Franklin County Board of Commissioners

Franklin County Commissioner Kevin Boyce is talking about something that affects everyone: mental health. When we know that 1/4 people suffer from a mental illness, it’s more important than ever to really key in on this.

From the Franklin County Crisis Center to the free Wellness Within Reach resource guide to Soul Talks, the county has been building out a network of resources designed to meet people where they are.

Not sure where to start? Visit crediblemind.com. It’s free. It’s for any resident. And it can point you in the right direction.

At last week’s Sawyer Towers demolition commemoration, Franklin County Commissioner Erica C. Crawley traced the full history of the site from its origins in 1960s federal urban renewal policy through the Christmas 2022 emergency evacuation of hundreds of near-east side families.

Commissioner Crawley argues that the Sawyer Towers demolition and redevelopment must be understood as a public record of accountability rather than a commemorative event. The historic development agreement includes resident protections that travel with the property, clawback provisions, and code enforcement standards. 380 affordable apartments will be offered to Franklin County residents .

Franklin County is proud to celebrate two of our own as part of the inaugural Columbus class of Who’s Who in Black 50 Women of Excellence: Commissioner Erica C. Crawley and Chief Ruchelle Pride.

Columbus joins a powerful legacy alongside Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, and Pittsburgh. This first class is a reflection of the leadership, vision, and impact that moves our community forward every day.

Congratulations to all 50 honorees.

Thank you for recognizing the excellence already in our midst.

Join the celebration May 29. Tickets available at whoswhoinblack.com

Last month, we celebrated County Government Month, released our State of the County report, and reflected on what makes Franklin County the Opportunity County.

But we wanted to hear from the people who know it best, so we asked our neighbors, colleagues, partners, and community organizations one simple question: Why do you love Franklin County?

Swipe to see what they said.

11th Annual State of the County Report Has Been Released

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners released their 11th Annual State of the County Report, providing a comprehensive overview of county government’s progress in delivering results and expanding access to resources across Franklin County. Key areas of progress include:

- Tourism supporting more than 85,000 jobs and generating over $8.2 billion in annual visitor spending

- SEBE contracting reaching $28.7 million, a 44% increase, with more than $53 million invested in small businesses and community initiatives

- Continued investments in housing stability, justice and public safety, and expanded health and human services including the Crisis Care Center and mobile outreach

- A balanced budget maintained despite rising expenses and the end of federal pandemic support, the first major budget adjustment in over a decade

 The full 2026 State of the County Report is available at theopportunitycounty.org