Franklin County Clerk Warns Proposed Budget Cuts Could Jeopardize Public Safety

Clerk Lori Tyack says reductions would be 'crippling, devastating and deadly' for law enforcement operations

Feb. 3, 2026 at 6:55pm

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The Franklin County Municipal Clerk of Courts, Lori Tyack, warned Columbus City Council members that proposed budget cuts to her office could have a devastating impact on public safety across Franklin County. Tyack said the cuts would reduce funding below 2024 levels, calling the plan 'fiscally irresponsible' and potentially dangerous as her office provides critical real-time court and warrant information to 21 law enforcement agencies.

Why it matters

The Clerk's office plays a vital role in supporting law enforcement operations by providing real-time access to court and warrant data. Cuts to staffing and resources could significantly disrupt this information flow, forcing officers to spend more time confirming warrants and tying up limited police resources.

The details

Under the proposed budget from Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, the Franklin County Municipal Clerk of Courts would receive $17.9 million from the city's general fund in 2026 - a 6.4% decrease from 2025. Tyack said the cuts would reduce security staffing at the municipal court building by half. Ginther acknowledged the concerns but said the city faces budget pressures across nearly all departments.

  • The proposed budget cuts would take effect in 2026.
  • Tyack made her comments during a Public Safety and Criminal Justice Committee budget hearing on Jan. 27, 2026.

The players

Lori Tyack

The Franklin County Municipal Clerk of Courts who warned about the potential public safety impacts of the proposed budget cuts.

Andrew Ginther

The Mayor of Columbus who proposed the budget cuts that Tyack is concerned about.

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What they’re saying

“The impact on public safety would be crippling, devastating and deadly”

— Lori Tyack, Clerk of Courts (10tv.com)

“This proposed budget is the most fiscally irresponsible budget I have ever experienced in my 20 years of service. The cuts to the clerk's office are unacceptable.”

— Lori Tyack, Clerk of Courts (10tv.com)

“This is a tighter budget year for everyone. Nearly all the elected officials were able to meet the numbers we put forth. We are going to continue to work with the clerk.”

— Andrew Ginther, Mayor (10tv.com)

What’s next

City Council is expected to amend the proposed budget and pass a final version by the end of the month.

The takeaway

The proposed budget cuts to the Franklin County Clerk's office highlight the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and public safety. As the city faces budget pressures, officials must carefully weigh the potential consequences of reducing resources for critical government functions like the court system and law enforcement support.