Where Did the Affidavit Go?

Why Is Columbus City Schools No Longer Requiring a Notarized Statement for LEDE Certification?

By Ronda Watson Barber
OhioMBE Publisher

For years, certification programs tied to public contracting have required a sworn, notarized affidavit as part of the application process. The purpose has always been clear: accountability.

Recently, it appears that the Columbus City Schools LEDE (Local Economically Disadvantaged Enterprise) application no longer requires a notarized affidavit.

That raises an important question:

Why was this safeguard removed?

I have reached out to the Internal Auditor’s office seeking clarification. As of the time of this writing, that inquiry has gone unanswered.

When taxpayer dollars and public contracts are involved, transparency is not optional. It is expected.

So why does a notarized affidavit matter?

Why a Notarized Affidavit Is Important

1. Legal Accountability
A notarized affidavit means the applicant is swearing under oath that the information provided is true. False statements can carry legal consequences. Without that sworn statement, enforcement becomes more difficult.

2. Protection Against “Front” Companies
Certification programs exist to ensure legitimate businesses benefit — not shell entities structured to appear compliant. A sworn affidavit reinforces that ownership and control claims are accurate.

3. Protection of Taxpayer Funds
LEDE certifications can influence contract awards funded by public dollars. Safeguards help protect those funds from fraud or misrepresentation.

4. Integrity of the Program
Certification programs must maintain credibility. If verification standards are relaxed, confidence in the program can erode — especially among small businesses who follow the rules.

5. Alignment With Best Practices
Many state and federal certification programs require sworn statements as part of compliance protocols. Removing that requirement without public explanation raises questions about consistency and oversight.

This is not about creating barriers. It is about maintaining standards.

If there has been a policy change, the public deserves to know:

• When it was made
• Why it was made
• And what safeguards have replaced the notarized affidavit

Small businesses deserve a certification process that is fair, transparent, and credible. Taxpayers deserve assurance that participation programs tied to public spending are protected by appropriate verification measures.

Silence does not build trust.

Clarity does.

just my thoughts…rwb