Columbus Election Results: Voters Approve Zoo Levy and City Bonds

The results are in and another election has come to a close here in Columbus.

Voters across central Ohio had plenty to decide on November 4, from school board races to local bond issues that will shape the city’s future. Here’s a look at how some of the most-watched local contests turned out.

Columbus City Council District 7
Columbus Board of Education
Columbus Zoo levy
Franklin County Mental Health levy
City bond issues for health, safety, parks, and development

City Council District 7

Tiara Ross: 54,419 (50.73%)
Jesse Vogel: 52,843 (49.27%)

In one of the closest races of the night, Tiara Ross narrowly defeated Jesse Vogel to represent District 7 on Columbus City Council. With less than a two-point margin, the contest came down to the final precincts. Ross will take office on January 1, 2026.

Columbus Board of Education

Three seats were up for grabs on the Columbus City Schools Board of Education. The top three vote-getters were Antoinette Miranda, Jermaine Kennedy, and Patrick Katzenmeyer, according to unofficial results.

Antoinette Miranda: 45,689 (24.98%)
Jermaine Kennedy: 39,788 (21.76%)
Patrick Katzenmeyer: 39,494 (21.60%)
Janeece Keyes: 19,960 (10.91%)
Kimberley Mason: 19,015 (10.40%)
Mounir Lynch: 18,933 (10.35%)

Miranda, Kennedy, and Katzenmeyer appear poised to claim the three open seats, pending official certification.

Franklin County Mental Health and Addiction Levy

FOR: 147,155 (65.59%)
AGAINST: 77,193 (34.41%)

Voters overwhelmingly supported renewing and increasing the Franklin County Board of Mental Health and Addiction Services levy. The 3.35-mill, 10-year levy will continue funding essential mental health and addiction recovery programs across the county.

Columbus Zoo Levy

FOR: 139,087 (61.86%)
AGAINST: 85,755 (38.14%)

Franklin County residents voted to renew the 0.75-mill levy supporting the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The renewal ensures stable funding for animal care, education programs, and facility maintenance for the next decade.

Columbus Bond Issues

Columbus voters approved all five bond issues on the ballot, continuing the city’s investments in infrastructure, safety, and neighborhood improvements.

Issue 5 – Health and Safety Bonds

FOR: 76,764 (63.87%)

Issue 6 – Recreation and Parks Bonds

FOR: 85,942 (71.18%)

Issue 7 – Public Service Bonds

FOR: 82,792 (68.82%)

Issue 8 – Neighborhood Development Bonds

FOR: 80,249 (66.75%)

Issue 9 – Public Utilities Bonds

FOR: 85,654 (71.20%)

All five measures passed comfortably, signaling broad public support for continued investment in city infrastructure and community facilities.

What’s Next for Columbus

With ballots counted, Columbus residents are setting the stage for the city’s next chapter. The approval of key levies and bond issues ensures continued funding for critical services, while new and returning leaders will help guide the community through upcoming challenges and growth.