In December 2020, Richard Barnhart resigned from his long-time role as a Columbus-Franklin County Finance Authority board member.
As an original board member at the founding of the Authority, Richard’s 14-year tenure made a lasting impact on both the Authority and real estate development financing throughout Columbus.
“I’m going to miss Richard’s intellect, his perspective, and his experience,” said Authority Board Vice Chair Darnita Bradley. “The organization is where it is today because of his leadership.”
“Richard contributed greatly to the success of this organization,” said Authority President Jean Carter Ryan. “He brought a deep commitment to us and helped create a collegial atmosphere, which is so important to this type of organization. He will always have my sincere gratitude for his many years of service, his knowledge and all that he brought to the organization.”
Since Richard and the board members selected Ryan as the Authority President in 2006, the organization has seen substantial growth. He attended more than 300 board and committee meetings and was part of funding approvals and deal structuring that supported, among dozens of other projects, Bridge Park in Dublin, Trivium in Worthington, Gravity in Franklinton, White Castle Headquarters near Victorian Village, Grandview Yard and Grandview Crossing. In all, the Authority has financed more than $2.7 billion in projects during Richard’s tenure.
“When I first put this board together, I looked for the best and brightest, and Richard fit the bill,” said former Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman. “Congratulations on a job well done.”
We agree. THANK YOU, RICHARD! – the Columbus-Franklin County Finance Authority Staff and Board of Directors