Constituent Newsletter - September 2024

Hey neighbors! Fall is in full swing, and there’s so much happening in our community! I’m excited to share what I’ve been working on and how you can get involved in the months ahead.

Planning for Juneteenth 2025!

I'm forming a committee to brainstorm and plan how our community will celebrate Juneteenth 2025, and I need YOU! Join us for a kick-off brainstorming session on

October 26, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Reach out to me at jamille.jones@gahanna.gov for the location and to be added to the committee list.

Getting to Work

Highlights of Actions, Projects, and Initiatives

Participated in quarterly meeting with the Superintendent, Mayor, Council & School Board Presidents, and both liaisons (myself as the council liaison to the school board). We discussed furthering mental health initiatives and enhancing community safety
Approved the plan for the Sustainable Ohio Public Energy Council (SOPEC) Electric Aggregation Program to establish and implement an electric aggregation program in Gahanna
Led the drafting and presentation of a Hispanic Heritage Month resolution recognizing Latine business owners and residents Yudith Colon, Marisa & Emilio Vicens, and Ani Palacios
Attended the September school board meeting, where recognitions and appointments by the Ohio School Board Association (OSBA) were highlighted. GRIN also presented on their impact on the community and current needs. Watch the meeting recording here.
Met with Lori Kappes, Executive Director of Visit Gahanna, to discuss collaborative efforts for Juneteenth 2025

A group of eleven people standing in a government chamber room, with Ohio state and U.S. flags in the background. Two individuals in the front center are holding a framed document. The group is diverse in terms of attire, gender, and ethnicity, and everyone is smiling towards the camera. The room has a podium with nameplates visible on either side.

Presentation of Hispanic Heritage Month Resolution on September 16 Council meeting.

Received constituent communication regarding:

Requests for more resources and opportunities to get involved in the community
Opposition to the proposed Action Park location for 3 residents
Concerns about sidewalk work and incomplete work on Coldwell Rd.
Suggestions to add helpful information about animal control on the city website

Four people standing in front of a brick building, each holding colorful signs with greetings like "Hey/Hola," "Hi! Heyyy," and "Waz up! Hola." Two of the individuals are police officers in uniform, while the other two are dressed in business casual attire and holding yellow pom-poms. They are all smiling.

Council President Bowers, Officer Corbin, Chief Spence, and Councilwoman Jones welcome students at Lincoln Elementary.

About Town

Recap of community events & activities

9/11: Attended the welcome reception for John Tribble, the new CEO & President of Ohio Bar Liability Insurance Co. (OBLIC)

9/17: Joined Councilwoman Merisa Bowers, Chief Spence, and Officer Corbin at Lincoln Elementary for "Start with Hello" week, an initiative by Sandy Hook Promise to create connections and a sense of belonging.

9/21: Celebrated women on the ballot at the Democratic Women's Ballot Brunch

9/24: Attended the Ohio Chamber of Commerce DEI summit, which provided valuable insights on promoting inclusion in Ohio businesses

9/25: Attended the Columbus Metropolitan Club luncheon where the topic was creating opportunities, health, and holistic well-being in our community through local policy. Council President Merisa Bowers was a featured panelist

9/26: Served as a guest speaker for the GEAR Program Community Speaker Series where I spoke on civic engagement and inclusion in our community

9/29: Volunteered at Motherful with members of Gahanna GLOW

9/29: Attended the Mill Street Market hosted by the Gahanna Historical Society.

A group of eleven individuals standing together, smiling for a photo in front of a blue backdrop with the words "Columbus Metropolitan" partially visible. The group is diverse in gender, ethnicity, and attire, with a mix of formal and business-casual clothing. They appear to be at an indoor event or meeting, suggesting a professional or community gathering. Some individuals are wearing name tags.

Residents, council members, and Council Office staff attend the Columbus Metropolitan Club luncheon.

In the Know

Stay informed about what's happening in our community

Subscribe to periodic email updates from me and other city communications.
Attend meetings. Regular Council meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the Month (or the following Tuesday if Monday is a City holiday). Committee of the Whole meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays. Both meetings begin at 7:00 p.m.
Receive agendas for council and board/commission meetings via email.
Watch online. All council and board/commission meetings are streamed lived via the city's Youtube page.

Links to all of the above (and more!) are available via: linktr.ee/jamilleforgahanna

Working with and for you to champion inclusion, access, and a thriving Gahanna for all!