October 7, 2025

Quarter 3 felt like one of the fastest quarters yet—a true embodiment of the saying, time flies when you’re having fun.And in our case, when you’re doing meaningful work.

One of our most exciting moments was holding our first-ever project walk. Organized by Commissioner Roy Lowenstein, our Zoning Chair, we traveled through each district to view developments previously approved by the commission. It was an opportunity for commissioners and community members alike to reflect on what we appreciated and what we would like to improve about the new projects shaping the Near East Side. We plan to host another tour in the spring, and I strongly encourage those reading this to join us in this hands-on way of shaping our neighborhood.

In August, we certified the ballots for our upcoming elections. Serving as a commissioner is an important role in our city’s ecosystem. I want to recognize and congratulate Commissioner Bob Rice for fulfilling the signature requirements to run for his seat. Bob’s journey—from a community member on the Planning Committee to his appointment on the commission and now Chair of Planning—is a testament to the pathways available to those who want to serve. I share a similar path, having started on the Community Engagement Committee before my appointment and later chairing the committee. These stories matter and they show that community service is always within reach.

While we experienced low community turnout for open commissioner seats across all districts, our work must and will continue. If you know someone passionate about issues like planning, zoning, or community engagement someone who believes in being a voice for their neighbors and I encourage you to urge them to get involved with NEAC. The commission is a powerful gateway to civic participation, City Hall, and beyond.

From the Chair’s seat, I’ve also worked to strengthen our digital presence. Since launching our new website, we’ve seen increased engagement—from speaker requests to document downloads and more. Facebook event creation has helped us connect with neighbors who aren’t on our listserv, bringing new voices to meetings, especially those hosted by the Community Engagement Committee.
Special thanks to Madam Vice Chair Autumn Francisco for her leadership in that space. Her tireless commitment, both as a commissioner and a Columbus-based social worker, has not gone unnoticed. It’s an honor to serve alongside her.

Looking ahead to Quarter 4, there’s so much to be excited about:

 

• District 1 will host a Big Table discussion on the Near East Area Plan—a document last revised in 2005. We’ll gather to reimagine how this plan should evolve 20 years later.

• District 2 will host a Financial Wellness Workshop which is another great opportunity for direct community support.

• District 3 will host a community meeting to update neighbors on developments within the district.

On the development front, we reviewed 7 projects this quarter—our lowest number to date. With development slowing down, we’ve taken this opportunity to pause and reflect more deeply on planning principles that truly serve the needs and vision of our neighborhood.

As the great Toni Morrison once said, "If you wanna fly, you got to give up the things that weigh you down." As a community, let us continue shedding doubt, apathy, and disengagement! We must choose instead to rise, to serve, and to dream boldly together!!!

Join us. Whether you’re new to the neighborhood or have lived here your whole life, your voice matters. The Near East Area Commission is more than a bunch of meetings, it’s a movement, and you just might be the next leader we’ve been waiting for.
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In Community,

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Nathan L.R. Harris, Ph.D.
Commission Chair​​