower property taxes while maintaining a fiscally responsible budget. I understand the issues and know the city council can directly affect taxes by making government efficient.

Slabaugh: If in my first four years we see real progress on housing and homelessness, I will consider my term a success. It is a complex and thorny issue, and it touches many parts of government and the economy, but I believe that solutions are within our reach.

Christopher Bartels