Projects
On March 24, 2026, CPI and Policy Matters Ohio hosted a screening for Death & Taxes, a documentary by Justin Schein focused on the role taxes play in shaping our democracy. The film weaves a broader exploration of the political, economic, and racial consequences of estate tax policy through the lens of Schein's family. After the screening, CPI Director Kalitha moderated a discussion with Hannah Halbert of Policy Matters Ohio, Greg Lawson of The Buckeye Institute and Dr. Ange-Marie Hancock of The Ohio State University Kirwan Institute of Race & Ethnicity.
On February 19, 2026, The Columbus Policy Institute offered testimony in support of the proposal for Columbus’ first Rental Registry. Engaging B.R.E.A.D. Columbus, the leading organization advocating for the effort, CPI offered support for the registry while also raising concerns regarding the registry budget and the shift from safety inspections to preventative education inspections. The legislation passed Columbus City Council on April 20, 2026. CPI will continue to engage allies in this effort and will review and analyze data collected from the registry to evaluate its effectiveness.
In Spring 2025, Franklin County and City of Columbus appointed business and civic leaders to serve on the Funding Review Advisory Committee (FRAC), with the aim of developing recommendations for the future of taxation to support health and human services organizations, arts, and tourism. Over months, stakeholders shared funding challenges and opportunities in public hearings.
On October 7, 2025, CPI offered testimony emphasizing that the current tax abatement policy has cost our public institutions tens of millions of dollars in tax revenues. She advocated for a new perspective on economic development that reflects broad community values and not just the interests of corporations.
On October 21, 2025, CPI participated in The Columbus Foundation’s The Big Table discussion hosted by The Center for Kindness. Each table featured civic, business and community leaders discussing data-driven strategies to advance social change by demonstrating compassion for each other.