Columbus Public Safety Unions Seek Staffing Plan Ahead of Tight Budget

Columbus police and firefighter unions are seeking a long-term hiring plan as city officials prepare a tight budget for 2027.

According to ONN affiliate WBNS-TV, union leaders say the city is short roughly 200 police officers and 120 firefighters. They want a concrete plan for larger training classes to fill those positions.

Public safety accounts for approximately 60% of the city’s budget.

Mayor Andrew Ginther has warned that funding will be tight while identifying first responder salaries as a priority. City Council President Shannon Hardin is also seeking answers about how staffing levels can be increased.

Ginther must submit his budget proposal to City Council by November 15.