Gahanna · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Gahanna public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
City Attorney's authority to defend officials and employees
A proposed change would strike charter language requiring Council approval before the City Attorney defends individual employees sued over their job duties. Supporters say it prevents Council from picking who gets defended during political disputes.
Fees for law enforcement video records (ORD-0027-2026)
Gahanna wants to charge for copies of police video records to manage a surge of AI-generated records requests. The update writes in existing state exemptions so victims, their attorneys, and insurance companies aren't charged.
Charter non-discrimination clause
The charter's non-discrimination list would be updated to match the city's existing ordinances and current federal, state, and local law, with a catch-all for any legally protected status. Two commissioners worried it invites litigation.
Non-discrimination clause protections
The draft would expand the charter's protected categories to match the city's EEO statement. Some commissioners worry about litigation exposure; the City Attorney will verify federal compliance and restore a legal-compliance phrase as a safeguard.
Perinatal mental health
Council designated May 2026 as Perinatal Mental Health Month, recognizing that postpartum anxiety and depression affect fathers as well as mothers, with experts scheduled for the May 18 meeting.