Reynoldsburg · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Reynoldsburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
City cybersecurity program
Following state law passed after the Columbus cyberattack, the city adopted a formal cybersecurity program. Any ransom payment would now have to come before council.
FEMA flood recovery and Blacklick Creek mitigation
The city is still waiting on federal disaster designation for recent flooding and has applied for a watershed restoration grant with up to a 65-day review. Pickleball courts are nearly finished and new playground equipment at Huber and McPherson parks is on track for December.
Domestic violence awareness and resources
President Pyakurel shared that Reynoldsburg lost three people to suicide in the last 20 days and said the community needs to do more to raise awareness and respond.
Homelessness services — Reynoldsburg Hope Center
Pastor Aaron DeLong invited council to the Hope Center's October 19 open house; the center serves about 75 homeless residents three days a week with showers, laundry, meals, and clothing.
Neighborhood safety concerns on Golding Drive
A new homeowner asked council to audit the permits, land use and police call history at a property he believes is generating drug-related activity, describing a late-night code-3 police response through his property and fear among neighbors including a teenage girl's family.
Police Misconduct
Two Reynoldsburg police officers quit after getting caught allegedly misusing the city's Flock surveillance cameras. It's a huge privacy headache and a terrible look for local law enforcement.
Ostomy Awareness and Disability Initiative
Resident and teacher Tonya Kelly asked council to back a local disability awareness initiative and to oppose Medicare/Medicaid competitive bidding for ostomy supplies. Councilmembers Johnson, Baker, and Abram pledged support.
July 3 fireworks security protocols at Civic Park
The Pyrotecnico contract was approved at $55,500 — a bigger, longer show for the America 250 celebration, with the increase partly due to tariffs.
Event safety after Bexley teen takeover
After a Bexley festival was overrun by 500-800 teens, Mayor Begeny reassured residents that Reynoldsburg's 18-and-over and wristband policies, plus police coordination, will protect this summer's events.
Local food insecurity
Helping Hands served 122 families a month in 2025 — demand up 31% in five years — and asked the city for $4,750 a quarter to buy staples and fresh food it can't get donated.
Walmart parking lot lighting at 2793 Taylor Road
Walmart can install a 42-foot light pole at its online grocery pickup area, matching existing poles on the site, to improve safety for employees and customers crossing the pickup lot.
Emergency shelter for power outages
After a windstorm left Reynoldsburg Estates residents without power for 27 hours, a resident asked the City to designate a church or school as a warming/rescue shelter. Over 40% of the park's residents are elderly, some on powered medical equipment.
Gun Theft and Safe Storage Initiative
Gun thefts from unlocked cars are up, so the city will launch a 'storage safe' program in 2026 to help lawful gun owners secure firearms. The mayor criticized state limits on gun regulation.
Potential Immigrant Detention Facilities in Reynoldsburg
Resident Greg Trapp asked Council to consider taking a stand against federal detention facilities leasing space in the city, citing humane-infrastructure and community concerns in a diverse city.
Settlement of pending litigation
After a closed-door session, council unanimously authorized the mayor to settle pending litigation. Terms weren't made public.
Reynoldsburg Recovery Court Renewal
The grant agreement with Franklin County's ADAMH Board keeps the Recovery Court running for 2026, covering half the Criminal Justice Administrator's salary. Seven people graduated in 2025.
Police Cruiser Replacement
Two new Ford Interceptor cruisers were approved to replace older or totaled patrol vehicles. Ordering early in the year ensures the cars arrive and get outfitted in time.