By 1808Delaware
Earlier this year, the City of Columbus raised the idea of annexing land it already owns within Genoa Township. The areas in question include Hoover Reservoir, Hoover Meadows, Mud Hen Marsh, and a network of public parks and boat ramps. While Columbus could legally act on its own, city leaders offered to negotiate an annexation agreement as a sign of good faith.
What the Agreement Would Mean
An annexation agreement would speed up the process for Columbus while creating binding protections for Genoa Township residents. If negotiators produce a draft, it will go before the Genoa Township Board of Trustees in a public meeting. Both the township and the city must approve the deal for it to take effect.
Township Priorities at the Table
Township leaders want the agreement to run for decades and to preserve the land’s current public use. They are asking that parkland and recreation areas remain accessible, no rezoning occur for private development, and city utilities not extend into the township without trustee approval. They also want to ensure Columbus cannot annex private property in Genoa without township consent.
Public Safety and Next Steps
Separate meetings between Columbus and Genoa’s safety services will clarify how police, fire, and EMS coverage will be handled in the annexed zones. Current dock permits and private agreements tied to the reservoir would remain unchanged. Residents will have a chance to weigh in once a draft is presented at a public meeting. For questions, contact the Genoa Township Board of Trustees at 614.895.1126 or Trustees@GenoaTwp.com.
