The Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia, today announces its intention to increase the 2026 property taxes it will levy this year over the rollback millage rate in the following taxing districts:

• Urban Services District #1, #5, #6, #7 2.00 percent
• Urban Services District #2 4.50 percent

Notice is hereby given that the local Government of Columbus, Georgia will alter or suspend all services on Monday, May 25, 2026. This is with the exception of emergency services such as fire, police, and ambulance. For emergency services, please call the 911 Emergency Center.

The Columbus Parks and Recreation Department is proud to announce that Samantha Thies, Community Schools Division Manager, has received the prestigious New Professional Award, recognizing emerging leaders in the parks and recreation profession with fewer than seven years of experience who demonstrate exceptional leadership and impact.

Contractors for the Buena Vista Road interchange at Interstate 185 improvements project have scheduled the traffic shift to the interchange's new diverging diamond pattern to occur starting Friday evening, May 29, from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am, Saturday morning, May 30, 2026, weather permitting. Alert signage will be installed in advance to alert drivers of this scheduled change.

The Columbus Consolidated Government's Community Reinvestment Department has been awarded the prestigious John A. Sasso National Community Development Week Award by the National Community Development Association in recognition of the City's innovative and community-centric celebration of National Community Development Week. The national honor recognizes jurisdictions that demonstrate exceptional leadership in advancing public awareness, advocacy, and engagement surrounding the impact of federal community development programs.

On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission is partnering with Columbus Sports Council, which is hosting the NAIA Softball World Series, for a community cleanup effort. This project will be led by the softball players participating in the NAIA World Series. Local female softball athletes from various high schools will also be assisting with the cleanup effort.

WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 21-057 gives the City Manager, in consultation with the Chief of Police or the Department of Public Health, the authority to change the hours of any public park or playground when warranted by public safety or public health concerns;and

WHEREAS, due to complaints concerning events that are disruptive to the peace of the neighborhood and threatening to the public safety of our citizens are being reported after dark in Carver Park and Rigdon Park, the hours in those Parks were reduced for fall and winter; and

WHEREAS, it has been requested by the district Councilor and agreed to by the Mayor and Police Chief that an order allowing Carver Park and Rigdon Park to remain open during the summer months for a greater period of time each day is consistent with Public Safety interests and the recreational needs of the public.

On Monday, May 11, 2026, through Friday, May 22, 2026, a section of 10" Street between 1s Avenue and 2nd Avenue will be closed to eastbound traffic only. Westbound traffic will continue to travel as normal through this section.

[Columbus, Georgia] – Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission (KCBC) is inviting the community to take part in Earth Week 2026, a week of activities focused on sustainability, environmental awareness, and community engagement across Columbus. From cleanups and composting to sustainability challenges and secure paper shredding, Earth Week offers simple ways for residents to get involved and make a difference.

Columbus Consolidated Government Celebrates Georgia Cities Week
with Community Events

[Columbus, Georgia] – The Columbus Consolidated Government is proud to join cities across the state in
celebrating Georgia Cities Week, April 20–25, 2026. Sponsored by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA),
this annual celebration highlights the essential role cities play in delivering services and enhancing quality of life
for residents.
Throughout the week, Columbus will host a variety of engaging, family-friendly events designed to showcase city
services, encourage community involvement, and celebrate civic pride.
Featured Georgia Cities Week activities include:
• City Connections Day – Friday, April 24, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the City Services Center.
Residents are invited to meet City employees, learn about services, and engage with departments in a fun,
interactive environment.
• KidsBash at the Columbus Civic Center – Saturday, April 25, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. This free,
family-friendly event will include activities and entertainment for children and families across the
community.
• “Our Hometown” Lunch & Tour at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center – Tuesday, April 21,
from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Residents are encouraged to bring lunch and enjoy a guided tour of the
facility.
• Public Works Litter Cleanup Initiative – Public Works teams will dedicate time throughout the week to
clean and beautify more than 20 streets across Columbus, demonstrating the City’s commitment to
maintaining a clean and welcoming environment.
• Parks & Recreation Scavenger Trivia Passport Challenge – Residents can visit multiple parks and
facilities, complete clues, and enter for a chance to win a grand prize by April 25.
• “Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader” School Visits – April 20–24, local leaders will visit elementary
schools to read to students and promote literacy and lifelong learning.
• Tax Commissioner Trivia Event – Monday, April 20 at 12:00 p.m. at the library. A fun, interactive way
for residents to learn about services and frequently asked questions.
• METRA Transit Raffle – April 20–25, residents can enter daily drawings at METRA’s Dispatch Office
for free rides on fixed-route or Dial-A-Ride services.
Residents are encouraged to follow Columbus Consolidated Government on social media and visit
www.columbusga.gov for updates and a full schedule of events

Public Meeting on Liberty Theatre & Liberty District Vision

[Columbus, Georgia]  - The Columbus Consolidated Government will host a public meeting to discuss the future of the historic Liberty Theatre and the surrounding Liberty District. The Meeting will take place on Monday, April 6, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 3111 Citizens Way.

This meeting will bring together key stakeholders, including the Mayor and City Council, to hear presentations from both the Liberty Theatre & Cultural Arts Center Advisory Board and the Liberty District group, led by Rev. Richard Jessie.

The purpose of the meeting is to provide both groups with an opportunity to share their respective plans and vision for the Liberty Theatre and Liberty District, while also encouraging meaningful community engagement and fostering broader public support.

Community Members are encouraged to attend, learn more about the proposed initiatives, and participate in the ongoing conversation about the future of this important cultural and historic asset.

For More Information, Contact:

Lisa Goodwin, Deputy City Manager

lgoodwin@columbusga.org

706-225-3108